Nazarbayev University

Top Research University in Central Asia

Founded in 2010, Nazarbayev University (NU) is a Central Asian flagship academic institution with ambitions to achieve global recognition as a top-tier research university. Located in the heart of Eurasia, in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, it distinguishes itself through a fully merit-based admission system that seamlessly integrates professor-led teaching and research from a student's very first day as a freshman. NU is more than just a novelty; it's a higher education institution dedicated to equipping graduates with the skills they need to thrive in an era of globalization and technological advancement.

 

Vision & Mission

NU’s vision is to produce the scientists, academics, managers, and entrepreneurs essential for the growth and development of Kazakhstan and the global community. 

NU's mission is to serve as a benchmark for higher education reform and cutting-edge research, while also playing a pivotal role in transforming Astana into a global hub for knowledge, innovation, and medical excellence. Furthermore, NU is dedicated to preparing its students for a future characterized by heightened volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity.

 

Focus on Research

Nazarbayev University (NU) is dedicated to achieving research excellence that drives socioeconomic progress in Kazakhstan and the region. Our research spans STEM disciplines, life sciences, social sciences, and education, aligning with Kazakhstan's strategic priorities. We're committed to expanding research capabilities in collaboration with government, industry, and research partners to address global challenges. NU is rapidly developing doctoral and postdoctoral programs, fostering a vibrant postdoctoral community to catalyze a robust research culture. These researchers will inspire students and bolster faculty research, advancing NU's mission of knowledge dissemination and innovation.

 

Meritocracy

Nazarbayev University is a merit-based institution that welcomes talented individuals from all walks of life, be it students, faculty, or researchers. Merit-based approach has drawn the best and brightest minds from within the country and internationally, making NU a hub for talent and innovation. NU stands as a beacon of educational excellence and equal opportunity.

 

English as a Medium of Instruction

Nazarbayev University is a pioneering institution in Central Asia, offering education in English, which sets it apart as a unique academic hub in the region. With English as the medium of instruction, NU opens doors for students in Kazakhstan and Central Asia to access a world-class, globally recognized education without language barriers. This approach not only enriches the educational landscape of Kazakhstan but also strengthens the region's connection to the international academic community, making NU a pivotal center for cross-cultural exchange and global learning.

 

Strategic Partnerships

Nazarbayev University (NU) embarked on its journey by forging partnerships with renowned global institutions like Duke University's Fuqua Business School, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, the Colorado School of Mines, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. These strategic alliances played a pivotal role in shaping NU's governance, academic structures, program development, quality assurance, and student support systems during its formative years. As NU has evolved, we are poised to deepen these relationships, fostering enhanced opportunities for faculty, researchers, and students to engage in meaningful exchanges and collaborations.

 

State-of-the-Art Facilities

NU campus offers a nurturing environment for students' academic, professional, and social growth. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including a modern library, lecture halls, research laboratories, sports centers, and residence halls, it provides a holistic educational experience. The campus also features dining options, convenient shops, and a range of support services tailored to student needs, ensuring a comfortable and enriching learning environment.

 

Vibrant Campus Life 

NU goes beyond classroom education, fostering students' talents and interests through a diverse array of opportunities. With approximately 100 clubs and societies on campus, students can explore their passions. Our extensive campus facilities, including a 6,000-square-meter sports complex, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, and dedicated music and art rooms, enrich academic life. NU's commitment extends to nurturing students as community leaders, emphasizing the development of both academic prowess and their potential to make a positive impact on their communities.