Scholarships for Uzbekistan
Win Extra Cash
Uzbekistan, one of the promising former Soviet possessions, is turning out to be one of the brood’s disappointments. Continually boondoggled by reports of serious human rights infractions, the country simultaneously puts its best political foot forward whenever it is in the limelight.
For students passionate on the topic of Eastern European/Eurasian affairs, the Uzbekistan situation affords an intriguing contrast to that of its more democratically motivated peers. Common disciplines include Uzbek language and culture studies, socio-political curriculum, international affairs, law and education.
Students must be aware of the current unpredictability of the political climate especially in regards to freedom of speech. Steer clear of anti-government sentiment and activist activities.
Scholarship Programs
The National Security Education Program’s brainchild, the David L. Boren Scholarships, is intended to bring new light to the next generation of both Americans as well as those working in high-level security jobs. The program provides undergraduate and graduate versions and applicants are culled from among thousands. This is an extremely competitive scholarship especially due to its visibility. You need to know that this is intended to be a scholarship for service program which means even though the scholarships are generous they are not given without obligation: you are expected to work a year for the U.S. government following graduation. Of course preference is given to those who are interested in a long-term career in security. Studying in Uzbekistan? You could win up to $25,000.
American Councils for International Education is globally committed to providing a collaborative realm in which Western scholars and students meet Eastern European. Organizations like AC build new networks of knowledge that effect international change. Stemming from the Title VIII program put into play by the U.S., AC administers valuable scholarship programs. The Title VIII Special Initiatives Fellowship Program metes out a generous $35,000 for advanced scholars heading off to studies in Uzbekistan and other Eastern European countries.
International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX) is an international organization devoted to supporting efforts towards international collaboration and communication. In order to effect this, IREX offers a variety of funding options, particularly applicable to the Title VIII initiative:
- Individual Advanced Research Opportunities Fellowships are highly competitive among graduate, post-graduate and post-doctoral scholars engaged in research activities in Uzbekistan and other Eastern European countries. Applicants must be at least pursuing their Master’s degree to qualify and seeking funding for up to an academic year.
- IREX Short Term Travel Fellowships provide awards of $5,000 to scholars who can show a highly defined project that is easily managed in the scope of a couple months on location in Uzbekistan.
