Kazakh Elite School Zaman vs Kazakhstan International School Almaty

	K Kazakh Elite School Zaman Almaty, Kazakhstan	K Kazakhstan International School Almaty Almaty, Kazakhstan
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year KZT 5,300,000 - 6,800,000	Fees / year KZT 4,222,891 - 14,108,852
Age range	Age range 6 - 17 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), Singapore Curriculum, Bespoke Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils 657
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language Kazakh, English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2007	Opened 1998
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Almaty, Kazakhstan. Address: Kargaly district, Kenesary Khan street 56/1. The school is located in Almaty and serves local families and international students.	Location Al-Farabi Avenue 118/15, Almaty 050044, Kazakhstan. The Main Campus offers Kindergarten to IB Diploma Programme for 2–18 year olds. The school is located in central Almaty, described as a beautiful location among the green hills with views of the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains and the city of Almaty.
Stages	Stages Primary (Grades 1-4) – IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Middle/High (Grades 5-11) – IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP).	Stages Early Years Programme; Primary Years Programme; Middle Years Programme; Diploma Programme.
School type	School type —	School type International IB World School offering Kindergarten through Grade 12 IB programmes.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Zaman School has an Inclusive Education policy to support all students, including those with Special Educational Needs. The school identifies students with additional learning needs and provides learning support through an Inclusive Education Coordinator and dedicated processes. Language support is provided for Kazakh, Russian and English, including English as an Additional Language (EAL).	Additional learning support English as an Additional Language (EAL) program to support students whose first language is not English.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Kazakhstan	Country affiliation —
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure Early Years: Arrival 8:00–8:30; Half-Day Dismissal 12:00–12:30; Full-Day Dismissal 3:30–4:00. Elementary School: School Starts 8:00; Dismissal 3:00; After-School Activities 3:00–4:15. Secondary School: Before-School Activities 8:00–9:30; School Starts 9:40; Finishes 4:15.
Bus service details	Bus service details Delivery is paid separately; ₸60,000–₸70,000 per month.	Bus service details Bus Service: Elementary 08:00 and 15:00; Secondary 09:40 and 16:15. 2025–2026 Bus Fees: One-way route 600,000 KZT; Two-way route 700,000 KZT. ASA Bus Service (for after-school activities): schedule and registration details available; registration deadline August 11, 2025.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / entry fee - Entry fee: equal to one month's tuition (one-time, non-refundable). Tuition (listed as monthly amounts) — by year group - Grades 1–4: ₸ 400,000 per month. Per 5-month term: ₸ 2,000,000. Per 10-month school year: ₸ 4,000,000. - Grades 5–7: ₸ 430,000 per month. Per 5-month term: ₸ 2,150,000. Per 10-month school year: ₸ 4,300,000. - Grades 8–9: ₸ 450,000 per month. Per 5-month term: ₸ 2,250,000. Per 10-month school year: ₸ 4,500,000. - Grades 10–11: ₸ 470,000 per month. Per 5-month term: ₸ 2,350,000. Per 10-month school year: ₸ 4,700,000. - DP (IB Diploma Programme): ₸ 500,000 per month. Per 5-month term: ₸ 2,500,000. Per 10-month school year: ₸ 5,000,000. - Advanced English (1st grade): ₸ 450,000 per month. Per 5-month term: ₸ 2,250,000. Per 10-month school year: ₸ 4,500,000. Additional recurring costs (specified separately) - Meals: ₸ 70,000 per month for full school catering (four meals per day). Per 5-month term: ₸ 350,000. Per 10-month school year: ₸ 700,000. Meals are billed separately from tuition. - Student transport (delivery): ₸ 60,000–70,000 per month depending on route. Per 5-month term: ₸ 300,000–350,000. Per 10-month school year: ₸ 600,000–700,000. Transport is billed separately from tuition. Other costs - School uniform: a required, school-branded uniform is provided/designed for students (no price listed on the uniform page). Specific uniform items and purchase/price arrangements are managed by the school. - Extracurricular activities, special courses, exam fees (e.g., AP/IB external exam fees) and optional services: charges may apply in addition to tuition; these are not itemised on the published price page. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is presented as a monthly rate. The school publishes staged payment instructions for tuition and for food (payment-stage guidance is provided). For planning, common breakdowns use school terms and the academic calendar. The school's academic calendar and payment-stage guidance set the billing periods. Per-term and per-year totals above use a 5-month term / 10-month academic year basis consistent with the school calendar presentation. - Meals and transport are billed separately from tuition and are charged on a monthly basis as shown above. - Entry fee is paid at enrolment and is one month's tuition (one-time, non-refundable). Refund information - The entry fee is one-time and non-refundable. There is no separate published tuition refund policy on the fees page. Any refund conditions for tuition or other charges would be covered by the school's contractual terms and internal policies. Fee payment options - The school provides staged payment instructions and explicitly publishes a payments page that references Kaspi payment processing (Kaspi payment guidance is available). Bank-transfer payment details are provided on the site's banking information sections. Accepted payment channels therefore include the Kaspi payment system and bank transfer (school banking details are published in the bank details section). For exactly how to submit payments (online Kaspi, bank transfer, or other channels) follow the school's payment-stage instructions. Summary (quick reference) - Monthly tuition (selected): Grades 1–4 ₸ 400,000; Grades 5–7 ₸ 430,000; Grades 8–9 ₸ 450,000; Grades 10–11 ₸ 470,000; DP ₸ 500,000. Meals ₸ 70,000/month; transport ₸ 60,000–70,000/month. Entry fee = one month's tuition (non-refundable). Per-term and per-year totals calculated above assume 5-month terms and a 10-month academic year as reflected in the school calendar.	Fee details Application and Admission Fees Kazakhstan International School (KIS) charges an entrance assessment fee of KZT 20,000 per student for Grades 1–12. A one-time non-refundable admission fee of approximately KZT 280,000 is payable upon enrolment. A reservation deposit equivalent to one-third of annual tuition is required to secure a student’s place. Tuition Fees (2026/2027 Academic Year) The school publishes fees in USD. Approximate KZT amounts below are based on an exchange rate of USD 1 = KZT 467.63. Toddlers Half Day: approximately KZT 4,045,000 per year, around KZT 1,348,000 per term Toddlers Full Day: approximately KZT 5,004,000 per year, around KZT 1,668,000 per term Pre-K 3 Half Day: approximately KZT 4,176,000 per year, around KZT 1,392,000 per term Pre-K 3 Full Day: approximately KZT 5,284,000 per year, around KZT 1,761,000 per term Pre-K 4 Full Day: approximately KZT 6,032,000 per year, around KZT 2,011,000 per term Kindergarten: approximately KZT 7,342,000 per year, around KZT 2,447,000 per term Grades 1–2: approximately KZT 10,148,000 per year, around KZT 3,383,000 per term Grades 3–5: approximately KZT 10,709,000 per year, around KZT 3,570,000 per term Grades 6–8: approximately KZT 11,644,000 per year, around KZT 3,881,000 per term Grades 9–10: approximately KZT 12,579,000 per year, around KZT 4,193,000 per term Grades 11–12: approximately KZT 13,515,000 per year, around KZT 4,505,000 per term Billing Schedule and Payment Terms Tuition fees are payable in three instalments across the academic year. The reservation deposit is credited toward tuition fees after enrolment confirmation. Fees are billed in KZT using the exchange rate applicable on the payment date. Boarding Fees Kazakhstan International School is a day school and does not offer boarding facilities. Other Costs and Fees Additional costs may include uniforms, school transport, extracurricular activities, optional trips, and lunch services. These are billed separately from tuition fees. Refund Information The admission fee is non-refundable. Reservation deposits may also be non-refundable if a student withdraws after accepting a place. Fee Payment Options Payments are accepted by bank transfer in KZT. Tuition invoices are issued according to the school’s payment schedule.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement Secondary students follow a dress code that includes a KIS polo or button-up shirt; KIS sweaters and hoodies may be worn for comfort. Polo shirts come in blue or navy; a KIS Family Hoodie is part of the uniform seasonally.
Food options	Food options Halal meals are provided as part of the school's nutrition program.	Food options Lunch is provided by Universal Catering for Kindergarten through Grade 12, with gluten-free options. AY 2025-2026 prices list daily and monthly meal rates, with advance payment at the beginning of each semester.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is operated by Kazakh Elite School Zaman LLP.	Governance and ownership KIS is a non-profit founded by Daniel Gunaseelan, who serves as Founder and Owner. The Advisory Board governs the school and meets monthly during the school year and at an annual open meeting. Ex officio members include the Head of School and the PTA President.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details IB programmes across PYP, MYP, and DP. The MYP is delivered to students in grades 5–9 with an emphasis on inquiry-based, interdisciplinary learning and global perspectives. Personal Project and Community Project are key components of the MYP, with 8th-grade students undertaking the Community Project. The Diploma Programme (DP) provides six subject groups plus the DP core (TOK, EE, CAS) and is authorized to be implemented for Grades 10–11 starting in the 2025–2026 academic year; AP electives are available for students on the national curriculum track. The ZAMAN component adds proprietary, values-based, project-based learning with small class sizes and personalized support, including courses such as Family institution, Leadership, Financial literacy, Drama, News analytics, and Kazakh national traditions. A Singaporean science and mathematics pathway is also part of the curriculum.	Curriculum details IB Programme for Kindergarten through Grade 12. The Primary Years Programme (Grades 1-5), Middle Years Programme (Grades 5-9), and Diploma Programme (Grades 10-11) are part of the IB framework. The language of instruction in the elementary years is English, and an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program supports non-native speakers. The IB approach emphasizes inquiry-based learning and a continuity pathway from PYP to MYP.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Average class size ranges from 8 to 15 students.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates pursue higher education at Kazakhstan-based and international universities. Notable destinations include KIMEP University, Almaty Management University, Kazakh National Medical University, and the University of Westminster in the United Kingdom. Other destinations include De Montfort University in the United Kingdom, the University of Twente in the Netherlands, and The Aldo Galli Academy in Italy.	Higher education progression Graduates earn three diplomas: the IB Diploma, the MSA American High School Diploma, and the Kazakh State Diploma. College counseling supports university applications, with graduates admitted to universities worldwide including University College London, Cornell University, McGill University, and Notre Dame.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented The school provides IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP) and AP courses, together with proprietary courses under its ZAMAN component. Small class sizes and personalized instruction support individualized learning, with project-based and values-based approaches. Proprietary courses include Family institution, Leadership, Financial literacy, Drama, News analytics, and Kazakh national traditions.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Zaman School provides an inclusive, safe learning environment where everyone is welcomed and valued. The IB mission emphasizes developing inquisitive, caring, and globally minded learners, and the IB learner profiles guide everyday learning. The school identifies students with social, emotional, and mental health needs and offers psychological support services, including access to a psychologist and an inclusive education coordinator. Counseling, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and learning support are available through Student Support Services to address wellbeing and learning needs. The school fosters positive relationships, encourages student voice, and invites parental involvement in wellbeing and inclusion.	Social & emotional learning The school emphasizes social-emotional growth as part of student learning.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Zaman School has an Inclusive Education policy that promotes equal opportunities and a safe, respectful environment for all students. The school identifies students with special educational needs and maintains a learning support register; admission decisions consider the needs and accommodations required. Psychological and pedagogical support is provided by psychologists and an inclusive education team, with evaluation and individualized planning to support learners. The school has an open policy for admitting students with SEN; the final admission decision is made by heads of departments and the executive director; additional information may be requested. Student Support Services include counseling, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and learning support to address specific needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school has an Inclusion Policy.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Language of instruction is Kazakh; English and Russian are taught as main components of the curriculum; Russian is taught as a second language and English as a foreign language. In primary school, most lessons are conducted in Kazakh; Russian is taught in Russian; separate subjects such as English, Singaporean Mathematics and Singaporean Science are taught in English. In high school, the language of instruction remains Kazakh but some classes are held in Russian and English; bilingual classes in Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Computer Science are taught in Kazakh and English. All official documents are published in Kazakh, Russian and English; English plays a role in bilingual subjects and CLIL. EAL support complements the Programme of Inquiry; language needs are addressed with diagnostic testing and phase placement; English language development is supported across PYP and MYP.	English as an additional language The school has an Elementary EAL Program.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The policy recognizes social and emotional difficulties and mental health concerns and provides psychological support services, including diagnostic testing and access to a teacher-psychologist. Psychologists maintain a favorable psychological climate, conduct assessments to identify learning needs and provide individual or group support, and work with families as needed. Medical workers participate in medical and pedagogical correctional work and provide medical services for students with special educational needs. Student Support Services include counseling, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and learning support to address mental health and wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing —
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Zaman School aims to provide a safe, inclusive environment where everyone is treated fairly and their rights are protected. The school emphasizes inclusive culture and practices to safeguard students from discrimination and to support their well‑being. The Inclusive Education team, including an Inclusive Education Coordinator, leads safeguarding efforts and coordinates with families, staff, and external partners. The school upholds values of care, fairness and responsible action as part of its safeguarding framework.	Safeguarding The school has a Child Protection Policy.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Located in Almaty, Kargaly district, Kenesary Khan street 56/1, the school sits in a quiet, ecologically clean area at the foot of the Zailiyskiy Alatau. The campus includes a Zaman lobby and an atrium that serve as welcoming spaces for students and parents, with a coffee shop and display areas for exhibitions and performances. The first floor hosts classrooms, science labs and spaces for Chess, Art and Dance. The second floor contains classrooms and two spacious gyms with separate dressing rooms for boys and girls, plus spaces for Robotics, Computer Science, Music and Mathematics. Floors 3–4 house the library with English and Kazakh fiction and learning literature, and a Relax Learning zone used for Drama. The II Block includes a concert hall with LED screen and projector and seating, and the canteen seats about 450; outdoor football and basketball yards lie on the III Block.	Facilities overview The school has a uniform store on the Main Campus selling polos, sports uniforms, hoodies, and bomber jackets designed for KIS by Endeavour. The school offers an optional bus service for convenient and safe transportation to and from school, with a one-way annual fee of 600,000 KZT or a two-way annual fee of 700,000 KZT (payments can be made in three tranches). The school provides a canteen offering hot meals served by Universal Catering with nutritious options. The gym opened in 2023 and is equipped for strength training, rock climbing, and boxing, with staff supervision for safety. A 360° Virtual Tour is available to view the facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Two spacious gyms with separate dressing rooms for boys and girls accommodate a range of workouts and sporting events. The second floor gyms support training in multiple formats. Outdoor football, volleyball and basketball areas on the campus provide space for practice and matches. These facilities support physical education and sport activities as a core part of student life.	Sports facilities The gym opened in 2023 and is equipped for strength training, rock climbing, and boxing, with staff supervision. The gym is available to secondary students. The school runs athletics through After-School Activities and the BSA program, including basketball, football, volleyball, cross country, and track and field. Teams compete in COASH League and regional tournaments such as the Central Asia Basketball Classic and the Central Asian Volleyball Classic. The Fitness Room provides weights and cardio equipment with supervision.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Primary classes are located on the first floor, with spaces for Chess, Art and Dance and a Science Lab for experiments. On the second floor, classrooms are equipped with high‑resolution interactive boards and specialized desks, and lessons in Robotics, Computer Science, Music and Mathematics are held there. Floors 3–4 host the library, which contains fiction and learning literature in English and Kazakh, and the Relax Learning zone used for Drama. The II Block houses a Concert Hall that supports language development and performance through concerts, debates and speeches, and is equipped with a LED screen, interactive desks and a projector.	Academic facilities —
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Chess, Art and Dance spaces on the first floor support arts and extracurricular activities. The Relax Learning zone on the 3rd floor is used for Drama lessons and performances. The Concert Hall (II Block) supports language development and performance through events such as concerts, celebrations, debates and speeches. Outdoor sports facilities include football and basketball areas that enable practical on‑site sports activities as part of school life.	Extra curricular facilities ASAs include Game Design, Drama, Math Club, Russian A, Russian B, Choir, Arts & Crafts, Football U9 and U11, Fencing, Karate, and Hip-hop. Secondary BSA Programs include Basketball, Football, Volleyball, Cross Country, Athletics Council, Fitness Room, Musical, Debate & MUN, Duke of Edinburgh, Robotics, and Eco-Committee. The Musical program brings to life songs, acting, and dancing through productions such as The Wonderful World of Transformation.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The school was built as a continuation of centuries-old best traditions in the education system, the development of art and new directions. It is located in an ecologically clean area at the foot of the Zailiyskiy Alatau, in a quiet and safe place with clean air.	History Kazakhstan International School was founded over 20 years ago as a Montessori kindergarten. It is an IB World School offering the International Baccalaureate programme. In 2008, KIS became an IB World School, offering the Primary Years Programme. In December 2018, KIS moved to a central campus, enabling expansion to Grade 10 and completing the Middle Years Programme, and in 2020 it became an all-through IB school for ages 2 to 18 with Diploma Programme authorization. In 2023, KIS achieved MSA accreditation.
Community	Community The school operates a student self-government system called Qaganat, which develops group and organizational skills and allows students to participate in school governance. Each Qaganat appoints a Khan (leader) and biys, and elections are held to select leaders; Qaganats have names, mottos and symbols and participate in a range of events that foster leadership, community involvement, and school spirit. The Community Project for 8th-grade students teaches service by identifying community needs, planning, and implementing changes to benefit local or global communities. The school also offers a broad program of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and intellectual competitions.	Community At KIS, we are a diverse, multinational community with students and staff from over 20 countries, and roughly 40% of students are expatriates. We promote international-mindedness and global awareness while engaging locally to help our community in Almaty and across Kazakhstan. KIS is a warm and welcoming community where everyone is valued, creating a family-like atmosphere with close partnerships between parents and the school.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent-Teacher Association exists to support the school in creating and maintaining a conducive learning environment and to ensure regular engagement of the parent community in school life. Functions include fostering strong relationships between parents, teachers, and the school; engaging parents in the active life of the school; organizing educational, social, and informational events (volunteering, charity, and special award ceremonies for parents and teachers); and developing an annual action plan. The Association works on safety, well-being, organization of extracurricular activities, nutrition, and charity.	Parent teacher association Our PTA is a formal organization composed of parents, teachers, and staff to facilitate parental participation in KIS. Its goals are to support KIS, encourage parent involvement, support teachers, and organize family events for KIS. The PTA coordinates volunteers, communicates with the school, and holds regular monthly meetings. PTA fundraising supports school programs and resources, and membership is open to everyone. Events include Teacher Appreciation Day, the Annual Winter Fest, and International Day; inquiries can be directed to ptachair@kisnet.org.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school is a Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme and is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. The IB framework shapes student development through learner profiles such as Inquirer, Caring, Reflective, Thinker, Open-minded, Risk-taker, Knowledgeable, Balanced, Communicator and Reflective, and through ATL skills. The school aims to foster globally competitive citizens grounded in national values, driven by curiosity and dedicated to serving society.	Academic & intellectual ASAs cater to diverse interests and talents, encouraging students to explore new passions and develop skills. EY-PYP ASAs include Game Design, Drama, Math Club, Russian A, Russian B, Choir, and Arts & Crafts, with Football for younger students. These activities foster creative thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative —	Arts & creative After-School Arts Programs include Choir, Drama Production, and Arts & Crafts. Hip-hop is offered as an ASA, and Drama ASA culminates in a stage performance for the whole community to enjoy.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Kazakh is the language of instruction; English and Russian language classes are main components of the curriculum. In primary school most lessons are conducted in Kazakh; Russian is taught as a separate language and English is taught as well; bilingual classes use CLIL with English as part of the instruction. Official documents are published in Kazakh, Russian and English, and language support is provided to develop multilingualism. The school organizes cultural and language events, including Language Day and International Awareness Day.	Cultural & language Russian A and Russian B language clubs develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing in Russian. Russian A focuses on reading and writing, idioms, and discussions, while Russian B develops listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school fosters an inclusive culture and provides opportunities to participate in school life and extracurricular activities with peers. Cultural and language events such as Language Day and International Awareness Day promote social interaction and intercultural understanding. The school emphasizes collaboration, peer learning and community-building as part of its inclusive education approach.	Social & hobbies Sports and performance activities provide social engagement and hobbies. Football U9 and Football U11 teams compete in COASH League; Basketball and Volleyball are offered, along with Cross Country. Hip-hop, Choir, and Arts & Crafts offer creative and social outlets.
Community & service	Community & service The mission is to foster globally competitive citizens grounded in national values and dedicated to serving society. The IB framework supports intercultural understanding and global citizenship, aligning with the school's inclusive policies and its emphasis on serving society.	Community & service Eco-Committee is offered as part of the Secondary BSA programs.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The school provides a University and Career Counsellor to support university admissions and career planning. The IB philosophy, holistic admission considerations and the emphasis on international-mindedness support leadership and professional development within the IB framework.	Leadership & professional Duke of Edinburgh, Debate & MUN, and Athletics Council provide leadership opportunities for students.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school offers psychological and pedagogical support through an inclusive education team and specialists. Inclusive Education practices include language support, diagnostic assessments and individualized planning to promote well-being, belonging and accessible learning for all students.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Athletics programs emphasize physical fitness, discipline, and self-confidence. Activities include Karate and Track & Field, with Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Cross Country and Fitness Room sessions supporting a healthy lifestyle.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Kazakh is the language of instruction; Russian is taught as a second language and English is taught as a second language. In primary, most lessons are conducted in Kazakh; Russian is taught in Russian and English is used for Singaporean Mathematics and Singaporean Science. In high school, most instruction is Kazakh with some classes in Russian and English; bilingual classes exist in Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Computer Science. The school provides English language support (EAL) and mother tongue support; library materials are available in Kazakh, Russian, English and the mother tongue.	Language provision English is the language of instruction in elementary classrooms. Russian and Kazakh are taught as part of the language offerings in the Primary Years Programme. An English as Additional Language (EAL) program provides support for students whose first language is not English.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Kazakh is the language of instruction. Russian is taught as a second language and English is taught as a second language; English is used in a number of subjects, including Singaporean Mathematics and Singaporean Science. Bilingual classes in Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Computer Science are offered for Grades 7–11, using CLIL methods. EAL support is available for students learning English.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Some bilingual classes use CLIL (content and language integrated learning), with English used for Singaporean Mathematics and Singaporean Science. English language instruction is used in various subjects, and EAL support helps learners reach proficiency.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Parents receive information about Zaman School, its programs, and the fees. The Admissions Officer provides this information and answers initial questions. The school uses Kazakh and English as the main languages of instruction and follows IB principles in its curriculum. This step establishes the groundwork for applicants and families. 2. Parents make an appointment to arrange a school visit. The Admissions Officer schedules the visit and coordinates the arrangement. The visit allows the family to experience the school environment and meet staff as needed. 3. Parents complete the Student Information Admissions Form and agree on the date of testing. The Admissions Officer oversees this step and confirms testing arrangements. The form collects essential student information for the admissions review. 4. Parent and student meet with the PS/SS Principal and/or Vice–Principal (as necessary). The meeting discusses candidacy, school expectations, and any questions about the admissions process. The Principal or Vice–Principal participates to assess fit and next steps. 5. A student sits for the admission test. The testing session covers relevant subjects to evaluate readiness. The Admissions Officer, along with the Principal or Vice–Principal, oversees the test administration. 6. Review of admission test results and student records. The admissions team examines test scores and prior school records. This review informs whether the applicant meets the program's entry requirements. 7. Assessment by the school psychologist and SEN specialist if social or learning needs identified. If any needs are identified, specialists conduct an evaluation to determine appropriate supports. The school coordinates with families about any recommended accommodations or services. 8. The final decision on enrollment or refusal is made. The PS/SS Principal or Vice–Principal, in consultation with the Head of School, renders the final enrollment decision. The decision is based on test results, records, and any specialist assessments. 9. Parents are informed of the decision within 3 working days after the test. The Admissions Officer communicates the outcome to the family. If admitted, next steps for enrollment are outlined. 10. If a child has been enrolled, parents submit a Confirmation Form and all relevant documents according to the list. The admissions process concludes with document submission and confirmation of enrollment. The school coordinates any remaining requirements for start dates and registration. 11. Parents get acquainted with school policies and regulations. Families review school policies and regulations as part of onboarding. This step helps ensure understanding of expectations and governance. 12. Parents sign the Agreement for Studies and make payment of entrance and tuition fees. The agreement formalizes enrollment, and financial arrangements are completed. Receipt of payments and the enrollment formalities finalize the admissions journey.	Admissions 1. Apply. Submit the online application via OpenApply. Kazakhstan International School welcomes students of all nationalities to join a diverse, international community in Almaty. After submitting the application, you receive an application portal with an electronic checklist of items to finalize the application. The application opens on August 1 of the preceding school year, and applications are accepted year‑round with rolling placements as space allows; many grade levels fill up by April, so early application is encouraged. 2. Required Documents. After submission, a personalized checklist shows the documents required to complete the application. For Grades 1‑12, required documents include birth certificate, passport, photo 3x4, academic reports, teacher recommendation, and parents' identification; MAP results and IEP/psych reports are optional. For Early Years, required documents include birth certificate, passport, photo 3x4, Early Years Profile, and parents' identification; optional: employment letter, residence permit, health insurance card. After acceptance, enrollment requires signing the KIS Educational Services Agreement and paying the Admission & Reservation Fees, plus submitting any required general or identification documents. 3. Interviews / Assessment. Once the application is complete and all required documents are received, Phase 2 includes student assessments and interviews, varying by grade level. Assessments include CAT4 (Cognitive Abilities Test) and an English Proficiency Assessment; these assessments typically take 2–3 hours total, with no special preparation. All applicants participate in a 30‑minute in‑person interview conducted by the appropriate administrator: EY Principal for Early Years; Grades 1‑5 Elementary Principal; Grades 6‑10 Secondary Principal; Grades 11‑12 DP Coordinator. 4. Decision. Admissions decisions are made exclusively by the Admissions Committee, which evaluates academic history, behavioral background, level of English proficiency, potential needs for support services, and alignment with the school's environment and educational approach. If admitted, families proceed with the next steps: sign the KIS Educational Services Agreement, pay the Admission & Reservation Fee, and submit the required enrollment documents.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships KIS Founder's Scholarship is awarded to outstanding students annually in March. The scholarships are available to current and prospective KIS students who wish to enroll in the KIS IB Diploma Programme (Grade 11). The scholarship covers tuition fees for Grades 11–12 (the duration of the Diploma Programme) and continuation into the second year depends on maintaining a high level of academic performance and co‑curricular contribution; if performance declines, an action plan is implemented and the award may be withdrawn. Scholarship Application Timeline: February 25—the scholarship applications open; April 7—the deadline for submitting applications; April 15—CAT4 assessments completed; April 23—interviews with shortlisted candidates; April 28—final decisions. The application for AY 2026‑2027 is open; apply before April 7, 2026. For questions and the scholarship application, contact Ms. Dana: Email: scholarship@kisnet.org WhatsApp: +7 708 516 0707 Phone (weekdays 07:30–16:30): +7 727 356 5000
Waitlist	Waitlist Waiting list: If a student meets entrance requirements but no place is available, the student can be placed on a waiting list. Entrance test results may be accepted for admission decision within one semester. If performance is lower, the student may retake the admission test no earlier than two months after the previous attempt. At the start of the academic year, families with a student on the waiting list as of October 5 will be asked whether they wish to remain on the waiting list.	Waitlist —
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