Where to start
Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research/ Department of Scholarships and Cultural Relations publishes on an annual base the list of recognised Universities in Iraq and abroad.
It is important to make sure that your desired University is on this list.
This information can be found on the website of the Department of Scholarships and Cultural Relations: https://scrdiraq.gov.iq/index.php and particularly in the:
- Directory of scholarship universities for 2022/2023 https://uguide.scrdsystem.org/B2022.html
- Directory for “Students’ Guide” which includes (the user guides, verified universities guides, certificates’ equivalency, frequently asked questions and information on how to collect needed documents in the country: https://help.scrdsystem.org/
Where to look for additional Scholarships / Exchange programmes
U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs section arranges a variety of U.S.-government sponsored exchange programs that link Iraqis and Americans. These programs are intended to introduce participants to the United States and American people and culture, as well as provide them with a chance to exchange ideas with their American colleagues. Educational and cultural exchanges create human bonds and enduring relationships that build bridges of cooperation and understanding between peoples.
These programs and scholarships cover a wide range of interests including communications and journalism, law, human rights, economic development, science and technology, teaching English, and other disciplines.
List EXCHANGES FOR STUDENTS can be found here: https://iq.usembassy.gov/education-culture/exchange-programs/
Australia: Follow the link and see, which University in Australia provides Scholarships to Iraqi nationals: https://search.studyaustralia.gov.au/scholarship/search-results.html?nationalityid=239
If you don’t meet the entry requirements to get into the course you want in Australia, there are many pathways that can help you reach your goal.
This might include studying in an Australian school, taking English language preparation or studying a vocational education and training course. Discover more on: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/english/australian-education
Great Britain: There are many funding options available for international students who want to study in the UK. They range from part-funding, for example paying part of your fees, to full-funding which covers programme fees, living expenses, and return flights to the UK. You can search for the right scholarship for you on the course and scholarships here: https://search-study-uk.britishcouncil.org/scholarship/search-results.html?nationalityid=239
Tips on applying for scholarships
- Do your research: The miracle place that contains all the information that you’re looking for might not exists, make sure you do plenty of research so you know what’s on offer.
- Make sure you meet the criteria: Pay attention to the details, and only spend time applying for things you are eligible for and have a real chance of getting.
- Be organised: Strictly follow all of your deadlines, for funding, for courses, and for visas. Plan ahead and make sure that you have all needed documentation for the application (translated acquired diplomas and transcripts; language test Certificate(s), check the version of IELTS you need to take and the IELTS score required, etc)
- Tailor your applications for each scholarship: Different universities have different questions and requirements when applying for scholarships so you can’t just duplicate your application. Make a real effort to understand, in detail, the needs and requirements of each university. This may take a little extra time in the beginning, but it will ensure that you have a high-quality, tailored application which will increase your chances of receiving funding for your desired programme.
Be very honest about your motivations for studying that particular course in that particular institution. Think specific. People will notice. - Seek assistance before you submit: If possible, seek out someone trustworthy to help advise you on your application and to proofread it before you submit. This could be friends who are already studying abroad, family members or teachers.