What are the most popular Universities and Colleges in Syria? uniRank answers this question by publishing the 2025 Syrian University Ranking of 40 Syrian higher-education institutions meeting the following uniRank selection criteria:
Explore the uniRank League Table and University Ranking of 40 Universities in Syria
The Syrian Arab Republic is divided into 14 governorates (Arabic: muhafazah), which are further subdivided into 60 districts (Arabic: manatiq). The majority of higher education institutions meeting the uniRank selection criteria are located in the Damascus governorate, which hosts the capital and largest city, Damascus. The following uniRank sub-rankings and league tables consider all governorates that include at least one Syrian higher education institution meeting the uniRank selection criteria.
Aleppo (9)
Al-Raqqah (1)
Damascus (9)
Daraa (1)
Darra (1)
Deir ez-Zor (1)
Hama (3)
Homs (3)
Idlib (5)
Latakia (1)
Rif Dimashq (3)
Tartus (3)
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Syria's higher education system comprises both public and private institutions offering diverse academic programs. The Ministry of Higher Education supervises all universities, maintaining quality standards nationwide. Public universities like Damascus University receive state funding and typically charge lower tuition fees, while private institutions emerged prominently after 2000 to expand access. Most universities offer comprehensive programs across humanities, sciences, engineering and medicine, though some specialize in specific fields. Academic degrees include bachelor's, master's and PhD levels, with instruction primarily in Arabic, though some private universities use English.
Syria hosts 40 universities nationwide. Public institutions constitute 27.5% of higher education (11 universities), while private universities dominate with 72.5% (29 institutions). This distribution reflects significant growth in private sector education since 2000, expanding access beyond government-funded options.
No Syrian universities currently rank in the global top 200 (0% of national institutions). Similarly, none appear in the top 1,000 worldwide (0%). This indicates opportunities for Syrian universities to enhance international competitiveness through research output and academic partnerships.
Q: What is the oldest university in Syria?
A: Damascus University, established in 1923, is Syria's oldest and highest-ranked institution.
Q: Are public or private universities more common in Syria?
A: Private universities dominate, comprising 72.5% (29 institutions) versus 27.5% public (11 institutions).
Q: Do Syrian universities teach in English?
A: Some private universities offer English-taught programs, while public institutions primarily use Arabic.
Q: How many Syrian universities rank globally?
A: Currently no Syrian universities rank in the top 1,000 worldwide according to available data.
Q: Where are most universities located in Syria?
A: Major cities like Damascus, Aleppo and Latakia host multiple institutions, with Damascus containing several top-ranked universities.
Since 2005, UniRank provides original research, valuable information and resources to help you explore and make informed decisions about Syrian universities and their online presence.