Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
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Full Name: Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
Location: Almaty, Kazakhstan
Type: Public, national research university (government-recognised flagship institution)
Founded: 1933/1934 — the oldest classical university in Kazakhstan.
Global Standing
Ranked #166 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 — highest placement among Kazakh universities.
Ranked #38 in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026 — only Central Asian university in the Asian top-40.
It consistently ranks at the top nationally and shows ongoing improvement in international evaluations.
Research & Academic Strength
KazNU is recognised as a research university with:
Multiple research institutes and scientific laboratories
High volumes of indexed publications and international collaborative research.
Rankings and certificates that reflect international quality management standards.
The university plays a pivotal role in research in Central Asia, including initiatives in AI, materials science, environmental science, and medical and biological sciences.
Internationalization & Partnerships
KazNU has:
Partnerships with 400+ universities and research institutions worldwide including Erasmus+, UNAI, joint research, exchange and dual-degree programmes.
Student and faculty mobility agreements enabling study abroad and collaborative training.
Increasing numbers of international students (reportedly ~28% of the student body).
Scholarships and government support programmes are available for high-achieving students.
Reputation & Perception
Strengths
Long history, strong research output and international ranking.
Leader among Kazakh universities in interdisciplinary and academic quality.
Broad international networks and student mobility.
