Answers to frequently asked questions from international students and stateless persons about admission to Baku State University:
How is the admission of international students to BSU conducted?
The admission of international students is regulated by the Rules approved by the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 125 of May 1, 2015 "On the procedure for education of citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan abroad, foreigners, and stateless persons in the Republic of Azerbaijan." In line with Clause 3.5 of the Resolution, the educational institution is responsible for assessing the language skills and academic readiness of foreign students. If they meet the required standards, the university will proceed with their admission.
Can a foreigner holding a permanent residence permit (PRP) in Azerbaijan enroll in a university as a foreign student without taking the State Examination Center (SEC) exams?
Under Clause 1.2 of the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 125, dated May 1, 2015, these regulations do not apply to foreigners who are permanent residents of Azerbaijan. Such individuals are entitled to pursue education under the same conditions as Azerbaijani citizens.
Is it possible for dual citizens to be admitted as foreign students?
According to Article 10 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan "On Citizenship of the Republic of Azerbaijan," if an individual holds dual citizenship (Azerbaijani citizenship and that of another country), their foreign citizenship is not recognized, except in cases outlined by international treaties or as determined under Clause 32 of Article 109 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan. These individuals must apply to universities by taking the exams administered by the State Examination Center under the same conditions as other Azerbaijani citizens.
Can individuals with refugee status be admitted as foreign students?
Foreign citizens, stateless persons, and those with officially recognized refugee status can be admitted as foreign students, provided they do not hold dual citizenship.
What documents are required for university admission?
-An application addressed to the university administration specifying the chosen major, language of instruction, and mode of study (which can be submitted electronically);
-A notarized copy of the educational certificate(s) and its Azerbaijani translation, listing completed courses and grades from the previous level, and legalized (or apostilled) as required;
-A health certificate, including proof of no HIV, hepatitis B, or C infections;
-A valid border crossing document;
-Six photos of 3x4 cm size;
-Proof of language proficiency, if applicable;
-Copies of awards, certificates, diplomas, or other relevant documents, if available.
Are foreign students exempt from language proficiency tests if they continue with the same language of instruction?
Yes, the following two groups of foreign students are exempt:
- Those who have previously studied at an Azerbaijani educational institution and are applying for the next level of education;
- Graduates from educational institutions in their home country that meet the legal requirements.
Is it necessary to apostille the high school diploma or the university diploma obtained in another country for a foreign student applying for education?
The previous educational document must be legalized according to the prescribed procedure.
How should students applying during the pandemic submit their original documents?
Applications and document evaluations are processed online. Upon arriving at the university, students must submit their documents as required by law.
Can a foreign citizen of Azerbaijani descent who completed school in Azerbaijan but failed the SEC exams be admitted as a foreign student?
University admission as a foreign student is determined by citizenship, not ethnicity or the location of school completion. If the individual does not hold dual citizenship or Azerbaijani citizenship, they can be admitted as a foreign student. Foreign citizens wishing to take the SEC exams must have a temporary or permanent residence permit. A PRP holder who participates in SEC exams cannot be admitted as a foreign student and is entitled to the same educational rights as Azerbaijani citizens.
Can a student enrolled in preparatory courses at a university repeat those courses?
Under Clause 3.5 of the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 125, dated May 1, 2015, "On the Rules for Education of Azerbaijani Citizens Abroad, Foreigners and Stateless Persons in the Republic of Azerbaijan," the educational institution assesses the language proficiency and academic readiness of foreign students and if they meet the 4 requirements set by the educational institution, their admission to the educational institution is formalized. If their language or subject knowledge is deemed insufficient, the university may consider allowing them to repeat the preparatory courses.
What type of visa is required for a student entering Azerbaijan to study at AEI (Azerbaijan Educational Institutions)?
According to Article 27.1 of the Migration Code of Azerbaijan, a visa for scientific or educational purposes is issued to foreigners and stateless individuals who are coming to Azerbaijan for academic activities, attending conferences, seminars, and other related events, or enrolling in educational institutions for study or professional development. This visa is granted upon a request from government agencies, research institutions, or registered educational institutions within Azerbaijan.
How does the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan assist in obtaining a temporary residence permit (TRP)?
For foreign students whose primary purpose for entering Azerbaijan is education, the Ministry of Science and Education (MSE) submits a request to the State Migration Service (SMS) to issue a temporary residence permit. This request is made on behalf of the student by the AEI and includes the student’s full name (as it appears in the passport), nationality, passport number, and copies of the student’s passport and current TRP. At the start of the academic year, the MSE issues a circular to AEI concerning this matter.
What scholarship programs are available?
Scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available from the Azerbaijani government and some local universities. The State Educational Grant Program of Azerbaijan is open to citizens of countries that are members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement. Detailed information is available on the program’s website : https://studyinazerbaijan.edu.az/
How can additional questions be addressed?
For any further inquiries, you can reach out via the following email addresses: [email protected] and [email protected] .