The number of international students in Kyrgyzstan has fallen sharply in recent years, from approximately 81,000 in 2021 to less than 38,000 in 2025. Against this backdrop, the government established the state-owned enterprise "Foreign Student Admission Center" in March 2026, 24.kg reported.
The decision is driven not only by the declining number of students but also by the need to streamline the admissions system, increase the transparency of procedures, and eliminate the risks associated with the activities of numerous intermediaries.
Previously, universities and recruiting organizations operated in a disjointed manner, creating challenges with document verification and student support, potentially negatively impacting Kyrgyzstan's reputation as an educational destination.
The new center aims to create a unified admissions process—from attracting applicants from abroad to their enrollment and subsequent support. An automated, one-stop-shop information system is being created, which will handle application submission, document verification, diploma equivalency confirmation, health insurance, and visa support. Assistance with housing, adaptation, and a call center are also provided.
The first results are already in: 489 applicants have been successfully screened, while another 159 applicants have been sent back for re-screening due to document errors. The final decision on admission remains with the educational institution itself.
The creation of the center can be seen as the state's attempt to simultaneously address administrative and reputational issues. Centralization can make the market more transparent, reduce gray market practices, and improve the safety of international students. However, streamlining admissions alone does not guarantee the return of previous student numbers.
To restore Kyrgyzstan as an attractive educational hub, it is also necessary to improve the quality of education, develop international accreditation, ensure transparency in university operations, and protect the rights of international students.
It is important that the new system does not become merely an additional administrative barrier. Its effectiveness will be determined by the state's ability to provide international students with clear rules, high-quality education, and predictable living conditions.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
September 10, 2026