UNT in Kazakhstan: What Applicants Can Expect and How to Apply to KAU

UNT in Kazakhstan: What Applicants Can Expect and How to Apply to KAU

In this article, we explain the planned changes to Kazakhstan’s Unified National Testing (UNT) system, what applicants can expect in 2026, and how to apply to KAU.

Minister of Science and Higher Education Sayasat Nurbek announced upcoming developments in the UNT system.

UNT 2026: The Format Remains the Same
No major changes to the UNT are planned for 2026. Applicants will continue taking three mandatory subjects and two профильные subjects of their choice.
The test will include 120 questions and last 4 hours (240 minutes).
Applicants with special educational needs will receive an additional 40 minutes.

Minimum Passing Scores for 2026:
• Mathematical Literacy — 3
• Reading Literacy — 3
• History of Kazakhstan — 5
• Profile Subject 1 — 5
• Profile Subject 2 — 5

Admission to KAU
To apply to Kazakh-American University, applicants need:
• a minimum UNT score of 50 for most programs;
• 75 points for Law programs.

Minimum scores per subject:
• Mathematical Literacy — 3
• Reading Literacy — 3
• Other subjects — 5

KAU combines international educational standards with a practical learning approach.

Why the UNT Will Change
The Ministry of Science and Higher Education is developing a five-year transformation plan aimed at making the UNT internationally recognized.

The new methodology is expected to:
• allow students to use UNT results for international admissions;
• assess analytical and practical skills rather than memorization;
• reduce unnecessary pressure on applicants and better evaluate readiness for higher education.

Support for Applicants
To help students prepare for the UNT, the National Testing Center launched the career guidance platform edunavigator.kz. Practice tests, recommended literature, and additional study materials are also available.

During the exam, students are allowed to use a calculator, the periodic table, and the salt solubility table.