Study in Kazakhstan – Fully Funded Scholarships in Kazakhstan for International Students

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🎓 Scholarships in Kazakhstan– Click Here

🎓 Why Study in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is quickly becoming a top study destination in Central Asia for international students who are looking for high-quality education at an affordable cost. With globally accredited programs, modern campuses, and a growing number of scholarships in Kazakhstan, the country offers a unique opportunity to gain an internationally recognized degree while experiencing a vibrant cultural mix of East and West.

Here’s why study in Kazakhstan is attracting students from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa:

✅ 1. Globally Recognized Universities & Degrees

Kazakhstan hosts some of the best universities in Central Asia, including:

  • Nazarbayev University (NU) – A world-class research university with partnerships with top institutions like Cambridge and Duke University.
  • Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) – Ranked among the top universities in the QS World Rankings, offering programs in sciences, engineering, humanities, and IT.
  • Satbayev University – Known for engineering, architecture, and IT programs.
  • Karaganda State Medical University (KSMU) – Popular among international students for medicine and healthcare degrees.

Most Kazakhstan universities for international students offer programs in English, Kazakh, and Russian, ensuring accessibility for students from different regions. Degrees follow the Bologna Process, meaning they are recognized across Europe and beyond.

✅ 2. Affordable Education & Living Costs

Compared to Western Europe or the U.S., higher education in Kazakhstan is much more affordable:

  • Public universities charge as low as $1,500–$3,000 per year for international students.
  • Private universities offer scholarships in Kazakhstan that cover full or partial tuition fees.
  • Cost of living is 50–60% cheaper than most EU countries, with affordable housing, food, and transportation.

International students also benefit from student discounts, making daily life more economical.

✅ 3. Wide Range of Scholarships in Kazakhstan

One of the biggest reasons students choose to study in Kazakhstan is the availability of fully funded scholarships in Kazakhstan, such as:

  • Bolashak International Scholarship (Kazakhstan’s most prestigious government scholarship)
  • University merit-based scholarships for top academic performers
  • Bilateral scholarships for students from partner countries
  • Private sector scholarships for engineering, IT, and energy-related programs

These scholarships in Kazakhstan often cover:

  • Tuition fees
  • Monthly living stipends
  • On-campus accommodation
  • Health insurance
  • Research funding for postgraduate students

✅ 4. Strategic Location & Multicultural Environment

Kazakhstan is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it a gateway for students who want to build international networks. As an economically stable and culturally rich country, it offers:

  • A safe and welcoming environment for foreign students
  • A multicultural academic community with students from 50+ countries
  • Easy travel access to Europe, Russia, China, and other Central Asian nations

✅ 5. Career Opportunities in Emerging Industries

Kazakhstan is an energy-rich and rapidly developing economy. By studying here, you gain career opportunities in:

  • Engineering & Oil/Gas (Kazakhstan is one of the largest oil producers in the region)
  • IT & Digital Technology
  • Tourism & Hospitality (linked to the Silk Road heritage)
  • Healthcare & Medical Research
  • International Trade & Logistics

Many universities have industry partnerships, offering internships and research projects that help students transition into the job market.

✅ 6. Quality of Life & Cultural Experience

Kazakhstan combines modern city life with a rich cultural heritage. Cities like Almaty and Astana (Nur-Sultan) offer:

  • Modern infrastructure
  • Affordable student housing
  • Vibrant cultural events and historical landmarks

Students can also explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Silk Roads and experience Kazakh hospitality and traditions.

🌍 Why Kazakhstan is the Next Big Study Destination

With its internationally accredited universities, wide range of scholarships in Kazakhstan, affordable education, and a strategic multicultural environment, Kazakhstan is now a rising educational hub in Central Asia.

Whether you want a fully funded scholarship in Kazakhstan, a research opportunity, or an affordable globally recognized degree, this country offers everything you need for a successful academic journey.

🏛 Government-Funded Scholarships in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s government actively supports international students through a variety of fully funded scholarships in Kazakhstan. These programs aim to strengthen global academic cooperation and attract talented students from around the world. If you want to study in Kazakhstan at minimal or no cost, these Kazakhstan government scholarships are the best place to start.

✅ 2.1 Bolashak International Scholarship

The Bolashak International Scholarship is Kazakhstan’s most prestigious government-funded scholarship program. It was launched to develop highly skilled professionals who can contribute to Kazakhstan’s socio-economic growth and international relations.

Coverage:

  • Full tuition fees at top Kazakhstani or international partner universities
  • Monthly living allowance
  • Accommodation or housing allowance
  • Health insurance
  • Round-trip airfare

Eligibility:

  • Open to Kazakhstani citizens and selected international candidates under cultural agreements
  • Must meet academic excellence criteria (high GPA)
  • Language proficiency in English, Russian, or Kazakh (depending on program)

Fields of Study:
Engineering, Medicine, Natural Sciences, IT, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business

🌐 Official Link: https://bolashak.gov.kz

✅ 2.2 Kazakhstan Government Scholarship for International Students

In 2021, Kazakhstan introduced a state quota scholarship for international students, offering fully funded scholarships in Kazakhstan across various universities.

Coverage:

  • 500+ full scholarships annually
  • Full tuition fee coverage
  • Monthly stipend for living expenses
  • University dormitory accommodation

Eligibility:

  • Open to students from selected countries (Asia, Africa, CIS nations, and beyond)
  • High school diploma for bachelor’s programs, bachelor’s degree for master’s programs
  • Basic English, Russian, or Kazakh proficiency

Fields:
Engineering, IT, Agriculture, Medicine, Business, Social Sciences

🌐 Official Link: https://enic-kazakhstan.edu.kz

✅ 2.3 Ministry of Science and Higher Education (MES RK) Scholarships

The Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan (MES RK) offers fully and partially funded scholarships for:

  • Undergraduate
  • Master’s
  • PhD students

These scholarships in Kazakhstan are awarded on a competitive basis and include tuition coverage and a monthly stipend.

🌐 Official Link: https://edu.gov.kz

✅ 2.4 Kazakh Government Medical Scholarships

For students who want to study in Kazakhstan in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or nursing, the Ministry of Healthcare of Kazakhstan funds medical scholarships through partner universities like:

  • Karaganda Medical University
  • Astana Medical University
  • Semey Medical University

Coverage:

  • Full tuition for MBBS and other healthcare programs
  • Clinical training in affiliated hospitals
  • Accommodation and basic living allowance

🌐 Official Link: https://qmu.kz

✅ 2.5 Bilateral & Regional Cooperation Scholarships

Kazakhstan also offers government-to-government scholarships under bilateral agreements with countries in:

  • CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States)
  • Middle East
  • South Asia
  • African nations

These scholarships often include:

  • Full or partial tuition fee waivers
  • Monthly stipends
  • Dormitory housing

✅ 2.6 Kazakh Language & Cultural Exchange Scholarships

For students interested in learning Kazakh language, history, and culture, the government provides short-term cultural scholarships in partnership with:

  • Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
  • L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University

Coverage:

  • Tuition for language & culture courses
  • Accommodation in university dormitories
  • Excursions and cultural programs

Why Choose Government-Funded Scholarships in Kazakhstan?

✅ Full financial support covering tuition, accommodation, stipends, and even travel
✅ Opportunities to study in Kazakhstan at top-ranked universities
✅ Access to English-taught programs with international accreditation
✅ Career pathways in Kazakhstan’s growing industries like oil & gas, IT, and healthcare
✅ Experience Kazakh culture and traditions while studying in a multicultural environment

🎓 University-Based Scholarships in Kazakhstan for International Students

In addition to government-funded opportunities, many top-ranked Kazakhstan universities for international students offer generous merit-based and need-based scholarships. These scholarships in Kazakhstan are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs, especially in fields like engineering, medicine, business, computer science, and social sciences.

Here are the most prominent university-based scholarships in Kazakhstan:

✅ 3.1 Nazarbayev University Scholarships

Nazarbayev University (NU) is one of the most prestigious institutions in Kazakhstan, known for its world-class research and partnerships with global universities like Cambridge and University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Full tuition fee waiver
  • Monthly stipend for living expenses
  • On-campus accommodation
  • Health insurance

Eligibility:

  • Competitive GPA and academic excellence
  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL required)
  • Admission into Bachelor, Master’s, or PhD programs

🌐 Official Link: https://nu.edu.kz

✅ 3.2 Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (KazNU) Scholarships

KazNU is ranked among the top 200 universities globally and offers a wide range of scholarships in Kazakhstan for international students.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Full or partial tuition fee coverage
  • Monthly stipend for graduate students
  • Access to research grants and internships

Eligibility:

  • High academic performance
  • English, Russian, or Kazakh language proficiency (program-specific)
  • Open to Bachelor, Master’s, and PhD students

🌐 Official Link: https://www.kaznu.kz

✅ 3.3 Satbayev University Scholarships

Satbayev University specializes in engineering, architecture, and technology and provides competitive scholarships to foreign students.

Scholarship Benefits:

  • Tuition waivers for top-performing applicants
  • Research support for STEM postgraduate students
  • Internship opportunities in Kazakhstan’s industrial sectors

🌐 Official Link: https://satbayev.university

✅ 3.4 Karaganda State Medical University (KSMU)

For those looking to study in Kazakhstan in medicine, KSMU is one of the best medical schools offering affordable tuition and need-based scholarships.

Coverage:

  • Partial scholarships for international MBBS and dentistry students
  • Free access to clinical practice facilities
  • On-campus housing

🌐 Official Link: https://qmu.kz

✅ 3.5 L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University Scholarships

One of Kazakhstan’s most prominent public universities, E.N.U. offers fully funded and partial scholarships for high-achieving students.

Fields of Study: Humanities, Economics, Computer Science, Political Science, Engineering

🌐 Official Link: https://enu.kz

✅ 3.6 Kazakh-British Technical University (KBTU)

KBTU offers industry-aligned programs in oil & gas, finance, and IT, with multiple scholarships for international students.

Scholarship Features:

  • Tuition discounts based on entrance exam results or GPA
  • Sponsored scholarships from Chevron, Total, and EY
  • Opportunities for internships and employment after graduation

🌐 Official Link: https://kbtu.kz

✅ 3.7 Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU)

KazNMU is another top destination for students seeking scholarships in Kazakhstan in healthcare and life sciences.

Programs Covered:
General Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Public Health

Benefits:

  • Academic scholarships for high-performing students
  • Support for clinical training and residency programs

🌐 Official Link: https://kaznmu.edu.kz

✅ 3.8 International IT University (IITU)

For students interested in studying in Kazakhstan in the field of IT and digital technologies, IITU offers excellent merit-based funding.

Scholarships Include:

  • Partial tuition fee waivers
  • Grants for international hackathons and tech research

🌐 Official Link: https://iitu.edu.kz

Why Choose University-Based Scholarships in Kazakhstan?

✔️ Access to fully funded or subsidized education in world-class institutions
✔️ A wide variety of fields from medicine to engineering, IT to business
✔️ High-quality infrastructure, research labs, and global academic partnerships
✔️ Opportunity to study in Kazakhstan in English-medium programs
✔️ Exposure to international faculty and multicultural student bodies

🧭 Private Sector & International Scholarships in Kazakhstan

Beyond government and university funding, several private companies, industries, and international organizations offer scholarships in Kazakhstan for foreign students. These programs focus on academic excellence, research development, and cultural exchange, making study in Kazakhstan more accessible and affordable.

Here are the most prominent private-sector and international scholarships in Kazakhstan for international students:

✅ 4.1 Chevron Kazakhstan & Oil Industry Scholarships

As one of Kazakhstan’s largest energy investors, Chevron Kazakhstan sponsors scholarships for engineering, oil & gas, and environmental sciences students.

Scholarship Coverage:

  • Partial or full tuition fee coverage
  • Paid internships in Kazakhstan’s oil & gas sector
  • Career placement opportunities after graduation

Eligibility:

  • Enrolled in engineering, environmental studies, or sustainable energy programs
  • Strong academic performance

🌐 Official Link: https://www.chevron.com

✅ 4.2 Zhas Orken Leadership Scholarships (Samruk-Kazyna Fund)

The Samruk-Kazyna Fund, Kazakhstan’s largest sovereign wealth fund, offers the Zhas Orken Leadership Scholarship to support talented youth in business, finance, and public administration.

Benefits:

  • Full tuition coverage for selected students
  • Monthly stipends
  • Leadership training and mentorship programs

🌐 Official Link: https://zhasorken.sk.kz

✅ 4.3 Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships

The Islamic Development Bank partners with Kazakh universities to provide fully funded scholarships in Kazakhstan for students from OIC member countries.

Coverage:

  • Tuition, accommodation, living expenses
  • Health insurance & research funding
  • Return airfare

Focus Areas:

  • STEM, Medicine, Agriculture, Sustainable Development

🌐 Official Link: https://www.isdb.org/scholarships

✅ 4.4 UNESCO Cultural Exchange Scholarships

UNESCO supports cultural cooperation with Kazakhstan by offering scholarships for heritage, cultural studies, and language programs.

Scholarship Features:

  • Tuition support for short-term exchange programs
  • Cultural tours and Kazakh language courses

🌐 Official Link: https://www.unesco.org

✅ 4.5 DAAD & Erasmus+ Exchange Programs

Many Kazakhstan universities for international students partner with European institutions under DAAD (Germany) and Erasmus+ (EU) programs.

Benefits:

  • Tuition-free exchange semesters in Kazakhstan
  • Travel and living grants
  • Joint research opportunities

🌐 Erasmus+: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu
🌐 DAAD: https://www.daad.de/en/

✅ 4.6 TÜBİTAK Research Grants (Kazakhstan-Turkey Collaboration)

Kazakhstan collaborates with Turkey’s TÜBİTAK Scientific Research Council to fund PhD and postdoctoral research in technology, agriculture, and sustainability.

🌐 Official Link: https://www.tubitak.gov.tr

✅ 4.7 ArcelorMittal Temirtau Scholarships

As one of Kazakhstan’s largest steel and mining companies, ArcelorMittal Temirtau provides scholarships for students in:

  • Mining engineering
  • Metallurgy
  • Industrial safety and technology

Includes tuition waivers and paid industrial internships.

🌐 Official Link: https://corporate.arcelormittal.com

✅ 4.8 International IT & Innovation Scholarships

Tech companies in Kazakhstan’s growing IT sector (Astana Hub, Digital Kazakhstan initiatives) offer scholarships in IT, AI, and cybersecurity.

  • Tuition discounts at International IT University (IITU)
  • Sponsored research funding for tech projects

🌐 Official Link: https://astanahub.com

✅ 4.9 Kazakhstan Chamber of Commerce & Business Scholarships

Business organizations in Kazakhstan support MBA and business management programs through scholarships and grants for international students.

These often include:

  • Tuition sponsorship
  • Professional mentorship
  • Internship placements

Why Consider Private & International Scholarships in Kazakhstan?

✔️ Access to industry-funded scholarships that also include internships
✔️ Opportunities to build career networks with leading companies in Central Asia
✔️ Flexibility to study in Kazakhstan while participating in exchange programs abroad
✔️ Exposure to cutting-edge research in energy, IT, and sustainability

📝 Step-by-Step Application Process for Scholarships in Kazakhstan

Applying for scholarships in Kazakhstan is a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. Whether you’re applying for government-funded scholarships, university-based merit grants, or private-sector scholarships, here’s how to maximize your chances of success and start your journey to study in Kazakhstan.

✅ Step 1: Research Programs & Scholarships in Kazakhstan

  • Identify Kazakhstan universities for international students that match your academic interests.
  • Explore available scholarships in Kazakhstan, including:
    • Government-funded programs (Bolashak, MES RK scholarships)
    • University merit-based scholarships (Nazarbayev University, KazNU, Satbayev University)
    • Private-sector or international scholarships (Chevron, IsDB, Erasmus+, DAAD)
  • Check whether your desired program is taught in English, Kazakh, or Russian.

✅ Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements

Each scholarship in Kazakhstan has its own eligibility criteria, but most include:

  • Academic performance: Minimum GPA or percentage required
  • Language proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL for English programs, or Kazakh/Russian for local-language programs
  • Age limit: Some government scholarships have age restrictions for Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs
  • Nationality: Certain scholarships are open only to students from specific countries (CIS, Asia, Africa)

✅ Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Before applying to study in Kazakhstan, prepare all necessary academic and personal documents:

📄 Academic Documents

  • Transcripts & graduation certificates (translated to English or Kazakh/Russian)
  • Valid passport (minimum one-year validity)

📝 Application Documents

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Motivation Letter
  • Updated CV/Resume
  • 2–3 Recommendation Letters from academic supervisors
  • IELTS/TOEFL scores (or language certificate required by the university)
  • Research proposal (for Master’s & PhD scholarships)

✅ Step 4: Apply Online via Official Portals

There are three main application routes for scholarships in Kazakhstan:

1️⃣ Government Scholarships:

2️⃣ University Scholarships:

  • Submit your application directly through Kazakhstan universities’ international admissions portals, like Nazarbayev University (https://nu.edu.kz) or KazNU (https://kaznu.kz).

3️⃣ Private & International Scholarships:

✅ Step 5: Attend Interviews or Entrance Exams (if required)

Some competitive scholarships in Kazakhstan require:

  • Online interviews to assess academic potential and motivation
  • Entrance exams in subjects like Math, Physics, or Language skills for technical and medical programs

✅ Step 6: Wait for Results & Scholarship Offer

After submission, scholarship results are usually announced within 6–8 weeks. If selected, you’ll receive a scholarship award letter and admission confirmation.

✅ Step 7: Apply for a Kazakhstan Student Visa

Once you have your scholarship confirmation, apply for a Kazakhstan student visa at the Kazakh embassy in your country. Required documents:

  • Scholarship offer letter
  • University admission confirmation
  • Valid passport and visa application form

✅ Step 8: Travel to Kazakhstan & Enroll

  • Book your flight to Kazakhstan (scholarship programs like Bolashak often cover airfare).
  • Arrive before the academic semester starts and complete your enrollment at the university.
  • Attend orientation sessions for international students.

📅 Academic Intakes & Timelines in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan universities have two major intakes for international students:

  • Fall Semester (September–October):
    • Applications open January–May
    • Scholarship deadlines are usually March–April
  • Spring Semester (January–February):
    • Applications open July–October
    • Scholarship deadlines are usually September–November

Government scholarships like Bolashak and MES RK scholarships typically open 6–8 months before the start of the academic year.

✅ Why Choose Kazakhstan for Education & Scholarships?

Choosing to study in Kazakhstan comes with multiple benefits:

🌍 Globally recognized degrees with international accreditation
💰 Affordable tuition fees and cost of living compared to Western countries
🎓 Wide range of fully funded scholarships in Kazakhstan for all levels
🏛 Safe and multicultural environment in major cities like Almaty and Astana
🚀 Career pathways in emerging industries like oil & gas, IT, healthcare, and business

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are scholarships in Kazakhstan fully funded?
Yes, many government and university scholarships in Kazakhstan are fully funded, covering tuition, accommodation, stipends, and even airfare.

2. Do I need to know Kazakh or Russian to study in Kazakhstan?
Many programs are taught in English, especially in top universities like Nazarbayev University. However, learning basic Kazakh or Russian can help in daily life.

3. Can I work while studying in Kazakhstan?
Yes, part-time work opportunities are available for international students, but always check visa regulations.

4. Are Kazakhstan degrees recognized internationally?
Yes, Kazakhstan follows the Bologna Process, so degrees are recognized across Europe, Asia, and beyond.

5. How much does it cost to live in Kazakhstan as a student?
On average, $300–$500 per month is enough for accommodation, food, and transportation.

🔗 Official Verified Links for Scholarships & Education in Kazakhstan

Here are the official websites you should use to find scholarships in Kazakhstan and apply to Kazakhstan universities for international students:

✅ Bolashak International Scholarship (Government-funded)
🌐 https://bolashak.gov.kz

✅ Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan (MES RK)
🌐 https://edu.gov.kz

✅ Kazakhstan International Scholarships Portal
🌐 https://enic-kazakhstan.edu.kz

✅ Nazarbayev University International Scholarships
🌐 https://nu.edu.kz

✅ Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Scholarships (KazNU)
🌐 https://www.kaznu.kz

✅ Satbayev University Scholarships
🌐 https://satbayev.university

✅ Karaganda Medical University (KSMU)
🌐 https://qmu.kz

✅ Eurasian National University (ENU) Scholarships
🌐 https://enu.kz

✅ Kazakh National Medical University (KazNMU)
🌐 https://kaznmu.edu.kz

✅ International IT University (IITU)
🌐 https://iitu.edu.kz

✅ Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships
🌐 https://www.isdb.org/scholarships

✅ DAAD & Erasmus+ Exchange Programs
🌐 https://www.daad.de/en/
🌐 https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu

🌟 Conclusion: Why Study in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is rapidly becoming one of the most attractive study destinations in Central Asia, offering a unique combination of high-quality education, affordable living, and a wide variety of scholarships. With globally recognized universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and English-taught programs, it provides an excellent opportunity for students from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

By choosing to study in Kazakhstan, you gain access to:

✅ Fully funded scholarships in Kazakhstan covering tuition, accommodation, stipends, and airfare
✅ A safe and multicultural learning environment in cities like Almaty and Astana
✅ Internationally accredited degrees that follow the Bologna Process, ensuring global recognition
✅ Career opportunities in Kazakhstan’s growing industries like oil & gas, engineering, IT, medicine, and business

Whether you’re applying for the prestigious Bolashak International Scholarship, a university-based merit scholarship, or a private-sector research grant, there are ample opportunities for international students to make their education in Kazakhstan both affordable and rewarding.

If you want to experience a strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, rich cultural heritage, and highly supportive academic environment, Kazakhstan is the perfect choice for your educational journey. Follow ScholarshipGrow.

⚠️ Disclaimer

Scholarship details, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change each year. Always check official government or university websites for the most accurate and updated information before applying.

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