Kazakhstan Reminds Public of Cash Rewards for School Olympiad Winners

Kazakhstan continues to incentivize academic excellence through a system of cash rewards for students who achieve success in international intellectual competitions. Since 2022, the country has been providing one-time payments based on the medal won. According to the Ministry of Education, a gold medal can earn a student up to 1,500 MCI (Minimum Calculation Index), which translates to 6,487,500 tenge in 2026. Silver medalists are eligible for up to 1,000 MCI (4,325,000 tenge in 2026), and bronze medalists receive up to 500 MCI (2,162,500 tenge in 2026). The state's support extends beyond the students themselves, recognizing the crucial role of educators. Teachers who successfully prepare students for these demanding olympiads also receive state support. This commitment to fostering intellectual talent was evident in the 2025/2026 academic year, during which Kazakh school students participated in 44 international olympiads and science competitions. Their efforts resulted in a significant haul of 1,059 medals and 57 special awards, showcasing the nation's growing strength in academic competitions.