3 min read

The Republic of Azerbaijan has officially opened applications for its prestigious Heydar Aliyev – International Education Grant Program for the 2025–2026 academic year. This scholarship is more than just a financial aid opportunity—it’s a gateway to world-class education, rich cultural immersion, and global networking.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about this golden opportunity.

This scholarship program is named in honour of Heydar Aliyev, the National Leader and founding father of modern Azerbaijan. The initiative reflects his vision of positioning Azerbaijan as a hub for global education, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. The scholarship was established by the decree of President Ilham Aliyev on July 8, 2023, and is being offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Science and Education.

Key Information

• Country: Azerbaijan
• Level of Study: Undergraduate, Masters, PhD
• Program Period: Depends on course
• Deadline: May 15, 2025
• Official link

Eligibility Criteria

Age requirements for applicants shall be as follows:

• Undergraduate and general medicine programs – foreign nationals below 35 years as of
  15.09.2025;
• Graduate and medical residency programs – foreign nationals below 40 years as of
  15.09.2025;
• Doctoral programs – foreign nationals below 45 years as of 15.09.2025

List of eligible countries

Programs Covered

You can apply for any of the following educational levels:

• Bachelor’s Degree (4–5 years)
• General Medicine Program (5–6 years)
• Master’s Degree (1.5–2 years)
• Medical Residency (2–5 years)
• Doctoral (PhD) Program (3 years)
• Preparatory Courses (6 months–1 year)

What’s Included in the Scholarship?

Here’s what you’ll get as a recipient:

• Full coverage of tuition fees, including language preparatory courses where required.
• Annual round-trip international flight tickets in economy class between the applicant’s home country and Azerbaijan.
• A monthly allowance of 800 Azerbaijani Manat (approximately 470 USD) for accommodation, daily expenses, and academic materials, provided for 10 months each year (excluding July and August).
• Annual medical insurance worth 200 Azerbaijani Manat (approximately 117 USD) to cover basic healthcare needs during the study period.
• Visa facilitation and a temporary residence permit for the duration of each academic year.

How to Apply?

1. First Stage – Government Nomination
   Submit documents to your country’s Ministry of Education, Foreign Affairs, or Embassy by May 15, 2025.
2. Second Stage – Online Registration
   Once nominated, register through SIACAS (Study in Azerbaijan Centralized Admission Service) at portal.edu.az between June 1–15, 2025.
3. Program Selection
   Choose up to three specializations at different Azerbaijani universities through the Heydar Aliyev grant channel.
4. Wait for Results
   If selected, you’ll receive official confirmation by the end of July 2025.

Required Documents

• Nomination Form (Stage 1)
• Educational Transcripts & Diplomas
• Passport Copy
• Medical Certificate (incl. HIV/AIDS, Hep B/C tests)
• CV or Resume
• Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Equivalent)
• Motivation Letter
• Certificates of Awards (if available)

All documents must be in Azerbaijani, Turkish, English, or Russian (or have certified translations).

Conclusion

The Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant Program is a remarkable opportunity for international students to pursue higher education in Azerbaijan with full financial support. Beyond academics, it offers students the chance to immerse themselves in a rich cultural environment, expand their global perspectives, and contribute to the growing educational ties between Azerbaijan and their home countries.

With comprehensive coverage, a wide range of eligible programs, and support from Azerbaijan’s key educational and foreign affairs bodies, this scholarship opens the door to both personal and professional growth for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Scholarships 💰 – Leap Scholar