An increasing number of students in Kazakhstan are considering education abroad. For some, it offers access to high-quality academic programs; for others, it provides opportunities to gain international experience, learn new languages, and improve career prospects. Interest in foreign universities is growing among school graduates and their parents, who increasingly view overseas education as an investment in their children’s future.
According to the Bureau of National Statistics, 678,100 students were enrolled in higher education institutions in Kazakhstan at the start of the 2025-2026 academic year. At the same time, data from the International Trade Administration indicate that more than 90,000 Kazakhstani citizens are currently studying abroad.
Sanzhar Uvashev, an employee of InterPress Abroad, a company that assists applicants seeking admission to foreign universities, spoke about the factors influencing students’ choices and the opportunities offered by international education.
TCA: Tell us about your work. What does your organization do?
Uvashev: Our company helps students apply to universities abroad. We support applicants in selecting academic programs, preparing documents, and navigating the entire admissions process. One of our distinguishing features is that we are not limited to a specific list of partner institutions or countries. We can assist students in applying to a wide range of universities, depending on their individual preferences.
TCA: Which countries are currently the most popular destinations?
Uvashev: We work with a broad range of destinations, particularly the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, as well as countries across Europe and Asia. Recently, students have shown greater interest in exploring multiple options rather than focusing on a single country. Some prioritize studying in an English-speaking environment, others seek more affordable tuition, while some focus on scholarship opportunities and employment prospects after graduation.
TCA: What opportunities exist today for students from Central Asia to study abroad?
Uvashev: Opportunities are expanding. Many universities are paying closer attention to applicants from Central Asia, as international students contribute to a more diverse academic environment. As a result, institutions are offering scholarships, tuition discounts, and preparatory programs. Awareness of the region is growing, and with it the range of options available to students.
TCA: Why do students continue to choose the U.S. and other destinations?
Uvashev: The U.S. remains one of the most popular destinations because of its strong universities and perceived career opportunities. At the same time, countries such as Italy, Austria, and China are also attracting interest. Italy and Austria appeal to students because public universities there can offer relatively affordable, and in some cases almost free, education. China has gained popularity due to the quality of its universities, their rising positions in global rankings, and the availability of scholarships for international students.
TCA: Are there programs that allow students to study free of charge?
Uvashev: Yes. Students often inquire about scholarship schemes that significantly reduce tuition fees or cover them entirely. Examples include the Bolashak international scholarship program, Stipendium Hungaricum, and Erasmus Mundus. These initiatives provide talented applicants with real opportunities to obtain an education abroad, provided they are well prepared and meet the eligibility requirements.
TCA: Why do many young people want to study abroad?
Uvashev: The main reasons are educational quality, broader life experience, and career prospects. Many students want to gain international exposure and study in a competitive academic environment. Foreign universities often offer more practical training, modern teaching methods, and internship opportunities, which can significantly improve graduates’ chances of securing employment.
There is also a longstanding trend among young people to seek opportunities beyond their home country. For many, studying abroad is not only about education but also about gaining independence and new life experiences.
TCA: What challenges exist in Kazakhstan’s higher education system?
Uvashev: One issue is the limited level of international integration at some universities. Not all institutions have strong links with global academic networks, foreign faculty members, or extensive exchange and internship programs.
As a result, some students feel that local education may restrict their prospects, particularly if they aim to work in international companies or pursue careers abroad. The challenge therefore concerns not only academic quality but also how effectively the system prepares graduates to compete in the global labor market.
TCA: Do students usually return home after completing their studies?
Uvashev: Outcomes vary. Some graduates return and apply their knowledge in Kazakhstan, while others remain abroad if they find employment and are able to secure residence or work permits. Decisions about returning often depend less on personal preference and more on practical circumstances, such as visa regulations and career opportunities.
TCA: What changes would you like to see in Kazakhstan’s education system?
Uvashev: Greater involvement of foreign lecturers, more international internships, and expanded academic mobility would be positive developments. It is important that students can gain international experience not only by studying abroad for extended periods but also through exchange programs, joint research projects, and short-term study opportunities.
If such initiatives become more widespread, domestic higher education will also strengthen. Students will feel they can acquire modern, competitive skills without necessarily leaving the country for long periods.
