Ain Shams University

Ain Shams University is a public university located in Cairo, Egypt. It is the third-oldest non-sectarian native public Egyptian university, after Cairo University and Alexandria University.

The history of Ain Shams University (ASU) can be traced back to ancient Egypt, when a renowned center of knowledge called O'n University existed about 5000 years ago. The university was said to have specialized in astronomy, engineering, and medicine.

In 1950, ASU was founded as the third non-sectarian native public Egyptian university, under the name of Ibrahim Pasha's University. The university was built on the site of a former royal palace, the Zaafarana Palace, which was located in an area known for its saffron plantations (zaafaran in Arabic). In 1954, the university was renamed Ain Shams University, which means "Eye of the Sun" in Arabic.

ASU initially consisted of eight faculties: Arts, Law, Business, Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Agriculture, and Girls. In 1969, the Faculty of Education moved to the campus, followed by the Faculty of Al-Alsun in 1973. In 1994, the Faculties of Pharmacy, Dentistry, and Computers and Information were established, and in 1998, a Faculty of Fine Arts was established.

Ain Shams University is a vital part of the Egyptian educational system, and it plays a significant role in the country's scientific, economic, and cultural development. The university is committed to providing its students with a high-quality education and preparing them for success in their chosen careers.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, Ain Shams University is positioned as the #592 top university in the world, which makes it the #3 top university in Egypt.