"Forty-Day Challenge" announced for students
In the 2026-2027 academic year in Uzbekistan, classes for 1st-year students of higher education institutions will begin on September 7, and for students of 2nd and higher levels on September 14. Also, from August 20 to September 30, a "Urgent Forty Days" will be held at higher education institutions, aimed at welcoming students and providing them with accommodation.
In accordance with the order of the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation No. 356 dated August 21, 2026, a number of important tasks were set to prepare educational institutions for the new academic year and adequately celebrate the 35th anniversary of the independence of Uzbekistan.
According to this document, the period from August 20 to September 30 of this year was declared an “Urgent Forty Days” in higher education institutions. During this period, measures will be taken to adequately welcome students to the new academic year, provide them with housing, and promptly eliminate any problems that may arise in this process.
**When will the new academic year begin?**
The 2026-2027 academic year will start on September 7 for first-cycle students. Students studying in the second and higher cycles will begin their studies on September 14.
At the same time, applicants recommended for student admission will be allowed to participate in training sessions on the basis of an order until they pay the payment-contract funds in the amount and within the terms specified in the contract.
Separate events are also planned to adapt first-year students to the new environment. In particular, they are expected to hold a ceremonial welcome, organize the “Entering the Credit Education System” week, and “Dedication to Students” events.
Throughout September, “Independence Lessons” will also be held in higher education institutions under the slogan “Let's be a single homeland, a single people, and create a new life and future!” Within the framework of these lessons, classes dedicated to the representatives of the Jadid movement and victims of repression, spiritual and educational events, roundtable discussions, and meetings of three generations will be organized. Quizzes, competitions, and sports competitions are also planned.
In addition, higher education institutions were tasked with preparing educational buildings and student dormitories for the new academic year, forming a teaching staff, and providing them with the necessary educational and methodological documents. Higher education institutions must also carry out the necessary preparatory work to effectively organize the educational process before the start of the new academic year.