AZE.US
Universities in Uzbekistan are becoming an increasingly attractive option for Azerbaijani students looking for affordable and internationally connected higher education closer to home.
That interest was visible at the third Uzbekistan higher education exhibition held in Baku, where 16 Uzbek universities and nearly 40 faculty representatives presented academic programs to Azerbaijani applicants and students. Some stands drew heavy crowds, with visitors asking about tuition fees, admission rules and available fields of study.
Students and education specialists point to several reasons behind the trend: lower tuition, more affordable living costs, cultural and linguistic proximity, and the recognition of Uzbek diplomas in Azerbaijan.
For many applicants, Uzbekistan is no longer seen as a secondary choice. It is increasingly viewed as a practical alternative to more expensive European destinations, especially for students who want to study in their chosen field rather than compromise on a less suitable program abroad.
The strongest interest appears to be in information technology, economics, medicine, law, languages and other humanities-related fields. Some Uzbek universities also offer programs in English, adding to their appeal for students seeking a more international academic environment without the cost of Western Europe.
More than 300 Azerbaijani citizens are currently studying in Uzbekistan, according to figures cited at the exhibition. They are enrolled in bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs across different cities in the country.
Education experts say the broader interest in Central Asian universities has been rising in recent years. Kazakhstan is also drawing attention from Azerbaijani students, especially in technical and internationally oriented programs.
For Azerbaijani families, the calculation is increasingly straightforward: a recognized degree, lower costs, familiar cultural surroundings and access to fields that are in demand in the labor market. That combination is likely to keep interest in Uzbekistan’s universities growing in the coming years.
AZE.US