About the Foundation Program
The Nazarbayev University Foundation Program (NUFYP) is a one-year preparatory program designed to develop the academic knowledge and skills required for university study. It is intended for high school graduates who need additional preparation, particularly those who require an extra year of academic preparation in English.
Graduates of the Foundation Program may continue their education at Nazarbayev University (NU) or apply to other universities. Upon completing the program, students receive a certificate that may be used to apply to international universities requiring 12 years of pre-university education. Acceptance of the certificate depends on the admission requirements of each institution.
Undergraduate Admission and Financial Support
Demand for undergraduate study at NU has been growing. Over the past three years, the number of applicants seeking direct admission* to undergraduate programs has increased by 40%. At the same time, the number of state educational grants is not increasing in proportion to the number of applicants.
To help ensure fairer conditions for applicants entering undergraduate programs directly, the University has revised its approach to allocating grants.
“Foundation graduates may continue to undergraduate studies at NU if they meet the applicable academic requirements and follow the University’s admission procedures. However, completing the Foundation Program does not guarantee automatic admission to an undergraduate program”, – said Samantha Smidt, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs of the University.
Admission to an academic program and the award of a state educational grant are separate processes, each governed by its own criteria. Grants are awarded competitively, based on applicants’ academic results, the applicable selection criteria and the funding available under the state education order. Meeting the minimum required score in each of the three subjects does not guarantee a grant.
The final number of available grants may be determined after the admission campaign has begun. The University administers admissions and financial support within its authority and in accordance with the regulations applicable to each admission cycle.
Foundation graduates who do not receive state educational grants may consider other options, including partial grants, financial or sponsorship support, and fee-paying study. These options depend on the terms of the relevant support programs and the resources available.
Communication With Students and Parents
The University provides information about academic requirements, admission procedures and financial support through information sessions and official communication channels. Individual questions are referred to the relevant University departments for clarification.
For reference:
Direct admission*
Direct admission to an undergraduate program means applying to the first year of an NU undergraduate program without completing NUFYP. Applicants must meet the requirements of their chosen school and pass the competitive selection process. NU undergraduate programs typically take four years to complete.
