The Republic of Kazakhstan offers outstanding educational opportunities for ambitious international students through various scholarship programs, most notably the postgraduate scholarships at Maqsut Narikbayev University (MNU) and the general program of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. These initiatives aim to foster academic exchange and attract global talent for the academic year 2026-2027 and beyond.
1. Maqsut Narikbayev University (MNU) Master’s and PhD Scholarship
Maqsut Narikbayev University announces scholarships for international students wishing to pursue their higher education (Master’s and PhD) for the academic year 2026-2027. These scholarships are part of the university’s institutional development strategy and internationalization agenda, aiming to attract academically mature, goal-oriented, and highly motivated candidates.
Scholarship Benefits
This scholarship offers a range of benefits to support international students during their studies, including:
- Tuition Fee Exemption: Accepted students are fully exempted from paying tuition fees.
- Monthly Stipend: Students receive a monthly financial allowance to help cover their personal expenses.
What the Scholarship Does Not Cover
It is important to note that the scholarship does not cover some essential expenses, which the student must bear personally. These expenses include:
- Travel Costs: The scholarship does not cover travel expenses to and from Kazakhstan.
- Accommodation Costs: The student is responsible for covering housing and accommodation expenses.
- Visa and Medical Insurance Costs: The scholarship does not include visa fees or medical insurance costs.
MNU Olympiad for International Applicants: Selection Process
Maqsut Narikbayev University implements a multi-stage selection process to identify qualified candidates. This competition provides opportunities to receive tuition discounts as well as full tuition grants. The selection process consists of the following stages:
- Stage 0: Acceptance Questionnaire (Preliminary Screening)
An online application form (10–15 minutes) including:- Personal information.
- Country and school details.
- Selected MNU academic program.
- A short motivational section (3 questions, up to 150 words each) about:
- Why have you chosen this field of study?
- Why have you chosen Maqsut Narikbayev University?
- How do you see your professional career in five years?
Based on the results of this stage, candidates are pre-screened and invited to the next stage.
- Stage 1: Interview with a School Representative
An online interview (15–20 minutes) with a representative of the Admissions Office or the academic school. The interview assesses the applicant’s motivation, academic maturity, level of English proficiency, and the realism of their educational expectations. - Stage 2: Essay in the Chosen Field (Key Stage)
An online essay of 800–1200 words (5–7 days for completion).- Language: English (for certain programs, Russian or Kazakh may be accepted).
- The topic is determined by the chosen academic field and is designed to assess analytical thinking and academic potential. The results of this stage form the main ranking and serve as the basis for awarding tuition grants and discounts.
- Stage 3: Final Interview (Optional)
Conducted for applicants with borderline results, candidates for high-value grants, and applicants from priority countries.
The entire selection process is conducted online, making the program accessible to international applicants without the need to travel at the initial stage.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is April 15, 2026. All applicants are advised to submit their applications well in advance of this date to ensure the completion of all required procedures.
Contact Persons (Maqsut Narikbayev University)
For more information, please contact the program officials:
- Zhaniya
- 📞 +7 707 713 8191 (WhatsApp, Call)
- 📧 [email protected]
- 📧 [email protected]
2. Scholarship Program of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan
In addition to Maqsut Narikbayev University scholarships, the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan offers a scholarship program for foreign students, including persons of Kazakh nationality who are not citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan, for full-time study in Kazakhstani universities under Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD educational programs.
Who Can Apply?
- Foreign citizens.
- Foreign citizens of Kazakh nationality who are not citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
What the Scholarship Includes
- Free tuition.
- Monthly stipend.
Application Period
- Spring 2026.
How to Apply
The program is administered by JSC “Center for International Programs.” Additional information can be accessed via their website: https://www.bolashak.gov.kz/en
To apply for this program, please visit the following link:
Important Links and Resources
- Official Bolashak Program Website: https://bolashak.gov.kz/en
- Study in Kazakhstan Portal: https://studyin.kz/
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