Kazakhstan's first AI university, Qazaq AI Research University (QAIRU), has said it did not change the rules for state educational grant competitions but decided not to launch a separate shortened program for college graduates in its 2026 admission campaign, reports infohub.kz.
According to QAIRU's press service, the university initially considered offering shortened educational programs for graduates of technical and vocational education institutions and informed applicants accordingly. However, after internal entrance exams, it became clear that the number of candidates who passed the selection was insufficient to form a full cohort.
"The university did not change the rules for participation in the competition for state educational grants, but decided not to open admission for a separate educational trajectory due to the impossibility of ensuring its quality implementation within the framework of the 2026 admission campaign," the press service said.
QAIRU added that it is conducting its first student intake and decided to focus on programs where it can guarantee the necessary level of training. "Ensuring the quality of education and fulfilling obligations to future students are the university's unconditional priority," it noted.
The university acknowledged that the decision raised questions and caused disappointment among some applicants, prompting an official clarification on its information platforms. Meanwhile, college graduates can still compete for grants under shortened programs at other Kazakh universities. Those who wish to study specifically at QAIRU can enroll on a paid basis under full-term programs.