- Azerbaijan records 616 applications under the Intergovernmental Scholarship Program for the 2026-27 academic year.
- China and Hungary remain top study destinations, attracting 162 and 454 applications respectively.
- Majority of applicants seek postgraduate education, with master’s programs accounting for 457 submissions.
A total of 616 applications were submitted from Azerbaijan under the Intergovernmental Scholarship Program (ISP) for the 2026-2027 academic year, with China and Hungary continuing to be the most sought-after study destinations, according to information released by the State Agency for Science and Higher Education. The data was reported by Azernews and reflects sustained interest among Azerbaijani students in international higher education opportunities supported through government-to-government agreements.
The application window for the upcoming academic year concluded in December, closing on December 19 for China and December 22 for Hungary. Of the total number of applications received, 162 were submitted for study programs in China, while 454 applications were directed toward Hungary. Officials at the State Agency for Science and Higher Education noted that the figures demonstrate consistent demand for education systems in both countries, which have long-standing academic partnerships with Azerbaijan.
An analysis of the applications shows a strong preference for postgraduate education. Master’s degree programs accounted for the majority of submissions, with 457 applicants seeking admission at this level. This was followed by 86 applications for bachelor’s degree programs and 73 for doctoral studies, underscoring a growing focus on advanced academic training, specialization, and research-oriented learning among Azerbaijani students.
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The State Agency for Science and Higher Education stated that a particularly high volume of applications was recorded during the initial stage of the process. However, the agency emphasized that the number of applicants alone will not influence selection outcomes. All submissions will be evaluated strictly in accordance with the eligibility requirements and assessment criteria specified in the official scholarship announcements for each destination country.
According to the agency, only candidates who successfully pass the preliminary screening phase will proceed to the next stage of the selection process. These shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews conducted by expert panels. The interview committees will include representatives appointed by the Ministry of Science and Education, the State Agency for Science and Higher Education, other relevant government bodies, and higher education institutions.
Officials said the multi-stage evaluation process is designed to ensure transparency, merit-based selection, and alignment with the academic and strategic priorities of the Intergovernmental Scholarship Program. The approach aims to identify candidates who not only meet academic standards but also demonstrate the potential to contribute meaningfully to Azerbaijan’s human capital development upon completion of their studies.
The continued interest in the ISP reflects the program’s role in expanding access to international education and strengthening academic cooperation between Azerbaijan and partner countries. By supporting studies at leading institutions abroad, the scholarship program continues to serve as a key pathway for developing highly skilled professionals and researchers across priority fields.
