🌍 Country Overview

Azerbaijan, established as an independent republic in 1918, was the first democratic and secular republic in the Muslim world.
Today, it has a population of approximately 10.3 million people, with nearly 30% under the age of 20, creating a youthful and education-driven demographic.

The economy remains highly dependent on oil and gas, though efforts toward diversification continue. According to the World Bank, GDP grew by 1.4% in 2023, and education funding remains a key national priority.

🎓 Education System and Government Support

Education in Azerbaijan is compulsory for 11 years, and literacy rates exceed 99%.
The government heavily subsidizes secondary and higher education, with scholarships and overseas study support programs funded primarily by SOFAZ – the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan’s State Program (2022 – 2026) aims to expand international cooperation and increase the number of students studying abroad in globally recognized universities. Currently, an estimated 45,000 Azerbaijani students are enrolled overseas.

✈️ Study Abroad Trends

The most popular destinations for Azerbaijani students include:
Turkey, Russia, Ukraine, the UK, the USA, Georgia, Germany, Italy, Hungary, and France.

International high schools in Baku are expanding rapidly, offering English-medium curricula such as IB and Cambridge.
For institutions recruiting undergraduates, visiting these schools provides access to well-prepared English-speaking students.

There is also a growing expat community in Baku, creating a diverse academic environment and an open attitude toward studying abroad.

🤝 Student Recruitment Opportunities

• Target City: Baku (largest concentration of international schools and agencies)

• Recommended Visits: International High Schools and Education Centers

• Agent Network: Local recruitment agencies are reliable partners for managing student data, follow-ups, and post-fair engagement.

• Government Initiatives: The Ministry of Education actively supports students applying to recognized foreign universities.

🌐 Internet & Digital Access

Approximately 8 million people (around 80% of the population) have internet access — above the global average of 72%.
This makes digital and social-media campaigns highly effective when targeting young, tech-savvy audiences in Azerbaijan.

🛂 Visa & Travel Information

• Visa Portal: azerbaijan.travel/tourist-visa-to-azerbaijan

• Visa Types: Visa-Free, Electronic Visa (e-Visa), and Visa on Arrival options available depending on nationality.

• Main Airport: Heydar Aliyev International Airport (Baku – GYD).

🔗 Useful Links

• State Statistical Committee (Education Data): stat.gov.az

• Azerbaijan Tourism Portal: azerbaijan.travel

• World Bank Country Profile: worldbank.org/azerbaijan