How to Enroll Your Children in School in Kazakhstan

Enrolling your child in a public school in Kazakhstan as an expat can be a complex process, especially if you are unfamiliar with the country's education system and language. It requires careful preparation and a good understanding of the necessary paperwork and procedures. This includes obtaining the necessary documents such as your child's birth certificate, proof of residence, and medical records. It's also important to understand the school year structure, the curriculum, and the language of instruction, which in most public schools is Kazakh or Russian. This guide will provide a step-by-step process to help you navigate this important task.

1. Research Schools: Start by researching the public schools in your area. Consider factors such as the language of instruction, the curriculum, the school's reputation, and its proximity to your home. You can find information online or by asking other expats in your community.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather all the necessary documents. This typically includes your child's birth certificate, passport, visa, proof of residence (such as a utility bill or rental agreement), and medical records including vaccination history. All documents not in Kazakh or Russian will need to be translated and notarized.
3. Application Form: Obtain the application form from the school or the local education department. Fill it out completely and accurately. If the form is in Kazakh or Russian, you may need to get help from a translator.
4. Submit Application: Submit the completed application form along with all the required documents to the school or the local education department. It's advisable to do this in person so you can ask any questions and make sure everything is in order.
5. Medical Examination: In Kazakhstan, a medical examination is required for school enrollment. This includes a general health check-up, a vision test, and a hearing test. The school or local education department will provide information on where to get this done.
6. Language Proficiency Test: If your child does not speak Kazakh or Russian, they may need to take a language proficiency test. The school will provide information on this.
7. Wait for Confirmation: After submitting all the documents and completing the tests, you will need to wait for confirmation of your child's enrollment. This can take a few weeks, so be patient.
8. Buy Uniform and Supplies: Once your child's enrollment is confirmed, you can buy the school uniform and any necessary supplies. The school will provide a list of what is needed.
9. First Day of School: On the first day of school, accompany your child to help them get settled. This is a big step for them, so your support is important.