Kazakhstan’s Nazarbayev University welcomes students from Uzbekistan

Nazarbayev University (NU), Kazakhstan’s leading English-language university, is opening its doors to students from Uzbekistan through a series of special educational grants. Ranked 401st in the global Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, NU combines world-class academic standards with the cultural and regional context of Central Asia.

At NU, all programs are taught entirely in English and designed to prepare students for success in a rapidly evolving global environment. The university is proud of its outstanding graduate outcomes – 98% of NU alumni secure employment across diverse industries, including at top international and regional companies such as Google, Meta, McKinsey & Co, KPMG, and Shell. Many graduates also continue their academic journey at leading global universities such as Stanford, the University of Pennsylvania, and Columbia University, supported by prestigious scholarships.

Recently, NU reinforced its global standing by entering the top 23% of the world’s leading research universities in THE World University Rankings 2026, confirming its position as the #1 university in Central Asia and the Caucasus, and #4 among CIS countries.

The university has been awarded accreditation through the International Quality Review (IQR) by the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) – an official recognition of its compliance with rigorous international academic standards.

Nazarbayev University offers programs that align closely with Uzbekistan’s economic and educational priorities: from business and construction to IT, medicine, and beyond. Students can choose from a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields such as education, engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence.

Students from Uzbekistan are eligible to apply for fully funded scholarships, including the prestigious Abai Kunanbayev Scholarship, which covers full tuition, a monthly stipend, and medical insurance throughout the duration of study. With faculty members representing over 60 countries, NU provides students with a diverse academic community and a global perspective.

A vibrant campus in the heart of Astana

At NU, research and innovation thrive in a collaborative and inspiring environment. The university’s modern 100-hectare campus is located in the center of Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, and features comfortable residence halls, numerous cafes and restaurants, and advanced sports and recreation facilities – all designed to support both academic and personal growth.

Student life at NU is dynamic and inclusive, with more than 100 student clubs and organizations: from robotics and debate societies to art collectives and volunteer groups fostering creativity, leadership, and community engagement.

Mid-year admission now open for students from Uzbekistan

For the first time, Nazarbayev University is offering mid-year admission for the January 2026 intake. This new opportunity is ideal for students from Uzbekistan who missed the main admission cycle or wish to transfer from other universities, including international ones. Applications are open until November 28, 2025. 

New programs and international partnerships

NU continues to enhance its academic offerings through collaborations with leading international universities. Among its flagship programs are:

● Bachelor of Business Administration in Eurasian Business – developed jointly with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), the first program of its kind in Asia.

● Master’s in Global Affairs and Eurasian Studies – offered in partnership with SOAS University of London (School of Oriental and African Studies), UK.

● Master’s in Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Science.

Through these partnerships and initiatives, Nazarbayev University reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence, regional collaboration, and global opportunity – giving students from Uzbekistan a chance to become part of a world-class university recognized for both its international quality and local impact.

Advertising