With the blessing of the esteemed Council of Ministers and in an effort to enhance its international position, Sultan Qaboos University has announced the launch of "Afaaq" a programme for the admission of international and Omani undergraduate students. This initiative aligns with the university's plans to strengthen its international ranking, and supports the objectives of the Oman Vision 2040.

The programme aims to provide educational opportunities for international students who wish to pursue their studies at SQU, as well as Omani students who wish to study certain specialisations but did not secure seats at the University through the Higher Education Admission Centre. This programme is structured on well-defined conditions and fees, ensuring that the number of seats allocated for Omani students competing through the Higher Education Admission Centre remains unaffected. The programme is scheduled to be implemented in the next academic year.

His Highness Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda Al Said, the Vice Chancellor, stated that this step is part of the University’s efforts to enhance its international ranking, as the admission of international students is a key indicator of international rankings. He added that the programme would contribute to increasing student diversity on campus, which enriches the academic and cultural experiences of students.

His Highness also highlighted that the programme aims to admit a maximum of 300 international and Omani students without affecting the number of seats allocated for Omani students competing through the Higher Education Admission Centre each year. The new seats will be distributed across various colleges and specialisations, except for the College of Medicine and Health Sciences.

International students applying for the programme will be able to apply through SQU’s official website, while Omani students will apply through the Higher Education Admission Centre, following clear and specific conditions. Additionally, all admitted students are subject to the same academic rules and regulations.

His Highness Sayyid Dr. Fahd bin Al Julanda Al Said, the Vice Chancellor, stated that this programme represents a new vision to strengthen the university’s position as a world-class academic destination and expand the scope of higher education.