Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Business

Nazarbayev University Graduate School of Business stands as a leading institution in Central Asia, shaped by its mission to cultivate principled leaders and generate impactful business research. Established in 2013, it advances Kazakhstan’s transformation into a regional innovation hub through English-delivered programs and a globally oriented academic culture. Its compact, selective cohorts and strong faculty base emphasize rigorous learning grounded in the region’s economic realities.

The school’s growing international reputation is reinforced by AMBA and BGA accreditations, with AACSB underway. Positioned in Astana, NUGSB bridges global business education standards with the strategic needs of emerging Eurasian markets.

NUGSB supports strong employment outcomes through dedicated career services, connecting students with industries central to Kazakhstan’s economic growth. Personalized guidance, internship access, and skill-building workshops help students successfully transition into roles across finance, consulting, operations, and innovation-driven sectors. Graduates frequently pursue leadership positions in both domestic and international organizations.

The school’s expanding alumni network, enriched by prominent business and policy leaders, contributes active mentorship and opportunities. Partnerships with global institutions and local employers enhance visibility and create pipelines for recruitment, making the NUGSB network a valuable platform for long-term professional growth.

Students select NUGSB for its combination of international credibility and regional relevance. Its AMBA and BGA accreditations affirm academic excellence, while its long-standing collaboration with Duke University ensures globally aligned curricula and faculty expertise. Programs are strategically designed to equip graduates with actionable skills suited to fast-changing markets.

The school’s location in Astana offers access to an emerging financial and innovation hub, enabling direct engagement with industry and government institutions. Scholarships, personalized career support, and a strong emphasis on ethical leadership further strengthen its value for ambitious learners.

NUGSB drives meaningful impact through research addressing Central Asia’s economic evolution. Faculty and students actively contribute to knowledge in areas such as financial innovation, business analytics, and strategic management, producing insights that support sustainable development and digital transformation. The school aligns academic work with Kazakhstan’s national priorities for diversification and innovation.

Entrepreneurship remains a central focus, with courses, labs, and mentorship helping students build ventures and explore new business models. By combining global frameworks with regional case studies, NUGSB fosters leaders capable of navigating technological shifts and advancing the region’s competitiveness.

What makes the MBA programs distinctive? NUGSB’s MBAs stand out for their intensive modular design, English instruction, and global standards shaped through Duke collaboration.

Are scholarships available? Yes, merit-based awards support high-achieving applicants across several programs.

How does NUGSB aid career transitions? Tailored services, alumni engagement, and strong employer links help students shift into new industries or elevate their careers.

NUGSB’s admissions process evaluates academic ability, leadership potential, and professional readiness. Requirements typically include a bachelor’s degree, essays, references, interviews, and—for some programs—optional GMAT or GRE scores. English proficiency is mandatory. Application timelines vary across programs, with the Full-Time MBA commencing each September.

Students gain access to modern housing options, visa support, and orientation sessions that ease transition into campus life. Tuition is competitively positioned for the region, and scholarships offer meaningful financial support. Blended formats for selected programs make study accessible for working professionals.