The Republic of Uzbekistan has announced an exciting opportunity for Indian students through five fully funded scholarships for the 2025–26 academic year. These scholarships are for postgraduate studies at the Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage, located in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. This university is renowned for its focus on tourism, cultural heritage, and related disciplines, making it a prime destination for students passionate about these fields.
The scholarship program is fully conducted in English, enabling international students to comfortably pursue their studies without language barriers. Applicants who have previously completed their education in English are not required to submit additional language proficiency certificates. However, those who need to provide proof must present scores from internationally recognised tests such as IELTS (minimum 6), TOEFL iBT (minimum 72), or CEFR level B2.
The benefits of the scholarship are substantial and designed to support students’ academic and living expenses comprehensively. Scholars will receive a monthly stipend of $500 to help cover everyday costs. Additionally, the scholarship includes a dormitory allowance of $100 per month, ensuring accommodation needs are met affordably. The program also covers economy-class airfare for one-time arrival and departure annually, reducing travel expenses significantly. Moreover, students get to experience biannual educational trips to Uzbekistan’s ancient cities, with an additional $100 allowance per trip, providing invaluable cultural exposure and learning opportunities.
The university offers several specialized master’s programs relevant to the growing global tourism and cultural heritage sectors. These include Management, Tourism and Hospitality, Archaeology, Restoration of works of art and architectural monuments, and Museology with a focus on preservation, restoration, and conservation of historical and cultural objects. This broad range of courses allows students to tailor their education to their specific career goals within these interconnected fields.
Located in a state-of-the-art “Smart Campus,” the university boasts modern infrastructure including a hotel, restaurant, digital library, sports complex, and an innovative HoReCa (Hotel, Restaurant, Catering) academy. The campus environment supports a rich academic experience combined with practical training. Furthermore, the university maintains collaborations with esteemed global institutions from Europe, Asia, and the United States, offering students opportunities for research, exchange programs, and joint projects.
Applicants are required to submit essential documents such as a valid passport or ID, a bachelor’s degree diploma, a detailed CV, and a recent passport-sized photograph. An essay outlining how the applicant plans to contribute to the development of tourism within the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization) countries is also mandatory. This essay allows candidates to showcase their vision and commitment to the region’s growth.
It is important to note that the Indian Ministry of Education only facilitates the dissemination of this scholarship information. The nomination and selection process is managed entirely by Uzbek authorities. Therefore, students should apply directly as per the guidelines provided by the Uzbek university.
This scholarship program not only fosters educational exchange but also aims to strengthen cultural and professional ties between Uzbekistan and India, alongside other SCO member countries. Interested candidates should apply before the deadline on August 1, 2025, to take advantage of this unique opportunity for advanced education and cultural immersion in one of Central Asia’s most historic cities.
