Study in Kazakhstan — universities, campus life and student cities

Kazakhstan flag Sukhada's Study Destination Guide

Study In Kazakhstan

Everything you need to know about tuition, cost of living, post-study work rights and top universities in Kazakhstan — backed by Sukhada's counselling team.

Kazakhstan at a Glance

Partner Universities 19+
Region Asia
Cost Tier Moderate
Post-Study Work N/A
› Study Destinations › Kazakhstan

Why Study in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is mainly chosen by Indian students for affordable, English-medium MBBS programmes. Living costs are low and the climate is continental, with cold winters.

  • Affordable English-medium MBBS
  • Low cost of living
  • Direct flight connections to India

Quick Facts

Asia Moderate cost tier Not specified PSW N/A
Talk to a Counsellor

Key Numbers

19+ Partner Universities
Moderate Cost Tier
Asia Region
N/A Post-Study Work
96 Programmes
12 Universities with Scholarships

What Are the Most Popular Courses in Kazakhstan?

Our partner universities in Kazakhstan offer 96 programmes. The largest subject areas are Engineering, Business & Management, Health & Medicine.

A programme can appear in more than one subject area.

Kazakhstan at a Glance

Official Name Republic of Kazakhstan
Capital Astana
Population 20M
Currency Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Official Language(s) Kazakh, Russian
Also Spoken Russian
Calling Code +7
Region Asia
Economy Emerging
English Proficiency Low

How Does the Education System Work in Kazakhstan?

A bachelor's degree in Kazakhstan usually takes 4 years (5–6 for MBBS) and a master's takes 1–2 years. The main intakes are September.

Bachelor's 4 years (5–6 for MBBS)
Master's 1–2 years
MBA 1–2 years
PhD 3 years
Academic Year Starts September
Intakes September

Grading system

Letter grades with 4.0 GPA

Accepted tests

IELTS or a university entrance test

What Is the Application Timeline for Kazakhstan?

Most students start 10–12 months before their intake. Exact deadlines vary by university and programme.

  1. ResearchShortlist universities in Kazakhstan that match your budget, course and career goals.
  2. ShortlistNarrow down to 4–6 programmes and note each deadline for your intake.
  3. TestsBook the tests your universities ask for: IELTS or a university entrance test.
  4. ApplySubmit applications with transcripts, SOP, LORs and test scores.
  5. OfferAccept your offer and receive the Invitation letter from the university.
  6. VisaApply for the Student Visa as soon as your documents are ready.
  7. AccommodationBook on-campus or private housing before you travel.
  8. TravelArrange flights, forex and insurance, and carry original documents.
  9. EnrolComplete orientation, local registration and course enrolment.

How Much Does It Cost to Study in Kazakhstan?

Typical bachelor's tuition in Kazakhstan: USD 3,000–6,000/yr. Master's tuition: USD 3,000–6,000/yr. Living costs, covering rent, food and transport: USD 250–400/month.

Bachelor's Tuition USD 3,000–6,000/yr
Master's Tuition USD 3,000–6,000/yr
Living Cost USD 250–400/month
Proof of Funds As required by the university invitation

Monthly budget breakdown (Almaty)

Rent (shared) USD 150/month
Food & groceries USD 120/month
Local transport USD 20/month
Utilities & phone USD 40/month
Personal & leisure USD 40/month
Estimated Total USD 370/month (approx.)

Accommodation options

On-campus housing USD 100/month
Shared apartment USD 150/month
Private studio USD 300/month
Homestay USD 200/month

Figures are indicative ranges for international students and change every year. Your counsellor will confirm exact fees for your shortlisted courses.

How to Get a Kazakhstan Student Visa

Indian students apply for the Student Visa after receiving the Invitation letter from the university. Visa fee: Varies. Typical processing time: 2–4 weeks.

Visa Type Student Visa
Visa Fee Varies
Processing Time 2–4 weeks
Interview No

Step-by-step visa process

  1. Secure your admission Apply to your chosen university and accept the offer. You will receive your Invitation letter from the university, which your visa application depends on.
  2. Arrange proof of funds As required by the university invitation. Keep recent bank statements, loan sanction letters or sponsor documents ready.
  3. Prepare your documents Collect your passport, academic records, English test scores, Medical certificate, University invitation letter.
  4. Submit the visa application Apply for the Student Visa and pay the fee: Varies.
  5. Biometrics and interview Give biometrics if requested. Visa interview: No.
  6. Get your decision and travel Typical processing time: 2–4 weeks. Once approved, book your travel and complete any local registration after arrival.

Can You Work in Kazakhstan During and After Studies?

Part-time Work Restricted
Work During Breaks Restricted
Post-Study Work Limited
After a Bachelor's Limited
After a Master's Limited
PR Pathway Rarely granted
Typical PR Timeline Rarely granted

Immigration rules change often — always confirm on the official government website before you apply.

Documents You'll Typically Need

Exact document requirements vary by university and visa category. This is a general checklist — we'll confirm the precise list for your course.

Checklist

Academic transcripts & certificates
Valid passport
English proficiency score (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / DET)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Proof of funds / financial statements
Resume / CV (for PG programs)
Offer letter (once admitted)
Medical certificate
University invitation letter

What Is the Weather Like in Kazakhstan?

Extreme continental: very cold winters, hot summers. Summers: Warm, 25–32°C. Winters: Very cold, often -10°C.

Average temperatures in Almaty

January -8°C to 1°C
April 6°C to 18°C
July 18°C to 30°C
October 5°C to 15°C

How Do Students Open a Bank Account in Kazakhstan?

Open an account with your passport and residence registration.

Popular banks for students

Halyk Bank Kaspi Bank ForteBank

Documents usually needed

Passport
Registration
University letter

Is Kazakhstan Safe for International Students?

Safety: Moderate. Healthcare: Basic to good.

Health Insurance Yes
Typical Insurance Cost USD 50–100/yr

Common insurance options

University-arranged insurance

Safety tips

  • Carry warm clothing
  • Keep registration documents handy
  • Save local emergency numbers on your phone
  • Keep digital copies of your passport, visa and admission letter

What Is the Job Market Like in Kazakhstan?

Graduate job demand in Kazakhstan is low. Entry-level salaries are roughly USD 6,000–10,000/yr, rising to about USD 12,000–20,000/yr with experience.

Top hiring sectors

Healthcare Medium demand
Energy Medium demand

Skills in demand

Medicine Russian language

Salary figures are indicative gross annual ranges and vary by city, role and employer.

What Is Student Life Like in Kazakhstan?

Hospitable with Soviet and Central Asian traditions.

Student life

  • Indian student associations
  • Mountain trips

Major religions

Islam Christianity (Orthodox)

Indian community

Community Size About 10,000 Indian students
Indian Food & Groceries Indian mess at many medical universities

Which Scholarships Can Indian Students Get for Kazakhstan?

Well-known options for Kazakhstan include University fee discounts. Eligibility and deadlines change every year, so check the official page before applying.

University fee discounts Amounts vary; check the official page for current details

Scholarships for Kazakhstan

Our team tracks live scholarship listings across 150+ university and government portals. Here are the common categories students in Kazakhstan typically qualify for — talk to a counsellor for current deadlines and amounts.

All Levels Merit-Based

Merit Scholarships

Awarded by universities based on academic performance
Kazakhstan
UG / PG Need-Based

Need-Based Financial Aid

Partial tuition waivers based on demonstrated financial need
Kazakhstan
PG / PhD Government

Government & Institutional Grants

Country and institution-run funding programs for international students
Kazakhstan
All Levels Sukhada

Sukhada Partner Discounts

Fee-waivers and priority processing through our university partnerships
Kazakhstan

Partner Universities in Kazakhstan

We work directly with 19 verified universities across Kazakhstan — browse the full list and filter by course, budget and intake.

View All 19+

Top-ranked universities in Kazakhstan

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Almaty · Est. 1934 · $ 2,000–5,000/yr
QS #166
L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University Astana · Est. 1996 · KZT 2,000–5,000/yr
QS #317
Satbayev University Almaty · Est. 1934 · KZT 2,000–5,000/yr
QS #331
Kazakh National Pedagogical University Abai Almaty · Est. 1928 · KZT 2,000–5,000/yr
QS #628
Kazakh National Agrarian University Almaty · Est. 1929 · $ 2,000–5,000/yr
QS #697
Almaty Technological University Almaty · Est. 1957 · KZT 2,000–5,000/yr
QS #801
Karaganda Buketov University Karaganda · Est. 1938 · KZT 2,000–5,000/yr
QS #901

Frequently Asked Questions

Typical tuition for international students in Kazakhstan: USD 3,000–6,000/yr for a bachelor's degree and USD 3,000–6,000/yr for a master's. Living costs: USD 250–400/month, depending on the city.

The visa you need is the Student Visa, and the application is based on the Invitation letter from the university. Visa fee: Varies. Typical processing time: 2–4 weeks.

As required by the university invitation. The exact amount is revised from time to time, so confirm it with the official immigration website before applying.

Student work rules in Kazakhstan: Restricted.

Post-study work in Kazakhstan: Limited.

Safety in Kazakhstan: Moderate. Healthcare: Basic to good.

Yes. Typical cost: USD 50–100/yr.

Graduate job demand in Kazakhstan is low, led by Healthcare, Energy. Entry-level salaries are roughly USD 6,000–10,000/yr.

About 10,000 Indian students. Indian food: Indian mess at many medical universities.

The main intakes in Kazakhstan are September. A bachelor's degree usually takes 4 years (5–6 for MBBS) and a master's takes 1–2 years.

IELTS or a university entrance test. Minimum scores differ by university and course, so check each programme page.

We currently work directly with 19 verified universities in Kazakhstan, spanning a range of budgets and course levels.

Ready to start your journey to Kazakhstan?

Book a free session with a Sukhada counsellor — no obligation, no pressure, just a clear plan for Kazakhstan.

Free Counselling Zero Hidden Charges 94% Visa Success 12,000+ Students Guided
Handpicked For You

Top Universities Worldwide

A closer look at some of the institutions our students are applying to right now.

United States flag United States Cambridge
  • IntakesFall and Spring
  • Visa SuccessNA
  • Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20 hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, United States Est. 1861
QS WORLD#1
Annual Tuition US$66,720 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 93%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #4
Employer Reputation
100/100 #2
Faculty / Student
100/100 #16
Citations / Faculty
100/100 #7
Intl. Faculty
100/100 #63
Intl. Students
91.6/100 #153
Intl. Student Diversity
92.3/100 #130
Intl. Research Network
94.1/100 #98
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #7
Sustainability
93.8/100 #33
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-C4CA
United Kingdom flag United Kingdom London
  • IntakesSeptember
  • Visa SuccessNA
  • Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

Imperial College London

London, United Kingdom Est. 1907
QS WORLD#2
Annual Tuition £42,700 – £58,600 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 94%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
99.6/100 #22
Employer Reputation
100/100 #9
Faculty / Student
99.3/100 #42
Citations / Faculty
95/100 #69
Intl. Faculty
100/100 #74
Intl. Students
100/100 #35
Intl. Student Diversity
100/100 #22
Intl. Research Network
97.5/100 #28
Employment Outcomes
95.9/100 #68
Sustainability
98.3/100 #7
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-C81E
United States flag United States Stanford
  • IntakesFall and Spring
  • Visa Success82
  • Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

Stanford University

Stanford, United States Est. 1885
QS WORLD#2
Annual Tuition USD67,731 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 90%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #5
Employer Reputation
100/100 #3
Faculty / Student
100/100 #17
Citations / Faculty
99.7/100 #24
Intl. Faculty
94.2/100 #188
Intl. Students
73.5/100 #261
Intl. Student Diversity
76.1/100 #230
Intl. Research Network
96.5/100 #49
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #2
Sustainability
95.4/100 #19
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-ECCB
United Kingdom flag United Kingdom Oxford
  • IntakesOctober (Michaelmas term)
  • Visa SuccessNA
  • Post-Study Work2 yrs; 18 months from Jan 2027
  • Cost of LivingGBP 1,405-2,105 / month
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

University of Oxford

Oxford, United Kingdom Est. 1096
QS WORLD#4
Annual Tuition GBP 39,620-66,580 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 90%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #
Employer Reputation
100/100 #
Faculty / Student
100/100 #
Citations / Faculty
91/100 #
Intl. Faculty
98.8/100 #
Intl. Students
98.6/100 #
Intl. Research Network
100/100 #
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #
Sustainability
77.9/100 #
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-A87F
United States flag United States Cambridge
  • IntakesFall
  • Visa SuccessNA
  • Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

Harvard University

Cambridge, United States Est. 1636
QS WORLD#5
Annual Tuition USD 62,226 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 87%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #1
Employer Reputation
100/100 #1
Faculty / Student
98.3/100 #50
Citations / Faculty
100/100 #1
Intl. Faculty
79.1/100 #300
Intl. Students
81.4/100 #217
Intl. Student Diversity
60.6/100 #335
Intl. Research Network
99.4/100 #8
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #1
Sustainability
77.8/100 #201
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-E4DA
United Kingdom flag United Kingdom Cambridge
  • IntakesSeptember
  • Visa Success95
  • Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

University of Cambridge

Cambridge, United Kingdom Est. 1209
QS WORLD#6
Annual Tuition £29,052 – £70,554 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 95%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #3
Employer Reputation
100/100 #5
Faculty / Student
100/100 #23
Citations / Faculty
88.6/100 #107
Intl. Faculty
100/100 #80
Intl. Students
93.1/100 #144
Intl. Student Diversity
93.6/100 #120
Intl. Research Network
99.2/100 #12
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #5
Sustainability
78.4/100 #194
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-8F14
This Week's Picks

Scholarships worth applying to right now.

A rotating shortlist our counsellors flag as genuinely worth the paperwork.

Kazakhstan flag
Saken Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical University Kazakhstan
All Levels Free tuition + stipend

Kazakhstan Government Grant (foreign quota)

Deadline: Contact counsellor for deadline
Enquire about this scholarship
Apply Now
China flag
Xiamen University China
All Levels CNY 30,000-50,000

Fujian Provincial Government Scholarship

Deadline: Contact counsellor for deadline
Enquire about this scholarship
Apply Now
United Kingdom flag
University of Bedfordshire United Kingdom
All Levels Funding + benefits

International Foundation Year Scholarship

Deadline: Contact counsellor for deadline
Enquire about this scholarship
Apply Now
Belgium flag
Katholieke Universiteit Leuven Belgium
Master's Funding + benefits

KU Leuven Inspiring the Outstanding Scholarship

Deadline: Contact counsellor for deadline
Enquire about this scholarship
Apply Now
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