Number of Uzbeks going abroad to study fell 33% in nine months
In January–September 2026, 16,522 citizens travelled abroad for study. Russia overtook Tajikistan as the most popular destination.
The number of Uzbek citizens travelling abroad for educational purposes fell sharply in January–September 2026. According to official data, 16,522 citizens travelled abroad to study during the period — 33% fewer than in the same period a year earlier.
Most popular destinations
The largest number of trips were to Russia — 3,847. It was followed by Kyrgyzstan (2,809), South Korea (2,118), Turkey (1,818) and China (1,248). Russia thereby overtook the previous leader, Tajikistan.
Context
In recent years Uzbekistan has expanded its higher-education system, opened branches of foreign universities and increased admission quotas. At the same time, data from May 2026 indicate that the number of foreign students coming to Uzbekistan to study is, conversely, rising. The decline in outbound study travel may be linked to education opportunities and costs at home.
