Study in Azerbaijan on a Fully Funded Scholarship: A Guide for Indian Students

If you are planning to study abroad but want a financially realistic option, here is an opportunity worth serious attention. The Government of Azerbaijan is inviting nominations for the Heydar Aliyev - International Education Grant Program for the 2026–2027 academic year. Indian students are eligible to apply.

The program was established by President Ilham Aliyev to support international students in leading Azerbaijani universities through fully funded education across multiple academic levels.

Why Indian Students Are Eligible

India is a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, and countries from this group are included in the scholarship’s eligibility list. This means Indian applicants can participate without any special category or exception.

Study Levels Offered

The scholarship supports full-time study in:

• Bachelor’s programs
• General Medicine
• Master’s programs
• Medical Residency
• Doctoral (PhD) programs
• Preparatory language courses (if required)

Students may select up to three programs among different universities.

What the Scholarship Covers

• Full tuition fees
• Language preparation (if required)
• Round-trip flight to Azerbaijan every year
• Monthly stipend of 800 AZN (~470 USD)
• Medical insurance allowance
• Visa + residence permit support

Application Timeline

Important: Candidates must first be nominated by relevant authorities in their home country before submitting the online application.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

• Indian citizenship
• Minimum 70% academic score in previous qualification
• Age limits:
  • Undergraduate / Medicine: under 35
  • Master’s / Residency: under 40
  • PhD: under 45
• English-medium applicants must provide:
  • IELTS 5.0 for undergraduate
  • IELTS 5.5 for postgraduate

Official link

Where You Will Study

Many international students are based in Baku, the capital city on the Caspian Sea known for its mix of historic architecture plus modern infrastructure. The city offers relatively affordable living costs compared to many popular study destinations.

Key Application Requirements

Applicants must prepare:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Valid passport
• Medical certificate
• CV or resume
• Motivation letter
• Proof of language proficiency
• Nomination form (Stage 1)

Documents must be notarized and submitted in approved languages (English, Azerbaijani, Turkish, or Russian).

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

For Indian students seeking an international degree without heavy financial burden, this program offers:

• Government-funded education
• Monthly financial support
• International exposure
• Access to emerging global education networks
• A less saturated applicant pool in comparison to traditional destinations

Official Contact Information

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan: scholars@mfa.gov.az
• Study in Azerbaijan: info@studyinazerbaijan.edu.az

Final thought

Every year, thousands of Indian students chase the same destinations. Meanwhile, fully funded opportunities like this quietly exist, waiting for people bold enough to try something different.

Need help understanding whether this scholarship fits your profile or managing the nomination process? A Leap Scholar expert can help you evaluate your eligibility and plan your application strategically, without confusion or wasted effort.

If studying abroad without drowning in debt sounds appealing, this might be your sign.