The Ministry of Science and Higher Education has announced the closure of applications for the main Unified National Test (UNT) 2026. Testing will begin on May 10 and continue until July 10, reports Todayinfo news agency.
According to the ministry, about 240,000 applicants submitted applications for the test, and considering two attempts, more than 446,000 applications were accepted. For comparison, in 2025, about 216,000 applicants planned to participate, with a total of 399,000 applications.
The majority of participants chose the Kazakh language — 73 percent, about 27 percent will take the test in Russian, and 521 people in English. The most popular combination of specialized subjects was 'Mathematics-Physics,' chosen by 17.9 percent of participants. Another 14.5 percent chose 'Biology-Chemistry,' and 12.4 percent chose 'Creative Exam.'
The ministry noted that the testing format in 2026 remains unchanged. Applicants take three mandatory subjects and two specialized subjects of their choice, with a total of 120 tasks. The maximum score is 140 points. Testing time is 4 hours (240 minutes), with an additional 40 minutes for children with special educational needs.
Minimum threshold scores for admission are also maintained: 65 points for national universities, 50 points for other universities, 75 points for 'Pedagogical Sciences' and 'Law,' and 70 points for 'Healthcare.' At least 5 points are required in specialized subjects, and at least 3 points in 'Reading Literacy' and 'Mathematical Literacy.'
To ensure exam transparency, metal detectors will be used at the entrance, along with communication signal suppression systems and video surveillance in the classrooms. After testing, video recordings will be analyzed until October 31. If violations are detected, UNT results and educational grants, if any, will be annulled.
