Are you looking for a fully funded opportunity to study at the crossroads of Europe and Asia? The Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant 2026 (formerly the Azerbaijan Government Scholarship) is now open for applications! This prestigious program offers 100 international students a year the chance to study in Azerbaijan with every major expense covered.
Named after the national leader of Azerbaijan, this grant aims to foster international cooperation and support the development of human capital globally. Whether you are aiming for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, this guide covers everything you need to know to secure your spot in Baku.
1. Scholarship Coverage & Benefits 💎
This is a fully funded scholarship. The Azerbaijani government ensures that scholars can focus entirely on their studies without financial stress. The benefits include:
- Full Tuition Fees: Coverage for the entire duration of your degree, including a language preparatory year if needed.
- International Flight: One economy-class round-trip flight per year.
- Monthly Stipend: A monthly allowance of 800 AZN (approx. $470 USD) for 10 months each year.
- Medical Insurance: A yearly allowance of 200 AZN for health coverage.
- Visa & Residency: All costs for your single-entry visa and temporary residence permit are covered.
2. Eligible Programs & Duration 🏛️
The grant supports almost all fields of study at Azerbaijan's top universities. The duration varies by level:
| Education Level | Duration |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4–5 Years |
| General Medicine | 5–6 Years |
| Master’s Degree | 1.5–2 Years |
| Medical Residency | 2–5 Years |
| Doctoral (PhD) | 3 Years |
3. Eligibility Requirements 📝
To be eligible for the 2026/2027 academic cycle, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Open to citizens of OIC, NAM, and SIDS member states, as well as countries with historical ties to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijani citizens are not eligible.
- Academic Standing: A minimum academic performance of 70% (or 7/10 GPA) in previous studies.
- Age Limits:
- Undergraduate/Medicine: Under 35 years.
- Master's/Residency: Under 40 years.
- Doctoral (PhD): Under 45 years.
- Language Proficiency:
- English-taught: IELTS 5.0 (Undergrad) or IELTS 5.5 (Postgrad).
- Russian/Turkish/Azerbaijani-taught: Proof of proficiency or language of previous education.
4. Required Documents Checklist 📁
Prepare these documents in PDF format. If they are not in English, Russian, Turkish, or Azerbaijani, they must have a notarized translation.
- Completed Nomination Form: Provided by your home country's nominating authority.
- Diplomas & Transcripts: From high school or university.
- Passport Copy: Must be valid for the duration of the study.
- Medical Certificate: Issued within the last 3 months, specifically including results for HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C.
- CV/Resume & Motivation Letter: Detailing your goals and why you want to study in Azerbaijan.
- Awards & Certificates: Any local or international achievements to boost your profile.
5. Key Dates & Deadlines 🗓️
Pro-Tip: The application is a two-stage process. You must be nominated by your government first before you can apply online!
- Stage 1 (Nomination): February 16 – April 15, 2026. Submit documents to your Ministry of Education or Foreign Affairs.
- Stage 2 (Online Portal): May 18 – June 1, 2026. Nominated candidates register on the SIACAS portal.
- Final Results: July 1 – August 1, 2026.
- Academic Year Begins: September 15, 2026.
6. How to Apply: The Process 🖱️
Don't wait until June! Follow these steps carefully:
- Step 1: Contact your country's relevant government body (e.g., Higher Education Commission or Ministry of Education) to request a nomination.
- Step 2: Submit your physical or digital documents to your local authority before April 15, 2026.
- Step 3: If nominated, you will receive instructions to register on the SIACAS Portal.
- Step 4: Select "Heydar Aliyev – International Education Grant" as your admission channel and choose up to 3 university programs.
7. Useful Links & Contact 🔗
- Main Application Portal: portal.edu.az
- Official Info Site: Study in Azerbaijan
- Support Email: siacas.support@tsii.edu.az
Final Thoughts 🇦🇿
Azerbaijan is a hidden gem for international students, offering high-tech universities and a unique blend of Eastern and Western traditions. The Heydar Aliyev Grant is highly competitive but offers one of the best financial packages in the world. Start gathering your medical certificates and transcripts now!
