# 6Asian University Rankings - Central Asia
About NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY
Established in Astana in 2010, Nazarbayev University is Kazakhstan’s flagship autonomous, English-language university and a leading research institution in Central Asia, CIS, and the Caucasus.
NU offers academic programmes in engineering and digital sciences, natural sciences, medicine, social sciences, public administration, educational leadership, mining, and geosciences. In 2026, NU opened the School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence (SCAI), reaffirming its commitment to advancing education, research, and innovation in emerging artificial intelligence technologies. The university is also home to the Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI), which develops advanced AI solutions, including language models for Kazakh and other regional languages, speech technologies, computer vision, and intelligent systems.
NU also offers joint programmes with leading international universities, including the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and SOAS University of London, giving students opportunities to gain international academic experience. Combining rigorous education, advanced research, and industry partnerships, NU prepares students for a rapidly changing global environment. With world-class faculty and strong international connections, NU fosters innovation, leadership, and community engagement, creating opportunities for students and researchers in Kazakhstan and beyond.
About NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY
Established in Astana in 2010, Nazarbayev University is Kazakhstan’s flagship autonomous, English-language university and a leading research institution in Central Asia, CIS, and the Caucasus.
NU offers academic programmes in engineering and digital sciences, natural sciences, medicine, social sciences, public administration, educational leadership, mining, and geosciences. In 2026, NU opened the School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence (SCAI), reaffirming its commitment to advancing education, research, and innovation in emerging artificial intelligence technologies. The university is also home to the Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI), which develops advanced AI solutions, including language models for Kazakh and other regional languages, speech technologies, computer vision, and intelligent systems.
NU also offers joint programmes with leading international universities, including the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and SOAS University of London, giving students opportunities to gain international academic experience. Combining rigorous education, advanced research, and industry partnerships, NU prepares students for a rapidly changing global environment. With world-class faculty and strong international connections, NU fosters innovation, leadership, and community engagement, creating opportunities for students and researchers in Kazakhstan and beyond.
University information
Admission requirements and application procedures at Nazarbayev University vary by program and level of study. International applicants can find detailed information on eligibility criteria, required documents, and application deadlines on the International Admissions page . To explore available programs, visit the Programme Search page .
Nazarbayev University attracts talented students from around the world, offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various fields, as well as foundation and residency programs. Tuition fees vary by programme and level of study. Up-to-date information on tuition fees and available financial support for eligible student categories can be found here .
Nazarbayev University offers a comprehensive range of academic, research, sports, healthcare, and everyday services designed to support students, faculty, and staff. The campus combines modern learning spaces and recreational facilities with essential services, dining options, and amenities that contribute to a convenient and inclusive university environment. See the campus map to find the full range of facilities:
- Academic and Learning Facilities (library, computer laboratories, study rooms and multifunctional spaces, printing house, movie theatre)
- Sports and Recreation (Sports and Athletic centres with an equipped gym and an Olympic-size swimming pool, yoga and dance rooms)
- Healthcare and Wellbeing (University Health Centre, pharmacies, Psychological Counseling Center for students)
- Residential and Family Facilities (Faculty housing, childcare centres)
- Dining and Retail (Eateries, restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, bookshop, vending machines.
- Other Facilities (Beauty salons and barber shop, sewing shop, laundry, bank branch and ATMs, parking for cars and bicycles, shoe repair and locksmith services)
Student life
Student life at Nazarbayev University is vibrant and diverse, offering students countless opportunities to connect, explore their interests, and make the most of their university experience. With 120+ active student clubs and more than 450 events each semester, campus life is full of opportunities. Local and international students can join student clubs focused on academic and professional development, arts and culture, sports and dance, or volunteering and community service. Those who want to take the initiative can also start their own clubs with support from the Department of Student Services. The Student Government represents the student body, advocates for student interests, and works with University leadership to bring ideas to life and make campus life even better. Explore the full list of student clubs here .Cost of Living
The average monthly cost of attendance at Nazarbayev University is approximately USD 400, depending on the student’s lifestyle and personal spending habits. This estimate covers essential living expenses while studying on campus. Accommodation is guaranteed for international students.
Estimated monthly expenses (USD):
On-campus dining: ~USD 300
Dormitory accommodation: ~USD 55
Transportation: ~USD 15
Laundry services: ~USD 8
Sports center membership: ~USD 10
Additional medical insurance: ~USD 5
These costs reflect a comfortable student lifestyle with access to campus infrastructure, dining facilities, healthcare services, and sports amenities. Actual expenses may vary depending on individual preferences.
Accommodation
Food
Transport
Utilities
Tuition fees
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
Employability
98% of Nazarbayev University graduates find employment or continue their studies within the first year after graduation. NU alumni build careers in leading companies in Kazakhstan and around the world, including Google, Meta, Higgsfield AI, Kaspi Bank, and Samruk-Kazyna.
The Career and Advising Center (CAC) supports students and alumni throughout their professional journey, helping them explore career paths, identify their strengths, and prepare for the job market. Its services include individual consultations, job and internship search guidance, CV and cover letter reviews, interview preparation, employer sessions and recruitment events, career development workshops, networking opportunities, alumni engagement, and consultations on work obligations. Through these services, students gain practical skills and connections to help them achieve their career goals. Learn more at the Career and Advising Center .
Rankings & Ratings
NAZARBAYEV UNIVERSITY is one of the top Public universities in Astana, Kazakhstan. It is ranked #6 in Asian University Rankings - Central Asia 2027.
Asian University Rankings - Central Asia
- 2026#11
- 2027#6
Asian University Rankings - Central Asia
- 2026#11
- 2027#6
Campus locations
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Frequently Asked Questions
Admission to Nazarbayev University is merit-based. Thus, the entry requirements for the programs are the same for all candidates, regardless of their citizenship and depend on the program of application.
Yes, the University provides international students with rooms in its dormitories on campus. Find more about Student Housing here.
Notices
Inclusion in a QS ranking or QS Stars rating or publication on a QS platform/site does not constitute a statement by QS that an institution's qualifications are recognised for academic, professional, regulatory or immigration purposes in every jurisdiction. Students should check the recognition status of a qualification with the relevant national or professional authority in the country where they intend to study or work.
The country/territory designations used across QS rankings, ratings and platforms exist to present and compare higher education data clearly and consistently. They do not express any QS position on sovereignty, recognition, legal status or international boundaries. Where it helps users interpret the data, QS may group institutions according to the higher education system in which they operate, which in most cases corresponds to a country, but not always. Where questions of status or designation arise, QS uses terminology appropriate to the higher education context.
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