SAMFA is a Persian acronym for measuring standards of Persian skills, which is the most important proficiency test in the Persian language.
SAMFA serves as a measure of an individual's language skills, regardless of the source or method of their Persian language education.
Similar to the TOEFL and IELTS assessments for English proficiency, SAMFA has been developed and implemented by the International Scientific Collaboration Center, National Organization of Educational Testing, and the Office of Non-Iranian Students within the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology, in collaboration with renowned professors from universities and scientific institutions of the country.
The scientific framework and supporting document for this examination have been prepared and published by the Ministry of Science's International Scientific Collaboration Center.
Furthermore, SAMFA includes a Speaking Skill Test, which evaluates the spoken production of non-Iranian Persian learners, as well as other skills such as listening and writing. This assessment takes place at the National Organization of Educational Testing.
SAMFA is a crucial criterion for admission to universities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
According to the approved regulations, all non-Iranian students intending to study at Iranian universities must participate in this examination.
The exam comprises both general and academic sections.
The general section of SAMFA determines the level of Persian proficiency for non-Iranians seeking to study, reside, work, establish businesses, or establish international offices within the Islamic Republic of Iran.
This exam is held at least three times each year during the months of January, June and September.
Simultaneously, the exam is administered within the country and at Persian Language Centers outside of Iran.
Exam Specification
The test comprises of various skill sections, each worth 60 points, resulting in a total of 240 points.
The listening and reading skills sections contain 30 questions each, while the written test consists of two topics with a total duration of 180 minutes.
The speaking skill section is allotted 15 minutes.
Purposes and Applications of the Test:
This test serves as the official proficiency examination for the Persian language, acknowledged by both Iranian and non-Iranian universities and companies.
Its main objectives are as follows:
- Evaluating the language knowledge and skills of students and candidates seeking to learn Persian globally.
- Assisting in the admission process for non-Iranian students into universities and scientific institutions within the country.
- Standardizing the teaching methods of Persian language for non-Persian speakers.
Note 1: Additionally, this test can be employed for other essential purposes by other institutions for non-Iranian, namely acquiring work permits, residency permits, establishing offices in Iran, etc.
Note 2: The sole criterion for the admission of non-Iranian students into universities and scientific institutions within the country is participation in the SAMFA test and obtaining the minimum required score (SAMFA certificate).
SAMFA Transcript and Certificates
Individuals can acquire the SAMFA Transcript by providing details such as their application number and passport number through the online portal of the National Organization of Educational Testing.
The SAMFA license will be dispatched to the specified address at the time of registration.
The National Organization of Educational Testing issues the certificate in Persian and English languages, with a validity period of two years.
In summary, prospective language learners are required to enroll in one of the Persian language training centers catering to non-Persian speakers at the initiation of their educational journey. Following successful completion of different proficiency levels in Persian language within the internal center assessment, applicants will then be eligible to participate in the SAMFA examination. Upon triumphant completion of the SAMFA exam, candidates can proceed to secure admission into universities and commence their studies.