Complete Admission Guide for the Azerbaijan Scholarship Program 2024 (All Levels)

The Azerbaijan Scholarship Program for citizens of OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) and NAM (Non-Aligned Movement) member countries was approved by the President of Azerbaijan on December 6, 2017, and January 10, 2018, respectively. This initiative annually provides 40 selected candidates with the opportunity to pursue higher education in prestigious universities in Azerbaijan at the following levels: ✔ Preparatory courses ✔ Bachelor’s and Master’s programs ✔ PhD programs ✔ General Medicine / Residency programs

Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship fully covers the following expenses: ✔ Tuition fees ✔ International airfare (one round-trip economy class ticket per year) ✔ Monthly stipend of AZN 800 (includes food, accommodation, and utility expenses) ✔ Medical insurance ✔ Visa and registration costs This program offers an excellent opportunity for students from OIC and NAM countries to receive world-class education in Azerbaijan.  

Who Can Apply for the Scholarship?

The Azerbaijan OIC & NAM Scholarship Program is open to candidates who meet the following criteria: ✔ Citizens of OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) and NAM (Non-Aligned Movement) member countries (including students from Iran and Afghanistan) ✔ Undergraduate (General Medicine) applicants:

• Must be under 25 years old

✔ Postgraduate (Master’s & Residency) applicants:

• Must be under 30 years old

✔ PhD applicants:

• Must be under 40 years old

✔ Strong academic background (Candidates must demonstrate a good academic record and research potential) This scholarship provides a unique opportunity for eligible students from OIC and NAM countries to pursue fully funded higher education in Azerbaijan.

 

Selection Process & Results for the Azerbaijan OIC & NAM Scholarship

The scholarship selection process consists of the following steps: ✔ Document Screening & Evaluation ✔ Online Interview (via Skype) ✔ Final Selection & Notification (by early August 2022) 📌 Note: Only selected candidates will be contacted.

How to Apply?

✔ Applicants must be officially nominated by their respective government institutions (e.g., ministries, embassies, or other official bodies). ✔ Applications must be submitted to the Embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan. ✔ Deadline for applications: April 1, 2022

Which Azerbaijani Universities Offer This Scholarship?

Below is the list of Azerbaijani universities participating in the Azerbaijan Scholarship Program (2022), along with their official websites: University NameWebsite ADA University ada.edu.az Azerbaijan University of Languages adu.edu.az Azerbaijan State Agricultural University adau.edu.az Azerbaijan State University of Economics unec.edu.az Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts admiu.edu.az Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University asoiu.edu.az Baku Higher Oil School bhos.edu.az Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University adpu.edu.az Azerbaijan Arts Academy azra.edu.az Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction azmiu.edu.az Azerbaijan National Conservatory conservatory.edu.az Azerbaijan Technical University aztu.edu.az Azerbaijan Medical University amu.edu.az Azerbaijan University of Tourism and Management atmu.edu.az Baku State University bsu.edu.az Baku Engineering University beu.edu.az Baku Slavic University bsu-uni.edu.az Nakhchivan State University ndu.edu.az Baku Music Academy named after Uzeyir Hajibeyov musicacademy.edu.az Western Caspian University wcu.edu.az Khazar University khazar.org

Guidelines for International Scholarship Students in Azerbaijan

This guideline document provides general information and academic guidance to international students accepted into the Azerbaijan Scholarship Program under the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) initiative. ✔ It outlines the rights and responsibilities of international students receiving this scholarship. ✔ Students are encouraged to refer to this guide as a supplementary resource, but they should also seek detailed information from their host universities for further clarification. 📌 For more details, students should contact their respective Azerbaijan universities.

Rights and Responsibilities of Scholarship Students in Azerbaijan

Scholarship Benefits for Students

Once accepted into the Azerbaijan Scholarship Program, students sign a scholarship agreement with their host university. According to this agreement, students are entitled to: ✔ Full tuition waiver at the host institution ✔ Familiarization with academic regulations and internal policies of the university ✔ Coverage of essential expenses, including:

• Visa fees
• Registration costs
• Travel expenses (one round-trip international flight per year)
• Health insurance
• Monthly stipend (for accommodation, food, transportation, books, and utility costs)
• Scholarship coverage for up to 10 months per academic year, according to contract conditions
• ✔ Official degree certification upon successful completion of the program
• ✔ Request for scholarship extension (up to one additional semester) in case of unforeseen emergencies

📌 Important Note: Students should check with their host university for any additional benefits or rights. For detailed information on rights and freedoms in Azerbaijan, visit the official government website.

Student Responsibilities Under the Scholarship

Under the signed scholarship contract, students are required to: ✔ Maintain a minimum GPA of 51 (out of 100) each semester ✔ If a student fails to meet this requirement, they must pay 50% of the tuition fee to their university’s bank account ✔ Abide by the internal regulations of their host university and the laws of Azerbaijan 📌 Check with your university for additional obligations.

Visa Information for Scholarship Students

How Can a Student Obtain a Visa?

✔ Single-entry student visas are issued upon arrival at Heydar Aliyev International Airport (Baku, Azerbaijan) ✔ Support letters are provided to ensure smooth entry into Azerbaijan ✔ Visa processing and payments are handled via ASAN Visa and ASAN Payment systems

Visa Fees & Reimbursement

✔ Visa Fee: USD 20 (reimbursed by the host university) ✔ Electronic Visa (E-Visa): Available for eligible countries

• Processing Time: 3 working days
• Validity: 30 days
• Cost: USD 20 (excluding service fees)
• ✔ Urgent Visa Processing: Available within 3 hours via ASAN Visa

📌 Check your eligibility for an E-Visa at evisa.gov.az

Visa Exemptions for OIC Citizens

✔ Citizens of OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) member states do not require a visa to enter Azerbaijan. 📌 For the latest visa updates and foreign immigration policies, visit the Azerbaijan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Azerbaijan Immigration Regulations for Foreign Students

The Immigration Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan governs the rights and obligations of foreign nationals and stateless persons residing in Azerbaijan.

Key Immigration Rules for Foreign Scholarship Students:

✔ Foreign nationals must adhere to the purpose of their visit as declared upon entry. ✔ Those staying in Azerbaijan for more than 15 days must register at their residence. ✔ The maximum duration of stay for visa holders must not exceed the period stated on their visa. ✔ As a scholarship student, you will receive temporary residence status and must obtain the appropriate residence permit. ✔ The State Migration Service of Azerbaijan issues temporary residence permits. ✔ Students must apply for a residence permit renewal at least 30 days before expiration. ✔ Once approved, students will receive a temporary residence card. 📌 University officials will assist students in obtaining their residence permit. 📌 For the latest immigration news and updates, visit the official Azerbaijan immigration website.

Required Documents for University Enrollment After Receiving the Scholarship

To complete university registration, students must submit the following: ✔ Official application letter (addressed to the university president, specifying the field of study and language of instruction) ✔ Educational transcripts and certificates (translated and notarized copies) ✔ International passport ✔ Health certificate (confirming the absence of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B & C) ✔ Six (6) passport-sized photos (4×3 cm) ✔ Language proficiency certificate (if applicable) ✔ Copies of additional academic certificates 📌 For postgraduate scholarship recipients, all academic transcripts must be apostilled (verified by the Ministry of Justice & Foreign Affairs) or officially legalized by the relevant government agencies.

Flight Arrangements for Scholarship Students

✔ University officials provide flight details for incoming and outgoing students. ✔ Scholarship covers one round-trip economy-class ticket per academic year (for arrival at the beginning and departure at the end of each academic year). ✔ Universities arrange the ticket booking, and students must provide:

• A copy of their passport
• A valid Azerbaijan visa

📌 For self-funded tickets: Students must submit their boarding passes, passport copies, and e-tickets to the university for reimbursement. ✔ Only economy-class tickets are eligible for reimbursement.

Finding Student Accommodation

✔ Students must contact their university to secure a dormitory. ✔ Universities provide on-campus housing for scholarship students based on availability. ✔ If dormitories are full, universities may assist students in finding affordable rental housing. ✔ The scholarship stipend covers monthly housing expenses.

How do you open a bank account as a scholarship student?

✔ To open a bank account, students must provide a copy of their passport to the university’s admissions office. ✔ The university staff will assist students in completing the process. This ensures that students can receive their monthly stipend and manage expenses efficiently.

Transportation System in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan has a well-connected transport network, including roads, railways, buses, metro, and taxis, making travel easy. Baku, the capital and largest city, is the hub for higher education institutions and offers various transportation options for local and intercity travel.

BakiKart (Public Transport Payment System)

✔ To use Baku Metro and buses, passengers must purchase a BakiKart. ✔ Cards can be bought at metro and bus stations. ✔ BakiKart Prices:

• Permanent Card: 2 AZN
• Single-use fare: 0.30 AZN (one of the most affordable transport options)

Baku Metro

✔ The Baku Metro consists of 25 stations and three lines. ✔ It is a fast and cost-effective way to travel within the city. ✔ For metro maps and station details, visit the official metro website.

Bus Services

✔ City Buses (BakuBus):

• One of the most convenient ways to travel within Baku.
• Bus routes and schedules are displayed at bus stops.
• More information is available at bakubus. az.

✔ Intercity & International Buses:

• To travel to other cities in Azerbaijan or neighboring countries (Russia, Georgia, Turkey, and Iran), use modern long-distance buses from the Baku International Bus Terminal.
• For ticket details and travel conditions, visit the official website.

Taxi Services

✔ Taxis are a more expensive option compared to public transport. ✔ Various taxi companies operate in Azerbaijan, and bookings can be made via phone or mobile apps. ✔ For a list of taxi services, visit alo141.az

Alo 141 Transport Platform

✔ Alo 141 is a 24/7 transport helpline for:

• Submitting suggestions, complaints, and inquiries regarding public transportation.
• Receiving real-time transport updates.
• ✔ For more details, visit: alo141.az

Railway System

✔ High-standard passenger trains operate between Azerbaijani cities and foreign destinations. ✔ For ticket reservations and travel details, check the official railway website.

Conclusion

Azerbaijan offers a diverse and efficient transportation system, making it easy for students to navigate the country affordably. Metro, buses, and trains are the most cost-effective options, while taxis provide convenience at a higher price.

 

Azerbaijan: Essential Information for International Students

Maps & Navigation

✔ Detailed maps of Azerbaijan are available at gomap. az. ✔ For navigation, you can use the AzNav system. ✔ Download the AzNav navigation app at aznav.az.

Emergency Situations

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for assistance, including: ✔ Natural & man-made disasters ✔ Fires ✔ Children, elderly, or ill persons trapped at home ✔ Serious traffic accidents ✔ Industrial & construction site incidents ✔ Rescue operations in water bodies ✔ Exposure to radioactive, chemical, or hazardous substances ✔ Weapons or explosive threats ✔ Other urgent emergencies ✔ Failure to reach emergency services (Police: 102, Ambulance: 103, Gas services: 104)

Safety in Azerbaijan

✔ Azerbaijan has a low crime rate, and Baku is considered one of the safest capitals in the world. ✔ However, students should take standard precautions to ensure their safety. ✔ To report any crime, contact local police stations or dial 102.

Public Holidays

✔ Azerbaijan observes several national holidays. ✔ While some are non-working days, transport, shopping centers, and recreational areas remain open. ✔ For a complete list of holidays, check the official government website.

Diplomatic Missions

✔ For a list of diplomatic missions in Azerbaijan, visit the official government website.

Important Contact Numbers

✔ For a list of essential contact numbers, visit the official website.

Weather & Climate

✔ Azerbaijan has a diverse climate, with warm summers and mild winters. ✔ Baku’s climate is moderated by the Caspian Sea, making it more temperate. ✔ Average temperature in September: 18°C to 26°C. ✔ For monthly weather forecasts in Baku, visit the official meteorological website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for the scholarship individually?

❌ No. Direct individual applications will not be accepted. ✔ Applicants must be officially nominated by their government institutions (ministries, embassies, etc.).

2. Where and how should I submit my application?

✔ Relevant government institutions must officially submit applications to any embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan.

3. What if there is no Azerbaijani diplomatic mission in my country?

✔ Since applications are processed through diplomatic channels, applicants should submit their documents to any Azerbaijani embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

4. Do I need to apply separately for university admission?

❌ No, separate university applications are not required. ✔ Once selected, the selection committee will forward applicants’ documents to universities.

5. Is an English language proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL) mandatory?

❌ Not mandatory, but preferred.

6. Is there a specific format for the medical fitness certificate?

❌ No specific format is required. ✔ However, the certificate must include an HIV test result and be issued by a recognized hospital.

7. Which nationalities are eligible for the scholarship?

✔ Citizens of OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) and NAM (Non-Aligned Movement) member states. ✔ For a complete list of eligible countries, visit the official website. Azerbaijan offers a safe, affordable, and well-connected environment for international students. With strong transportation, medical, and emergency services, students can enjoy a high-quality academic experience while benefiting from a fully funded scholarship program.