Kazakhstan Government Scholarships for International Students 2025
Are you dreaming of pursuing higher education abroad in an emerging educational hub? Look no further than the Kazakhstan Government Scholarships for International Students 2025! With a generous offering of 490 scholarships for Bachelor’s students, 50 for Master’s students, and 10 for Ph.D. students, this program opens doors to quality education in one of Central Asia’s most dynamic countries. These fully funded scholarships provide a unique opportunity to experience Kazakhstan’s rich culture, modern educational facilities, and growing international academic community.
Table of Contents
- Scholarship Overview and Benefits
- Scholarship Distribution by Academic Level
- Eligibility Requirements
- Application Process and Timeline
- Participating Universities in Kazakhstan
- Popular Fields of Study
- Life in Kazakhstan for International Students
- Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
- FAQ About Kazakhstan Government Scholarships
- Are Kazakhstan Government Scholarships fully funded?
- Can I choose any university in Kazakhstan?
- What language do I need to know to study in Kazakhstan?
- Is there an age limit for scholarship applicants?
- Can I work while studying with this scholarship?
- What are the post-graduation opportunities in Kazakhstan?
- Kazakhstan’s Education System: A Rising Star in Central Asia
- Conclusion: Your Educational Journey in the Heart of Central Asia
Scholarship Overview and Benefits
The Kazakhstan Government Scholarship Program, administered by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, offers comprehensive support to international students, making education in Kazakhstan accessible and affordable. The scholarship package includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage for the entire duration of study programs
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
- Free accommodation in university dormitories
- Medical insurance coverage throughout the study period
- Travel allowance for international transportation (for some scholarship categories)
- Access to research facilities and resources at Kazakhstan’s leading universities
- Cultural integration programs and language support
The scholarship program aims to promote international academic cooperation, cultural exchange, and strengthen Kazakhstan’s position as an educational center in Central Asia. For the 2025 academic year, a total of 550 scholarships are available across various academic levels and disciplines.
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Scholarship Distribution by Academic Level
| Academic Level | Number of Scholarships | Duration | Fields of Study |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | 490 scholarships | 4-5 years | Multiple disciplines |
| Master’s Degree | 50 scholarships | 1-2 years | Multiple disciplines |
| PhD Programs | 10 scholarships | 3-4 years | Multiple disciplines |
These scholarships are distributed across various fields of study, with particular emphasis on STEM disciplines, social sciences, humanities, and areas aligned with Kazakhstan’s developmental priorities.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Kazakhstan Government Scholarship for International Students 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be citizens of countries other than Kazakhstan
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrate strong academic performance in previous studies
- For Bachelor’s applicants: High school diploma or equivalent with good academic standing
- For Master’s applicants: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- For PhD applicants: Master’s degree in a relevant field and research proposal
- Language Proficiency: Knowledge of Kazakh, Russian, or English depending on the language of instruction of the chosen program
- For programs taught in Kazakh or Russian: Proficiency in the respective language
- For programs taught in English: IELTS score of at least 5.5 or TOEFL equivalent
- Age Requirements:
- Bachelor’s programs: Not older than 35 years
- Master’s programs: Not older than 40 years
- PhD programs: Not older than 45 years
- Health Status: Medical certificate confirming fitness for study
- No Criminal Record: Clean criminal record verification
Candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic potential, leadership qualities, and a genuine interest in contributing to international academic collaboration are given preference in the selection process.
Application Process and Timeline
The application process for Kazakhstan Government Scholarships follows a structured timeline to ensure fair consideration of all candidates:
- Online Application Submission:
- Complete the online application form on the official scholarship website
- Select preferred universities and programs of study
- Document Preparation and Submission:
- Educational certificates and transcripts (with notarized translations if not in Kazakh, Russian, or English)
- Copy of passport or ID
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae/Resume
- Language proficiency certificates
- Medical certificate
- Recommendation letters (at least two)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Application Review: Evaluation by the scholarship committee
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online or in-person interview
- Final Selection and Notification: Announcement of scholarship recipients
- Visa Processing and Travel Arrangements: Assistance provided by Kazakhstan diplomatic missions
- Arrival in Kazakhstan and University Enrollment: Orientation and integration programs

Important dates for the 2025 scholarship cycle:
- Application Opening: January 15, 2025
- Application Deadline: May 31, 2025
- Document Verification Period: June 1-30, 2025
- Interviews for Shortlisted Candidates: July 1-15, 2025
- Announcement of Results: July 31, 2025
- Academic Year Start: September 2025
Early application is strongly encouraged as the evaluation process is competitive and thorough, with limited spots available in each academic field and level.
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Participating Universities in Kazakhstan
The Kazakhstan Government Scholarship Program partners with numerous prestigious universities across the country. International scholarship recipients may have the opportunity to study at the following leading institutions:
- Nazarbayev University (Nur-Sultan) – Kazakhstan’s flagship international research university
- Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (Almaty) – The country’s largest and oldest university
- L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University (Nur-Sultan) – A major research and educational center
- Satbayev University (Almaty) – Leading technical university in Central Asia
- Kazakh-British Technical University (Almaty) – Specialized in engineering and technical education
- KIMEP University (Almaty) – Business, law, and social sciences focused institution
- Astana Medical University (Nur-Sultan) – Premier medical education institution
- Kazakh National Agrarian University (Almaty) – Specializing in agricultural sciences
- Karaganda State Technical University (Karaganda) – Engineering and technical education
- Suleyman Demirel University (Almaty) – International standards with English-medium instruction
Each university offers different programs and specializations, so applicants should research thoroughly to find the institution that best matches their academic interests and career goals.
Popular Fields of Study
The Kazakhstan Government Scholarship Program covers a wide range of academic disciplines, reflecting the country’s educational strengths and development priorities:
| Field of Study | Popular Programs | Key Universities |
| Engineering and Technology | Petroleum Engineering, Mining Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering | Satbayev University, KBTU, Nazarbayev University |
| Information Technology | Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity | IITU, Nazarbayev University, SDU |
| Natural Sciences | Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics | Al-Farabi KazNU, ENU, Nazarbayev University |
| Medical Sciences | General Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Public Health | Astana Medical University, KazNMU |
| Agricultural Sciences | Agronomy, Veterinary Science, Food Technology | Kazakh National Agrarian University |
| Business and Economics | Finance, Management, Marketing, International Relations | KIMEP, Narxoz University, SDU |
| Social Sciences and Humanities | International Relations, Political Science, Languages, Education | ENU, Al-Farabi KazNU, Abai University |
| Arts and Culture | Music, Fine Arts, Design, Architecture | Kazakh National Academy of Arts, KazGASA |
The scholarship program particularly encourages applications in STEM fields, where Kazakhstan has established notable academic strength and industry connections.
Life in Kazakhstan for International Students
Kazakhstan offers international students a unique blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and modern amenities. As the 9th largest country in the world by land area, Kazakhstan spans Central Asia with diverse landscapes and a rich cultural heritage:
- Cultural Diversity: Home to over 130 ethnic groups, offering a multicultural environment
- Strategic Location: A bridge between Europe and Asia, with influences from both continents
- Modern Cities: Nur-Sultan (capital) and Almaty (largest city) feature modern architecture, shopping centers, and entertainment venues
- Natural Beauty: From the Caspian Sea to the Altai Mountains, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor activities
- Climate: Continental climate with cold winters and warm summers
- Transportation: Well-developed public transportation in major cities and good international connectivity
- Cost of Living: Generally affordable compared to Western countries, with the monthly stipend adequate for student needs
- Student Community: Growing international student population, creating a diverse and vibrant campus life
Most universities offer comprehensive support services for international students, including orientation programs, language assistance, cultural activities, and integration initiatives to help students adapt to life in Kazakhstan.
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Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application
Securing a Kazakhstan Government Scholarship requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Consider these tips to strengthen your application:
- Research Thoroughly:
- Explore universities and programs to find the best match for your academic interests
- Understand Kazakhstan’s educational priorities and how your goals align with them
- Prepare Strong Documentation:
- Ensure all certificates and transcripts are properly translated and authenticated
- Obtain compelling recommendation letters that highlight your academic potential and personal qualities
- Craft a Compelling Motivation Letter:
- Clearly articulate why you want to study in Kazakhstan specifically
- Connect your academic and career goals to the opportunities offered by Kazakhstani universities
- Demonstrate knowledge of Kazakhstan’s higher education system and development priorities
- Showcase Language Proficiency:
- Obtain required language certificates well in advance
- Consider studying basic Kazakh or Russian phrases to show cultural interest
- Prepare for the Interview:
- Research common scholarship interview questions
- Practice articulating your academic goals and motivation
- Demonstrate enthusiasm for cultural exchange and international cooperation
- Follow Instructions Precisely:
- Adhere to all application guidelines and document requirements
- Submit your application well before the deadline
- Ensure all contact information is accurate for follow-up communications
Remember that the selection committee looks for candidates who not only have strong academic potential but also demonstrate genuine interest in Kazakhstan’s culture and a commitment to becoming positive ambassadors for Kazakhstan’s education system.
FAQ About Kazakhstan Government Scholarships
Are Kazakhstan Government Scholarships fully funded?
Yes, the scholarships cover tuition fees, provide a monthly stipend for living expenses, accommodation in university dormitories, and medical insurance. Some scholarship categories may also include a travel allowance for international transportation.
Can I choose any university in Kazakhstan?
You can apply to universities that participate in the government scholarship program. Your preferences will be considered, but final placement may depend on availability, your academic profile, and the competitive ranking of applicants.
What language do I need to know to study in Kazakhstan?
This depends on your chosen program. Programs are offered in Kazakh, Russian, and English. For English-taught programs, you’ll need to demonstrate English proficiency. For programs taught in Kazakh or Russian, proficiency in the respective language is required.
Is there an age limit for scholarship applicants?
Yes, there are age restrictions: Bachelor’s applicants should be under 35 years, Master’s applicants under 40 years, and PhD applicants under 45 years at the time of application.
Can I work while studying with this scholarship?
International students in Kazakhstan can work part-time with proper authorization. However, scholarship recipients are expected to prioritize their studies. The monthly stipend is designed to cover basic living expenses, reducing the need for employment during studies.
What are the post-graduation opportunities in Kazakhstan?
Graduates have various options, including pursuing further studies, returning to their home countries with enhanced qualifications, or exploring work opportunities in Kazakhstan or the broader Central Asian region. Kazakhstan’s growing economy offers opportunities in sectors such as energy, technology, finance, and education.
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Kazakhstan’s Education System: A Rising Star in Central Asia
Kazakhstan has made significant investments in its higher education system over the past decades, establishing itself as an emerging educational hub in Central Asia:
- Bologna Process Member: Kazakhstan joined the European Higher Education Area in 2010, ensuring compatibility with European education standards
- Internationalization Focus: Strong emphasis on international partnerships, dual-degree programs, and faculty exchanges
- Quality Assurance: Rigorous accreditation processes for higher education institutions
- Language Diversity: Programs offered in Kazakh, Russian, and increasingly in English
- Research Investment: Growing emphasis on research and innovation, particularly in priority sectors such as energy, agriculture, and technology
- Modern Infrastructure: Well-equipped campuses with up-to-date facilities and resources
- Industry Connections: Strong links between universities and key industries, especially in STEM fields
The country’s strategic position between Europe and Asia makes it an interesting location for international education, offering exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives while providing quality academic training recognized internationally.
Conclusion: Your Educational Journey in the Heart of Central Asia
The Kazakhstan Government Scholarships for International Students 2025 represent a remarkable opportunity to pursue quality higher education in a unique cultural setting. With 550 fully funded scholarships across Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels, this program opens doors for ambitious students from around the world to experience Kazakhstan’s rich heritage, dynamic society, and growing academic excellence.
By studying in Kazakhstan, international students gain not only academic knowledge and professional skills but also cross-cultural competencies, international networks, and firsthand experience in one of Central Asia’s most rapidly developing nations. The comprehensive support provided by the scholarship program ensures that students can focus on their studies and make the most of their educational experience in Kazakhstan.
Written by Dr. Alina Petrova, International Education Specialist with expertise in Central Asian higher education systems and scholarship programs for international students.
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