Study abroad
Study in Mongolia
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Mongolia
Mongolia is in East Asia, and its universities and colleges welcome students from many countries. International students can look at undergraduate, postgraduate and, in some fields, research programmes, as well as shorter courses where institutions offer them. Study options span broad areas such as business, engineering, health, the sciences and the humanities, with mining, agriculture and conservation shaping much of the country’s economy.
Ulaanbaatar, Erdenet and Darkhan are among the places students often consider. The main language is Mongolian; the availability of English-taught programmes varies between institutions. Use this guide to explore subjects, typical intakes, costs, scholarships and visa steps, then check the details with each institution.
Why study in Mongolia?
There is no single reason to study in Mongolia. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in East Asia, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Engineering, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Business & Management, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Mining, agriculture and conservation matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Ulaanbaatar, Erdenet and Darkhan each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Mongolia means everyday contact with Mongolian and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Look closely at course content, entry requirements and student support, and think about where you would like the qualification to take you.
Top subjects to study in Mongolia
Here are some subject areas that fit well with study in Mongolia. We chose them editorially, with mining, agriculture and conservation in mind, so treat them as ideas rather than a ranking.
- Engineering
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Business & Management
- Computing & Information Technology
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
Because mining, agriculture and conservation matter locally, students in related fields may find useful context for projects and internships. Each subject has its own page for Mongolia on this site, with its specializations.
When choosing between these areas, think about what you enjoy studying, the entry requirements for each course and the kind of work you would like to do afterwards. A specialization can matter as much as the broad subject.
Scholarships to Study in Mongolia
Some international students in Mongolia receive scholarships or grants, but availability depends on where you come from and what you plan to study.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Mongolia
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Most scholarships are competitive and have their own eligibility rules, so none can be taken for granted. Read the conditions carefully, apply early and check whether funding covers tuition, living costs or both. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Mongolia
The academic year in Mongolia commonly begins around September. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Mongolia
There is no single price for studying in Mongolia. Fees are set by institutions and differ by course, level and type of institution.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Programme length also matters: a longer course or a preparatory year changes the total cost. Always use the current fees published by the institution for the year you plan to start.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Mongolia
Most international students need permission to study in Mongolia, such as a student visa or residence permit, before their course begins.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Mongolia in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Mongolia
Day-to-day costs in Mongolia are shaped by where you live, the type of accommodation you choose and how you get around. Costs in Ulaanbaatar can differ noticeably from those in Erdenet or Darkhan and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
Universities often publish current estimates of living costs; use them as a starting point and add a buffer for unexpected expenses.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Mongolia
What are the advantages of studying in Mongolia?
It depends on your goals. Mongolia offers programmes across many subjects, a location in East Asia and study in Mongolian (with some English-taught options). Students interested in mining, agriculture and conservation may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Mongolia?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Engineering, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Business & Management and Computing & Information Technology. The subjects page for Mongolia lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Mongolia?
Many programmes start around September. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Mongolia?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Mongolia?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Mongolia.
Are scholarships available for international students in Mongolia?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Mongolia?
Ulaanbaatar, Erdenet and Darkhan are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
Can I study in English in Mongolia?
Many courses are taught in Mongolian. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.
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