Branches First, Rules Later: Kazakhstan’s Education Hub Takes Shape

Kazakhstan has spent several years positioning itself as Central Asia’s education hub. A central part of that strategy has been bringing foreign universities into the country, with dozens of branches now open. Until recently, each operated under its own agreement with the government or a separate ministry decision. In 2026, Kazakhstan began replacing this case-by-case approach with common requirements. Orda.kz looks at the rules foreign universities must now follow when opening branches in the country.

We previously examined how Kazakhstan attracts foreign universities and competes with its regional neighbors for the status of an education hub. You can read the article here.

Rules Catch Up With University Branches

Before 2026, the Science Ministry negotiated the opening of every foreign university branch separately. This meant that standards for academic programs, accreditation and diplomas could vary considerably depending on the institution, the subjects it offered and the region where it was based.

In April 2026, the ministry introduced a common framework covering management, financing, education quality, cooperation with Kazakhstani universities and the conditions under which a branch may be closed.

The framework does not create fully new forms of cooperation. It brings existing arrangements — including joint programs, dual degrees and strategic partnerships — under a single set of rules.

The requirements were then added to national legislation, with the amendments taking effect August 13.

Foreign Name, Kazakhstani Standards

The quality of education provided by a foreign branch must be no lower than Kazakhstan’s national standards. Its curriculum must also include the history of Kazakhstan and the Kazakh language.

Branches will be required to provide students with accommodation, although they will not have to build their own dormitories.

At the same time, the new rules will not automatically replace agreements already reached with foreign universities operating in Kazakhstan.

Branches are managed under Kazakhstani law unless otherwise provided by international treaties or decisions of the authorized body,the rules state.

Do More Branches Mean an Education Hub?

Introducing common rules for foreign university branches is a significant step toward creating a full-fledged education hub. The growing number of international institutions in Kazakhstan is now supported by clearer requirements for opening branches, developing programs and maintaining education quality. This matters both to potential university partners and to students.

The Science Ministry also reports that the number of international students at Kazakhstani universities is increasing. In the 2025–26 academic year, the country hosted 35,075 foreign students — 11% more than a year earlier.

It is not yet clear what the new academic year will bring. By 2029, however, the ministry wants to almost triple the number of international students to 100,000. The next few years will show whether that target is realistic.

Still, the success of an education hub cannot be measured only by the number of foreign branches and international students. The quality of academic programs and graduates, the standard of teaching and the development of research are equally important.

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