Samarkand State University

Samarkand State University is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. The university received its official establishment through a government decree which designated it as the Higher Pedagogical Institute in 1927 yet its educational roots extend back to 1420 which marks the opening of the Mirzo Ulughbek Madrasa. The institution has changed its name throughout its modern existence which includes its former name Uzbekistan State University and its subsequent designation as the Alisher Navoi University. The official designation of the university took place in 2022 when it received the name of the distinguished statesman Sharof Rashidov.

The university's main campus occupies a central position in the historic Samarkand city which extends along the beautiful University Boulevard. The university academic buildings connect to the city's cultural heritage through their central location which creates a space that combines current research with historic archaeological sites. The campus contains a large library which holds approximately 3.8 million items that include rare Eastern manuscripts and it also displays multiple specialized museums including the Zoological Museum. The university has updated its infrastructure through its establishment of a Transformation Office and multiple high-tech research facilities.

Samarkand State University is ranked as the #5 top university in Uzbekistan during 2026.