Interest in higher education supervision began with the Higher Education Law issued in 1980, followed by the establishment of the Higher Education Council in 1982 to oversee Jordanian higher education institutions.

In 1985, the Ministry of Higher Education was established, and Law No. (28) for Higher Education was issued, defining the objectives of higher education as well as the powers and responsibilities of the Higher Education Council and Ministry.

After thirteen years, Law No. (6) of 1998 was issued, which dissolved the Ministry of Higher Education and replaced it with the Higher Education Council, aligning all Jordanian community colleges with Al-Balqa Applied University.

Upon King Abdullah II's assumption of constitutional powers, the Royal Decree re-established the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research on 21/8/2001 to oversee both public and private higher education institutions and elevate the level of higher education to meet global developments and societal needs.

Established in 2017, the International Students Unit aims to monitor and support international students studying in Jordanian higher education institutions, organizing and improving services to provide them with an exceptional study experience in Jordan, a country rich in history, culture, and diversity.

The unit works in line with the Ministry’s vision: "Towards an attractive higher education model and distinguished scientific research in the region, mirroring leading global practices." It also implements the 2023-2027 strategic plan for attracting international students, coordinating with partners such as the Tourism Promotion Authority, Jordanian higher education institutions, embassies, and cultural attachés.