Established in 1993, Jaamacada Badweynta Hindiya (Indian Ocean University) is a non-profit private higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Mogadishu (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), Banaadir. Officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education of Somalia, Jaamacada Badweynta Hindiya (IOU) is a small coeducational Somali higher education institution. Jaamacada Badweynta Hindiya (IOU) 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 29 years old Somali higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. IOU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.