Frequently Ask Questions

1) Is completing the Persian language training course mandatory for all fields of study? Yes, Persian language training is mandatory for studying at Iranian universities.

2) Are the Persian language training courses different for international students? Yes, according to the AZFA (Persian Language Teaching to Non-Persian Speakers) regulations, the center divides the courses into three categories: a) Kurdish speakers must complete 360 hours, b) Arabic speakers 450 hours, and c) speakers of other foreign languages 540 hours of training.

3) How are the training courses categorized for Persian language learners? a) For Kurdish speakers, four levels are held: Elementary, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, and Advanced. b) Arabic speakers complete their courses in five levels: Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, and Advanced. c) Speakers of other foreign languages participate in six levels: Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Advanced 1, and Advanced 2.

4) Is it mandatory for University of Kurdistan students to participate in the SAMFA exam? No.

5) How long is the SAMFA exam passing certificate valid? The SAMFA exam passing certificate is valid for two years. If its validity expires and the student has not yet graduated, they are required to take a placement test.

6) What is the Proficiency (Basandegi) Exam? The Proficiency Exam, like the SAMFA exam, is held comprehensively and nationwide, evaluating the four main skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing.

7) Is the Proficiency (Basandegi) Exam mandatory? Starting from October 2026 (Mehr 1405), obtaining a passing certificate in the Proficiency Exam is a prerequisite for the admission and acceptance of international students in all Iranian universities.

8) If a student fails to achieve a passing score in the Proficiency Exam, can they proceed with the next steps of university registration? No, they cannot, as they have not met the primary condition for university admission. However, the university grants them an opportunity to participate and pass the Proficiency Exam in February (Bahman) so that their final registration can be completed. Otherwise, their initial registration will be canceled.

9) How long are the training certificates issued by the AZFA Center of Kurdistan valid? The certificates are valid for up to two years after graduation.

10) What are the Persian language textbooks used at the AZFA Center? The "Porfa" textbook series (Porfa Alefba, Porfa 1, 2, and 3). Learners can obtain these books directly from the AZFA Center of Kurdistan.

11) How are the training courses conducted? The courses are conducted in both online (virtual) and in-person formats.

12) How many sessions and hours does each course consist of? Each course consists of 45 sessions, and each session lasts two hours, totaling 90 hours.