Guide for Acquiring a Fresh Vocation in Kazakhstan Without Charges
In Kazakhstan, working professionals seeking a career change now have several avenues to learn new skills without incurring costs. This article provides an overview of the various paths available, from government scholarships to international online platforms offering certifications.
**Government Scholarship Programs**
The Kazakhstan Government offers fully-funded scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees to both citizens and international students. These scholarships cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend, making them accessible across a wide range of disciplines, including science, engineering, arts, and social sciences [3].
Another government-sponsored initiative, the Scholarship Program for Foreigners and Refugees, offers tuition-free study at top Kazakh universities for eligible applicants, with a monthly allowance [5]. However, it does not cover travel, accommodation, visa, or insurance costs. The application process involves online registration, testing, and interviews [5].
**International Online Platforms and Certifications**
EasyShiksha Vocational Training provides free online vocational training and internships, leading to globally recognized certificates. These courses are flexible and can be accessed via web or mobile, making them suitable for working professionals seeking to upskill without interrupting their jobs [1].
Google Career Certificates offer free online career certificates in high-demand fields such as IT support, data analysis, project management, and more. These programs require no prior experience and are designed to help learners qualify for new jobs or promotions [2]. While originally targeted at a global audience, they are accessible to anyone with internet access, including residents of Kazakhstan.
**Practical Steps for Working Professionals**
1. Research and Select a Program: Identify your desired profession and match it with available free programs, whether through Kazakh government scholarships or international platforms. 2. Apply for Scholarships: For degree programs, follow the detailed application process outlined by the Kazakh Ministry of Education or the relevant scholarship portal [3][5]. 3. Enroll in Online Courses: Register for free online vocational training or global certification programs, ensuring you have reliable internet access and necessary devices [1][2]. 4. Complete Certification: Finish the coursework and obtain the certificate, which can be added to your resume and LinkedIn profile to enhance employability [1][2].
**Limitations and Considerations**
- Degree vs. Certification: Government scholarships typically support full degree programs, which require a significant time commitment and may not be ideal for those seeking a quick career switch [3][5]. Online certifications, on the other hand, offer a faster route to gaining new professional skills [1][2]. - Language Requirements: Many international programs are in English, and proficiency may be necessary for success. - Supplemental Costs: While tuition may be covered, some programs do not cover accommodation, travel, or other living expenses [5].
A summary table is provided below for easy reference:
| Option | Type | Cost | Accessibility | Time Commitment | Outcome | |-------------------------------|---------------------|----------------|------------------------|-------------------|----------------------------------| | Kazakhstan Gov. Scholarships | Degree Program | Fully funded | Competitive application| Long-term | Degree in new field | | EasyShiksha Vocational Training| Online Certification| Free | Open enrollment | 3–6 weeks | Professional certificate | | Google Career Certificates | Online Certification| Free | Open enrollment | Self-paced | Globally recognized certificate |
With these free opportunities, working individuals in Kazakhstan can effectively learn a new profession by taking advantage of government scholarships for degree programs or enrolling in flexible, internationally recognized online certification courses [1][2][3]. The choice depends on career goals, time availability, and preferred learning format.
- Working professionals in Kazakhstan can take advantage of the Kazakhstan Government's Scholarship Programs, which cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend, allowing them to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degrees across a wide range of disciplines like science, engineering, arts, and social sciences.
- For those seeking a quicker career switch, international online platforms such as EasyShiksha Vocational Training offer free online vocational training and certifications in various fields, providing working professionals with an opportunity to upgrade their skills without interrupting their jobs.
- Google Career Certificates provide free online certifications in high-demand fields like IT support, data analysis, project management, and more, catering to learners with no prior experience and offering globally recognized qualifications that can help secure new jobs or promotions.
