The results of the government grant competition for the 2026–2027 academic year were announced by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Nearly 23,000 applications were submitted in total. A total of 275 people were awarded the right to study at MNU tuition-free.

The majority of MNU’s grant recipients are enrolled in research and teaching master’s programs (89.8%). In this track, the university ranked first in Kazakhstan by the number of grants awarded in the Applied Linguistics (52.8%), Translation Studies (51.6%), Law (45.7%), International Relations (40%), Finance (38.3%), Psychology (35.4%), and Economics (33.7%) programs. In the professional master’s track, the university ranked first by the number of grant recipients in Translation Studies (100%) and Law (26.4%).

In addition, five applicants were awarded grants to pursue doctoral studies at MNU. The results of the government grant competition once again demonstrate the high quality of postgraduate education at the university. Earlier, the university also ranked first by the number of grant recipients across several undergraduate educational programs.

Please note that applications for admission to MNU’s master’s and doctoral programs will be accepted until August 28, 2026.

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Gulfiya Kuchumova holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Humanities with a specialization in English from M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University and a PhD in Education from Nazarbayev University. In 2017, she completed a research fellowship at the University of Cambridge. She has 20 years of experience in the field of education.

Gulfiya Kuchumova began her career in 2006 as a lecturer at the Department of Germanic Philology at M. Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University. From 2012 to 2018, she worked at MNU, where she held the positions of lecturer, project manager, and Vice Dean of the Higher School of General Education and Language Training. From 2018 to 2021, she served as a research fellow at the Graduate School of Education at Nazarbayev University. In 2021, she rejoined the MNU team as a Professor at the School of Liberal Arts.

Gulfiya Kuchumova is fluent in Kazakh, Russian, and English. Her research and publications on education development have been widely featured in prestigious Kazakhstani and international academic publications. She is also a recipient of the Nailya Bazanova Award, established to recognize outstanding women scientists in Kazakhstan.

Maqsut Narikbayev University congratulates Gulfiya Zhasulanovna on her appointment and wishes her every success in her new role!

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MNU faculty members took part in a two-day off-site training at the Sheraton Astana Hotel. The event was held ahead of the start of the new academic year. In a series of practical workshops, participants worked on course content, reviewing course structures, learning sequences, and assessment approaches.

Particular attention was paid to strengthening the fundamental component of education, as well as identifying the knowledge and ways of thinking that will retain their value regardless of the pace of technological change. It was emphasised that the University’s task is not only to adapt to new tools in the era of AI development, but also to foster professional thinking, logic, and analytical skills. In addition, starting from the new academic year, greater emphasis will be placed on students’ reading and critical engagement with texts.

The transformation is aimed at improving the quality of the educational process and preparing in-demand professionals for the labour market. Following the training, faculty members presented their proposals for updated courses.

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The list of recipients of state educational grants for the 2026–2027 academic year was previously published by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A total of approximately 127,000 applications were submitted. Applicants could choose from 10 MNU undergraduate educational programs.

The largest number of grant recipients chose the Law program. Despite the high UNT requirements, starting from 120 points, MNU became the most preferred university among applicants. The university also ranked first nationwide in the share of grant recipients among applicants to the following programs: Linguistics (TESOL) and Translation Technologies (93.2%), International Relations (86%), Law (84.4%), Business Administration in Finance (50%), Accounting with AI (47.7%), Business Administration in Marketing (38.3%), and Business Administration in Management (26.7%).

MNU also welcomed 8 out of 12 applicants who achieved the record-high score of 140 points on the UNT. Almost all of them chose the International Relations educational program, for which the minimum admission score was 135 points. In addition, 17 international students were awarded state educational grants.

The results of the state grant competition demonstrate strong interest among applicants in pursuing their education at MNU. In addition to state educational grants, the university holds the national Maqsut Narikbayev Scholarships Olympiad, as well as olympiads for international applicants and graduates of NIS and RPhMS. The MNU Admissions Committee continues to accept applications until August 25, 2026.

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The bachelor’s degree program is offered by the School of Liberal Arts at MNU. The program is fully aligned with current market demands and industry standards. Students will gain management knowledge and develop practical skills in applying digital technologies, analytical tools, and artificial intelligence in business.

The curriculum covers modern business models, strategic management, marketing, finance, and customer experience management. Particular attention is given to the use of AI, service automation, data analysis, demand forecasting, and service personalization. Graduates will be able to analyze markets, develop business plans, launch their own projects, and manage their financial performance.

The program is based on a practice-oriented approach to learning. Students will work on applied business cases and startup initiatives, as well as undertake professional internships at leading local and international companies. To further develop their practical skills, students will also have access to MNU Travel, a travel agency focused on promoting domestic tourism.

Students will also be able to create an individual study plan and pursue two additional minors. Available areas include startup management, AI in tourism, sustainable tourism, and hotel and restaurant business management. In addition, students will have the opportunity to study a second foreign language in depth, choosing from Chinese, Turkish, Spanish, Italian, French, or German.

The program aims to prepare entrepreneurs and managers capable of independently designing and launching innovative business models for the tourism and hospitality industry with the use of artificial intelligence.

It is worth noting that, according to the educational program ranking by the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan “Atameken,” MNU is among the TOP 3 universities in Kazakhstan preparing the best professionals in the hospitality sector. In addition, the university’s educational programs are accredited by leading international organizations, including QAA, FIBAA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, GARP, CFA Institute, HRCI, CIM, and IQAA.

More information about admission requirements at MNU is available at this link.

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The program is offered by the MNU International School of Economics and is designed to prepare a new generation of professionals capable of transforming traditional accounting and financial processes through cutting-edge digital technologies. The entire program is delivered in English, and graduates will earn a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree.

The program’s key advantage is its hybrid approach, combining internationally recognized accounting standards with advanced IT competencies. Students will gain a strong foundation in financial and management accounting, auditing, taxation, and corporate finance. In addition, the curriculum is strengthened with technology-focused courses, including Python programming, database management, machine learning, artificial intelligence applications, and cybersecurity.

A major career advantage is the program’s official accreditation by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), one of the world’s leading professional accounting organizations. This accreditation enables graduates to receive exemptions from selected ACCA examinations on their path toward earning a globally recognized professional qualification. Students will also learn how to automate accounting and management processes while leveraging AI technologies to support data-driven strategic decision-making.

Graduates will be well prepared for careers as next-generation financial analysts, developers of business IT solutions, accounting automation specialists, and risk consultants, helping organizations minimize human error and build efficient digital ecosystems.

According to the educational program ranking of the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Atameken, MNU is ranked among the Top 3 universities in Kazakhstan for economics, accounting, and finance education. In addition, the university’s academic programs are accredited by leading international organizations, including QAA, FIBAA, CIMA, ICAEW, GARP, CFA Institute, HRCI, CIM, and IQAA.

More information about admission requirements and the application process is available via the link below.

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The graduation ceremony brought together more than a thousand graduates, including bachelor’s and master’s degree recipients in law, economics, diplomacy, journalism, linguistics, and tourism. It was an evening filled with both the bittersweet emotions of farewell and the excitement of new opportunities ahead. The names of graduates who made an exceptional contribution to the university’s history were entered into the Altyn Kitap (Golden Book) – MNU’s Book of Honour.

Among those recognised for outstanding academic achievements and victories in prestigious international competitions was Anel Sapargaliyeva, a graduate of the Law School . Throughout her student years, she embraced numerous intellectual challenges, representing the university at the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, where the MNU team achieved the best result in Kazakhstan’s history. Today, Anel is building her legal career as a Junior Lawyer in the Litigation Department of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) Court.

“For me, the university became a place where far more happened than I could ever have imagined when I first walked through its doors. It was here that I prepared for my trip to Washington, where we went on to defeat Ivy League universities and proudly raised the flag of our homeland. Those are memories that will stay with me forever. It was here that I found like-minded people and turned ideas into reality—ideas that changed not only the world around me but also myself. My years at MNU gave me lifelong friends and remarkable professors with whom I know I will stay connected for years to come,” said Anel Sapargaliyeva, wishing this year’s graduates strength, determination, and perseverance.

Dariya Tokenova, a graduate of the School of Liberal Arts, was also honoured by being included in the Altyn Kitap. She now works at Haileybury Astana and reflects on her university years with great appreciation:

“The university gave me so much—love, knowledge, and lifelong friends. I am proud to be a graduate of this university. My happiest student memories are the projects we carried out together as part of the MNU President’s Team.”

These warm feelings are shared by Apolot Juliet, a master’s graduate from Uganda. During her time at MNU, she not only excelled academically but also became an active member of the university community by participating in the MNU Charity Marathon. According to her, studying at MNU provided an invaluable opportunity to experience Kazakhstan’s culture of hospitality and communication. She was deeply impressed by the university administration’s dedication and the students’ commitment to their studies.

“Today, I am happy that I have achieved my goal and graduated. Thank you, MNU, and thank you, Kazakhstan!” she said sincerely.

Master’s graduate Aida Mukaseva also shared her impressions of studying at MNU. She believes the university breaks traditional academic stereotypes by bringing together young, ambitious professors with international experience. She also highlighted how the learning environment fostered strong bonds among master’s students.

“For me, these two years were a daily challenge and a constant struggle with myself. We came to classes after work and studied until midnight. It was difficult, but we did it. I will definitely return here for my PhD,” Aida promised, expressing her gratitude to her alma mater.

Akzhol Baibolatov, a graduate of the Law School, also spoke warmly about his years at the university, where he found not only professional opportunities but also his future life partner.

“This university gave me nothing but positive emotions because MNU provided me not only with knowledge, but also with great friends, wonderful mentors, and even my soulmate. For me, the university was much more than just another stage of education—it became a unique chapter of my life, and I believe I completed it successfully.”

This year, the university introduced the honorary MNU Fames title for the first time to recognise students who made a significant contribution to university life. One of its recipients was Yerassyl Saktagan, whose university journey was defined not only by academic achievements but also by unforgettable moments shared with friends.

“My university years were wonderful. I wish all future students to make their student life as vibrant as possible while also striving for academic excellence,” Yerassyl advised the next generation.

This year’s graduation will be remembered because every graduate leaves MNU carrying a part of the university with them. For some, it is the foundation of a successful career; for others, lifelong friendships; and for many, a place they will always be happy to return to. They leave the university as qualified professionals, yet the most important tests still lie ahead. Fortunately, Maqsut Narikbayev University has prepared them for those challenges in the best possible way.

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The program is offered by the School of Liberal Arts at MNU. Students will develop practical skills in working with language corpora, learn to use natural language processing (NLP) tools, and gain an understanding of how artificial intelligence is transforming language teaching and translation. The curriculum is designed to help students combine advanced linguistic expertise with the ability to work effectively with AI technologies, preparing them for a future in which many translation processes are automated.

The new program has received strong support from employers, who emphasized the growing demand for professionals capable of integrating linguistic expertise, teaching competencies, and technological literacy. The curriculum follows a progressive learning pathway, beginning with the fundamentals of linguistics and advancing to modern digital technologies. Students start with programming basics for linguists and corpus linguistics, then move on to NLP systems and machine translation. In the later years of study, they work with authentic language data, master post-editing techniques, and learn to develop digital language solutions.

To broaden their professional competencies, students may also pursue a minor, allowing them to customize and expand their academic pathway. For example, the Digital Linguistics minor prepares students to become language data analysts and chatbot developers, while the Translation Technologies minor focuses on IT-related competencies in translation. The Media Communications minor equips students with the skills to create digital content for marketing and digital agencies, the International Relations minor prepares graduates for careers in diplomacy and international organizations, and the Second Foreign Language minor opens opportunities in tourism and global communications.

The interdisciplinary nature of the program enables graduates to build successful careers across a wide range of industries. They will be well prepared for employment in education, translation, media, major online platforms, international organizations, embassies, government institutions, and the technology sector. It is worth noting that, according to the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan educational program rankings, MNU is recognized as the country’s leading university in Applied Linguistics. In addition, the University’s academic programs are accredited by internationally recognized quality assurance and professional organizations, including QAA, FIBAA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, GARP, CFA Institute, HRCI, CIM, and IQAA.

More information about admission requirements and the application process is available at this link.

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The undergraduate programme is offered by the MNU Law School. It combines fundamental legal education, practical training, and modern digital tools. The curriculum is designed to enable students to progress systematically from the fundamental principles of law to solving practical legal cases.

During the first year of study, students build a strong foundation by studying legal theory, constitutional, civil and criminal law, legal logic, and philosophy of law. The focus then shifts towards developing practical skills, working with real-life legal situations, procedural training, and specialised subjects. Particular emphasis is placed on practice-oriented learning.

The programme includes a Moot Court component, in which students simulate court proceedings involving civil, criminal, administrative, and international cases, developing skills in legal argumentation, public speaking, and the preparation of procedural documents. Another distinctive feature of the programme is its focus on digital competencies. Students study digital law, work with AI tools, gain practical experience with LegalTech solutions, and learn to use modern legal databases.

From their second year of study, students can choose one of two educational concentrations: Jurisprudence or International Law. Regardless of their chosen pathway, students receive a solid foundation in legal education before deepening their knowledge in their chosen specialisation. The programme also provides an opportunity to pursue an additional specialisation (minor) in such areas as IT Technologies in Law, English and German Law, Business and Law, and Law Enforcement.

Particular attention is paid to language training. Instruction is delivered in Kazakh, Russian, and English. In addition to Academic English, students study Legal English in accordance with the international TOLES system, opening up additional career opportunities in international companies, law firms, and foreign organisations.

It is worth noting that, according to the ranking of degree programmes by the National Chamber of Entrepreneurs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Atameken, MNU prepares the country’s best specialists in the fields of law and international law. Graduates of the Law degree programme will be able to pursue careers in the judiciary, prosecution service, law enforcement agencies, government institutions, advocacy, notarial practice, corporate legal departments, consulting firms, and international organisations. The university’s programmes are accredited by leading international agencies, including QAA, FIBAA, ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW, GARP, CFA Institute, HRCI, CIM, and IQAA.

More information about admission requirements at MNU is available at this link.

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The memorandum was signed in Beijing, China, by Talgat Narikbayev, Chairman of the Board of MNU, and Duan Peng, President of BLCU. During the meeting, the parties also discussed promising areas of cooperation. Under the agreement, the universities intend to develop joint research projects, promote student and faculty exchanges, and organize academic and scientific events.

Beijing Language and Culture University is the world’s leading institution for teaching the Chinese language and China’s premier university for training specialists in linguistics. Over more than 60 years of its history, BLCU has educated nearly 200,000 professionals from around the world who are proficient in Chinese and well acquainted with Chinese culture. Notably, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev completed an internship at the university in 1983–1984.

MNU currently offers dual degree programs with universities in the United Kingdom, Germany, Russia, the United States, Uzbekistan, France, Switzerland, and South Korea. Earlier, the University also announced the launch of the joint master’s program “AI + Law” in partnership with the China University of Political Science and Law.

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