Recent changes in the statistics of nationwide exam participants clearly show a shift in young people’s focus and priorities towards the future and ways to achieve success. According to current data, in 1404 (2025), there was a 37% decline in the number of applicants compared to the previous year. This significant drop indicates that the new generation no longer sees success and earning a good income as limited to university entry, and instead looks for acquiring specialized skills and using faster, more practical methods such as online education to enter the workforce more effectively.
Why has the number of exam applicants decreased?
The decline in interest in participating in exams has several reasons; many believe that a university degree does not guarantee a job, and the job market values practical skills more than just degrees. Additionally, high education and living costs for students, along with easy access toonline educationand skill-based courses, provide more attractive alternative paths for young people.
Online Education and Its Potential for Employment and Income
Online learning is a fast and cost-effective way to acquire in-demand skills. According to LinkedIn’s 2024 report, over 60% of employers worldwide prefer practical skills over academic degrees.
Statistics show that online learning has a direct impact on employment. According to Coursera’s 2023 report, 85% of people who completed online courses reported finding a better job or advancing in their current one.
The Best Online Learning Platforms
Now that we know online education can be a great alternative to traditional routes like entrance exams, let’s get familiar with some reputable platforms.
Udemy
UdemyIt is one of the largest online education platforms worldwide, offering over 200,000 courses on various topics. From programming and graphic design to soft skills like presentation and time management, Udemy has courses for everyone interested.
Key features:
- Variety of courses
- Affordable prices
- Lifelong access
- Certificate of completion
Coursera
Coursera is a platform that offers high-quality courses in partnership with top universities and leading companies like Google and Stanford. It is an ideal choice for those seeking professional education and accredited certificates.
Key features:
- Specialized courses
- Accredited certificates
- Free learning options
- Practical projects
Maktab Khaneh
Maktab Khaneh is one of Iran’s top online education platforms, offering diverse courses in collaboration with renowned universities such as Tehran and Sharif. It is especially suitable for those wanting to learn in Persian and aligned with Iran’s job market needs.
Key features:
- Diverse courses
- Native content in Persian
- Affordable and even free prices
- Strong support
If you’re looking for Persian-language courses to learn skills like graphic design at low cost, Maktab Khaneh is an excellent option.
The table below provides a simple comparison of these platforms:
| Platform | Certificate | Price | Credible certificate |
| Udemy | Yes | Cheap | Yes |
| Coursera | Yes | Moderate to Expensive | Yes |
| Maktab Khaneh | Yes | Cheap and Free | Yes |
The field of graphic design, with high earning potential and strong demand in Iran and worldwide
Graphic design, as a creative and practical field, offers valuable opportunities for those who haven’t achieved their desired results in the entrance exam. With increasing demand in the job market, it enables acquiring professional skills and entering lucrative careers.
Activities in the Graphic Design Field
Graphic design includes various branches that offer many job opportunities:
- Digital advertising and media: Designing posters, banners, and social media content
- Logo design and brand identity: Creating logos and branding elements for companies
- User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX): Designing website and app interfaces
- Animation and Illustration: Producing visual content for video games, films, and ads
- Creating professional presentations: UsingPowerPointfor creating visual slides
Job Market and Income for the Graphic Design Field
The graphic design market in Iran is highly dynamic due to the expansion of digital media and technology. Small and large companies, both in employment and freelance work, need graphic designers.
Note: Below is the average salary for graphic designers in 1404 (2025), based on Job Vision reports:
| Location | Year | Experience Level | Average Monthly Income (Toman) | Details |
| Tehran | 1404 | Junior | 20 to 33 million | Estimated |
| Tehran | 1404 | Senior | 31 to 45 million | Estimated |
| Tehran | 1404 | Manager | 40 to 60 million | Estimated |
| Large/Small Cities | 1404 | Junior | 16 to 28 million | Estimated, Mashhad, Isfahan, and similar cities |
| Large/Small Cities | 1404 | Senior | 20 to 39 million | Estimated, Mashhad, Isfahan, and similar cities |
| Large/Small Cities | 1404 | Manager | 20 to 39 million | Estimated, Mashhad, Isfahan, and similar cities |
| USA | – | Average Annual Income | USD 70,000 | Annual income in the USA |
| Canada | – | Average Annual Income | USD 65,000 | Annual income in Canada |
| UK | – | Average Annual Income | GBP 30,000 | Annual income in the UK |
Starting a Career
To enter the graphic design profession, mastering specialized software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign is essential.CoursesPhotoshop TrainingAt reputable platforms like Udemy and Maktab Khaneh, project-based courses are offered that cover skills such as photo editing and poster design.
Final Words
Entrance exams are no longer the only path to success; online education offers a golden opportunity to learn high-demand skills like programming, graphic design, and digital marketing. Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Maktab Khaneh help you prepare for the job market quickly and affordably.
