Over the past five years, 71 Tajik students have completed their studies abroad under the “Durakhshandagon” presidential scholarship, according to the International Programs Center at the Ministry of Education and Science.

“All of them returned home and are now working in various ministries and agencies,” an official source within the Center told Asia-Plus in an interview.

What is this scholarship?

The International Presidential Scholarship of Tajikistan, “Durakhshandagon,” is awarded to gifted Tajik citizens for studies at educational and research institutions in developed countries.  It is an individual scholarship awarded annually by the National Committee for Overseas Education Training.

The list of specializations in demand for the national economy is defined by the Ministry of Economic Development, and the scholarship is funded by the Special Fund of the President of Tajikistan.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, no students were sent abroad for studies in the 2020-2021 academic year.

“However, in the 2022-2023 academic year, 167 candidates were selected for study at universities and research institutions abroad: 92 undergraduates, 14 master’s students, 8 PhD students, 2 doctoral candidates, 48 clinical residents, and 3 interns,” the source said.

Which countries do “Durakhshandagon” scholarship recipients study in?

The 117 selected students were sent to study in ten countries. Of them, 47 went to Russia, 16 to the United States, 37 to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, 4 to Germany, 6 to the United Arab Emirates, 1 to Switzerland, 3 to Italy, 1 to Singapore, 1 to Belarus, and 1 to Uzbekistan.

Five more students are preparing to study in the United States, South Korea, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Canada.  They are currently awaiting international certifications, invitations, and visas from these countries, as well as completing necessary preparations.

“This process can take from six months to a year. During this time, their spots at their chosen universities are held, but to finalize their admission, they must complete all formalities and meet entry requirements,” the source added.

In the 2024-2025 academic year, 130 applicants were recommended to study in foreign universities under the “Durakhshandagon” scholarship program.

According to the Center, applicants may choose from over 100 universities in the listed countries, though many aim to gain entry to top institutions.  To do so, they must meet certain criteria, including high grades and international certificates such as TOEFL or IELTS, as well as other requirements set by the specific universities.