NU currently provides students with the opportunity to spend a semester abroad at approximately 40 partner institutions across 19 countries. In the Fall Semester of 2024, 14 NU students participated in exchange programs in six different countries. Below are testimonials from some of the students who took part in these programs.
Outgoing Exchange Students:
The amazing experience of being an exchange student
Fall semester 2024
Hong Kong University
CHINA
The exchange was really a meaningful experience for me and my personal growth. The semester spent in HKU and
wonderful city Hong Kong made me move from my comfort zone and push my limits, resulting in new connections from worldwide including other exchange students, local people and
Professors. I learned a lot academically, obtaining construction insides from experts in their fields. University also gave me
opportunities to field trips in Mainland China funded by the club that I was the part of, I have visited SanMenxia, Shenzhen and Henan. Additionally travelled along HK islands by the course curriculum to investigate soil and rock. Cultural events were also provided by External Affairs for holidays.
NU UG student, 2024
at School of Engineering and Digital Sciences
Hong Kong University
CHINA
The exchange program at the University of HongKong was an exciting journey that allowed me to experience a totally different culture and test myself in a different setting. I have grawn as a person as a result of it and thus am grateful for such experience.
NU UG student, 2024
at School of Engineering and Digital Sciences
Tsinghua University
CHINA
My participation in the exchange program at Tsinghua University from September to January has been an exceptional academic and cultural experience, contributing significantly to my professional and personal development. Over the course of five months, I immersed myself in a rigorous academic environment, diverse cultural interactions, and dynamic learning opportunities that have broadened my perspective on public policy and sustainable development.
NU GR student, 2024
at Graduate School of Public Policy
Lee Kuan Yew Cvhool of Public Policy
SINGAPORE
It was a life-changing experience! I am very proud to take this opportunity and learn not only from the university but also country, their culture and people. NU gave strong background both academically and personally that ease adaptation and learning processes. Thank you for supporting us, hopefully there will be more chances, more universities and more exchange programs! Genuinely thankful for the team that makes this all happen!My participation in the exchange program at Tsinghua University from September to January has been an exceptional academic and cultural experience, contributing significantly to my professional and personal development. Over the course of five months, I immersed myself in a rigorous academic environment, diverse cultural interactions, and dynamic learning opportunities that have broadened my perspective on public policy and sustainable development.
NU GR student, 2024
at Graduate School of Public Policy
Lee Kuan Yew Cvhool of Public Policy
SINGAPORE
I was very lucky to be an exchange student at LKYSPP as the entire school’s professors are mainly economists and almost all of them utilize a quantitative approach. As a result, this semester was the most productive for me as I’ve learned various programs and platforms including Stata, R and Excel in advanced level. I will recommend this opportunity to all students who want to challenge their knowledge and abilities. It is an excellent opportunity to learn from professors, students with various backgrounds and establish new friendships.
NU GR student, 2024
at Graduate School of Public Policy
KDI School of Public Policy and Management
SOUTH KOREA
My exchange program at KDI School of Public Policy and Management in South Korea was an incredible journey that offered both academic and personal growth. Academically, I had the opportunity to learn from experts in public policy and management, gaining insights that will benefit me in my future career. The challenging coursework sharpened my critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Beyond academics, the exposure to a new culture was truly enriching. I had the chance to make meaningful connections with fellow students from around the world, expanding my network and perspectives. Additionally, learned basic Korean, which helped me immerse myself more in the local culture. Overall, this experience was transformative, both in terms of my education and personal development. I am grateful for NUGSPP for providing this opportunity.
NU GR student, 2024
at Graduate School of Public Policy
Spring 2026
CUHK SZ
CHINA
You get to experience life from an entirely new perspective, build global connections, and grow in ways you did not expect. I absolutely loved my overall experience, and if you are thinking about applying, my advice is simple: just go for it! It is an unforgettable journey that will change how you see the world.
Tsinghua University
CHINA
Exchange program at Tsinghua was one of the best decisions of my life. Despite the hard academic part, the people you meet and experience you have living in foreign country make it worth it. I am really happy that our university provided this opportunity and Mobility Team helped us during all phases of exchange.
The University of Hong Kong
CHINA
My exchange semester at The University of Hong Kong was one of the most memorable parts of my university experience. Living and studying in a new country gave me the chance to step out of my comfort zone and see the world from a different perspective.
During the semester, I met students from many countries, experienced a different academic environment, and learned how to adapt to new situations. The exchange helped me become more independent, confident, and open-minded. I also had the opportunity to travel, explore new cultures, and create friendships that I will always value.
Looking back, the exchange was much more than just studying abroad. It was a period of personal growth, new experiences, and unforgettable memories. I would encourage every NU student to apply for the mobility program and make the most of this unique opportunity.
Freie University of Berlin
Germany
Being an exchange student has been a great milestone in my academic journey that I always wanted to achieve. This year, I was lucky enough to be nominated by SSH to participate in Erasmus+ program at Freie University of Berlin. I am truly grateful for our school and NU Mobility team for making this experience possible by guiding us through each and every step required for a successful completion of the program. I highly recommend applying to exchange programs like this in the future for students, because it opens the doors to another academic environment, different cultures, and many new opportunities!
ADA University
Azerbaijan
I would say that Azerbaijan is not a frequent exchange program destination. However, if I had a chance to do my exchange semester there again, I would definitely go for it.
ADA University has a great campus, vibrant student life and faculty. I felt comfortable collaborating with students from each of my courses and all of my professors. The campus provides all necessary facilities like convenient library, modern classrooms and most importantly, several coffee shops like Cinnabon and Paul:)
Baku is a very beautiful and safe city with a rich history, architecture, delicious food and welcoming people. I would definitely recommend considering this exchange program. Good Luck!
ADA University
Azerbaijan
My exchange semester at ADA University was a great experience. The people were very friendly and welcoming and I always felt safe in the city. The academic system is quite similar to NU, and in my opinion, the workload was even a bit lighter. We were assigned academic advisors and student buddies, who were always ready to help and support us throughout the semester.
Another thing I really enjoyed was the cultural similarity between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. Our countries share many traditions, values and cultural practices, which made it easy to adapt and feel comfortable. Overall, I would highly recommend ADA University as an exchange destination for future students.
Almeria University
SPAIN
My exchange semester at the University of Almería was a very memorable experience. What I enjoyed the most was the social side of the programme. There were many activities, games, trips, and events that helped international students get to know each other and feel welcome from the very beginning.
I was happy to meet people from many different countries, learn about their cultures, and make friendships that I hope will last for a long time. I also really enjoyed spending time with the international team, who were always supportive and organized many interesting activities throughout the semester.
From the academic side, the experience was a little different from what I had expected, but it allowed me to see another educational system and gain a new perspective on studying abroad.
Overall, I am very grateful for this opportunity. The exchange helped me become more independent, open-minded, and confident, and I would definitely recommend it to other NU students who are considering applying for a mobility programme.
Incoming Exchange Students:
Spring 2026
PDP University
Uzbekistan
NU offers world-class facilities, an outstanding library, and a supportive international office. Additionally, beyond the classroom, what made this experience truly unforgettable, even more so than the classes, was the welcoming nature of both local and international students, making me feel right at home. Exchanging viewpoints with such a diverse student body was the highlight of my stay.
New Uzbekistan University
Uzbekistan
Nazarbayev University completely redefines the student experience. With incredibly supportive, accessible professors and a vibrant, multicultural campus full of international friends, it’s more than just a place to study. It truly taught me how to master the ultimate balance between academics, fitness, mental well-being, and unforgettable trips to gorgeous city landmarks. At Nazarbayev University, you don’t just earn a degree—you learn how to live. Between accessible professors, global friendships, and a campus culture that champions everything from sports to recreation, it’s the perfect place to balance your studies and your life.
University of Tübingen
Germany
I really enjoyed my stay at NU, especially since the university has so many events, activities and experiences to offer. Being able to enjoy an impressive show from one of the countless clubs, participate in a sport competition or watch a movie in the universities cinema almost every second day was so much fun. I also enjoyed getting to know all the people and their culture at NU. Exchanging experiencing and having fun together, whether on a trip to a breathtaking national park or at a fun board game night was really enriching and something I will always look back to.
Kyrgyz-Turkish Manas University
Kyrgyzstan
My exchange semester at Nazarbayev University was the most meaningful experience of my academic career. It not only strengthened my academic skills but also transformed my worldview. During my time at the university, I learned to think more broadly, critically, and globally. I was deeply impressed by the quality of education and the university’s strong research culture. The course load was challenging, and at times, balancing assignments, readings seemed overwhelming. However, the support and guidance of my faculty helped me cope.
I would like to express special gratitude to Professors Maja Savevska and Andrey Semenov from the Department of Political Science and International Relations. Their professionalism, competence, and genuine interest in their students’ success are truly exceptional. They not only inspired me academically but also helped me believe in my own potential. Professor Maja Savevska, in particular, helped me understand that hard work, perseverance, and professionalism can open doors to opportunities that once seemed impossible.
Beyond my studies, I fell in love with the Nazarbayev University campus. It’s beautiful, modern, and equipped with everything a student needs. I know I’ll miss the coffee at Daily Cup, the late-night study sessions in the library, and the vibrant atmosphere that made every day on campus unforgettable. Perhaps the most valuable part of this experience was the people. I met talented, ambitious, and kind students, many of whom became my close friends and future colleagues.
Additionally, NU welcomed 13 students through Academic Exchange programs. Here is the video testimonial from Brian and Nikita, exchange students from Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, who spent a semester at the NU Graduate School of Public Policy and shared their insights of how this unique experience enriched their academic and personal growth.
