UOD – February 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) —
The University of Duhok announces to graduates and public-sector employees that the Higher Committee for Education Development in Iraq has officially opened applications for its 2026 international scholarship programme, offering opportunities for Master’s, PhD, and medical training abroad at accredited global universities.

The initiative forms part of Iraq’s national education development programme launched under the direction of The Iraqi Prime Minister aiming to strengthen human capital, modernize academic systems, and bridge the gap between Iraq and advanced international higher education environments.

Application Period

Applications are open from 15 February 2026 until 31 March 2026 through the official HCED electronic portal.

https://hced.ur.gov.iq/news-detail/129

Strategic Importance for UOD Community

The University of Duhok encourages qualified graduates and staff to apply, as the programme aligns strongly with UOD’s strategic priorities of:

• International academic engagement
• Capacity building and research development
• Enhancing graduate employability

Participation in such programmes contributes to advancing UOD’s mission of producing globally competent graduates capable of supporting sustainable development and institutional innovation in Iraq.

Programme Overview

The scholarship programme will support 5,000 Iraqi students to pursue postgraduate studies in leading international universities across multiple disciplines. The initiative is designed to:

• Develop national expertise and research capacity
• Strengthen institutional performance in the public sector
• Transfer global academic knowledge into Iraqi universities and government institutions
• Support long-term economic and social development through skilled graduates

Key Eligibility Highlights

Study Tracks

• PhD: Available to government employees only
• Master’s: Available to employees and non-employees
• Medical Training: Specialized post-board programmes for physicians

Master’s Degree Requirements (Summary)

• Maximum age: 33 years
• Secondary school average: minimum 65%
• Must rank within the top 25% of Bachelor graduates
• English requirement: minimum IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent for application stage)

General Conditions
Applicants must:

• Hold Iraqi nationality and have resided in Iraq during the last two years
• Not currently be enrolled in postgraduate study
• Commit to serving in Iraqi public institutions for double the study duration after graduation
• Obtain admission from recognized universities approved by the Ministry of Higher Education

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their applications exclusively through the official HCED portal and follow all electronic submission instructions.
Further details and application forms are available here:
https://hced.ur.gov.iq/news-detail/129

University Press Office – February 2026

The Keywords

• Iraq International Scholarships
• HCED Scholarship Programme
• Study Abroad Iraq 2026
• UOD International Opportunities
• Iraqi Postgraduate Scholarships