In Kazakhstan, a new format for entrance testing is being introduced — the Admission Insight Test (AIT), which will serve as an alternative to the Unified National Test (UNT). The pilot launch is scheduled for 2027.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE NEW TEST
As reported by Minister of Science and Higher Education, Sayasat Nurbek, the new exam is being developed by one of the world's leading companies.
"The ETS delegation literally arrived in Astana yesterday for their first meetings with our branches. I also held a meeting with them," the minister stated on the sidelines of the Akorda.
He noted that this organisation was involved in the development of the international exams SAT, ACT and GRE. According to the minister, this should ensure a high standard of knowledge assessment.
WILL THE EXAM SYSTEM CHANGE IN 2026
According to Sayasat Nurbek, the exam system will remain unchanged in 2026.
Testing will proceed according to the current schedule: the main stages of the UNT are already underway, with an additional session planned for August for those applying on a fee-paying basis. After this, the new format will begin to be introduced as an alternative option.
HOW DOES THE AIT DIFFER FROM THE UNT
The minister noted that the new exam will be offered not instead of the UNT, but as an alternative for applicants.
"The advantage of the new test is that it will be accepted by all branches of foreign universities. Since it is from ETS – a high quality standard – their test will automatically be recognised in admission procedures. Foreign universities will also accept it," explained Sayasat Nurbek.
WILL PRACTICE TESTS BE RETAINED
He specifically emphasised that practice testing will be retained even after the introduction of the new format. This is necessary so that graduates can identify weak topics and prepare for the main exam.
CONTEXT
The Unified National Test (UNT) is the main exam in Kazakhstan, the results of which are used for university admission and the allocation of educational grants.
Previously, Deputy Prime Minister — Minister of Culture and Information, Aida Balayeva, stated the need to transform the UNT. She noted that sitting the UNT multiple times does not fully address the challenge of quality selection of applicants, and universities are limited in their ability to independently select talented students.