Since 2021, the Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence (ISSAI) at Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan, has successfully implemented the ISSAI Summer Research Program (SRP).
The ISSAI Summer Research Program (SRP) is an intensive, research-driven program designed for High school students (Grades 9–12), and University students (Bachelor’s and Master’s, PhD levels), who want to gain hands-on experience in artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies.
SRP is built for motivated learners who want more than just theory. Participants engage with real research tasks, strengthen their problem-solving skills, and develop a deeper understanding of how modern AI systems are designed, tested, and improved.
Located in the heart of Eurasia, Astana is rapidly emerging as a regional hub for AI development and innovation. SRP offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow in this dynamic environment—at the intersection of ambitious talent, advanced research, and fast-moving technological progress.
Period of the Program: June-July 2026 (exact dates will be announced later on issai.nu.edu.kz and ISSAI social media).
Duration: 6 weeks.
Venue: Kabanbay Batyr 53, Nazarbayev University, Block 1, ISSAI, Astana, Kazakhstan.
Program highlights include:
• Strong theoretical foundation through courses and hands-on workshops in Deep learning, Generative AI and Computer Vision
• Access to Supercomputing infrastructure
• Access to Nazarbayev University Robotics Laboratories
• One-to-one mentorship from data scientists, AI researchers, software engineers
• Participation in ongoing generative AI projects, including real-world research and development tasks
• Opportunities to co-author scientific publications and contribute to peer-reviewed research papers
• Official letters of recommendation from Nazarbayev University Professors
• Certificate of successful completion issued by ISSAI
Program language and selection testing language: English
Participation: Offline
To help you choose the right direction, we have prepared 8 core SRP tracks. Explore the options below and select up to 2 tracks that best match your interests and goals while filling the Application Form:
ISSAI SRP Tracks
The Application Form consists of the following main sections:
Application Form for High-School Students
Application Form for University Students
Deadline for submission: March 29, 2026 at 23:59 UTC+5.
Type of the participation:
1. Grant-funded (free participation): offered to outstanding participants who demonstrate top results in the Assessment Test and meet all program requirements. Grant based participation includes accommodation costs at Nazarbayev University Campus, and it doesn’t cover your personal and travel expenses.
2. Paid participation: no Assessment Test required. Applicants are expected to submit an application form and meet the program criteria. Fees – 1 200 000 KZT (~ $2500), including accommodation costs at Nazarbayev University Campus.
The participation fee has the following discounts for early accepted participants.
1,000,000 (~ $2100) KZT — for payments made by March 31, 2026
1,100,000 KZT (~ $2300)— for payments made by April 30, 2026
1,200,000 KZT (~ $2500) — for payments made by May 31, 2026
There is an option to split the payment into two installments of 50% each.
Travel costs are covered by the Participants.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at srp_issai@nu.edu.kz
Follow us on Social Media for any news related to SRP: Instagram, Linkedin, Youtube.
FAQ
1.Where will participants stay?
Participants will be accommodated on the Campus of Nazarbayev University, in student dormitories.
2. Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the program fee; however, participants can conveniently use campus cafeterias with affordable pricing, as well as numerous cafés and dining options located nearby.
3. Is the campus safe?
Yes. Nazarbayev University Campus is secure and equipped with 24/7 security and access control.
4. Who can apply for the ISSAI Summer Research Program?
The program is open to high-school students, undergraduate, graduate students, and early-career researchers with a strong interest in artificial intelligence, data science, robotics, and related fields.
5. What is the duration of the program?
The Summer Research Program typically lasts 6 weeks. Exact dates will be announced soon on issai.edu.kz and Social Media.
6. What will participants do during the program?
Participants will:
• Work on research projects under the supervision of ISSAI mentors and researchers
• Attend lectures, workshops, and seminars
• Collaborate with international and local peers
• Present their research results/projects at the end of the program
7. Do participants receive certificates?
Yes. All participants who successfully complete the program will receive an official certificate from ISSAI, and Recommendation Letter upon request.
8. Is prior research experience required?
Prior research experience is not mandatory but highly recommended. Strong motivation and relevant academic background are important.
9. What level of English is required?
Participants should have sufficient English proficiency to communicate effectively and work in a research environment.
10. What is the application deadline?
The deadline for submission is March 29, 23:59 UTC+5.
11. What expenses should participants expect?
Participants may need to cover:
• Travel expenses
• Visa fees (if applicable)
• Personal expenses
12. Who can I contact if I have questions?
For any questions, please contact us at:
📧 issai@nu.edu.kz, srp_issai@nu.edu.kz
Additional information for international applicants:
1. Which countries are exempt from a visa for up to 90 days?
Citizens of several countries can enter Kazakhstan without a visa for up to 90 days.
Citizens of Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Bolivia, Colombia, Estonia, Georgia, Norway, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, and Slovenia, as well as citizens of other countries, the full list of which is available on the website of Kazakhstan’s Electronic Government webpage, may enter Kazakhstan without a visa for up to 90 days, in accordance with the visa-free regime established by the Republic of Kazakhstan.
2. Will you provide assistance with obtaining a visa?
Yes. We can provide guidance on the visa process, issue all necessary supporting documents from our side, and, if needed, accompany participants to migration authorities after their arrival in Kazakhstan.
3. Will you meet international participants at the airport?
Yes. Upon request, we can meet international participants at the airport and accompany them to the Nazarbayev University Campus.
4. Will participants have free time to explore Kazakhstan?
Yes. Participants will have free time on weekends and after research activities to explore Astana and Kazakhstan.
5. Will there be an orientation for international participants?
Yes. At the beginning of the program, international participants will attend an orientation session covering:
• Program structure and expectations
• Campus facilities and rules
• Living in Astana and cultural adaptation
• Safety and practical information
6. Is health insurance mandatory?
Yes. All international participants must have valid health insurance for the entire duration of their stay in Kazakhstan.
7. How can international participants pay the participation fee?
After submitting your application and selecting the paid participation option in the application form, our team will contact you with detailed payment instructions.
We will provide official banking details, and you will be able to make a bank transfer to ISSAI accounts in the following currencies: USD, and KZT.
Please note that all payment procedures are conducted in accordance with the financial regulations of Nazarbayev University and the Republic of Kazakhstan.
8. What should I know about living in Astana?
Astana is the capital of Kazakhstan and a modern, safe, and rapidly developing city.
Participants will experience a multicultural environment, modern infrastructure, and a vibrant academic community. The official working language of the program is English, and most people on campus speak English.
