Top 10 Largest Universities in the World in 2025

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) in India is the largest university in the world, with around 7.14 million students. Its growth comes from its open and distance learning model, which offers affordable and flexible education across India and beyond. 

With hundreds of regional centres and online options, IGNOU stands as a leader in accessible higher education.

A university’s size is mainly measured by student enrollment, though factors like campus area, faculty size, and program variety also play major roles. Here are the main elements that define a large university:

• Student Enrollment: Universities like IGNOU attract millions through open and distance education.
• Learning Model: Distance learning allows wider access, while large campuses serve diverse student needs.
• Campus Size: Universities with vast campuses, such as Berry College with 27,000 acres, can support major infrastructure and research.
• Program Diversity: Offering a range of courses across disciplines draws more students globally.
• Faculty and Resources: Large teaching staff and strong student support systems keep such universities running efficiently.

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Before exploring the list, note that ‘largest’ here mainly refers to student enrollment, not campus area or budget. These universities show how scale and accessibility can make higher education available to millions worldwide:

Let’s dive into each university to know about the top courses, establishment year, and teaching style of the following largest universities in the world: 

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), India

Founded in 1985, IGNOU was established to make higher education accessible through open and distance learning. It runs an extensive network of regional centers and online platforms, making it the biggest university in India & the world by enrollment. Known for its affordability and flexibility, IGNOU’s global reputation comes from its wide course range and inclusive learning model.

• Top Courses: BA, MBA, Diploma in Creative Writing, PG Diploma in Rural Development
• Notable Alumni: Sushmita Sen (Actress), Deepika Padukone (Actress, attended but didn’t complete)

National University of Bangladesh, Bangladesh

The second-largest university globally is from Bangladesh. Established in 1992,  National University of Bangladesh oversees hundreds of colleges across Bangladesh. Its hybrid system of on-campus and distance programs helps serve millions of students. While sometimes debated for its structure, the university plays a major role in expanding access to education across South Asia.\

• Notable Alumni: Sheikh Hasina (Prime Minister of Bangladesh)
• Top Courses: BBA, LLB, MA in English, MSc in Computer Science

Anadolu University, Turkey

Founded in 1958, Anadolu University became one of Turkey’s most important institutions after adopting its current name in 1982. Its open education system and advanced e-learning platforms attract students from across the world. Although not as academically elite as smaller universities, it’s recognized for making higher education more accessible.

• Notable Alumni: Known for producing educators and professionals
• Top Courses: Business Administration, Education, Economics, Open Education Programs

Allama Iqbal Open University, Pakistan

Established in 1974, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) is one of the largest universities globally. It was named after the poet-philosopher Allama Iqbal. It provides flexible and affordable distance learning to students across Pakistan. AIOU is a popular choice among working professionals, though it is more focused on accessibility than global prestige.

• Notable Alumni: Known for educators and public service professionals
• Top Courses: BEd, MA in Education, MBA, Diploma in IT

Islamic Azad University, Iran

Founded in 1982, Islamic Azad University (IAU) was created to expand access to higher education in Iran. With more than 400 branches across the country, it offers both on-campus and distance programs. While not widely known globally, its vast network and strong academic base make it one of the largest educational systems in the Middle East.

• Notable Alumni: Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (Former Iranian President)
• Top Courses: Engineering, Medicine, Law, Computer Science

Bangladesh Open University, Bangladesh

Founded in 1992, Bangladesh Open University (BOU) is one of the largest universities in world in the distance-learning category, delivering accessible education through regional centers and robust online platforms. It offers affordable learning opportunities to millions, especially students in rural and underserved areas, and plays a crucial role in promoting lifelong learning across Bangladesh.

• Notable Alumni: Known for professionals in the local sectors
• Top Courses: BA, BSc, MBA, Diploma in Health Sciences

Universitas Terbuka, Indonesia

Established in 1984, Universitas Terbuka (UT) was designed to make education accessible across Indonesia. Its open learning model allows students to study remotely while continuing work or family commitments. The university is respected regionally for its focus on education and public administration.

• Notable Alumni: Known for civil servants and educators
• Top Courses: Education, Economics, Public Administration, Social Sciences

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National Technological Institute of Mexico, Mexico

Created in 2014 by merging several technical institutes, the National Technological Institute of Mexico (TecNM) offers technical and engineering education through 254 campuses nationwide. It’s one of Latin America’s largest university and an important contributor to regional industry and innovation.

Notable Alumni: Known for engineers and tech professionals

Top Courses: Engineering, IT, Biotechnology, Business Administration

Tribhuvan University, Nepal

Founded in 1959, Tribhuvan University is Nepal’s oldest and largest university. It manages hundreds of affiliated colleges and offers diverse programs in science, humanities, and management. It’s the most prominent higher education institution in Nepal, known for academic diversity and public service.

• Notable Alumni: Gagan Thapa (Nepalese Politician)
• Top Courses: Medicine, Engineering, Humanities, Management

California Community Colleges System, USA

Established in 1967, the California Community Colleges System (CCCS) brings together 116 colleges under one administration. It offers both in-person and online programs, serving millions of students across the U.S. While not a single university, CCCS plays a huge role in offering affordable higher education and workforce training.

• Notable Alumni: Arnold Schwarzenegger (Actor, Former Governor of California)
• Top Courses: Associate Degrees, Nursing, Computer Science, Business

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Choosing a large university can be overwhelming for students due to the sheer scale and diverse options, making it crucial to align your academic and career goals with the institution’s offerings. Researching admission processes and program flexibility for distance learning can help you avoid feeling lost in a massive system. Consider visiting campuses or exploring online reviews to gauge student experiences before applying.

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