Cihan University-Erbil Achieves Top Position Among Iraqi Private Universities in AD Scientific Index 2026
Cihan University-Erbil has secured the prestigious first place ranking among all Iraqi private universities in the newly released 2026 edition of the AD Scientific Index University Ranking, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s academic excellence and research output.
Leading Achievement in Private Higher Education
The AD Scientific Index, which evaluates 24,539 institutions worldwide using near real-time data, has positioned Cihan University-Erbil at the pinnacle of Iraq’s private higher education sector. This achievement places the university among the elite institutions in a competitive field of 56 private universities across Iraq.
Notable Rankings Across Iraqi Higher Education
The 2026 rankings reveal a strong performance across different categories of Iraqi institutions:
- University of Technology claimed the top position among all 125 Iraqi universities
- University of Sulaimani leads among Kurdistan Region public universities
- Cihan University-Erbil dominates the private Iraqi universities sector and ranks first among these universities.
Comprehensive Evaluation Metrics
The AD Scientific Index distinguishes itself as a comprehensive ranking system that evaluates institutions based on multiple research performance indicators:
- Total H-index and recent 5-year H-index
- i10 index measurements
- Total citation counts
- Subject-based performance metrics
- Young University Rankings for emerging institutions
Iraq’s Academic Landscape
The ranking encompasses Iraq’s entire higher education ecosystem, including:
- 125 universities in total
- 69 public universities
- 56 private universities
- 2 research institutions
- 1 company
This comprehensive coverage provides a complete picture of Iraq’s academic and research capabilities on the global stage.
Recognition of Research Excellence
Cihan University-Erbil’s top ranking reflects its commitment to research excellence, academic innovation, and contribution to scientific knowledge. The achievement is particularly significant given the AD Scientific Index’s use of real-time data, ensuring that rankings reflect current research performance rather than historical metrics alone.
Looking Forward
This recognition positions Cihan University-Erbil as a leader in Iraqi private higher education and demonstrates the institution’s growing influence in regional and international academic circles. The ranking serves as both a validation of past efforts and a foundation for continued excellence in research and education.
For detailed rankings and comparisons, visit the AD Scientific Index Iraqi Universities Rankings.
The AD Scientific Index provides global, continental, and national rankings with the unique ability to compare institutions across multiple metrics, offering unprecedented transparency in academic performance evaluation.




