Kazakhstan's Minister of Science and Higher Education, Sayasat Nurbek, has clarified the reasons behind the decision to change the rules for the Unified National Testing (UNT).
The Minister stated that the fundamental rules have not been altered. The only change is the decision to redistribute the emphasis on specialized subjects.
Previously, 125 and 140 points were evenly distributed, but now a higher score will be awarded for specialized subjects to encourage students to focus more on their specialized preparation, according to Sayasat Nurbek.
He reminded that this year, Kazakhstani students can take the UNT in five stages. One of the paid tests already took place in January, with graduates currently undergoing the March testing.
"The two main UNT stages will take place from May to July, and from these two stages, the student can submit the highest score for a grant. There is also a fifth stage in August, which serves as a last chance for those applying for paid education or awaiting international university results," explained Sayasat Nurbek.
The Minister highlighted that these changes have helped avoid major scandals and reduce the number of suicides among school graduates in Kazakhstan.
Earlier reports indicated changes in the UNT rules in Kazakhstan.
