University students Must Know What IAESTE Is!

Ehsan Shirkhanlo reporting from the Vice-Presidency for Research and Technology News Desk of the University of Tehran:
IAESTE (International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience) is a global organization founded in 1948 to provide students with international technical internships and cultural exchange opportunities. The University of Tehran proudly stands as the first Iranian university to gain full membership in IAESTE.

In a session with Professor Mohammad Shekarchi Zadeh, Full Professor of Civil Engineering at the University of Tehran and President of IAESTE National Committee of Iran, we explored the objectives and achievements of this important initiative.

An International Program Rooted in Post-War Collaboration

IAESTE was established in 1948 by ten European countries in the aftermath of World War II. Its purpose was to create short-term professional internships (one to two months) and foster academic as well as cultural exchange among students from different countries.

Iran and IAESTE: From Early Cooperation to Official Membership

Professor Shekarchi Zadeh recalled:

“IAESTE entered Iran in the 1970s through the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Tehran. With the Revolution, cooperation was interrupted, but in 2003 Iran rejoined as a Cooperating Institution — with the University of Tehran being the first applicant. Sharif University of Technology later joined at the same level.”

Achieving Full Membership: A Major Milestone

With pride, he emphasized:

“Only one university from each country can advance to higher levels of membership, either Associate or Full Member. Fortunately, the University of Tehran achieved Full Membership, which means we now have the right to vote and participate in IAESTE’s global decision-making process.”

More Than 600 Students in the Cycle of Academic Exchange

Regarding the committee’s accomplishments, Shekarchi Zadeh noted:

“So far, more than 600 Iranian students have been sent abroad for specialized training. In return, we have hosted numerous international students. The system is reciprocal: hosting international students facilitates the exchange of our own students abroad, with streamlined visas and full support from host universities.”

Expanding Beyond Engineering Disciplines

The committee has also worked to diversify the scope of participation:

“Most IAESTE internships are in engineering, but we have also had opportunities in basic sciences such as chemistry, as well as other disciplines, though in smaller numbers.”

Easier Access for Students Than Ever Before

Explaining why many students remain unaware of these opportunities, he said:

“Previously, we informed faculties through letters, but now all calls for offers are published on IAESTE Iran’s official website (https://iaeste.ir). Interested students can track the offers process, language exams, and interviews there. Typically, offers are finalized by the end of January, with selections in spring, and students depart in June or July.”

Facilitation and Equal Opportunities

Professor Shekarchi Zadeh clarified the financial and logistical aspects:

“Round-trip tickets are the student’s responsibility, but accommodation and program expenses are covered by the host institution. Visa procedures are also handled efficiently through the University’s Office of International Relations, since IAESTE is a globally recognized body.”

The True Face of Iran Through Exchange

On the significance of hosting foreign students, he highlighted:

“When international students visit Iran, many of them tell us their real experience is very different from the images they had been shown; the reality of Iran is far better. Each IAESTE student who comes here becomes a cultural and academic ambassador for us abroad. The same is true for our students who experience life and study in other countries.”

Conclusion

According to Professor Shekarchi Zadeh, the University of Tehran’s full membership in IAESTE is not only an institutional success but also a unique opportunity for Iranian students to gain global experience, exchange knowledge, and enhance their professional skills. He concluded with a strong message:

“Students at the University of Tehran must take this opportunity seriously — IAESTE offers a short but life-changing window into the global academic community.”