Background and Objective: Higher education in the contemporary world has faced extensive changes, and universities are no longer considered merely institutions for transferring knowledge, but play an important role in human education, social development, and shaping the lived experience of students. The aim of the present study was to rethink the functions of higher education in Iran and explain the relationship between instruction, education, and social life. Method: The qualitative research approach and the research method were analytical-descriptive. The sources of information collection included articles and sources related to the subject over a period of time, separated into Persian sources over a period of time (1396 to 1404) and Latin sources over a period of time (1990 to 2025). The sampling method was purposive and the sample included the sources available to the researcher over the aforementioned period. The tool was a researcher-made checklist. The analysis method was conceptual analysis. Findings: The research findings showed that the dominance of the education-oriented approach, the diminution of educational functions, and the weakening of students' social life have been among the most important challenges of higher education, and the realization of deep learning and human development of students requires interaction and synergy between formal education, academic education, and social life. Results: The research results can provide a basis for reviewing policies, curricula, university evaluation systems, and the design of teaching-learning environments in higher education in the country.