Nazarbayev University

Top Research University in Central Asia

Founded in 2010, Nazarbayev University (NU) is a flagship academic institution in Central Asia with ambitions to achieve global recognition as a top-tier research university. Located in the heart of Eurasia, in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, NU 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 university; it is an institution dedicated to equipping graduates with the skills they need to thrive in an era of globalization and technological advancement.

NU is committed to expanding its impact and reputation in Central Asia and beyond. Since its founding, NU has built partnerships with top universities and research centers across 22 countries, enhancing its global visibility. These collaborations drive faculty, student, and staff exchanges while fostering joint research initiatives, positioning NU as a key academic player.

Through active participation in global academic networks, NU attracts talented students and researchers. As a founding member of the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA), established in 2017, NU addresses regional and global challenges in higher education, economic development, and scientific advancement through institutional collaboration. To strengthen its global presence, NU will expand collaborative degree programs with international universities and host global conferences, workshops, and seminars, fostering knowledge exchange. Ranked among the top 106 World Young Universities and in the top 30% of research institutions worldwide, NU offers a dynamic environment for aspiring global leaders.

Focus on Research

NU is committed 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 are dedicated 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.

Global partnerships enhancing research capacity

NU is dedicated to expanding its impact and reputation in Central Asia and globally. Since its founding, NU’s focus on strategic partnerships with top-tier universities and research centers worldwide has enhanced its international visibility and reach. These collaborations, which span 22 countries, facilitate faculty, student, and staff exchanges and drive joint research initiatives, positioning NU as a key player in the global academic community.

NU has showcased its achievements through active participation in global academic networks, attracting talented students and researchers from diverse backgrounds. NU is committed to addressing regional and global challenges, particularly those related to higher education, economic development, and scientific advancement, by fostering collaboration among member institutions.

To further solidify its global presence, NU will focus on collaborative degree programs with international universities, enhancing its reputation in teaching and research. NU’s outreach strategy will also prioritize hosting international conferences, workshops, and seminars, drawing global experts and scholars to engage with NU’s academic community, and creating a vibrant forum for knowledge exchange.

NU holds a position among the top 106 World Young Universities and ranks in the top 30% of research institutions worldwide, offering a dynamic environment for aspiring global leaders. 

NU has established partnerships and signed Memorandums of Understanding and Student Exchange agreements with prestigious institutions and organizations worldwide. These collaborations aim to foster academic and research excellence, encourage innovation and promote development in various fields.