The higher education system of Iran presently includes eight universities, six independent state colleges, 74 institutions affiliated with various ministries,and 25 private institutions. The higher education system is described in terms of its evolution, types of institutions, internal structure of universities and other higher education institutions, legislation and administration, teaching personnel, admission and graduation requirements, educational structure of universities, student welfare, increase in the student population during the last decade, and admission of foreign students. Appendices include statistical tables and diagrams concerning the growth and distribution of students, a list of higher education institutions and fields of study, and a diagram of the stucture of higher education. (SW)