Internationalization of higher education and research has become a priority for many universities worldwide. It provides universities with educational and research models so they can respond effectively to various worldwide challenges.

Due to the glorious history of medical sciences record in Iran, the cradle for one of the oldest cultures and civilizations which has always been a birthplace for sciences as well as prominent scientists during its 10,000 years of history, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) is known as the largest, the oldest, and the most prestigious medical training and research center as well as the most advanced specialized and sub-specialized services delivery institution in Iran. The University has the sublime mission to expand complementary education especially at postgraduate level to meet medical manpower needs of the country, enhance research opportunities, produce knowledge and technology, increase scientific publications, and expand its scientific ties with accredited scientific centers of the world.

In the arena of internationalization, we need to:

• Recognize the obstacles;
• Enhance the abilities;
• Develop information and communication infrastructure;
• Create an enabling environment for information and knowledge sharing;

An institutional agreement is the requisite of constructing a dynamic environment for sharing information and knowledge. It articulates and clarifies the working terms agreed upon by both parties to undertake a number of activities on a cooperative manner.  A clear agreement that covers the crucial elements of cooperation is a great benefit both to the university and to the individuals who are responsible for implementing the terms of the agreement.

Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) currently has MoUs and bilateral collaboration contracts in education, research, staff and student exchange programs with many universities in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and the United States.

Besides having MoUs and bilateral collaboration contracts, the Visiting Professor Program as a vital mission of GSIA, is intended for excellent researchers who work outside Iran and are willing to share their knowledge and experience with researchers and students at TUMS. With the Visiting Professor Program, TUMS aims at strengthening research, enabling international researchers to perform part of their research in the country and providing the opportunity to collaborate and learn from each other.

The Directorate of International Relations, Accreditation & Ranking is responsible for:

• Developing and overseeing a variety of university-wide initiatives and policies relating to international research, education, and collaboration

• Facilitating the establishment of cooperative relationships, exchange of professors and students, development of joint research projects and fostering opportunities for international delegations to visit Tehran University of Medical Sciences