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Study in Azerbaijan: A Guide for International Students

The meeting ground between Europe and the Middle East, Azerbaijan is sandwiched between Russia to the north and Iran to the south.

Feb 26, 2014
  • Study Abroad in the Middle East

The meeting ground between Europe and the Middle East, Azerbaijan is sandwiched between Russia to the north and Iran to the south. It also borders Georgia to the north-west, Armenia to the west and the Caspian Sea to the east. The smaller Nakhchivan Exclave is nestled between Armenia, Iran and Turkey. Azerbaijan is politically allied to Russia but culturally intertwined with Turkey. This sets the stage for Azerbaijan as one of the more interesting countries in the world. 

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Azerbaijan is known as the Land of Fire - and it is easy to see why. From the oil refineries in the Caspian Sea to the famous mud volcanoes in central rural areas, Azerbaijan is a country that is forged in and is evolving through fire. The fact that the Land of Fire is such an unusual, exotic mix of Turkic, European and Middle Eastern probably explains why it’s becoming an evermore popular destination with students from across the Middle East and neighbouring Russia.

Azerbaijan - Quick Facts & Figures

CapitalBaku
LanguageAzerbaijani, (Russian)
Population10.1 million
Area Size86,000km²
International students26,000
Academic YearSeptember - May
CurrencyAzerbaijani Manat (AZN)
Calling Code+994
Time zoneGMT+4

boat caspian sea

Azerbaijan is also becoming more popular as a tourist destination. From its expansive national parks, to the ancient, stone-built Old City of Baku, to the calm, warm water of the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan packs a lot into a somewhat small area. 

The country is also one of the safest and most stable in the region. It has a low crime rate, good relations with its neighbors - bar Armenia - and also benefits from a strong economy. Azerbaijan is among the wealthiest ex-Soviet states. However, there is a breakaway region: Nagorno-Karabakh (more on that elsewhere in this guide). 

Azerbaijan is a country that’s in touch with its traditions and cultural heritage. Traditional singing events, dances and parades often take place. Traditional Azeri food complements these events. Azerbaijan is an exotic country. Its links with its traditions is just one of the reasons why.

Education in Azerbaijan

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Azerbaijan? Azerbaijan is a good destination for a variety of students, given its good programs, reasonable fees and its culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Azerbaijan!

Student Visas

Do you need a visa to enter Azerbaijan to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship. 

Housing & Living Costs

No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Azerbaijan.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in Azerbaijan can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Azerbaijan, but these fees can vary a lot. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.

Language & Culture

Azerbaijan is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more! We also talk about how to stay safe in Azerbaijan in this section.

Application Process

Learn more about how to apply to Azeri schools and the documentation you need to do it in this section.

Programs

Ready to look at education in Azerbaijan? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Azerbaijan today!

Keystone Team

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.