Deputy Minister of Science and Education, Hasan Hasanli, reported an increasing preference for Azerbaijani educational institutions among international students in 2023. Hasanli disclosed that 10,000 international students were enrolled in Azerbaijan in 2023, with plans to attract more over the next three years. Speaking at the "Opportunities of International Education in Azerbaijan" event, he outlined the country's ambitious objective of hosting 75,000 international students by 2026. Hasanli underscored the importance of systematic efforts to reach this target and achieve a favourable outcome.
He expressed confidence that such measures would have a substantial impact on the future of education in Azerbaijan. Notably, the enrollment in Azerbaijani higher educational institutions has already exceeded 60,000 individuals. According to local media reports, the record-breaking figure of 10,000 International students studying in Azerbaijan in 2023 represents a significant increase from the 5,765 students reported in the previous year. Hasanli highlighted that the number of international students is expected to continue growing, partly due to the scholarships offered by private universities. Azerbaijan boasts 33 higher education institutions, with several providing programs tailored for international students. Some prominent universities in Azerbaijan include Baku State University, Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University, Azerbaijan Medical University, and Baku Eurasian University.
The Deputy Minister characterized the recent advancements in international student admissions as a significant milestone in Azerbaijani education. Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including Elmaddin Mehdiyev, the Head of the International Development Assistance Department, took part in the forum to deliberate on the nation's initiatives in advancing education in Azerbaijan. Mehdiyev outlined intentions to enrol 100 students from member countries of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement into Azerbaijani universities over the next five years.
