ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – The KRG announced 20 scholarships for foreigners wanting to study Kurdish language, literature, and studies. 

The scholarships are part of a “new initiative to draw attention to the Kurdish language, literature, and culture,” the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research explained in its announcement. 

Kurds and citizens of the Kurdistan Region or Iraq are not eligible to apply. Applicants must have a high school degree, two letters of support, and a minimum 4.5 in English language test results (IELTS).

The four year course of study will be conducted fully in Kurdish language, beginning with a foundation year that will focus on learning the language. 

Students are welcome to study at any university in Sulaimani, Duhok, Erbil, Soran, or Koya.

The ministry will assume tuition costs for the four years, provide dormitory accommodation, and provide a monthly stipend of $600.

Funds will also be offered to cover travel costs – between $1,000 and $1,500 annually depending on where the student hails from. 

The ministry will cover visa expenses and $500 in health insurance, but will not cover treatment abroad. 

If the candidate does not complete studies within the four years, then he or she will have to shoulder the costs themselves. 

The deadline for applications is August 1.