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2025, February 18 NU now

From First Graduates to Leaders: 15 Years of NU

From First Graduates to Leaders: 15 Years of NU

2025, February 18

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In 2025, Nazarbayev University (NU) marks a significant milestone—15 years since its founding. This journey has been defined by remarkable achievements, with its graduates emerging as the key result.

Since its first graduation in 2015, NU has produced 10,339 highly-qualified specialists. Of these, 6,521 earned undergraduate degrees and 3,818 graduate degrees. Today, 1,921 graduates are pursuing further education at the world’s leading universities, with 39% enrolled in prestigious institutions in the US, the UK, Germany, South Korea, and other countries.

Meanwhile, 6,941 graduates are building successful careers, with 91.5% working in Kazakhstan and contributing to the country’s progress. Most state grant recipients fulfill Kazakhstan's mandatory three-year work requirement, ensuring a steady flow of skilled professionals into key economic sectors and public service. NU graduates are highly sought after, both nationally and internationally, securing key positions in diverse industries. 

With a 98% employment rate, NU alumni thrive in leading global companies, research institutes, and government agencies. 18% of graduates chose the academic field, continuing their studies at top institutions such as the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, Stanford University, MIT, Harvard University, ETH Zurich, National University of Singapore, and others. Those who pursued professional careers have joined major multinational corporations, including tech giants Google, Amazon, Apple, and Facebook, Big 4 companies, as well as top financial institutions, such as Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan.

Driving Kazakhstan’s Economic Growth

NU graduates play a crucial role in Kazakhstan’s economy, holding leadership positions in national companies and government agencies. They work at organizations such as Tengizchevroil, SLB (Schlumberger), KazMunaiGas, Samruk-Kazyna, the National Bank of Kazakhstan, Kaspi Bank, Air Astana, and BI Group. Many have also become entrepreneurs and innovators, further driving economic progress.

Notably, 88% of graduates work in their field of study or a closely-related industry, contributing to advancements in science, technology, and economics. Many continue their academic careers as educators and researchers, while others actively participate in public administration.

Nazarbayev University graduates are confidently taking on leadership roles in business, academia, and government, making a lasting impact on Kazakhstan and the world. Their achievements reflect the university’s high academic standards and the global competitiveness of NU alumni.

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