Al-Farabi Kazakh National University

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Overview

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, located in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is a leading educational institution in the country. With a history dating back to 1934, the university has a strong reputation for academic excellence and research.

Faculty and Programs

The university boasts a team of highly qualified professors and researchers who are experts in their fields. The institution offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines, including but not limited to engineering, business, medicine, and humanities.

Research Achievements

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University is known for its groundbreaking research in areas such as biotechnology, sustainable development, and IT. The university has received numerous awards and grants for its contributions to the academic community.

Specialized Majors

Some of the specialized majors offered at the university include Petroleum Engineering, International Business, Medicine, and Linguistics. These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their chosen fields.

Strengths and Distinctions

One of the key strengths of the university is its focus on interdisciplinary research and collaboration. This approach helps students gain a holistic understanding of complex issues and prepares them for real-world challenges. Additionally, the university has strong ties with industries and research institutions, providing students with valuable networking opportunities.

Success Stories

Alumni of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University have gone on to achieve great success in their respective fields. Many graduates have secured prestigious positions in multinational companies, government agencies, and academic institutions. This success is a testament to the university's commitment to producing well-rounded and capable graduates.

Rankings

Sustainability Rankings

Rank: #569

University Rankings by Region

Rank: #38

World University Rankings

Rank: #166

World University Rankings by Subject

Rank: #160

University Information

Admission

1) Campus Admission Open Days

Our Call Center representatives are available by phone at +7 (727) 377-33-33, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Applicants can also explore our campus virtually and learn more about faculties and departments. Additional online virtual tours can be arranged upon request.

2) How to Contact the University
KazNU simplifies admission for international applicants to BA, MA, and PhD programs. Applications are accepted year-round, with admission conducted twice a year. Applicants can complete the entire application online using our convenient application portal https://welcome.kaznu.kz/en/17999/page

3) Cancelled Exams

KazNU supports applicants whose exams were canceled. Entrance exams are conducted online via Skype, Zoom, or other platforms and can be scheduled or rescheduled flexibly according to applicants’ needs. Current semester exams and educational processes are fully conducted online using our information and educational systems.

4) English-Language Test
Applicants unable to take the English test may have an online interview in English or another language. Since KazNU conducts both language and profile (subject) exams, the online interview can satisfy admission requirements. If English certificates are required, applicants can submit them later once available.

5) Visa Applications
All international applicants are supported with visa procedures. In case of delays, the University contacts embassies or consulates to assist. Visa delays are rare and usually do not affect enrollment.

6) Accommodation

After enrollment, students can choose campus dormitories or private hostels partnered with KazNU. Both options provide all necessary facilities to ensure comfortable living and a supportive learning environment.

7) Languages of Education

Education is offered in Kazakh, Russian, and English. Applicants who do not know one of these languages are enrolled in the Faculty of Pre-Higher Education to receive language training before starting their main program.

General

Duolingo English Test: 80+

IELTS: 5+

TOEFL: 35+

Bachelor

IELTS: 5+

Duolingo English Test: 80+

TOEFL: 35+

Master

Duolingo English Test: 80+

TOEFL: 35+

IELTS: 5+

Facilities

Al-Farabi KazNU - where global ambition meets cutting-edge science, innovation and real-world impact.

Al-Farabi KazNU holds a leadership position on both national and international stages thanks to its uncompromising commitment to scientific progress, technological innovation and high-quality education. Our researchers conduct fundamental and applied science within a broad infrastructure that includes multiple research institutes, dozens of scientific centres and modern scientific-educational laboratories.

Our state-of-the-art innovation ecosystem - encompassing the Farabi Hub Innovation Cluster, a dedicated robotics centre and Central Asia’s most powerful supercomputer - provides a strong technological foundation for next-generation research in robotics, AI, materials science, environmental tech and more.

Most recently, KazNU has expanded its technological frontier with a major push into unmanned aerial systems (UAVs): in 2025 we signed an agreement with a leading UAV company to launch programmes in drone development, design, production and deployment. Through this initiative, students and researchers will get hands-on experience in drone technologies, geoinformatics, environmental monitoring and applied aerospace engineering.

At the same time, we leverage a vast global research network, active international collaborations and opportunities for mobility - meaning you’ll be joining a truly international academic community. KazNU supports students and young researchers with strong mentorship and supervision in master’s and PhD programmes, giving you a chance to grow academically and professionally at the highest level.

Join us at KazNU - unlock the full potential of future technologies, immerse yourself in global-scale research and take your first step toward a dynamic international career.

Students & Staff

Student life

At KazNU student life goes beyond lectures - it’s a lively and diverse community where everyone can find their place. The campus hosts dozens of youth organisations and clubs, covering everything from arts and culture to volunteer projects, environmental initiatives, sports and social activism. Dormitories provide comfortable, affordable housing close to academic buildings: rooms for 2–4 people, shared amenities, study‑spaces, internet, kitchens and communal areas - creating a safe and supportive home away from home.

Beyond basics, students enjoy rich extracurricular life: cultural and language clubs, events and festivals, creative communities, volunteer and social‑impact projects, and opportunities to join student self‑governance bodies. For those who love sports and active lifestyle - there are sports complexes, gyms and recreational facilities right on campus.

Whether you come for top‑level education, scientific ambition, or a vibrant multicultural campus life - KazNU strives to create an environment where each student can grow academically, socially, and personally.

More details about campus life: https://farabi.university/students/kampus?lang=en

Total students

19,545

UG students: 76% PG students: 24%

International students

5,538

UG students: 69% PG students: 31%

Total faculty staff

4,077

Domestic staff: 72% Int'l staff: 28%

Cost of Living

Accommodation

$4,820

(Approx. amount)

Food

$2,030

(Approx. amount)

Transport

$190

(Approx. amount)

Utilities

$1,110

(Approx. amount)

Employability & Career

Career Services

Your career starts here - support from admission to employment

At KazNU, the Office of Professional Development and Career acts as a bridge between academic studies and real‑world employment. Its mission is to help students and graduates become competitive specialists ready for today’s labor market.

The Office offers a comprehensive set of services, including: career counselling and individual assessment of career opportunities; assistance with CV writing and crafting cover letters; guidance and information about internships and job vacancies; and support in finding and applying for professional placements.

Moreover, the Office organizes job and internship fairs, employer presentations, workshops and trainings - events that bring students into direct contact with leading national and international companies. Over 100 companies regularly participate in such events, and many students receive interview invitations or job offers.

By working closely with employers, maintaining up‑to‑date vacancy databases, and offering tailored career advice, the Office helps you turn academic credentials into real career opportunities - giving you a solid professional start while studying at KazNU.

Internship/Placement Opportunities

Al‑Farabi KazNU is deeply committed to giving international students access to valuable internships and placements - real pathways to professional growth and cultural insight. As an exchange or full‑program student, you enjoy the same opportunities: you may dive into hands‑on work, build practical skills, and contribute to real projects across KazNU’s research institutes, joint centers, and laboratories.

Thanks to our extensive global network — more than 500 cooperation agreements with foreign universities and research centers worldwide - KazNU enables students to engage in international internships, academic mobility, and research collaborations.

Whether you’re exploring cutting‑edge science in state‑of‑the‑art labs, participating in environmental sustainability projects, or joining cross‑cultural teams - your time as a student here becomes more than just study. It becomes a launchpad for your global career and international outlook.

Join KazNU - and turn academic learning into real‑world experience, wherever your ambitions take you.