Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has issued a directive allowing students from the Kurdistan Region studying in Iran to either return home or remain in Kurdistan due to escalating regional tensions.

The decision, announced by Abbas Akram, the ministry’s spokesperson, comes amid growing concerns over the safety of Kurdish students in Iran. Akram stated that the measure aims to protect students from potential risks arising from the current unstable conditions in the region.

Students have been given until July 1, 2025, to decide whether to return to the Kurdistan Region or stay in Kurdistan while authorities reassess the situation. The ministry also confirmed that the period of absence will be counted toward their academic residency requirements when processing degree equivalencies.