The key facts

  • Universities will be divided into three levels: top 20% — first, the next 40% — second, the remaining 40% — third
  • Incentives depend on the university's funding method; exact amounts are not named in the draft
  • The Ministry must transfer funds within 15 working days after the results are announced

New system from 2027

The proposals are contained in a draft of amendments and additions to the regulation on maintaining the national ranking of higher education organizations. If the document is adopted, the title of the regulation will be changed to cover the procedure for maintaining and incentivizing based on the national ranking. The ranking is planned to be assigned to the National Agency for Quality Assurance of Education under the presidential administration.

Division into levels and incentives

Under the draft, universities within each category are divided into three levels based on ranking results: the top-performing 20% — first level, the next 40% — second, and the remaining 40% — third. Financial incentives take into account the funding method of the state university. For universities with financial autonomy, incentives are applied relative to the funding amount per student studying on a state grant. In state universities funded in the traditional manner, the calculation is based on state budget funds allocated to cover expenses. Exact percentages or incentive amounts for each level are not specified in the draft text.

Payment procedure and requirements for universities

After the final ranking results are announced, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation must transfer incentive funds to the personal treasury accounts of the respective universities within 15 working days. The higher education organization itself decides how to use these funds. Universities of any organizational-legal form that have operated for three years and have bachelor's graduates will be evaluated; the exception is higher military and militarized educational institutions.

International rankings and reporting

For universities included in the overall 'Top-1000' list of international rankings THE, QS and ARWU on behalf of Uzbekistan, the national ranking may be maintained separately. This rule does not apply to international rankings by fields. Universities must enter the reporting year's data into a special platform by June 1 of the following year. To assess international reputation, up to 200 employees of foreign partner universities and scientific organizations are planned to be involved.