Introduction of a Voucher System for Future Educators
For the first time in 2025, a voucher system was introduced for applicants to pedagogical specialties. Now, applicants who successfully pass the nationwide testing can participate in a competition for a voucher and then choose between a state and a private university. If the cost of education at a private institution exceeds the voucher amount, the student is required to cover the difference themselves.The Ministry of Science, Higher Education, and Innovations believes that this system will help identify the most motivated future educators and make higher education more accessible. However, the results of the pilot project remain unknown so far.
Cancellation of Part-Time Study
The part-time study format has been abolished. Previously, the government imposed a moratorium on part-time education for legal and economic specialties, citing a high degree of corruption and oversaturation of the labor market. In August, the president signed a decree stating that from the 2026-2027 academic year, enrollment for part-time study will cease for all specialties and regardless of the type of university. Students already studying part-time will be able to complete their programs.Instead, a distance-digital form of education will be implemented in universities, allowing students to study daily, but in an online format using digital platforms.
Increase in Tuition Fees
This year, the cost of education at higher educational institutions significantly increased. Prices for contracts in many areas have nearly doubled. After the moratorium on price increases, which was introduced during the pandemic, was lifted, universities gained the ability to set contract prices independently, leading to a sharp rise in education costs.Merging of Regional Universities with KNU
In 2025, several universities were merged with the Kyrgyz National University named after Jusup Balasagyn. Naryn, Talas, and Batken State Universities now operate as regional branches of KNU.The Ministry of Science, Higher Education, and Innovations is confident that this decision will ensure quality education in the regions and the issuance of diplomas from the leading university in the country, which, in turn, will help reduce student migration to the capital and retain young specialists in their local areas.
Changes in the Start of the Academic Year
Previously, the academic year in both schools and universities began on September 1. Now, according to a government decree, the start of the academic year in universities, colleges, and postgraduate institutions will be determined by the ministry.The duration of the academic year, the schedule of classes, exams, vacations, and types of internships will be established in the curricula in accordance with state educational standards.
Cancellation of Penalties for Absences
Previously, students faced fines for missing classes, which amounted to about 1000 soms for each session. Many students complained about difficulties in payment, as they had to combine studies with work. Now these fines have been abolished. Absences will now be compensated within the framework of the academic program.However, Deputy Dastan Bekeshev has already expressed the opinion that "although the business on 'nb' has been removed, universities sharply increased the contract amounts."
Mass Expulsions of Students
In 2025, mass inspections took place in higher educational institutions, resulting in the expulsion of thousands of students.- In the Issyk-Kul region, 941 students were expelled.
- In the Jalal-Abad region - 2,606 students.
- At KNU named after J. Balasagyn - 2,710 students.
- In the Naryn region - 300 students.
