- Kazakhstan sees 177,586 university graduates in 2025, with 149,160 bachelor's, 26,093 master's/residency, and 2,333 PhDs, reflecting a national push for higher education.
- International student numbers reach 31,500 with Asian students (17,456) surpassing those from CIS countries (12,816) for the first time, showing growing global interest.
- Over 170,000 students engaged in national and industrial programs like "Zhasyl El" and internships, with work during practice now recognized as official experience to boost employability.
In 2025, the Kazakhstani higher education system is experiencing remarkable developments, characterized by a high number of graduates and efforts to deepen student participation and internationalization.
Total of 177,586 university graduates in Kazakhstan are graduating in 2025, as stated by Vice Minister of Science and Higher Education Talgat Yeshenkulov. The group comprises 149,160 bachelor degree graduates, 26,093 master and residency graduates, and 2,333 PhD graduates. The numbers illustrate the nation's focus on increasing its educated population.
In the 2024–2025 academic year, more than 680,000 students study in Kazakhstani universities. The distribution includes 624,500 bachelor's, 39,200 master's, 7,600 Ph.D. candidates, and 8,900 medical residents.
International students number 31,500. For the first time in history, foreign students from Asian nations (17,456) surpass those from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), who are 12,816.
Kazakhstan is becoming increasingly engaged in involving students in national development activities. The 'Zhasyl El' program and student construction battalions will involve more than 30,000 students in different programs. Moreover, educational and industrial internships are being organized, which will include around 140,000 students. Not only do these programs offer on-the-job training, but they also support the socio-economic development of the country.
Vice Minister Yeshenkulov stressed that work done by the students while doing professional practice is recognized as work experience. It seeks to improve the employment prospects of the graduates by verifying the practical skills acquired throughout their studies.
Kazakhstan's education scene in 2025 is dominated by a high number of graduates, higher numbers of foreign students, and strong programs supporting student participation and experiential learning. These trends are evidence of the nation's commitment to developing a skilled and competitive labor force.
