1. Why should I choose Kazakhstan for my higher education?

Choosing Kazakhstan for your higher education brings forth several compelling advantages. Kazakhstan’s universities offer a diverse array of academic programs, including many taught in English, providing international students with ample opportunities to pursue their desired fields. The country’s affordability, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to safety create an inviting environment for learners. The diverse landscapes and multicultural society further enhance the appeal of studying in Kazakhstan.

2. Is Kazakhstan friendly to international students?

Yes, Kazakhstan is friendly to international students. The Kazakh people are known for their hospitality, and international students are often welcomed with open arms. The Kazakh government is also committed to supporting international students, and there are a number of programs and services in place to help international students succeed.

3. Where is Kazakhstan located?

Kazakhstan is a landlocked country located in the Central Asia. It is bordered by Russia to the north and west, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan to the southeast, Uzbekistan to the south, and Turkmenistan to the southwest, with a coastline along the Caspian Sea.

4. Is it a big country?

Yes, Kazakhstan is a big country. It is the ninth largest country in the world by area, with a total area of 2,724,900 square kilometers (1,051,700 square miles). This is roughly the size of Western Europe. Kazakhstan is also the largest landlocked country in the world.

5. Is Kazakhstan an expensive country to live in?

Kazakhstan is a relatively affordable country to live in, especially compared to other developed countries. The cost of living in Kazakhstan is significantly lower than in many other popular study destinations, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. On average, students will need approximately 500-700$ per month.

• Milk (1 liter) – 1.15$;
• Rice (1 kg) – 1.27$;
• Eggs (12) – 1.53$;
• Beef round (1 kg) – 7.25$;
• Apples (1 kg) – 1.20$;
• Potato (1 kg) – 0.55$;
• Water (1.5 liters) – 0.63$.

6. Where will I live during my studies?

Alfred Education Group collaborates with universities in Kazakhstan to prioritize the comfort of international students by offering well-appointed hostel accommodations. The hostels are thoughtfully equipped with essential amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay. Students can enjoy the convenience of hot and cold water, central heating systems for comfort in all seasons, and reliable Wi-Fi access to support their academic and personal needs. Each room within these hostels is furnished with comfortable beds, study desks, chairs, and ample storage facilities, creating a welcoming and conducive environment for student life.

7. Can I live off-campus?

Of course, there are numerous comfortable housing options available for international students in Kazakhstan. If you need information about the most affordable and suitable housing choices in your chosen city, please reach out to us. Our commitment is to help you discover the ideal accommodation that aligns with your budget and lifestyle. Our team is ready to provide all the essential information and support to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible while pursuing your academic journey abroad.

8. What is the cost of private accommodation?

The cost of private accommodation in Kazakhstan varies depending on the city, the size and location of the apartment, and the amenities included. However, in general, private accommodation in Kazakhstan is relatively affordable. The price for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately 300-500 $.

9. What is the climate in Kazakhstan like?

Kazakhstan has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The country is very large, so the climate varies depending on the region. In the north of the country, the winters are long and cold, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C. The summers are shorter and cooler, with average temperatures around 20°C. In the south of the country, the winters are milder, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The summers are hot and dry, with average temperatures around 30°C. The central part of the country has a climate that is somewhere in between the north and the south. The winters are cold, but not as cold as the north, and the summers are hot, but not as hot as the south.

10. What is the language of instruction at Kazakh universities?

Alfred Education Group’s partner universities in Kazakhstan prioritize international students’ needs by providing a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs in English. This approach ensures that students from diverse backgrounds can access quality education and pursue their academic goals while studying abroad in an English-speaking environment.

11. Do I need to know the local language?

While Kazakh is the official language of Kazakhstan, the country has a significant population with a strong command of English. Finding English-speaking individuals, especially among the younger generation, or Russian speakers among the older population is quite common. Learning the local language, such as Kazakh, can be a rewarding experience and a great way to connect with locals who deeply value their language and culture. You can take Preparatory Courses to learn the Kazakh language.

12. What is a Preparatory Course?

The Preparatory Course is an exceptional educational program that extends over an academic year. During this course, students immerse themselves in the study of the Kazakh language and pertinent subjects related to their intended fields of study, including sciences, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and more. Preparatory Courses assist international students in exploring various facets of life in Kazakhstan, encompassing culture, history, language, and more.

13. Will I get an internationally recognized degree?

Yes, diplomas obtained from Kazakh universities carry international recognition. Kazakhstan boasts a robust education system, with its universities consistently ranking among the top in the region. This global recognition underscores the quality and value of education offered in the country, making it a trusted choice for students pursuing their academic and career goals.

14. What is the duration of the academic year in Kazakhstan?

The academic year in Kazakhstan typically runs from September to June, with a two-week winter break in January and a two-month summer break in July and August. However, the exact dates of the academic year may vary depending on the university. 

• Fall semester: September to December;
• Winter break: January;
• Spring semester: February to June;
• Summer break: July and August.

15. What are the most popular degree programs in Kazakhstan?

• Economics;
• Finance;
• Management;
• Tourism and Event Management;
• Marketing;
• Jurisprudence;
• Business Analytics and Big Data.

16. What currency is used in Kazakhstan?

The currency used in Kazakhstan is the Kazakh tenge (KZT). It is divided into 100 tiyn. The tenge was introduced in 1993, replacing the Russian ruble.

1 USD=476.77 KZT

1 EUR=507.1 KZT

17. What is the main religion in Kazakhstan?

The main religion in Kazakhstan is Islam. According to 2021, 69.3% of the population of Kazakhstan identifies as Muslim. The majority of Muslims in Kazakhstan are Sunni, with a small minority of Shia Muslims. Other religions practiced in Kazakhstan include Christianity, Judaism, and Buddhism. However, these religions are much less common than Islam.

18. Can I work during my studies?

You have the flexibility to choose from a variety of job opportunities as long as they do not interfere with your attendance and academic performance. Many job openings are accessible to international students studying in Kazakhstan. You can explore the job center at your university or contact your admission manager to learn about the available positions.

19. How do I start my admission process?

If you decide to become an international student with Alfred Education Group, you will be required to send us the following documents to start your admission process as soon as possible:

• International passport;
• High school certificate;
• Filled Application Form.

20. Can I submit my documents online?

Alfred Education Group is dedicated to simplifying the application process, especially for international candidates. We offer the convenience of electronically submitting your documents to streamline the procedure. With our online application platform, you can easily upload the necessary paperwork from your own residence, saving both time and energy. Our commitment is unwavering in providing a smooth and user-centric experience for all potential students.

21. Do I need to get a Visa to study in Kazakhstan?

Yes, you will need a visa to study in Kazakhstan if you are not a citizen of a visa-exempt country. To apply for a student visa, you will need to contact the Kazakh embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to provide the following documents:

• A passport that is valid for at least six months after your intended departure date from Kazakhstan;
• A letter of acceptance from a recognized educational institution in Kazakhstan;
• Proof of financial support for your stay in Kazakhstan;
• A medical certificate;
• A police clearance report;
• A visa application form.

Contact your personal admission manager for more detailed information. We support our students on each step of their educational journey!

22. Is it hard to get a Student Visa in Kazakhstan?

It is not difficult to get a student visa in Kazakhstan, but it is important to meet all of the requirements and to submit a complete application. The visa application process can take several weeks, so it is important to start planning early. With Alfred Education Group your admission process will be fast and easy.

23. Do I need to get a health insurance?

Certainly, health insurance is a mandatory requirement for studying in Kazakhstan, as mandated by the country’s laws for all international students. The insurance ensures that students have access to necessary medical care during their stay, aligning with the regulations and policies in place to safeguard the well-being of international students.

24. How long does it take a Student Visa?

The processing time for a student visa in Kazakhstan typically takes 20-30 working days. However, the processing time may vary depending on the workload of the embassy or consulate and the complexity of your application. It is important to start the visa application process early, as it can take several weeks to gather all of the required documents and to submit a complete application.

25. How does public transport work in Kazakhstan?

Public transportation in Kazakhstan offers affordability and efficiency. The primary means of public transit include buses, minibusses, trolleybuses, and trams. These modes of transport provide accessible options for residents and international students, making it convenient to navigate and explore the country’s cities and regions. A one-way ticket will cost approximately 0.19 $ and monthly pass – 15.11$.

26. Is higher education free in Kazakhstan?

Kazakh universities don’t offer free undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs or scholarships for international students.

27. What is Kazakh cuisine like?

Kazakh cuisine is a reflection of the country’s nomadic heritage. It is based on meat, dairy products, and grains. Kazakhs are known for their love of horse meat, but they also eat mutton, beef, and chicken. Dairy products, such as yogurt, cheese, and sour cream, are also an important part of the Kazakh diet. Some of the most popular Kazakh dishes include:

• Beshbarmak: This is the national dish of Kazakhstan and consists of boiled horse meat or mutton served with noodles and a sauce made from onions, meat broth, salt, and pepper;
• Kazy: This is a horse meat sausage that is typically served with cold noodles;
• Kurt: This is a dried, fermented cheese that is a popular snack in Kazakhstan;
• Shubat: This is a fermented camel’s milk drink that is said to have many health benefits;
• Kumis: This is a fermented mare’s milk drink that is similar to champagne;
• Baursaks: These are fried dough balls that are often served with honey or powdered sugar;
• Shelpek: This is a flatbread that is typically filled with meat or vegetables;
• Chak-chak: This is a sweet made from fried dough that is coated in honey.

28. Will I need an electrical adapter?

Yes, you will need an electrical adapter in Kazakhstan. The electrical sockets in Kazakhstan are Type C and Type F, while the electrical plugs in most countries are Type A or Type B. Therefore, you will need a Type C or Type F adapter to use your electronic devices in Kazakhstan.

29. How much luggage can I bring with me?

While there are typically no strict limitations on the weight of your luggage when traveling from your home country to Kazakhstan, it’s important to note that airlines usually offer a complimentary baggage allowance of approximately 23 kg per piece for checked luggage and 7 kg per piece for carry-on luggage. However, specific rules may vary by airline, so it’s advisable to check their guidelines. Additionally, consider packing appropriate clothing based on the weather conditions.

30. If I have already received a bachelor’s degree in my country, can I get a second degree in Kazakhstan?

Certainly, if you have completed your Bachelor’s degree in your home country, you are eligible to pursue a Master’s, Doctoral, or second degree in Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan offers a wide range of study opportunities for international students, with diverse Master’s, Doctoral, and second-degree programs available to accommodate various academic goals and interests.