Azerbaijan Government Scholarship 2026/27 (Fully Funded)

The Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant Program 2026–2027 is a prestigious, fully funded government scholarship offered by the Republic of Azerbaijan. Named in honor of Heydar Aliyev, the National Leader of Azerbaijan, this initiative is jointly managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Science and Education. It aims to support outstanding international students in pursuing higher education at leading universities across Azerbaijan, fostering global academic exchange and cooperation.

The program awards approximately 100 grants annually and covers a wide range of degree levels, with no application fee for eligible candidates.

Quick Overview

Program Duration by Degree Level

• Bachelor’s — 4–5 years
• General Medicine — 5–6 years
• Master’s — 1.5–2 years
• Medical Residency — 2–5 years
• Doctoral (PhD) — 3 years
• Preparatory courses — As required (language or foundation)

Financial Benefits (Fully Funded)

The scholarship covers:

• Full tuition fees (including preparatory language courses if needed)
• Round-trip international airfare
• Monthly stipend for living expenses
• Accommodation support
• Educational materials and resources
• Medical insurance
• Visa and registration fees

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to international students from all countries except citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan (or those whose Azerbaijani citizenship has been terminated).
• Age limits (at time of application):
  • Bachelor’s & General Medicine: Under 35 years
  • Master’s & Medical Residency: Under 40 years
  • Doctoral (PhD): Under 45 years
• Strong academic record (typically minimum 70% GPA or equivalent)
• Must be nominated by the relevant government authorities in the applicant’s home country (e.g., Ministries of Education/Foreign Affairs, Embassies, or designated higher education bodies).
• Priority often given to citizens of OIC member states, Non-Aligned Movement countries, Small Island Developing States, and nations with historical/cultural ties to Azerbaijan.

Required Documents

• Completed nomination/application form (provided by nominating authority)
• Copies of diplomas and academic transcripts
• Valid passport copy
• Medical certificate (health clearance)
• CV/Resume
• Motivation letter
• Proof of language proficiency (if required by program – e.g., IELTS/TOEFL or prior education in English/Russian/Turkish/Azerbaijani)
• Any local or international awards/certificates (optional but recommended)

How to Apply – Step-by-Step Process

This is a two-stage application process. Direct applications to universities or the Azerbaijani government are not accepted.

1. First Stage – Nomination (by April 15, 2026) Contact the relevant government authorities in your home country (Ministry of Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Azerbaijani Embassy, or designated body). Submit your application and all required documents to them. They will review, evaluate, and officially nominate eligible candidates.
2. Second Stage – Online Registration (for nominated candidates only) If nominated, you will be contacted by the nominating authority. Register and complete the application through the Study in Azerbaijan Centralized Admission Service (SIACAS) portal (typically May 18 – June 1, 2026). Select up to three preferred programs/universities/specialties.
3. Final Selection & Notification Shortlisted candidates are reviewed (June–July 2026). Successful applicants are notified (July–August 2026). Academic year starts around September 15, 2026 (arrival by September 30, 2026).

Always verify the latest timeline, eligibility, and procedures directly on the official portal, as dates and processes may be updated.

This scholarship offers an excellent opportunity to study in a culturally rich, strategically located country while receiving comprehensive financial support. For full details, guidelines, and updates, visit: https://studyinazerbaijan.edu.az/financial-support