Is it Possible to Enter University Without the UNT? A New Test Will Be Introduced in 2027

Kazakhstan plans to introduce an international test for university admission that will serve as an alternative to the current Unified National Testing (UNT). This was announced by the Vice Minister of Science and Higher Education, Gulzat Kobenova.

To develop the new testing system, the Ministry is collaborating with the renowned American company ETS (Educational Testing Service). Currently, negotiations between the parties have concluded, and a corresponding memorandum has been signed. The implementation of the new format will now proceed in stages.

Notably, there will be no changes to the format or content of the UNT in the upcoming 2026. The new international test will be launched for the first time in a pilot mode in 2027.

The main feature of this test is that it evaluates not only the applicant's knowledge of the school curriculum but also their life skills (soft skills) and logical thinking abilities. Most importantly, applicants will be given the right to choose: they can opt for either the traditional UNT or the new international test. This initiative is expected to bring the national education system closer to world standards and provide an opportunity to fully unlock the potential of applicants.