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Kazakhstan is in the process of developing a new national examination designed to be internationally recognized and serve as an alternative to the current Unified National Test (UNT). This ambitious project is estimated to cost around $3 million.

A New Standard for University Admissions

The new national exam aims to provide a more comprehensive assessment for university applicants، moving beyond rote memorization to evaluate critical thinking and personal qualities. This initiative was announced by the Minister of Science and Higher Education، Sayasat Nurbek، during a government briefing.

Key Features of the New Examination

Resembling the international SAT exam، the new test will be offered free of charge to applicants. Minister Nurbek highlighted that the SAT itself costs approximately $150-$160، a significant financial burden for many families. The new national exam will mirror the UNT's accessibility by being free and allowing multiple attempts.

The development of the testing materials and infrastructure is projected to cost approximately $3 million (around 1.5 billion tenge). A significant portion، about 80%، of this funding is expected to be covered by the National Testing Center's own revenue. The center reportedly generates about 1.5 billion tenge annually from various testing services.

Distinguishing Features from the UNT

Unlike the current UNT، the new format will assess not only academic knowledge but also cognitive abilities and personal attributes such as leadership، focus، and diligence. The test will comprise sections evaluating theoretical knowledge alongside these personal qualities.

While acknowledging the UNT's historical role in combating corruption and systematizing education، the minister noted its limitations in assessing deeper thinking skills، which previously encouraged rote learning among students.

Implementation Timeline

The introduction of the new exam will be phased. It will not immediately replace the UNT. Instead، the new format will run concurrently with the UNT، offering applicants a choice. Eventually، as the new system gains traction، the older test will be phased out.

Pilot testing is scheduled for 2026، with the new exam running alongside the UNT starting in 2027. Certificates from the new test are intended to be valid for admission to both Kazakhstani and international universities. Existing security measures، including cameras and proctoring systems، will be maintained.