International Balkan University is proudly celebrating 19 years of existence, leading the way in education in North Macedonia and the region with excellence, innovation, and a strong commitment to academic distinction. Renowned for its visionary leadership and transformative impact, IBU has become a symbol of quality higher education and international collaboration.

The journey began on March 26, 2006, when the Foundation for Education and Culture ÜSKÜP initiated the process and preparations to establish the university. This vision was officially realized on July 15, 2006, when North Macedonian officials made the final decision to establish IBU. Today, as we mark our glorious 19th anniversary, we celebrate nearly two decades of unparalleled academic excellence, visionary leadership, and transformative education.

From the very beginning, IBU was founded on the noble vision of bridging cultures and fostering unbreakable bonds of cooperation, understanding, and unity among nations. Our mission has always been to educate self-confident, innovative, and globally competitive individuals who take responsibility for their communities and work towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

"IBU stands as a testament to the power of knowledge and the pursuit of academic distinction. Our mission is not only to educate but also to inspire—nurturing individuals who will shape the future through intellectual curiosity, ethical responsibility, and global engagement."

— Prof. Dr. Lutfi Sunar, Rector of International Balkan University

- A Thriving Community of Scholars and Leaders

Over the years, IBU has grown into a prestigious institution of higher learning, hosting a vibrant community of over 3,800 talented and ambitious students. Our diverse student body represents a rich international landscape, with students from more than 20 countries, including Türkiye, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Serbia, and Montenegro. With 1,900 international students, we proudly stand as a true beacon of global education, fostering intercultural dialogue and collaboration.

Our university is not just a place of learning but also a pillar of progress and opportunity, supporting a dedicated team of over 240 full-time and 80 part-time professionals. The dedication of our exceptional academic and administrative staff has been instrumental in shaping IBU into the highest-ranked university in North Macedonia for teaching and learning, as recognized by the Shanghai University Ranking. Our alumni network, now over 1,820 strong, continues to make an impact across various industries worldwide, exemplifying the success and influence of an IBU education.

- Academic Excellence and Innovation at Its Finest

IBU has earned its reputation as a center of academic excellence and innovation, offering a comprehensive portfolio of eight distinguished faculties and one vocational medical school, providing diverse undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs designed to equip students with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills. Our commitment to high-quality education and scientific research is evident in the work of 260 outstanding academic staff members, supported by a student-professor ratio of just 13.2 students per professor, ensuring a personalized and world-class learning experience.

IBU fosters a thriving research environment with seven highly esteemed academic peer-reviewed journals and more than 120 groundbreaking books published. Beyond the classroom, our students engage in a vibrant academic and social experience, enriched by 20 student clubs that provide platforms for leadership, innovation, and personal growth.

"A university is not merely an institution; it is a driving force behind societal advancement. At IBU, we cultivate a dynamic academic ecosystem where knowledge creation, research excellence, and cultural synergy come together to build a better, more interconnected world."

— Prof. Dr. Lutfi Sunar, Rector of International Balkan University

- Leading Internationalization in Higher Education

IBU stands at the forefront of global academic cooperation, strengthening its international presence through more than 400 strategic partnerships and agreements with universities from over 40 countries. As a leader in international student and faculty mobility, our Erasmus+ Mobility Program is among the most dynamic in Europe and Türkiye, facilitating unmatched international learning and teaching opportunities. Hundreds of students and academic staff take part in exchange programs annually, ensuring that IBU remains a truly global institution where knowledge and experience transcend borders.

- A World-Class Campus in Skopje

The magnificent 50,000-square-meter IBU campus in Skopje is a model of modern education, equipped with state-of-the-art learning environments, cutting-edge laboratories, and industry-standard facilities. Our commitment to technological innovation is reflected in the InnoX Innovation Center, the first of its kind in North Macedonia, empowering students to engage with emerging technologies and entrepreneurial ventures.

The university takes pride in housing the most advanced laboratory complex, the Balkan Laboratories, the largest and most sophisticated dental polyclinic, the Balkan Dental Clinic, and the most modern health sciences simulation area in North Macedonia. In addition, IBU is the only private university in North Macedonia with its own professional television studio, providing unparalleled opportunities for students in media, communications, and production studies.

With strong industry partnerships and career-focused programs, IBU students benefit from exclusive internship and employment opportunities, ensuring a seamless transition from academic success to professional excellence. Our prestigious double-degree programs further elevate our students' global career prospects, positioning them at the forefront of their chosen fields.

- A Future of Boundless Possibilities

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we reflect on how far we have come and embrace the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. The unwavering dedication and extraordinary vision of our founders, management, faculty, staff, and students have built IBU into a stronghold of knowledge, innovation, and excellence.

At IBU, we believe that success knows no limits. Our journey is one of continuous growth, and with every passing year, we set new goals, achieve greater milestones, and transform lives through the power of education. As we step into the future, our commitment to making IBU a globally recognized education powerhouse and a beacon of academic brilliance remains stronger than ever.

Happy 19th Anniversary, International Balkan University!