Nazarbayev University (NU) stands as one of Central Asia’s most prestigious institutions, dedicated to fostering academic excellence, innovation, and global collaboration. To ensure access to quality education for outstanding students from Kazakhstan and abroad, the university offers a wide range of fully funded and partial scholarships across its undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. These scholarships are primarily merit-based and are awarded through a competitive selection process managed by the university’s Admissions Committees.
Government-Funded Educational Grant (for Kazakhstani Citizens)
For domestic applicants, the primary scholarship scheme is the Government-Funded Educational Grant. This grant fully covers tuition fees and provides recipients with a monthly stipend, medical insurance, and travel compensation in line with national regulations. It is designed to support Kazakhstani citizens who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership potential. However, individuals who have previously earned the same degree under a state order or through the “Bolashak” international scholarship, or those who were dismissed from NU for disciplinary reasons, are not eligible for this funding.
“Ybyray Altynsarin” Scholarship (for Socially Vulnerable Applicants)
The “Ybyray Altynsarin” Scholarship, named after the celebrated Kazakh educator and reformer, is intended for socially disadvantaged but academically capable students. It supports Kazakhstani nationals who meet the admission standards but could not secure a government-funded grant due to limited allocation. Eligible applicants include orphans, individuals with disabilities, students from large families, and those whose parents have disabilities. This scholarship provides full tuition coverage for the duration of the chosen program, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit access to higher education. Although the scholarship does not include a monthly stipend or travel reimbursement, it offers a transformative opportunity for students from marginalized backgrounds to pursue quality education at a world-class university.
“Abay Kunanbayev” Scholarship (for International Applicants)
Named after the legendary poet and philosopher Abay Kunanbayev, this scholarship is specifically designed for international students and stateless individuals. It recognizes academic merit, leadership qualities, and potential contributions to the university’s diverse community. The Abay Kunanbayev Scholarship provides full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, and basic medical insurance for the duration of the degree program. It serves as a gateway for talented students from around the world to experience Kazakhstan’s rich culture and contribute to the global academic community at Nazarbayev University.
Partial and Fee-Paying Options
Students who meet admission requirements but are not selected for full funding still have the opportunity to pursue their studies at NU on a fee-paying basis. In addition, the university offers partial scholarships covering between 50% and 100% of tuition fees. These awards are available to both domestic and international applicants, depending on their academic performance, citizenship, and other specific criteria. Through this flexible structure, NU ensures that deserving candidates can still access its programs even without full financial support.
Key Benefits
Scholarship recipients enjoy a wide range of benefits that extend beyond financial aid. Most scholarships provide complete tuition coverage, monthly stipends to support living expenses, and comprehensive medical insurance. Recipients also gain access to cutting-edge research facilities, mentorship programs, and an international learning environment that encourages innovation and leadership. Importantly, applicants are automatically considered for scholarship eligibility during the admission process, meaning there is no need for a separate application in most cases.
Eligibility and Selection Process
Scholarship awards are based on academic merit, entrance examination results, and alignment with the university’s values of excellence and integrity. Both Kazakhstani and international applicants are assessed under the same rigorous standards. For international scholarships, recommendation by the respective Admissions Committee is required. Applicants are advised to prepare all supporting documents carefully, including transcripts, language proficiency certificates, and letters of motivation, to strengthen their application.
Commitment to Research and Excellence
As part of its long-term vision, Nazarbayev University continues to expand its investment in research and doctoral education. Recently, the university announced a significant increase in PhD scholarships to mark its 15th anniversary, reflecting its ongoing commitment to advancing knowledge, innovation, and leadership in the region.
Through these diverse scholarship programs, Nazarbayev University reaffirms its mission to nurture a new generation of global thinkers and innovators who will contribute to social, scientific, and economic progress both in Kazakhstan and beyond.
Apply here: https://admissions.nu.edu.kz/wps/portal
