Scholarships in Tajikistan – Fully Funded & University Scholarships for International Students

/ Scholarships / By

🎓 Scholarships in Tajikistan – Click Here

🎓 Why Study in Tajikistan?

Tajikistan, a beautiful mountainous country in Central Asia, is slowly emerging as a promising educational hub for students who want affordable, quality education combined with a rich cultural and historical experience. With Soviet-era academic traditions, partnerships with Russian and Central Asian universities, and the growing presence of international organizations, Tajik universities now offer diverse study programs, especially in medicine, engineering, humanities, Central Asian studies, and languages.

Here’s why study in Tajikistan is becoming an attractive choice for students from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa:

✅ 1. Recognized Universities with Unique Programs
Tajikistan is home to well-known universities such as:

  • Tajik National University (TNU) – the largest and oldest university offering programs in sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
  • Russian‑Tajik Slavonic University (RTSU) – a joint Tajik–Russian institution offering high-quality programs with Russian accreditation.
  • Khujand State University – popular for teacher education, linguistics, and social studies.
  • University of Central Asia (UCA, Khorog campus) – supported by the Aga Khan Development Network, offering internationally designed programs.

Many programs are taught in Russian, Tajik, or English, and degrees are recognized in CIS countries and beyond.

✅ 2. Affordable Education & Living Costs
Studying in Tajikistan is significantly cheaper compared to most European countries:

  • Public university tuition fees can be as low as $1,000–$2,500 per year for international students.
  • Dormitory accommodation and daily living expenses are 50–70% cheaper than Western countries.
  • Students benefit from low-cost transportation and food, making Tajikistan one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Central Asia.

✅ 3. Scholarships in Tajikistan for International Students
There is a growing list of fully funded and partially funded scholarships in Tajikistan, such as:

  • Government scholarships for students from partner countries
  • University merit-based scholarships for top-performing applicants
  • International programs like Aga Khan Foundation, DAAD, Erasmus+, and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) scholarships

Most scholarships in Tajikistan cover:

  • Tuition fees
  • Monthly stipends for living expenses
  • On-campus accommodation
  • Health insurance and cultural exchange activities

✅ 4. Strategic Location & Cultural Heritage
Tajikistan is located at the crossroads of Central Asia, making it a great base for students interested in exploring the Silk Road heritage. You’ll experience:

  • A safe and welcoming environment
  • Rich Persian and Central Asian culture
  • Easy travel access to Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Russia, and China

✅ 5. Career Opportunities in Regional Development & NGOs
Studying in Tajikistan opens opportunities in:

  • International development and NGO sectors (Aga Khan Foundation, UNDP, OSCE)
  • Tourism and cultural heritage management
  • Agriculture, hydropower, and energy projects in the region
  • Regional diplomacy, languages, and cultural exchange programs

✅ 6. Quality of Life & Unique Experience
Tajikistan offers a peaceful lifestyle, scenic mountains, and a close-knit student community. Living in Dushanbe or Khujand, you’ll enjoy:

  • Affordable housing and local cuisine
  • A friendly community of international students
  • Cultural festivals and historic Silk Road landmarks

🌍 Why Tajikistan is an Emerging Study Destination

With its affordable education, government and international scholarships, culturally rich environment, and growing international collaborations, Tajikistan is becoming an ideal study destination for students looking for low-cost, high-value education in Central Asia.

Whether you want a fully funded scholarship in Tajikistan, a language and cultural exchange program, or a recognized degree in medicine, engineering, or humanities, this country offers great opportunities for international students.

🏛 Government-Funded Scholarships in Tajikistan

The Government of Tajikistan actively promotes educational cooperation with foreign countries through state-funded scholarships and bilateral exchange programs. These scholarships aim to attract talented students to Tajik universities while strengthening cultural and academic ties with partner nations.

If you want to study in Tajikistan at minimal or no cost, here are the most important government-funded scholarship opportunities:

✅ 1. Tajikistan State Quota Scholarship for International Students

Tajikistan offers a limited quota of fully funded scholarships each year for students from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and CIS countries.

Coverage:

  • Full tuition fee waiver at selected Tajik public universities
  • Free on-campus dormitory accommodation
  • Monthly stipend for basic living expenses
  • Health insurance for the duration of the program

Eligibility:

  • Open to students from countries with bilateral agreements (e.g., India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, CIS states)
  • High school diploma for undergraduate programs / bachelor’s degree for master’s
  • Basic proficiency in Russian or Tajik (some programs accept English)

Fields of Study:

  • Medicine & Healthcare
  • Engineering & Natural Sciences
  • Agriculture & Hydropower Studies
  • Humanities, Languages & Central Asian Studies

🌐 Official Link: Ministry of Education, Tajikistan

✅ 2. Bilateral & Regional Cooperation Scholarships

Under government-to-government agreements, Tajikistan offers scholarships for students from partner countries:

  • CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) members
  • Middle Eastern nations (Iran, Turkey, etc.)
  • South Asian countries (India, Afghanistan, Pakistan)
  • African nations under OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation)

Benefits:

  • Full or partial tuition coverage
  • Dormitory housing
  • Cultural exchange programs & language courses

These scholarships are coordinated via Tajik embassies abroad and partner countries’ Ministries of Education.

✅ 3. Tajik Government Medical Scholarships

For students interested in medicine, dentistry, or nursing, the Tajik Ministry of Health funds scholarships at:

  • Avicenna Tajik State Medical University (TSMU)
  • Khujand Medical College

Coverage:

  • Tuition fees for MBBS & other medical programs
  • Clinical training in state hospitals
  • Accommodation allowance

🌐 Official Link: TSMU Official Site

✅ 4. Russian–Tajik Slavonic University (RTSU) State Scholarships

As a joint Tajik-Russian university, RTSU offers special tuition-free seats for students from CIS countries and beyond, supported by both governments.

Coverage:

  • Full tuition fee exemption
  • Stipend for high-performing students
  • Dual recognition of degree (Russia & Tajikistan)

Programs: Law, Economics, IT, Linguistics, Humanities

🌐 Official Link: RTSU Website

✅ 5. Tajik Cultural & Language Exchange Scholarships

For students who want to study Tajik language, Persian studies, history, and culture, the government sponsors short-term cultural exchange scholarships through:

  • Tajik National University (Dushanbe)
  • Khujand State University

Benefits:

  • Tuition for short-term language & cultural programs
  • Dormitory accommodation
  • Excursions to historic Silk Road sites

✅ 6. Tajikistan Scholarships via International Treaties

Tajikistan also participates in regional educational agreements, allowing students from partner nations to apply for state-supported seats in Tajik universities under UNESCO and OIC cooperation frameworks.

This includes:

  • Tuition-free seats for Central Asian cooperation programs
  • Scholarships funded through UNESCO Silk Road Educational Exchange

🌐 More Info: UNESCO Silk Road Program

🎯 Why Choose Government Scholarships in Tajikistan?

✔️ Full financial support (tuition, dorms, stipends) for eligible students
✔️ Opportunity to study in Tajikistan’s top universities without high costs
✔️ Access to Russian & Tajik accredited degrees recognized regionally
✔️ Chance to explore Central Asian history & culture
✔️ Pathways to regional development and NGO career opportunities

🎓 University-Based Scholarships in Tajikistan for International Students

Apart from government-funded programs, many leading universities in Tajikistan provide merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. These scholarships support undergraduate, master’s, and PhD students, especially in fields like medicine, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and Central Asian studies.

Below are the most prominent university scholarships in Tajikistan:

✅ 1. University of Central Asia (UCA) Scholarships

The University of Central Asia (Khorog Campus) offers some of the most generous scholarships in Tajikistan.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Nearly 95% of tuition fees covered for all admitted students
  • Full accommodation and meals at campus
  • Laptop and textbook allowance
  • Health insurance and annual travel support
  • For CAFDP Doctoral Scholarship – full PhD tuition abroad + stipend, travel, and research grant

Eligibility:

  • Citizens of Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, or Kyrgyzstan (CAFDP PhD is open to broader Central Asian nationals)
  • High academic merit & English proficiency

Fields of Study:
Development Studies, Climate Change, Data Science, Media & Communications, Earth Sciences, Public Policy

🌐 Official Link: https://ucentralasia.org

✅ 2. Tajik National University (TNU) Scholarships

The Tajik National University, the country’s oldest and largest, offers:

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Partial or full tuition waivers for top-performing international students
  • Dormitory accommodation
  • Access to cultural and language programs

Eligibility:

  • International students from countries with bilateral agreements
  • Strong academic performance

Fields of Study:
Medicine, Law, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences

🌐 Official Link: https://www.tnu.tj

✅ 3. Russian‑Tajik Slavonic University (RTSU) State Scholarships

A joint Tajik‑Russian university that provides government-funded seats with dual degree recognition.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Tuition-free study for eligible students
  • Monthly stipend for high GPA holders
  • Recognition of degree in Russia & Tajikistan

Eligibility:

  • Students from CIS and partner nations
  • Language requirement: Russian or Tajik

Fields of Study:
Economics, Law, IT, Linguistics, Humanities

🌐 Official Link: https://www.rtsu.tj

✅ 4. Khujand State University (KSU) Scholarships

Khujand State University collaborates with DAAD, Erasmus+, and Aga Khan Foundation for exchange and merit scholarships.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Tuition fee waivers for selected programs
  • Funding for cultural & language exchange
  • Accommodation in university dormitories

Eligibility:

  • Academic excellence & language skills (Russian/Tajik/English depending on program)

Fields of Study:
Languages, Teacher Education, Humanities, History, Social Sciences

🌐 Official Link: http://www.hgu.tj

✅ 5. Avicenna Tajik State Medical University (TSMU) Scholarships

TSMU is the main medical university in Tajikistan offering scholarships for healthcare programs.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Tuition fee reduction for top foreign students
  • Clinical training in affiliated hospitals
  • Hostel facilities at subsidized rates

Eligibility:

  • International students with science/biology background
  • Admission into MBBS, Dentistry, or Pharmacy

Fields of Study:
General Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing

🌐 Official Link: https://tsmu.tj

✅ 6. Khorog State University & Language Scholarships

Offers short-term scholarships for Tajik/Persian language, culture, and history studies for international students.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Tuition for short cultural programs
  • Dormitory accommodation
  • Cultural excursions

Eligibility:

  • Students interested in Central Asian & Persian heritage

Fields of Study:
Language, History, Culture

🌐 Official Link: http://khorogsu.tj

✅ Why Choose University Scholarships in Tajikistan?

  • Access low-cost, quality education in Central Asia’s emerging academic hub
  • Many programs are taught in English, Russian, or Tajik
  • Scholarships often include housing, stipends, and cultural exchange
  • Gain degrees recognized in CIS, Russia, and international academic networks

🌍 Private & International Scholarships in Tajikistan

Beyond government and university funding, several private organizations, development agencies, and international bodies offer scholarships in Tajikistan for foreign students. These programs focus on academic excellence, research, cultural exchange, and regional development, making study in Tajikistan more accessible.

✅ 1. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme (ISP)

The Aga Khan Foundation supports outstanding students from Tajikistan and other developing countries with postgraduate scholarships to study either in Tajikistan or abroad.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • 50% grant + 50% interest-free loan model
  • Tuition fees & living expenses
  • Research allowance for specific fields

Eligibility:

  • Academic excellence and genuine financial need
  • Preference for Master’s & PhD applicants
  • Commitment to return and contribute to home country development

Fields of Study:
Development, Health, Education, Culture, Infrastructure, Sustainability

🌐 Official Link: https://www.akdn.org/our-agencies/aga-khan-foundation/international-scholarship-programme

✅ 2. Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship Programme

The IsDB Scholarship supports students from Tajikistan (an OIC member country) to study either in Tajik universities or at leading institutions abroad.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Full tuition fees
  • Monthly living stipend
  • Health insurance & airfare
  • Research and thesis support

Eligibility:

  • Must be from an OIC member country
  • Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral students
  • Priority for Science, Engineering, Agriculture, and Development fields

Fields of Study:
STEM, Medicine, Agriculture, Sustainable Development

🌐 Official Link: https://www.isdb.org/scholarships

✅ 3. DAAD & Erasmus+ Exchange Scholarships

Many Tajik universities partner with DAAD (Germany) and Erasmus+ (European Union) to offer exchange semester scholarships for students and researchers.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Tuition-free exchange programs
  • Monthly allowance
  • Travel grants & health insurance

Eligibility:

  • Enrolled in a partner Tajik university (TNU, KSU, RTSU, UCA)
  • Academic merit and language proficiency

Fields of Study:
Engineering, IT, Business, Humanities, Languages, Environmental Sciences

🌐 DAAD Official Link: https://www.daad.de/en/
🌐 Erasmus+ Official Link: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu

✅ 4. U.S. CAEF & IREX Exchange Programs

The U.S.-Central Asia Education Foundation (U.S. CAEF) and IREX offer scholarships and exchange opportunities for Tajik students to gain American-style education either in Tajikistan or via cultural exchange.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Tuition fees for selected business and economics programs
  • Summer internships & leadership training
  • Travel & cultural immersion programs

Eligibility:

  • Strong academic background
  • Leadership qualities & English proficiency

Fields of Study:
Business, Economics, Public Administration

🌐 Official Link: https://www.irex.org

✅ 5. UNESCO Silk Road Cultural Exchange Scholarships

UNESCO partners with Tajik universities to provide scholarships for language, history, and cultural heritage studies as part of the Silk Road heritage initiatives.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Tuition for short-term cultural programs
  • Accommodation during the program
  • Excursions to UNESCO heritage sites in Tajikistan

Eligibility:

  • Open to international students of cultural studies and history

Fields of Study:
History, Culture, Language, Archaeology

🌐 Official Link: https://www.unesco.org

✅ 6. OSCE Academy in Central Asia Fellowships

The OSCE Academy, while primarily based in Bishkek, also offers fellowships and workshops for Tajik and regional students focusing on policy, governance, and security studies.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Full tuition for short policy programs
  • Monthly stipend
  • Research grants

Eligibility:

  • Students from Central Asia, including Tajikistan
  • Interest in governance, security, human rights, policy research

Fields of Study:
Political Science, IR, Human Rights, Development

🌐 Official Link: https://osce-academy.net

✅ 7. Soros Foundation Open Society Scholarships

The Open Society Foundation provides research and academic scholarships for civil society, human rights, law, and social policy studies in Central Asia, including Tajikistan.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Tuition fee waivers
  • Research grants
  • Conference travel funding

Eligibility:

  • Focus on social sciences, human rights, and governance

Fields of Study:
Law, Human Rights, Political Science, Media

🌐 Official Link: https://www.opensocietyfoundations.org

✅ Why Consider Private & International Scholarships in Tajikistan?

  • Access to fully funded and partially funded scholarships from trusted global organizations
  • Networking & research opportunities with international faculty and institutions
  • Flexible pathways to study in Tajikistan or abroad
  • Focus on development, culture, governance, and emerging global issues

📝 Step-by-Step Application Process for Scholarships in Tajikistan

Applying for scholarships in Tajikistan is straightforward if you follow the correct process. Whether you’re applying for government-funded scholarships, university merit-based grants, or private/international scholarships, here’s how to do it:

✅ Step 1: Research Programs & Scholarships

  • Identify Tajik universities and programs that fit your academic goals.
  • Decide which type of scholarship suits you best:
    • Government-funded scholarships (Tajik State Quota, RTSU scholarships)
    • University-based merit scholarships (UCA, TNU, TSMU, KSU)
    • Private/International scholarships (Aga Khan Foundation, IsDB, DAAD, Erasmus+)
  • Check if your desired program is taught in English, Russian, or Tajik.

✅ Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements
Each scholarship in Tajikistan has its own criteria. Common requirements include:

  • Minimum GPA or academic performance
  • Language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for English programs or Tajik/Russian for local programs)
  • Age limits for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programs
  • Nationality requirements (some scholarships are for specific countries)

✅ Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Before you apply, prepare the following documents:
📄 Academic Documents

  • Certified transcripts & degree certificates (translated if needed)
  • Valid passport (at least 12 months validity)

📝 Application Documents

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Motivation Letter
  • CV/Resume
  • 2–3 Recommendation Letters
  • IELTS/TOEFL scores (if applying for English programs)
  • Research proposal (for Master’s/PhD scholarships)

✅ Step 4: Submit Application via Official Portals
There are three main ways to apply for scholarships in Tajikistan:

1️⃣ Government Scholarships
Apply through the Ministry of Education Tajikistan or your country’s Tajik embassy.
🌐 https://maorif.tj

2️⃣ University Scholarships
Apply directly on the university’s admission portal, such as:

3️⃣ Private/International Scholarships
Apply via official websites like:

✅ Step 5: Attend Interviews or Entrance Exams
Some scholarships require an interview or entrance test to assess academic ability and motivation.

✅ Step 6: Wait for Results & Scholarship Offer
After evaluation, selected students receive an official scholarship award letter within 6–8 weeks.

✅ Step 7: Apply for Tajikistan Student Visa
Once you receive your scholarship confirmation, apply for a Tajik student visa at the nearest embassy.
Required documents:

  • Scholarship letter & admission confirmation
  • Passport & visa application form

✅ Step 8: Travel & Enroll
Book your flight to Dushanbe or Khujand, complete university enrollment, and attend the orientation session for international students.

📅 Academic Intakes & Scholarship Deadlines in Tajikistan

Tajik universities generally have two major intakes:

  • Fall Semester (September)
    • Applications open January–May
    • Government & international scholarship deadlines March–April
  • Spring Semester (February)
    • Applications open July–October
    • Scholarship deadlines usually September–November

Private scholarships like Aga Khan Foundation or DAAD have specific timelines, so always check the official websites for updated deadlines.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are scholarships in Tajikistan fully funded?
✅ Yes, many scholarships in Tajikistan are fully funded, covering tuition, accommodation, stipends, and even travel costs (e.g., UCA Scholarships, IsDB).

2. Do I need to know Tajik or Russian to study in Tajikistan?
✅ Many programs are taught in Russian, but some universities (like UCA) offer English-taught programs. Knowing basic Tajik/Russian helps with daily life.

3. Can I work while studying in Tajikistan?
✅ Yes, part-time work is allowed on-campus, but external work may require special permits.

4. Are Tajikistan degrees recognized internationally?
✅ Yes, especially degrees from RTSU, UCA, and TNU, which have regional and Russian accreditation, recognized across CIS, Russia, and Europe.

5. How much does it cost to live in Tajikistan as a student?
✅ On average, $250–$400/month covers accommodation, food, transport, and daily expenses—making it one of the most affordable study destinations in Central Asia.

🌟 Conclusion: Why Study in Tajikistan?

Tajikistan is becoming an emerging academic hub in Central Asia, offering:

✅ Affordable education and low living costs
✅ Fully funded & merit-based scholarships for international students
✅ Degrees recognized across Russia, CIS, and beyond
✅ A safe, culturally rich environment with Silk Road heritage
✅ Opportunities in regional development, NGOs, medicine, IT, and cultural studies

With government scholarships, university-based funding, and international scholarship programs, you can make your education in Tajikistan high-quality, low-cost, and globally recognized.

If you’re looking for an affordable study abroad experience with scholarships, Tajikistan is a hidden gem worth exploring. Follow ScholarshipGrow.

✅ Official Scholarship Links for Tajikistan

✅ Keywords: study in Tajikistan, scholarships in Tajikistan, fully funded scholarships in Tajikistan, Tajik universities for international students, affordable education in Central Asia

⚠️ Disclaimer

Scholarship details, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships in Tajikistan may change each year. Always verify the latest information on official university and scholarship portals before applying. This post is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee admission or funding.