Nazarbayev University (NU) is welcoming its newest generation of students following the most competitive and internationally diverse admissions cycle in the University’s history. This year, NU received approximately 12,000 applications from more than 50 countries, with admission offered to only around one in four applicants.
In his welcome video address to new students, NU President Waqar Ahmad highlighted the importance of this new stage in their lives and wished them success as they begin their university journey.
“It is my great pleasure to welcome you to Nazarbayev University and congratulate you on earning your place in our community. You are joining NU at a truly remarkable time, as the University continues to grow as a centre of academic excellence, research, and innovation.
As you begin this new chapter, I encourage you to embrace every opportunity that university life offers, set ambitious goals, build meaningful connections, and become an active member of the NU community. Throughout your studies, you will be supported by our faculty, staff, and fellow students who are committed to helping you succeed both academically and personally.
I am confident that your time at NU will help you develop as future leaders, innovators, researchers, and responsible global citizens who will contribute to Kazakhstan and the wider world,” said Waqar Ahmad, President of NU.
Over the past sixteen years, NU has established itself as a leading research university in Central Asia and is now ranked among the top 23% of universities worldwide according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The University continues to expand its academic and research ecosystem, including the launch of the new School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence, while attracting internationally recognised faculty members, researchers, and academic leaders from around the world.
The new academic year will also bring further opportunities for students through NU’s expanding global partnerships. This year, the University launched two new joint degree programmes: an undergraduate programme in Eurasian Business with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and a master’s programme in Global Affairs and Eurasian Studies with SOAS University of London.
The incoming class will be the first cohort to begin their studies under NU’s new Strategy, which outlines an ambitious vision for the University’s development based on interdisciplinary education, research excellence, global partnerships, digital transformation and artificial intelligence, as well as greater societal impact.
Throughout their studies, students will have access to a diverse academic environment, research opportunities, international collaborations, and a strong support network of faculty members, mentors, and university staff. They will also become part of a vibrant NU student community with around 130 student clubs and organisations, offering opportunities to pursue their interests, develop leadership skills, and build connections beyond the classroom.
In early August 2026, NU will host Orientation Week for new students to help them transition into university life. The programme will begin with students’ arrival on campus, completion of essential procedures, and campus tours, during which they will receive important information about academic resources, university services, library facilities, learning platforms, and course registration. Students and their families will also have an opportunity to become familiar with NU’s academic environment and wider university community.
