The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has established four criteria for admission to training programs available at 118 higher education institutions for the 2026 academic year. These criteria are designed to ensure a fair and transparent selection process for prospective university students across the nation. Initial registrations are scheduled to commence on July 15, marking the official start of the admission cycle. Students are required to access the dedicated digital platform at https://www.orientation-esi.dz using their unique registration number and baccalaureate code to initiate their application process. The Ministry plans to announce the results for the first phase of admissions on the evening of July 30, providing timely information to applicants.
Successful candidates will proceed with paying their registration fees through the 'Progres' platform, a secure and efficient digital system. This payment window is set to open on August 5 and close on August 10, 2026, allowing ample time for admitted students to finalize their enrollment. For candidates holding Experimental or Math baccalaureate degrees, a minimum average of 14 out of 20 (weighted or general) is required for entry into Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical and Health Products) and Dentistry (Dental Hygiene) programs at the University of Health Sciences. This specific requirement ensures that students entering these demanding fields possess a strong academic foundation.
Admission Requirements and Process
Admission criteria for the 2026 academic year will consider students' baccalaureate division, baccalaureate exam results—either a weighted average or general average—additional specific conditions for certain fields of study, expressed wishes, institutional capacity, and geographical areas. These multifaceted criteria aim to match students with programs that align with their academic strengths and aspirations, while also considering the capacity of the institutions and regional needs. New baccalaureate holders are eligible to register for both in-person and distance learning programs, providing flexibility and broader access to higher education opportunities. The Ministry also permits students to pursue two distinct training paths concurrently to obtain a dual degree, provided they meet the necessary conditions for such an undertaking, fostering interdisciplinary studies and expanded academic horizons. However, a student holding multiple baccalaureate certificates is restricted to a single registration, ensuring equitable access for all applicants.
The weighted average, a key component of the admission process, is calculated by combining the general baccalaureate average with a specific coefficient and the score from core subject(s). This calculation method is detailed individually for each specialization and field of study, ensuring precision and relevance to the chosen program. To assist applicants in understanding their eligibility, a digital application has been made available for baccalaureate holders to accurately calculate their weighted average, promoting transparency and ease of access to critical information. For certain training programs in Earth and Space Sciences, Health Sciences, Medical Sciences, and Veterinary Sciences, the score achieved in Natural Sciences will be specifically considered for admission, recognizing the importance of foundational knowledge in these scientific disciplines.
Candidates are required to complete a wish list, submitting a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 10 choices, which must be ranked differentially according to their preference. This structured approach helps ensure that students have multiple opportunities for admission based on their academic profile. This wish list must include at least two training paths for a license degree that necessitate local or regional registration, encouraging students to consider institutions within their geographical area. Failure to complete the registration process within the specified timeframe will result in the forfeiture of the right to register for the desired training path, showing the importance of adhering to deadlines. Should a second wish list be required, for example, if an applicant does not secure a placement from their initial selections, it must also contain six choices, with two mandatory local or regional license paths, available either in-person or via distance learning. This provision offers a second chance for students to secure a place in higher education. Students who are admitted to the Abdellahif Iheddaden Scientific and Technological Pole are required to sign a five-year service commitment contract, aligning their education with future professional contributions.
Key Dates and Registration Phases
The initial registration phase for prospective university students is scheduled to take place from July 15 to July 16, providing a focused window for applicants to submit their choices. Following this period, students are required to confirm their chosen options between July 20 and July 22, a key step to finalize their preferences. For applicants who do not receive an offer from their initial selections, a second registration phase has been made available, running from July 31 to August 2. This additional phase ensures that students who were not placed in their first round of applications have another opportunity to select programs. The outcomes of this second phase of admissions are slated for announcement on the evening of August 5, providing swift feedback to applicants.
Final registration for successful candidates necessitates payment through the 'Carte Dorée' (Golden Card) on the designated platform, https://progres.mesrs.dz/webetu. This payment window will be open from August 7 to August 9, allowing a specific timeframe for completing the financial aspects of enrollment. An appeals phase has also been established for special cases, allowing submissions from August 14 to August 20. This mechanism provides an avenue for students with extenuating circumstances to have their applications reviewed. The processing of these appeals will occur on August 21 and August 22, with the results expected to be released on August 23, ensuring a prompt resolution. Accepted appellants must complete their payment before August 28 to finalize their registration, adhering to the established financial deadlines. Additionally, support courses in English will be offered via distance learning for all students, with sessions running from July 20 to September 20, 2026. These courses are designed to enhance language proficiency, which is increasingly vital in academic and professional settings.
Specific Field Averages and Institutions
The 118 higher education institutions comprise 58 universities, 5 university centers, 2 annexes, and 53 higher schools, which include 40 higher schools and 13 higher schools specifically for teachers. This diverse range of institutions offers a wide array of academic programs and specializations to cater to the varied interests and career aspirations of baccalaureate holders. For Technical-Math baccalaureate holders, admission to Pharmacy and Dentistry programs at the University of Health Sciences requires a minimum general average of 15 out of 20, reflecting the rigorous nature of these fields.
Across all baccalaureate divisions, entry into Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry with local registration by wilaya mandates a minimum average of 16 out of 20 for Experimental or Math baccalaureate holders. This high requirement shows the competitive and critical nature of medical and pharmaceutical studies. Similarly, Technical-Math baccalaureate holders seeking local registration for Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry must achieve a minimum general average of 16 out of 20, maintaining a consistent standard across different baccalaureate streams for these essential health professions.
Specifically for Pharmacy with local registration, Experimental or Math baccalaureate holders need a weighted or general average of 16 out of 20 or more. This ensures that only highly qualified candidates are admitted to contribute to the pharmaceutical sector. Technical-Math baccalaureate holders applying for Pharmacy with local registration are required to have a general average of 16 out of 20 or more, aligning with the rigorous academic standards. For Dentistry with local registration, Experimental or Math baccalaureate holders must secure a weighted or general average of 16 out of 20 or higher, emphasizing the precision and dedication required for dental sciences. Technical-Math baccalaureate holders for Dentistry with local registration are subject to a general average requirement of 16 out of 20 or more, ensuring a consistent level of academic excellence for future dental practitioners.
The National School of Veterinary Medicine requires Experimental or Math baccalaureate holders to achieve a weighted or general average of 14.5 out of 20 or more, preparing students for careers in animal health. Technical-Math baccalaureate holders seeking admission to the National School of Veterinary Medicine must attain a general average of 15 out of 20 or more, reflecting the scientific foundations needed for veterinary studies. For Veterinary Sciences with national registration at Constantine1, Batna1, and Tiaret, Experimental or Math baccalaureate holders need a weighted or general average of 12 out of 20 or more, broadening access to this field across different regions. Technical-Math baccalaureate holders applying for Veterinary Sciences with national registration at these institutions require a general average of 13.5 out of 20 or more, ensuring a baseline of academic preparedness.
Advanced Programs and Special Tracks
For local registration in Veterinary Sciences, Experimental or Math baccalaureate holders require a weighted or general average of 12 out of 20 or more, facilitating regional talent development in veterinary care. Technical-Math baccalaureate holders seeking local registration for Veterinary Sciences must achieve a general average of 12.5 out of 20 or higher, providing local opportunities for students with a strong technical background.
Admission to the National Higher Schools of Autonomous Systems and Nano-Sciences and Nanotechnologies mandates a weighted or general average of 16 out of 20 or more for Mathematics, Experimental Sciences, and Technical-Math baccalaureate holders. These high thresholds reflect the advanced and specialized nature of these advanced technological fields. The National Higher School of Artificial Intelligence and the National Higher School of Cybersecurity require a weighted or general average of 17 out of 20 or more for students from Mathematics, Experimental Sciences, and Technical-Math baccalaureate divisions, indicating the exceptional academic rigor and importance placed on these critical areas of national development.
For entry into the National Higher School of Mathematics, Mathematics baccalaureate holders need a weighted or general average of 16 out of 20 or more, recognizing their specialized preparation. Experimental Sciences baccalaureate holders applying to the National Higher School of Mathematics must have a weighted or general average of 16.5 out of 20 or higher, acknowledging the strong analytical skills developed in this stream. Technical-Math baccalaureate holders aiming for the National Higher School of Mathematics are required to achieve a weighted or general average of 17 out of 20 or more, noting the advanced mathematical aptitude expected. Students admitted to the National Higher Schools receive training delivered in English, preparing them for international collaboration and global scientific advancements.