Conscripts Can Enroll in Universities Without UNT

Citizens who have completed their mandatory military service will be eligible to enroll in higher education institutions without taking the Unified National Testing (UNT). This was announced during a briefing at the Central Communications Service by the Deputy Minister of Defense for Digitalization, Darkhan Akhmediyev.

The foundation of this new mechanism is the "Sarbaz 2.0" digital platform, which was launched in 2023. All military units are registered within this system, which tracks and displays the academic performance and disciplinary records of every soldier throughout their entire service period.

The competitive selection process evaluates combat training, discipline, performance of duties, psychological resilience, as well as the results of testing in two specialized subjects. Upon successful completion of all stages, a ranking is generated, quotas are distributed, and the serviceman is issued a certificate for admission to their chosen university.

To minimize corruption risks, all data regarding the applicants is made publicly available in the information system of the Ministry of Defense.

These former soldiers are not only exempted from taking the UNT and receive state-funded education, but they are also entitled to a monthly stipend, free dormitory accommodation, and admission to the university's military department without competitive selection.

Those who do not achieve top performance scores can still enroll in universities without the UNT or entrance examinations, but on a paid basis. This right can be exercised within two years following their discharge from military service.