Established in 2009, Ardakan University is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Ardakan (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Yazd. Officially recognized by the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology of Iran, Ardakan University is a small coeducational Iranian higher education institution. Ardakan University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees in several areas of study. This 13 years old Iranian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. Ardakan University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.