Still have questions?

form-button success-icon

Success

Thank you, your application has been accepted! We will contact you shortly
form-button success-icon

Error

Sorry something went wrong. Please try again

Admissions

all programs

DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS

This is the highest degree awarded by universities and requires a high level of research skills and enthusiasm for in-depth analysis of a particular field. PhD programs typically take 4 years.

APPLY NOW

Those who have already completed a Bachelor’s and  Master's degree (or its equivalent) can apply for this program. During the online application period, students of the last year of Master's degree can submit an official transcript indicating their current academic performance for consideration by the Admissions Committee.
PhD students study under the state educational grant of the Republic of Kazakhstan or other forms of funding.

foundation-about
How to apply
Zero Year of Graduate programs
School of Engineering and Digital Sciences
School of Science and Humanities
School of Medicine
School of Mining and Geosciences
Graduate School of Business
Graduate School of Public Policy
Graduate School of Education
Useful information

Applicants must go through the online application to participate in the competition:

Step 1. 

Create your Personal account

Go to admissions.nu.edu.kz portal, press the «Sign up» button and fill out the required information in English. Please select the «Doctorate» program during choosing the Academic level.  

After completing the application, confirm it by clicking on the link sent to your email.

Be sure to read the Instructions about the application procedure given in your Personal account.

Step 2. 

Complete your Application Form and attach required documents
  1. In the «My Application Forms» section of your Personal account, open the link for Step 1. Fill out the Application Form that includes a Consent form for personal data processing. Make sure you have entered all the required information in the correct manner and press the «Upload» button.
  2. Afterwards, in the same section of your Personal account, proceed to Step 2 and upload the required documents. The format of the required documents is specified in the Personal account.
  3. Upload a photo (3*4) for documents to the «Profile» section in your Personal account.

Step 3. 

Pay the application fee and finish the registration process

To finalize the application process, please click on the "PAY AND SUBMIT APPLICATION" button on your Personal account under the "My Application Forms" section. The application fee shall be paid online through the payment options available in the Personal account. The use of other payment methods for the application fee is not acceptable.

Applicants can apply for no more than 2 Master's / PhD programs at NU. In case of admission to both programs, the applicant must choose only one.

The application fee is 10 000 tenge. The application fee is increased 3 times when paid within the last two weeks before the first approved deadline and during the extension period for accepting applications for participation in the admission process. The application fee is non-refundable, irrespective of the application outcome or payment errors.
After submitting the online application, an applicant will not be able to make changes in the actions described in Step 2.

Step 4.

Provide results of IELTS/TOEFL/GRE/GMAT

In order to provide IELTS/TOEFL/GRE/GMAT certificates, applicants should fulfill the following requirements:

  • Send the electronic results of valid IELTS/TOEFL/GRE/GMAT certificate via the Test Administrator directly to NU;

  • Upload a scanned copy of the IELTS/TOEFL certificate to the «Upload IELTS/TOEFL results» section of a Personal account and indicate its unique number. Applicants can submit any number of certificates for the competition, but the last certificate uploaded to the Personal account will be considered.

  • Upload a scanned copy of the GRE/GMAT certificate in the «My Application Forms» section (Step 2) when uploading the required documents (if available or as required by the program). 

Please pay attention to important information regarding the codes for providing test results through the Test Administrator:

Code for IELTS: NU
Code for TOEFL iBT: 6762
Code for GRE: 6496
Code for GMAT: H6m-R7-93

Please note that issuance and submission of IELTS/TOEFL/GRE/GMAT results in the electronic database of NU is not within the competence of the University. You should independently contact the Test Administrator (Test Center) and make sure that your certificate has been sent. Please note that this action takes at least 7-10 working days. If the certificate is received after the deadline specified by the Admissions Department, results will not be considered in the competition
All certificates provided must be valid at the time of submission of application.
Detailed Instruction on the provision of IELTS/TOEFL certificates is available in the applicant's Personal account. IELTS Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition and TOEFL PDT results are not considered in the competition and selection process.

Applicants, at the discretion of the Admissions Committee, can be exempted from submitting the language proficiency test report in one of the following documented cases:

  • an academic degree was earned in a country with English as the language of official communication and academic instruction;
  • an undergraduate and/or graduate degree was earned in a program which was officially taught in English;
  • if an applicant is a graduate of NU.

Further steps

After submission of the online Application Form, an automatic email notification will be sent to your referees with a request to submit a recommendation letter to NU in accordance with the provided online form. Detailed Instruction on providing recommendation letters is available in the Personal account.

Check your email for notifications from NU and your Personal account to stay informed about the status of your application. ​​Please keep in mind that sometimes letters from the University may go to the spam box.

Participate in the interview with the Admissions Committee in case of being invited. Interviews are conducted in English.

If you experience any difficulties with the application, send an email to phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz. Do not forget to provide a detailed description of the problem, your IIN (for citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and Applicant ID number. 

 

The Doctoral program provides an opportunity to study in the two-semester full-time program «Zero Year of Graduate programs» (ZYGP). The aim of the Program is to give students the support needed to acquire English language proficiency and academic skills required to successfully begin studies. Those who successfully complete the Program become students of the University's Doctoral programs, for which they applied and interviewed. Students are not allowed to change the School/program during or after studying in ZYGP.

Online application periods and list of documents for participation in the competition:

In order to apply, it is necessary to create a Personal account on the admissions.nu.edu.kz portal, fill out the Application Form, and upload the required documents for the Doctoral program. There is no separate application form for ZYGP.
Please check the application deadlines and the list of required documents of the Doctoral program you are going to apply for.

APPLY NOW

Entry Requirements

In order to apply for ZYGP with further doctoral studies an applicant must:

  • Meet entry requirements of the chosen PhD program;
  • For PhD in Education, PhD in Life Sciences, PhD in Biomedical Sciences, PhD in Global Health, PhD in Business Administration and PhD in Eurasian studies programs — a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0 (with no more than one sub-score of 5.5);
  • For other Doctoral programs, except for PhD in Education, PhD in Life Sciences, PhD in Biomedical Sciences, PhD in Global Health, PhD in Business Administration and PhD in Eurasian studies programs — minimum overall IELTS score of 5.5 (with no more than one sub-score of 5.0).

Applicants can provide an equivalent TOEFL IBT results (except Home edition) according to a scale published on the ETS website.  
Test certificates are considered valid if their results have not expired by the time of online application submission. 
The Admissions Committee may recommend applicants for the ZYGP program with IELTS/TOEFL scores above the minimum specified in this section.

Contact details

NU School of Engineering and Digital Sciences (NU SEDS) aims to be the leading engineering school in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. The NU SEDS's goal is to prepare its graduates to meet the growing demand for professional practitioners in the fields of chemical and materials, mechanical and aerospace, civil and environmental, electrical, computer engineering and computer sciences. NU SEDS is the largest school by the number of NU students enrolled.

PhD Programs:

For registration, please create your personal account on admissions.nu.edu.kz, fill out the Application form and submit the required documents.

APPLY NOW

Requirements

1. An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent)
2. A Master’s degree or equivalent. During the application period final year students may submit official current transcript for consideration.
3. A minimum CGPA of masters degree 2.75 out of a 4.00.
4. English proficiency:
     1) Overall IELTS test score of 6.5 (with sub-scores no less than 6.0) or the equivalent TOEFL (except Home Edition) score as posted on the ETS website;
     2) Applicants can be exempted from submitting the language proficiency test report if:
          – one of their earlier academic degrees was earned in a country with English as the language of official communication, academic instruction and daily life;
          – an undergraduate and/or graduate degree was earned in a program which was officially taught in English.
5. Strong reading, analytical, and mathematical skills as demonstrated by GMAT or GRE test (recommended);
6. High motivation and strong interest in the Program as outlined in a statement of purpose.

Application package checklist

All submitted documents shall be in English or with notarized English translation:

1. Complete Application form;
2. National ID (for the citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and passport (for international applicants);
3. Official document confirming name change (if applicable);
4. Degree diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s or equivalents) with transcripts. During the application period final year students may upload official current transcript for consideration;
5. An official electronic IELTS/TOEFL certificate (except Home Edition) (valid at the time of document submission) sent to the University through IELTS/TOEFL VERIFICATION SERVICES. Code for IELTS: NU. Code for TOEFL: 6762;
6. Document confirming English as the language of instruction (only for applicants who earned their degree in a program which was taught in English and request an exemption from submitting IELTS or TOEFL). Applicants should provide a detailed certificate/reference from the university indicating the number and list of subjects completed in English;
7. GRE or GMAT certificates valid as of date of online documents submission (recommended);
8. Statement of purpose outlining the applicant’s prior educational career, statement of his/her interest in the Program, his/her long-term career goals, and how the program would help him/her to achieve these goals (500 words);
9. Two confidential letters of recommendation written within the last 12 months (including at least one academic reference (to be provided by referees electronically or in hard copy). You can find the Instruction for submission of recommendation letters here;
10. Resume (1 page);

Important dates

Important dates for those who are applying for the 2024-2025 academic year

Online application deadlines for PhD program:

  • for International applicants: December 15, 2023 – March 05, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: December 15, 2023 – April 29, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)

Deadline for submission of IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT certificates: 

  • for International applicants: March 18, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: May 6, 2024

Sending notifications about admission:

  • for International applicants: from April 22, 2024

  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: from June 17, 2024

The start of orientation week (for newly enrolled students): August, 2024

First day of classes: August, 2024

Contact details

Email addresses: 

  • Regarding consultation on admissions - info_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • In case of questions  regarding submission of an application, please send a request to the emails according to the table below, specifying the Applicant ID number assigned in your Personal Account - phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • On academic issues - seds@nu.edu.kz

Phone numbers: +7 (7172) 64 25 84, +7 747 094 02 30

NU School Sciences and Humanities (NU SSH) programs are designed to train leaders in all aspects of social development to have versatile knowledge in the field of social, liberal and natural sciences. NU SSH teaches its students to solve intellectual challenges they may encounter in their life and career regardless of their career choice.

PhD Programs:

For registration, please create your personal account on admissions.nu.edu.kz, fill out the Application form and submit the required documents.

APPLY NOW

Requirements

1. An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent);
2. Master’s degree or equivalent. During the application period final year students may submit official current transcript for consideration.
3. A minimum CGPA of 2.75 out of a 4.00. For PhD in Eurasian studies program, a competitive CGPA in an applicant’s Master’s (or equivalent) degree
4. English proficiency:
     1) Overall IELTS test score of 6.5 (with sub-scores no less than 6.0) except for PhD in Eurasian studies program overall IELTS test score of 7.0 (with sub-scores no less than 6.0)  or the equivalent TOEFL (except Home Edition) score as posted on the ETS website;
     2) Applicants can be exempted from submitting the language proficiency test report if:
          – one of their earlier academic degrees was earned in a country with English as the language of official communication, academic instruction and daily life;
          – an undergraduate and/or graduate degree was earned in a program which was officially taught in English.
5) Strong reading, analytical, and mathematical skills as demonstrated by GRE test (recommended);
6) High motivation and strong interest in the Program as outlined in a personal statement;
7) Strong academic writing ability as demonstrated in a writing sample (academic paper, essay, published article);
8) Relevant research interest and knowledge of research subject as demonstrated in a written research proposal.

Application package checklist

All submitted documents shall be in English or with notarized English translation:

  1. Complete Application form;
  2. National ID (for the citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and passport (for international applicants);
  3. Official document confirming name change (if applicable);
  4. Degree diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s or equivalents) with transcripts; During the application period final year students may upload official current transcript for consideration;
  5. An official electronic IELTS/TOEFL (except Home Edition) certificate (valid at the time of document submission) sent to the University through IELTS/TOEFL VERIFICATION SERVICES. Code for IELTS: NU. Code for TOEFL: 6762;
  6. Document confirming English as the language of instruction (only for applicants who earned their degree in a program which was taught in English and request an exemption from submitting IELTS or TOEFL). Applicants should provide a detailed certificate/reference from the university indicating the number and list of subjects completed in English;
  7. Valid GRE Test Report (general test). An applicant must indicate University as a recipient when registering for the test. In case the applicant passed the test earlier, he/she can contact the test center and indicate NU as a recipient. Although an official GRE score is not an essential requirement, an applicant can enhance her/his application with a competitive GRE score;
  8. Personal statement outlining the applicant’s prior educational career, statement of his/her interest in the Program, his/her long-term career goals, and how the program would help him/her to achieve these goals (250-500 words);
  9. Two confidential letters of recommendation in English (with notarized English translation) written within the last 12 months (to be provided by referees electronically or in hard copy), except the doctoral program Eurasian Studies - three confidential letters of recommendation. You can find the Instruction for submission of recommendation letters here;
  10. Writing sample (academic paper, essay, published article);
  11. Research proposal outlining the research topic the applicant would like to pursue in the Program (1500-2000 words);
  12. Applicants recommended for admission must provide hard copies of IELTS and GRE results (if applicable) as requested by the Admissions Department.

Important dates

Important dates for those who are applying for the 2024-2025 academic year

Online application deadlines for PhD program:

  • for International applicants: December 15, 2023 – March 4, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: December 15, 2023 – April 29, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)

Deadline for submission of IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT certificates: 

  • for International applicants: March 18, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: May 6, 2024

Sending notifications about admission:

  • for International applicants: from April 22, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: from June 17, 2024

The start of orientation week (for newly enrolled students): August, 2024

First day of classes: August, 2024

Contact details

Email addresses: 

  • Regarding consultation on admissions - info_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • In case of questions  regarding submission of an application, please send a request to the emails according to the table below, specifying the Applicant ID number assigned in your Personal Account - phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • On academic issues - ssh@nu.edu.kz

Phone numbers: +7 (7172) 64 25 84, +7 747 094 02 30

NU School of Medicine (NUSOM) is the Republic of Kazakhstan’s first US-style curriculum which is taught in English with the goal of educating future medical leaders in health care, education and biomedical research. The School aspires to be a world-class and to generate and sustain excellence in health education and biomedical research by creating a supportive and stimulating academic environment where creativity, life-long learning and discoveries are supported and encouraged. NUSOM offers Master programs, Doctor of Medicine, PhD and Residency programs.

PhD Program:

For registration, please create your personal account on admissions.nu.edu.kz, fill out the Application form and submit the required documents.

APPLY NOW

Requirements

1. An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent);
2. Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, or a terminal medical degree (MD or equivalent). During the application period final year students may submit official current transcript for consideration;
3. A Minimum CGPA of 3.00 out of 4.00 CGPA in applicant’s Master’s (or equivalent) degree;
4. English proficiency:
     1) Overall IELTS test score of 6.5 (with sub-scores no less than 6.0) or the equivalent TOEFL (except Home Edition) score as posted on the ETS website;
     2) Applicants can be exempted from submitting the language proficiency test report if:
          – one of their earlier academic degrees was earned in a country with English as the language of official communication, academic instruction and daily life;
          – an undergraduate and/or graduate degree was earned in a program which was officially taught in English.
5. Relevant research interest and knowledge of research subject as demonstrated in a written Project proposal.

Application package checklist

All submitted documents shall be in English or with notarized English translation:

1. Complete Application form;
2. National ID (for the citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and passport (for international applicants);
3.Official document confirming name change (if applicable);
4. Degree diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s or equivalents) with transcripts;
During the application period final year students may upload an official current transcript for consideration;
5. An official electronic IELTS/TOEFL (except Home Edition) certificate (valid at the time of document submission) sent to the University through IELTS/TOEFL VERIFICATION SERVICES. Code for IELTS: NU. Code for TOEFL: 6762;
6. Document confirming English as the language of instruction (only for applicants who earned their degree in a program that was taught in English and request an exemption from submitting IELTS or TOEFL). A applicant must indicate NU as a recipient when registering for the test. In case the applicant passed the test earlier, he/she can contact the test center and indicate NU as a recipient. Applicants can provide an official electronic score report of valid Academic IELTS or TOEFL IBT certificates from the Test Administrator and its scanned copy;
7. Project proposal (not more than 500 words);
8. Curriculum vitae;
9. Evidence of any professional and/or voluntary experiences that develop essential skills related to laboratory work;
10. Two confidential reference letters in English (or with notarized English translation) written within the last 12 months (to be provided by referees electronically or in hard copy). You can find the Instruction for submission of recommendation letters here;
11. 075/у medical certificate (for Kazakhstani applicants) or a similar medical certificate with indication of general health (for international applicants);

12. Document stating the presence or absence of a criminal record – for Biomedical Sciences; 

13. list of the applicant’s preferred three choices of PhD projects (optional) – for Biomedical Sciences;

14. List of graduate courses the applicant’s has taken in Epidemiology and Statistics – for Global Health.

Important dates

Important dates for those who are applying for the 2024-2025 academic year

Online application deadlines for PhD program:

  • for International applicants: December 15, 2023 – March 11, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: December 15, 2023 – April 29, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)

Deadline for submission of IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT certificates: 

  • for International applicants: March 18, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: May 6, 2024

Sending notifications about admission:

  • for International applicants: from April 22, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: from June 17, 2024

The start of orientation week (for newly enrolled students): August, 2024

First day of classes: August, 2024

Contact details

Email addresses: 

  • Regarding consultation on admissions - info_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • In case of questions  regarding submission of an application, please send a request to the emails according to the table below, specifying the Applicant ID number assigned in your Personal Account - phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • On academic issues - nusom@nu.edu.kz

Phone numbers: +7 (7172) 64 25 84, +7 747 094 02 30

School of Mining and Geosciences at NU aims to be a world-class institution within the area of natural resources by educating highly qualified professionals with up-to-date knowledge and skills in earth science and related subjects. The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs that aim to train engineering professionals who can design, operate and manage operations as well as develop research skills and knowledge to provide support to petroleum and mining industry to have safe, environmentally friendly and economically viable operations.

PhD Programs: 

For registration, please create your personal account on admissions.nu.edu.kz, fill out the Application form and submit the required documents.

APPLY NOW

Requirements

1. An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent);
2. Master’s degree or equivalent. During the application period final year students may submit official current transcript for consideration.
3. A minimum CGPA of 2.75 out of a 4.00;
4. English proficiency:
     1) Overall IELTS test score of 6.5 (with sub-scores no less than 6.0) or the equivalent TOEFL (except Home Edition) score as posted on the ETS website;
     2) Applicants can be exempted from submitting the language proficiency test report if:
          – one of their earlier academic degrees was earned in a country with English as the language of official communication, academic instruction and daily life;
          – an undergraduate and/or graduate degree was earned in a program which was officially taught in English.
5. Strong reading, analytical, and mathematical skills as demonstrated by GRE or GMAT tests (optional);
6. High level of motivation and strong interest in the Program outlined in a statement of purpose.

Application package checklist

All submitted documents shall be in English or with notarized English translation:

1. Complete Application form;
2. National ID (for the citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and passport (for international applicants);
3. Official document confirming name change (if applicable);
4. Degree diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s) with transcripts;
During the application period final year students may upload official current transcript for consideration;
5. An official electronic IELTS/TOEFL certificate (except Home edition) (valid at the time of document submission) sent to the University through IELTS/TOEFL VERIFICATION SERVICES. Code for IELTS: NU. Code for TOEFL: 6762;
6. Document confirming English as the language of instruction (only for applicants who earned their degree in a program which was taught in English and request an exemption from submitting IELTS or TOEFL);
7. GRE or GMAT certificates valid as of date of online documents submission (optional);
8. Statement of purpose describing applicant’s educational, professional, and research experience, reasons for applying to the School of Mining and Geosciences PhD program, further career perspectives and how new knowledge and skills obtained after the program completion would help to achieve those goals (up 1A4 page);
9. Two letters of recommendation written within the last 12 months (to be provided by referees electronically or in hard copy). You can find the Instruction for submission of recommendation letters here;
10. Curriculum vitae.

Important dates

Important dates for those who are applying for the 2024-2025 academic year

Online application deadlines for PhD program:

  • for International applicants: December 15, 2023 – March 4, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: December 15, 2023 – April 29, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)

Deadline for submission of IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT certificates: 

  • for International applicants: March 18, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: May 6, 2024

Sending notifications about admission:

  • for International applicants: from April 22, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: from June 17, 2024

The start of orientation week (for newly enrolled students): August, 2024

First day of classes: August, 2024

Contact details

Email addresses: 

  • Regarding consultation on admissions - info_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • In case of questions  regarding submission of an application, please send a request to the emails according to the table below, specifying the Applicant ID number assigned in your Personal Account - phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • On academic issues - smg@nu.edu.kz

Phone numbers: +7 (7172) 64 25 84, +7 747 094 02 30

The Nazarbayev Graduate School of Business (NU GSB) is a promising academic institution established for business leaders. The School offers new approaches to education in the field of business management in one of the most dynamic regions in the world. Our programs offer students the opportunity to get high-quality education in the field of business administration, expand their business contacts and apply their knowledge and skills to their work as much as possible.

PhD program:

For registration, please create your personal account on admissions.nu.edu.kz, fill out the Application form and submit the required documents.

APPLY NOW

Requirements

1. An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent);

2. A Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline. During the application period final year students may submit official current transcript for consideration. 

3. A minimum CGPA of masters degree 2.75 out of a 4.00.

4. Valid English Test Report
     1) The absolute minimum requirement for English language proficiency test reports for admission to the Program is an overall IELTS test score of 6.5, with sub-score requirements no less than 6.0, or the equivalent TOEFL (except Home Edition) score as posted on the ETS website.
     2) Applicants at the discretion of the Admissions Committee can be exempted from submitting the language proficiency test report if: 
          – one of their earlier academic degrees was earned in a country with English as the language of official communication, academic instruction and daily life;
          – an undergraduate and/or graduate degree was earned in a program which was officially taught in English. Applicants must provide an official document confirming English as the language of instruction;
         - the applicant is a graduate of Nazarbayev University.

5. Work experience (if applicable)

6. Valid GMAT or GRE Test Report
Strong reading, analytical and mathematical skills as demonstrated by GRE/GMAT test reports/certificates. 

7. High motivation and strong interest in the Program as outlined in a personal statement;

8. Relevant research interest and knowledge of research subject as demonstrated in a written research proposal.

Application package checklist

All submitted documents shall be in English or with notarized English translation:

1. Complete Application form;

2. National ID (for the citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and passport (for international applicants);

3. Official document confirming name change (if applicable);

4. Notarized copy of Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree and/or PhD degree diploma
Notarized copy of Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree and/or PhD degree diploma. Master’s degree should be in a relevant discipline with a transcript including a notarized English translation. Applicants who obtained Bachelor’s and/or Master’s and/or PhD degree diplomas from foreign educational institutions must request their official transcript(s) to be sent directly to the Graduate School of Business;

5. An official electronic IELTS/TOEFL (except Home Edition) certificate (valid at the time of document submission) sent to the University through IELTS/TOEFL VERIFICATION SERVICES. Code for IELTS: NU. Code for TOEFL: 6762;

6. Document confirming English as the language of instruction (only for applicants who earned their degree in a program which was taught in English and request an exemption from submitting IELTS or TOEFL). Applicants should provide a detailed certificate/reference from the university indicating the number and list of subjects completed in English;

7. Work experience (if applicable). Scanned notarized copy of Labor card with English translation or another documented proof of work experience.

8. Valid GMAT or GRE Test Report
Strong reading, analytical and mathematical skills as demonstrated by GRE/GMAT test reports/certificates. 

9. Personal Statement. High motivation and strong interest in the Program as outlined in a personal statement. Personal statement (300-500 words) outlining the applicant’s prior educational career, statement of his/her interest in the Program, his/her long-term career goals, and how the Program would help her or him to achieve these goals.

10. Two (2) confidential letters of recommendation written within the last two years (to be provided by referees via University system or in scanned copy). You can find the Instruction for submission of recommendation letters here.

11. Research Proposal. Relevant research interest and knowledge of research subject as demonstrated in a written research proposal. Preliminary research proposal (1500-2000 words) outlining the research topic the applicant would like to pursue in the Program.

12. CV in English.

Important dates

Important dates for those who are applying for the 2024-2025 academic year

Online application deadlines for PhD program:

  • for International applicants: December 15, 2023 – February 29, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: December 15, 2023 – April 25, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)

Deadline for submission of IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT certificates: 

  • for International applicants: March 6, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: May 3, 2024

Sending notifications about admission:

  • for International applicants: from April 25, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: from June 13, 2024

The start of orientation week (for newly enrolled students): August, 2024

First day of classes: August, 2024

Contact details

Email addresses: 

Phone numbers:

  • Regarding consultation on admissions +7 (7172) 64 25 84, +7 747 094 02 30
  • On academic issues +7 (7172) 70 57 42, 70 90 28, 70 93 32

NU Graduate School of Public Policy (NU GSPP) aims to educate professionals and leaders to understand and implement sound public policy and good governance to improve the quality of life of people. NU GSPP students include professionals from the public sector, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and decision-makers from the private sector. NU GSPP offers graduate degree programs, as well as short-term executive education programs that focus on key policy and leadership challenges.

PhD Program:

For registration, please create your personal account on admissions.nu.edu.kz, fill out the Application form and submit the required documents. 

APPLY NOW

Requirements

1. First or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) or a Master’s degree or equivalent (cycle 2). A minimum CGPA of Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degrees 2.75 out of a 4.00. During the application period, final year students may submit an official current transcript for consideration;
2. At least 3 (three) years of relevant work experience. Based on GSPP’s Admissions Committee discretion, applicants with work experience less than 3 (three) years may also be considered if the applicant can demonstrate high academic performance;
3. English proficiency:
     1) Overall IELTS test score of 6.5 (with sub-scores no less than 6.0) or the equivalent TOEFL score (except Home Edition) as posted on the ETS website;
     2) Applicants can be exempted from submitting the language proficiency test report if:
          – one of their earlier academic degrees was earned in a country with English as the language of official communication, academic instruction and daily life;
          – an undergraduate and/or graduate degree was earned in a program which was officially taught in English;
4. Strong reading, analytical, and mathematical skills as demonstrated by GRE/GMAT test (maybe submitted);
5. High motivation and strong interest in the Program as outlined in a cover letter;
6. Relevant research interest and knowledge of research subject as demonstrated in a written research proposal.

Application package checklist

All submitted documents shall be in English or with notarized English translation:

1. Complete Application form;
2. National ID (for the citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and passport (for international applicants);
3. Official document confirming name change (if applicable);
4. Degree diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s or equivalents) with transcripts. During the application period, final year students may upload the official current transcript for consideration.
5. IELTS or TOEFL certificate (except Home Edition) valid as of the date of online documents submission;
6. Document confirming English as the language of instruction (only for applicants who earned their degree in a program which was taught in English and request an exemption from submitting IELTS or TOEFL). Applicants should provide a detailed certificate/reference from the university indicating the number and list of subjects completed in English.
7. Documented proof of work experience;
8. Resume;
9. GRE/GMAT certificate valid as of the date of online documents submission (if any);
10. Cover letter explaining the motivation to enrol in the Program;
11. Two confidential letters of recommendation (to be provided by referees electronically or in hard copy after receiving an email request). You can find the Instruction for submission of recommendation letters here;
12. Preliminary research proposal (2000 words).

Important dates

Important dates for those who are applying for the 2024-2025 academic year

Online application deadlines for PhD program:

  • for International applicants: December 15, 2023 – March 4, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: December 15, 2023 – May 6, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)

Deadline for submission of IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT certificates: 

  • for International applicants: March 18, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: May 15, 2024

Sending notifications about admission:

  • for International applicants: from April 22, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: from June 17, 2024

The start of orientation week (for newly enrolled students): August, 2024

First day of classes: August, 2024

Contact details

Email addresses: 

  • Regarding consultation on admissions - info_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • In case of questions  regarding submission of an application, please send a request to the emails according to the table below, specifying the Applicant ID number assigned in your Personal Account - phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • On academic issues - nugspp@nu.edu.kz

Phone numbers: +7 (7172) 64 25 84, +7 747 094 02 30

NU Graduate School of Education (NU GSE) admitted its first students in September 2013. The main objective of the NU Graduate School of Education is to promote the further development of the education sector of the Republic of Kazakhstan by training future generations of educational managers and researchers. The School offers Master’s and Ph.D. degree programs and professional development programs.

PhD Program:

For registration, please create your personal account on admissions.nu.edu.kz, fill out the Application form and submit the required documents.

APPLY NOW

Requirements

1. An undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent);
2. A Master’s degree or equivalent. During the application period final year students may submit official current transcript for consideration.
3. A competitive CGPA in an applicant’s Master’s (or equivalent) degree.
4. English proficiency:
     1) Overall IELTS test score of 7.0 (with sub-scores no less than 6.0) or the equivalent TOEFL score (except Home Edition) as posted on the ETS website;
     2) Applicants can be exempted from submitting the language proficiency test report if:
          – one of their earlier academic degrees was earned in a country with English as the language of official communication, academic instruction and daily life;
          – an undergraduate and/or graduate degree was earned in a program which was officially taught in English.
5. 2 years of work experience in a relevant field. At the discretion of the Admissions Committee applicants with less than 2 years of work experience may also be considered.
6. Strong reading, analytical, and mathematical skills as demonstrated by GRE test (recommended);
7. High motivation and strong interest in the Program as outlined in a personal statement;
8. Relevant research interest and knowledge of research subject as demonstrated in a written research proposal.

Application package checklist

All submitted documents shall be in English or with notarized English translation:

1. Complete Application form;
2. National ID (for the citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan) and passport (for international applicants);
3. Official document confirming name change (if applicable);
4. Degree diplomas (Bachelor’s and Master’s or equivalents) with transcripts; During the application period final year students may upload official current transcript for consideration;
5. An official electronic IELTS/TOEFL (except Home Edition) certificate (valid at the time of document submission) sent to the University through IELTS/TOEFL VERIFICATION SERVICES. Code for IELTS: NU. Code for TOEFL: 6762;
6. Document confirming English as the language of instruction (only for candidates who earned their degree in a program which was taught in English and request an exemption from submitting IELTS or TOEFL). Candidates should provide a detailed certificate/reference from the university indicating the number and list of subjects completed in English;
7. Documented proof of work experience;
8. GRE certificate valid as of date of online documents submission (recommended);
9. Personal statement outlining the candidate’s prior educational career, statement of his/her interest in the Program, his/her long-term career goals, and how the program would help him/her to achieve these goals (300-500 words);
10. Three confidential letters of recommendation written within the last two years in English language (to be provided by referees electronically or in hard copy after receiving an email request). You can find the Instruction for submission of recommendation letters here;
11. Research proposal outlining the research topic the candidate would like to pursue in the Program (1500-2000 words);

Important dates

Important dates for those who are applying for the 2024-2025 academic year

Online application deadlines for PhD program:

  • for International applicants: December 15, 2023 – March 4, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: December 15, 2023 – April 29, 2024 (1 p.m./13:00 Astana time)

Deadline for submission of IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT certificates: 

  • for International applicants: March 18, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: May 6, 2024

Sending notifications about admission:

  • for International applicants: from April 22, 2024
  • for the citizens of Kazakhstan: from June 17, 2024

The start of orientation week (for newly enrolled students): August, 2024

First day of classes: August, 2024

Contact details

Email addresses: 

  • Regarding consultation on admissions - info_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • In case of questions  regarding submission of an application, please send a request to the emails according to the table below, specifying the Applicant ID number assigned in your Personal Account - phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz
  • On academic issues - gse@nu.edu.kz

Phone numbers: +7 (7172) 64 25 84, +7 747 094 02 30

Transcript verification

Applicants recommended for admission must verify their final transcripts of a Master’s degree or Doctor of Medicine diploma (or equivalent) based on one of the following options:  

1. Official hard copy sent directly to the Admissions Department via postmail by the previous institution of study. 

2. Official soft copy sent directly to the phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz from the corporate email address of the previous institution of study.

3. The final transcript verified by the official digital credential services (for instance: WES, Parchment, Scholaro, etc.), provided to the phd_admissions@nu.edu.kz directly by the service.

4. Graduates of NU master’s program do not require transcript verification.

Useful resources

We present to your attention additional information that will be useful for applicants to NU:

Main points

Detailed information

Useful links

To help to prepare for admission to NU, this website contains many useful links to courses, webinars, interviews, books and lectures. You can also find information on standardized tests with links to preparation materials, schedule, registration, and standardized test results.

Guide for applicants to Master's and PhD programs (in English)

You can find the Guide here.

Instructions for submitting an online application

The instructions for submitting an online application can be found here.

Instruction for submission of recommendation letters

You can find the Instruction for submission of recommendation letters here.

Video instructions

Please find the video instruction for submitting an online application for the PhD programs here.

Please find the video instruction for downloading IELTS/TOEFL results here.

Please find the video instruction for accepting admission offer for the PhD programs here.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can find answers to frequently asked questions here.

Terms for provision of education services

To learn more about the Terms for provision of education services at NU, click here.

Institutional Codes

The official electronic tests results should be sent to NU via the Test Administrator using the code (Institutional Code) of the University:
* Code for IELTS (except IELTS Online test): NU
* Code for TOEFL iBT (except TOEFL Home Edition): 6762
* Code for GRE: 6496
* Code for GMAT: H6m-R7-93

Status assigned to the applicant

All registered applicants can check the status of their application in the Personal account. Description of the status below is presented in the order of assignment to the applicant in the Personal account.

Status

Description

Accepted Program offer

Applicant has received an Admission offer for Program and has signed the Enrollment confirmation form by the specified deadline.

Accepted ZYGP offer

Applicant has received an Admission offer for Zero Year of Graduate Programs and has signed the Enrollment confirmation form by the specified deadline.

Application in processing

Applicant's Online Application has been received and is being reviewed. Admissions Department will contact applicant via email, if necessary. Complete Online applications are forwarded to the appropriate program's Admission Committee to undergo a standard objective review and ranking process.

Deferred

Applicant has been accepted for a program but decided to postpone studies for the next year. The awarding of grants or any financial support for deferred admission applicants is carried out in the framework of consideration of a new pool applicants on a competitive basis.

Did not come to the Orientation week/Refused

Applicant has accepted an Admission offer but did not participate in the Orientation week, which means that the applicant refuses to study at the University.

Did not submit the documents/Refused

Applicant has accepted an Admission offer, but did not provide requested documents by the specified deadline. It means that the applicant refuses to study at the University.

Disqualified

Applicant has been disqualified for gross violation of conditions of the competition. For example, he/she provided false information when applying to a program.

Does not meet entry requirements

Applicant has not provided the required document(s) or did not meet minimum GPA, IELTS, or work experience requirements.

Enrolled conditionally

Applicant has been enrolled to a program with the requirement to fulfill condition(s) by the specific deadline.

Enrolled to Program

This status confirms that an applicant has been officially enrolled to a program.

Enrolled to ZYGP

This status confirms that an applicant has been officially enrolled to Zero Year of Graduate Programs with the condition to successfully complete it in order to proceed to a relevant degree program.

Pending

Applicant's application has been reviewed, but a decision on the application has not yet been made. The applicant has to wait for a response from the Admissions Department.

Recommended to ZYGP

The Admissions Committee has recommended an applicant for admission to Zero Year of Graduate Programs.

What to do next
Accept the offer: Follow the directions in your Personal Account to accept the offer.
Reject the offer: Make sure to let us know about your decision, so your place can be offered to another applicant.
If applicant does not provide the response within the specified period, it is regarded as refusal to study at the University.

Recommended for conditional admission

The Admissions Committee has recommended an applicant for the conditional enrollment, with a requirement to fulfill condition(s) by the specified deadline.

What to do next
Accept the offer: Follow the directions in your Personal Account to accept the offer. Please complete condition(s) before the deadline.
Reject the offer: Make sure to let us know about your decision, so your place can be offered to another applicant.
If applicant does not provide the response within the specified period, it is regarded as refusal to study at the University.

Recommended to Program

The Admissions Committee has recommended an applicant for the admission to a program.

What to do next
Accept the offer: Follow the directions in your Personal Account to accept the offer.
Reject the offer: Make sure to let us know about your decision, so your place can be offered to another applicant.
If applicant does not provide the response within the specified period, it is regarded as refusal to study at the University.

Refused Program offer

Applicant was recommended for admission, but refused from study.

Refused in favor of another NU Program

Applicant applied for two graduate programs at NU and has been accepted to both. The status is assigned when an applicant refuses program in favor of another NU program.

Refused ZYGP in favor of another NU Program

Applicant applied for two graduate programs at NU and has been accepted to both. The status is assigned when an applicant refuses from Zero Year of Graduate Programs in favor of another NU program.

Refused ZYGP in favor of another ZYGP

Applicant applied for two graduate programs at NU and has been accepted to both. The status is assigned when an applicant refuses from Zero Year of Graduate Program in favor of another Zero Year of Graduate Program.

Refused ZYGP offer

Applicant was recommended for admission for Zero Year of Graduate Programs but decided to refuse from study.

Rejected from Program

At one of the stages, the Admissions Committee has rejected an applicant’s Application.

What to do next
You can upgrade your application and apply in next intake.

Rejected from ZYGP

At one of the stages, the Admissions Committee has rejected an applicant’s Online Application due to low application average score.

What to do next
You can upgrade your application and apply in next intake.

Waiting list for Program

The Admissions Committee has finished reviewing the application packages and made a decision to place an applicant on a waiting list. Vacant educational grants released during the current competition are awarded to applicants from the waiting list in accordance with their place in the ranking. For this reason, offers may be sent before the end of the orientation week. Applicants with this status should expect notification from the University.

What to do next
Wait: If a grantee decides not to enroll at the University, you may be offered his/her grant place.

Waiting list for ZYGP

The Admissions Committee has finished reviewing the application packages and made a decision to place an applicant on a waiting list for Zero Year of Graduate Programs. Vacant educational grants released during the current competition are awarded to applicants from the waiting list in accordance with their place in the ranking. For this reason, offers may be sent before the end of the orientation week. Applicants with this status should expect notification from the University.

What to do next
Wait: If a grantee decides not to enroll at the University, you may be offered his/her grant place.

Withdrawn

Applicant has decided to withdraw his/her candidacy from the competition before receiving the Admissions Committee's decision.

Enrollment

Enrollment of the applicants is implemented in the following sequence:

- Recommendation for admission. Applicants recommended for admission by the NU Admissions Committee will have their application status changed to «Recommended for admission to program», or «Recommended for conditional admission», or «Recommended for admission to Zero Year program» if they were recommended for the Zero Year of Graduate programs. By visiting the «Admission results» section in the Personal Account and clicking on the application status, applicants will see an admission offer and an enrollment confirmation form.

- Enrollment confirmation. Applicants must fill out the Enrollment confirmation form and Form of consent on guarantee fee payment in their Personal account. Then, in case they accept an admission offer, they should pay a refundable Guarantee Fee in the amount of 100,000 tenge. The Guarantee Fee shall be paid online through the payment options available in the Personal account. The use of other payment methods for the Guarantee Fee is not acceptable. The Guarantee Fee will be returned to the admitted student after the following conditions are met:

1) Bilateral signing of the Agreement on Provision of Education Services at NU;

2) Participation in the Orientation week;

3) Student's completion of the first semester of classes with good academic standing.

- Signing an agreement. Applicants sign an agreement with the NU School to which they were recommended for admission or with the Bursar's Office in case of admission on a fee-paying education. Information will be provided to applicants by the School or the Bursar's Office.

- Participation in the Orientation week. Before the start of classes, all invited applicants participate in a mandatory Orientation week.

- Enrollment. Enrollment to the University is legalized by the decision of the University Provost.