Kyrgyzstan sets July 13 start for university and college admissions

Kyrgyzstan has announced the dates for its upcoming admission campaign for higher education institutions, with applications opening on July 13. Ainura Isiralieva, head of a department at the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Innovation, confirmed that the process will largely mirror previous years, relying on the Nationwide Testing (NWT) results for most programs.

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Enrollment will continue to be based on the results of the Nationwide Testing, as in previous years, with the exception of programs in arts, physical education, and sports.

This standardized testing will be the primary basis for admission, with the exception of specialized programs in arts, physical education, and sports. Importantly, the ministry has stated that minimum passing scores for the NWT will not be raised, aiming to maintain accessibility for a broad range of students. For international applicants, a dedicated Center for Admission of Foreign Students has been established to streamline their application process.

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Minimum passing scores will not be increased.

Significant changes are also being implemented for college admissions. Starting in 2026, students seeking to enter colleges after completing grade 11 will also be required to take the Nationwide Testing. However, graduates who have completed grade 9 will still be eligible to enroll in vocational programs based on their existing basic secondary education certificates. The admission period for these secondary vocational education institutions is set to commence on July 6.

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Starting in 2026, admission to colleges after grade 11 will also be based on Nationwide Testing results.