Iran University of Science and Technology was originally founded in 1929 as the first Iranian institute to train engineers. The first engineering degrees in Iran were awarded by IUST in Machine Engineering in 1932, and chemical engineering in 1935. The institute proceeded to expand its educational programs and finally achieved the status of university in 1978 and was named “Iran University of Science and Technology”.

IUST main campus consists of 18 schools and departments including 15 engineering and science schools as well as 3 departments of Foreign Languages, Islamic Studies, and Physical Education & Sports Sciences. IUST's E-Learning center was established in 2004, and has since recruited students in undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

In addition, nine academic/research centers from IUST have been officially recognized as Centers of Excellence in the country.

IUST publishes also 13 national and international scientific journals that appear quarterly.  

The main campus, covering 42 hectares, is located in the northeast of Tehran, capital of I.R. Iran. In addition to schools and departments, 25 research centers, a large number of laboratories and workshops, and central library, the main campus includes Masjid, residential halls, outdoor and indoor sports facilities including a major soccer stadium and a swimming pool complex. The facilities and the landscaped area of the main campus provide a lively and pleasant environment for the students to pursue their education. As well as IUST campus 2 that is located near the main campus, other campuses are located in the city of Noor and Damavand town.