South Valley University

Qena, Egypt

South Valley University (SVU), located in Qena, Upper Egypt, originally began as a branch of Assiut University in October 1970, launching its first academic programs . It later gained full independence and was officially established as its own public university on January 2, 1995, by presidential decree
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Frequently Asked Questions

SVU stands out by focusing on serving Egypt’s southern region through accessible, high-quality education, research, and community service. Its multidisciplinary campuses in Qena, Luxor, and Hurghada integrate engineering, agriculture, medicine, tourism, and environmental studies to address regional needs. It bridges academic excellence with real-world solutions—like sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and healthcare projects—driven by strong faculty partnerships with national and international institutions. This blend of local relevance and global engagement creates a university deeply rooted in its community yet outward-looking, positioning SVU as both a catalyst for regional development and a rising academic presence in the Arab and African worlds.
SVU hosts over 55,000 students across bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs, supported by a faculty of more than 4,000 academic staff. This robust academic community spans 19 faculties and two institutes across three campuses. The faculty includes approximately 1,800 internationally trained scholars, bringing global insights into local classrooms. With libraries, labs, cultural centers, and specialized research units tailored for large-scale learning and innovation, SVU offers both the resources and the human capital that enable a vibrant learning ecosystem capable of supporting large student populations without compromising academic quality.
Most undergraduate programs at SVU are delivered in Arabic, aligning with national higher education standards. However, numerous faculties—like Medicine, Engineering, Pharmacy, and certain science and technology streams—offer English-medium instruction or bilingual tracks. Demonstrating proficiency in Arabic is essential for most programs, while English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent) may be required for English or bilingual courses. For postgraduate students, research and thesis writing often occur in either language, depending on the field and international collaboration requirements.
SVU’s primary intake for undergraduate programs begins around September–October. Admission is based on high school completion (Thanaweya Amma or equivalent), with competitive grades required in core subjects—particularly Arabic, English, Math, and related sciences or social sciences. General deadlines fall between June and July, aligning with the national coordination system for Egyptian students. International applicants submit transcripts, language test results (Arabic/English), application forms, medical clearances, and supporting documents. Accepted students complete payment of fees and finalize dormitory placements before the semester starts. Some faculties may also require interviews or additional entrance tests.
Master’s applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree with at least a “Good” grade (Egypt: around 65–75%). Other requirements include official undergraduate transcripts, a dean’s endorsement, clearance of any backlogs, and payment of fees. International students additionally must provide degree equivalency, an invitation letter, visa paperwork, health insurance, English proficiency scores (if required), a research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Exact criteria vary by faculty—some may require entrance exams or interviews—and applications generally open in June–July with classes commencing by September/October.
Local students follow the Egyptian centralized coordination system for undergraduate applications—uploading high school certificates, ID, photos, and medical records. Master’s candidates apply directly to faculties, submitting transcripts, CVs, dean approvals, and research proposals. International applicants must translate and attest academic credentials, attach standardized test scores (Arabic or English), submit medical certificates, criminal background checks, visa documents, proof of finances, and passport information. The university then issues an invitation letter for visa processing. All admitted students must finalize fees and accommodation details prior to the start of classes.
SVU employs a sophisticated, multi-layered security framework. Since 2016, it's maintained a centralized control room overseeing over 700 IP cameras with intelligent video analytics to monitor buildings, public areas, and perimeters in real time. Backup control hubs across zones ensure continuous coverage even during technical failures. Regular patrols by trained campus guards complement this high-tech monitoring. For emergencies, protocols are coordinated with Qena’s Security Directorate, giving students access to rapid response services. This combination of technology, personnel, and municipal partnerships ensures a safe environment conducive to academic focus.
SVU ensures safety beyond campus boundaries through managed transport systems, event protocols, and staff coordination. Official trips—including field research, archaeological tours, sports events, or cultural excursions—are overseen by trained faculty and student-activity officers. Transportation is pre-approved and serviced for safety standards. Risk assessments cover health insurance, emergency contacts, and paediatric procedures. For late-night or weekend events on campus, security staff monitor entry points and maintain liaison with hometown law enforcement. Together, these systems offer peace of mind and ensure student safety whether on or off campus.
Yes—health safety systems at SVU include mandatory medical check-ups for all incoming students, performed by the Directorate of Medical Services. The 400-bed university hospital (with 25 specialties, including a cardiothoracic unit) provides both routine and emergency care. During public health emergencies, SVU mobilizes mass medical convoys offering multi-specialty free services in local communities. On campus, clinics, student counseling services, and referral systems ensure both physical and mental well-being. Combined surveillance and medical infrastructure ensures students feel cared for and secure on campus.
SVU offers a full academic spectrum—from pre-bachelor certificates and diplomas to undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs. Fields span medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, engineering, agriculture, science, arts, law, physical education, commerce, education, veterinary medicine, and special education. Specialized postgraduate research thrives in climate science, nanotechnology, agritech innovations, and social development. Distance and blended programs are available in select faculties like Nursing and Agriculture. Both traditional and applied disciplines reflect the university’s vision to interplay theoretical learning with hands-on impact.
Most faculties allow elective selections within or across disciplines—especially during the latter stages of undergraduate programs. Faculties like Arts and Commerce offer broader elective scopes, while specialized tracks in faculties like Engineering or Medicine are more structured. Transfers between faculties are possible but governed strictly: they require meeting CGPA thresholds, clearing backlogs, dean approvals, and slot availability. Additionally, professional faculties may require interviews or aptitude tests. Postgraduate programs often customize electives to align with research interests under faculty supervision.
Absolutely. SVU actively encourages undergraduate engagement in research through faculty-run labs, innovation centers, and multidisciplinary projects. Students can contribute to applied studies in areas like hydroponics, desalination, nano-packaging, green energy, and healthcare via assistantships, summer internships, and senior capstone projects. Funding and mentorship are often available, especially for outstanding students. Some may publish papers, present at conferences, or participate in innovation fairs—building credentials and practical skills early in their academic journey.
SVU offers a mix of internal scholarships and external opportunities. Internally, the Social Solidarity Fund provides merit-based and need-based aid for tuition, housing, and living expenses. On a national level, students may access government-era awards and ministry fellowships, especially for research or outstanding academic performance. Additionally, international programs such as Erasmus+ and collaborations with OeAD Uninet or European Science Institutes offer mobility grants, research funding, and conference sponsorships. While these often support postgraduate candidates, skilled undergrads can apply through faculty channels.
For internal scholarships, a strong academic record, clear fees, need assessment, and timely applications are key. Most funds require mid-year or end-year CGPA evaluations. For international and Erasmus+ grants, students apply via program-specific calls—typically involving project proposals, CVs, motivation letters, and endorsements. Master’s and PhD candidates may also advance their scholarships by proposing funded research. SVU’s Research and International Relations Office can help guide application preparation, deadlines, and required supporting documentation.
Yes. International students can access certain aid opportunities, especially research-based programs, Erasmus+ mobility grants, or bilateral scholarships affiliated with European or development agencies. Internally, need-based student support may be available on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must be enrolled full-time, demonstrate academic excellence (e.g., GPA ≥ Good), and comply with visa and enrollment criteria. Outreach from SVU’s international office and faculty advisors is critical—they guide students through application processes, eligibility checks, and required paperwork for abroad funding.
SVU provides dormitories at Qena, Luxor, and Hurghada campuses with separate male and female halls placed close to classrooms and facilities. Rooms typically host two to three students, each equipped with beds, wardrobes, study tables, and private baths. Shared amenities include kitchens, laundry rooms, lounges, and recreational spaces. Housing is managed through merit-based and need-based allocation; fees generally consist of a one-time admission charge (~785 EGP) and a monthly fee (~650 EGP) that includes meals. Regular maintenance and student council involvement ensure upkeep and satisfaction
On-campus life offers convenience, meal plans, Wi-Fi, security, and community engagement. Dorms are monitored 24/7 via CCTV and managed through the Vice President’s office. For those commuting from nearby towns or Cairo, off-campus options include rented apartments—though these require coordination for transit. Local transport, university shuttles, and student carpools support daily commute. Qena and Luxor are historically rich cities with cost-effective living, while Hurghada adds coastal lifestyle dimensions and tourism-related opportunities.
Yes. Dorms offer features that suit international students—like international meal options including Indian food, hot water, and Wi-Fi. Housing staff assist with cultural adaptation, roommate matching, and local guidance. Orientation programs introduce students to campus life, services, and city logistics. Additionally, the international students office helps with residence permits, banking setups, and mentoring. This holistic support eases transitions and ensures international students feel welcome and secure.
Egypt allows recent graduates to apply for post-study work or professional visas. After initial study visas, graduates can extend their status for employment, internship, or further research by securing job offers, training contracts, or academic invites. Required documents generally include diplomas, transcripts, Egyptian sponsor or employer contracts, and proof of financial stability. While visa procedures require embassy and immigration compliance, SVU’s International Office provides guidance on renewal steps, paperwork, and connecting with industry partners for career transitions.
SVU’s Training & Placement Cell assists graduates too—hosting alumni career fairs, offering CV reviews, and facilitating connections with recruitment panels via the Corporate Advisory Board. Graduates may rejoin workshops, get LinkedIn support, and access job portals maintained by the office. While salary negotiation and global placement depend on individual performance, the well-established placement ecosystem helps alumni secure roles in national firms, multinational companies, startups, and even research-based careers locally or abroad.
SVU alumni follow diverse paths: many enter public sector jobs in healthcare, education, agriculture, or local government. Engineering and tech graduates often join private and multinational corporations or pursue R&D roles. Medical and dental alumni continue with hospital residencies or research fellowships. Others pursue higher degrees—master’s and PhDs—at SVU or international institutions through collaborations with European universities or distance-learning centers like Zambia’s GCAR. Skilled graduates also explore entrepreneurship initiatives within SVU’s innovation ecosystem or take leadership positions in industry, NGOs, and government departments

University Of South Valley University Application Statistics

55000
100
42000
10000
1800
33:3
75 %
‎E£ 45600
‎E£ 64500
3
33
75 %

University Of South Valley University Application Statistics

55000
100
42000
10000
1800
33:3
75 %
‎E£ 45600
‎E£ 64500
3
33
75 %

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  • Qena - Nqada, Qena, Qena Governorate 83523, Egypt

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