Accessibility and Support Services for Students with Disabilities and Special Needs
At Nazarbayev University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, including those with disabilities and special needs. Our goal is to ensure equal access to education, facilities, and opportunities, empowering every student to thrive academically and personally.
At NU, we understand disability as a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a person’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Disability covers a wide range of physical and mental impairments that may or may not be visible.

Special learning needs include conditions that are physical, cognitive, socio-emotional, and psychological in nature and impede a student’s access to the Nazarbayev University environment, learning content, or assessment practices of their courses or programs. These conditions can be temporary, permanent, or intermittent and must be diagnosed or validated by a recognized assessor, such as a medical practitioner or psychiatrist.
Our Services Include:
Accessible Campus Facilities
Our university is equipped with ramps, elevators, and designated accessible parking spaces to facilitate mobility across campus.
Academic Assistance
We provide tailored academic support, including extra time for exams, note-taking assistance, and alternative formats for course materials.
Assistive Technologies
Our library offers screen readers, speech-to-text software, and other assistive tools to enhance the learning experience.
Counseling and Mental Health Support
Our team of professionals offers psychological counseling and well-being programs to address individual needs and challenges.
Housing Accommodation
Our university provides accessible dormitory rooms and housing modifications to meet the needs of students with disabilities.
Special Events
We organize workshops, awareness campaigns, and inclusive events to promote accessibility, celebrate diversity, and foster a sense of community among students with disabilities and special needs.
Support for Socially Vulnerable Categories (Disadvantaged people)
Nazarbayev University is committed to providing equal opportunities for all students, ensuring that education remains accessible and inclusive. As part of this commitment, NU offers comprehensive support to students who belong to Socially Vulnerable Categories (SVC).

Who Qualifies for SVC? Students eligible for SVC support fall into one of the following four categories:
  1. Orphaned Students – Students who have lost both parents.
  2. Students with Disabilities – Individuals with documented disabilities.
  3. Students from Low-Income Families – Students whose families meet specific financial criteria.
  4. Students with Parents with Disabilities – Those who have one or both parents with disabilities.
Benefits of SVC Support
Students who qualify for SVC assistance at NU can receive the following benefits:
  • 100% Discount on Dormitory Accommodation
  • Eligible students are granted full coverage for housing costs in NU dormitories during academic periods, ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment.
  • Exemption from the Student Fee
  • Students under the SVC program are fully exempt from paying the Student Fee, which consists of voluntary contributions to the Student Fund.
  • Meal Plan Support for Orphaned Students
  • Students in the Foundation Program (NUFYP) who have lost both parents are entitled to a meal plan, ensuring they have access to proper nutrition during their studies.
How to Apply for SVC Support Students who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for SVC benefits by submitting the necessary documentation to the university’s Department of Student Services.
Learn More:
Assistive Technologies
Special Events
Disability-inclusive Etiquette
Special Learning Needs Committee
Social Project "Kunde Café"