Uzbekistan Introduces New Incentives for Conscripts and Army Graduates

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has signed a decree titled "On further measures to increase the prestige and attractiveness of urgent military service in the Armed Forces of the Republic of Uzbekistan." The document outlines a comprehensive set of benefits and guarantees for citizens currently performing military service as well as those who have completed their terms.

According to the decree, starting from the 2026/2027 academic year, soldiers will be permitted to register for distance learning bachelor’s degree programs, participate in entrance examinations, and enroll in universities. Soldiers admitted on a fee-paying contract basis will be eligible for preferential educational loans. Those who complete their studies during their service will be granted the rank of "Lieutenant of the Reserve" upon graduation, effectively equating them to students of military training centers.

Special incentives are provided for 100 soldiers who distinguish themselves during service or secure first place in national and international competitions or academic olympiads. These individuals will be admitted to higher military educational institutions directly, bypassing standard testing. Furthermore, winners of sports included in the Olympic and Asian Games programs will be eligible for admission to the University of Physical Culture and Sports on a state grant without examinations.

Beginning from 1 April 2027, graduates of urgent military service will receive an additional 10% bonus to their test scores when applying for employment in government agencies and organizations. Starting from 1 May 2026, educators providing vocational training to soldiers will be compensated on an hourly basis.

The decree also stipulates that the State Fund for Employment Promotion will compensate training expenses for young people who have completed their service, whether training took place in the private sector or within military units. From 1 July 2026, soldiers entering universities will be eligible for reimbursement of costs associated with obtaining certificates in foreign languages and other subjects. Additionally, from September 1, 2026, the Educational Loan Financing Fund will provide loans to cover the first year of tuition for soldiers studying on a contract basis.

The document is designed to enhance the status of military service, expand educational and athletic opportunities for personnel, and support their professional integration into civilian life.