Career and College Counceling

• Career guidance work at NIS 
• Recognition of NIS certificate 
• Choosing a profession and specialty 
  • Career choice strategy 
  • Current professions – Atlas of new professions 
  • Career Guidance Tests 
  • Job search sites: HeadHunter, Enbek.kz, Jooble.org and others 
• Selecting a university, country: 
  • Country selection 
  • University choice: 
• Admission to foreign universities 
  • Compiling a college list – reach, target (fit), safety schools 
  • Requirements of the program 
  • Types of grants for international students 
  • International exams and useful links for preparation 
  • Knowledge of foreign languages – free training: Germany, Czech Republic, France, China, etc. 
  • Extracurricular activities 
  • Olympiads, scientific projects 
  • Platforms for applying to universities in foreign countries: 
  • Motivation letter, personal statements 
  • Letters of recommendation, transcripts and other documents from school: 
  • Arrival Features: North America, Asia and Europe 

 

 

 

 

Career guidance work in Intellectual schools 

In Intellectual schools, career guidance work is carried out in accordance with the Rules for conducting career guidance work in Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools, approved by the decision of the AEO Board of December 13, 2018. 

 Purpose of career guidance 

 Objectives of career guidance 

3. Choosing a profession and specialty 

3.1. Factors in choosing professions – I want, I can, I must 

When choosing a direction of activity, we suggest taking into account three important factors: “I want” – these are your favorite activities and interests; “I can” – state of health and talents; “Must” means the demand for the profession in the labor market. 

It is also worth considering the following factors when choosing a profession: 

• Education and Training: Choosing a career that requires a certain level of education or training. 
• Workplace: choosing a profession in which there is an opportunity to work in the desired location. 
• Career growth: Choosing a profession that offers career growth opportunities. 
• Experience and skills: choosing a profession that requires experience or skills that you already have.  
• Salary: choosing a profession that offers the salary you need. 

3.2. Career choice strategy 

A career choice strategy may include setting specific, achievable and measurable goals, as well as creating a chain of short-term and long-term goals leading to the desired profession. This allows you to focus on the steps needed to achieve your ultimate career goal and stay motivated along the way. 

To create a chain of goals leading to your desired profession, follow these steps: 

1. Determine your desired career: Determine what career you want to pursue and learn the typical responsibilities and requirements for that job. 
2. Set long-term goals: Determine what you want to achieve in the future in terms of your desired profession. These goals should be specific, measurable and realistic. 
3. Break Long-Term Goals into Short-Term Goals: Divide your long-term goals into smaller, more manageable steps that you can achieve in a shorter period of time. 
4. Prioritize your goals: Determine which short-term goals are most important and need to be achieved first. 
5. Create an action plan: Determine the steps you will take to achieve each short-term goal and set a timetable for completing them. 
6. Stay focused: Check your progress regularly and adjust your plan as needed. Celebrate your accomplishments and stay motivated as you work toward your long-term goals and desired career. 

Here is a sample plan for 2 years for high school students: 

Note: This is a general outline and specific goals and steps may vary depending on individual circumstances and desired career. 

 

3.3. Current professions – Atlas of new professions 

Future promising careers: In a world that is constantly changing and developing, professions related to technology and information systems, as well as health services, are becoming increasingly important. We advise you to familiarize yourself with the Atlas of New Professions and Competencies of Kazakhstan – a research journal about in-demand and future professions: 

https://atlas.bts-education.kz/ In the Atlas you will find information about professions that will appear in the next 5-10 years and will be relevant in the labor market of Kazakhstan. 

Articles, ideas of futurologists (Kevin Kelly, James Canton, Yuval Noah Harari, etc.) 

3.4. Career Guidance Tests 

Career aptitude tests can be a useful tool for exploring different career options and identifying potential career paths. Here are a few steps to help you work with career tests: 

Research: Research the different types of career guidance tests available, their features and benefits, to determine which test best suits your needs. 

Preparation: Before taking the career aptitude test, gather information about your interests, skills, and values, as well as your career goals and aspirations. 

Take the Test: Follow the test instructions carefully and answer the questions honestly and accurately. 

Review the results: Once you take the test, review the results and pay attention to careers and industries that match your interests, skills, and values. 

Seek additional information: Research the careers and industries that interest you to learn more about them, including their job responsibilities, salary expectations, and career advancement opportunities. 

 It is important to remember that career guidance tests are just one tool in the process of exploring career options and making informed decisions. It is also important to gather additional information and seek professional advice to help you make informed decisions about your career choice. 

Career guidance tests: 

 

3.5. Job search sites: HeadHunter, Enbek.kz, Jooble.org and others 

Job search websites can help students make career choices by providing them with information about job responsibilities, job requirements, salaries, and career advancement potential. They can also display job openings, allowing students to see what types of jobs are currently available in their desired field. This information can help students make informed decisions about which careers suit their interests and skills. 

 

4. Selecting a university, country: 

4.1. Country selection 

High school students choosing a country to study abroad should consider the following factors:

• Culture: Understanding a country’s cultural norms and customs can help students feel more comfortable and confident while abroad. 
• Climate: The climate of the country should also be considered, especially if the student has special health or comfort needs 
• Language: Knowing the language of a country is important, especially if a student wants to immerse himself in the local culture. 
• Cost: Cost of living, tuition fees and other expenses should be taken into account when choosing a country to study in. 
• Location: The location of a country, including its proximity to other countries, should be considered for travel opportunities. 
• Medicine: The quality of medical care and the availability of medical facilities should be considered, especially for students with medical conditions. 
• Safety: The level of safety in the country should be taken into account, especially for students who will be living alone or in unfamiliar surroundings. 

By considering these factors, students can make an informed decision about the best country to study abroad. 

4.2. University choice: 

When choosing a university, it is important to consider several factors to ensure the best fit for your individual needs and goals. These may include: 

• Ranking – QS, Times Higher Education World University Rankings provide global comparison of universities based on various indicators such as academic reputation, employer reputation, research impact, etc. 
• Acceptance rate – both local and international acceptance rates give you an idea of the competitiveness of the program and university, as well as the possibilities of your admission. 
• Admissions Statistics (Common data set) – Common data sets can provide information on average test scores, GPAs, and demographics of admitted students. 
• Graduate Employment – Graduate employment can give you insight into the employment prospects for program and institution graduates. 
• The program curriculum will help with information about what courses are offered, how they are structured, and how they are taught. 
• Research, project works – Project work, research opportunities, and other forms of hands-on experience can provide valuable hands-on experience and exposure to cutting-edge developments in your field. 
• Facilities are the resources and equipment available to support student learning and research, including libraries, laboratories, and other facilities. 
• Faculty – The quality of faculty, including their education, research, and teaching experience, can influence the quality of the educational process. 
• Scholarships – Find out what types of scholarships are available and their amounts, especially if you are an international student. 
• Internship Opportunities – Internship opportunities can provide valuable work experience and help you make industry connections. 
• Student Life – Consider the social, cultural and recreational opportunities available on campus and in the surrounding community. 
• Campus location and culture. Consider the location of the university and surrounding community, as well as the campus culture and atmosphere. 
• Program Requirements – Make sure you understand the admission requirements, including test scores, exams, essays, and any other required materials, before applying. 
• Diversity and Inclusion: Consider the university’s commitment to diversity and inclusion and whether the campus community represents a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. 

By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose a university that suits your needs and supports your success. 

5. Admission to foreign universities 

5.1. Compiling a college list – reach, target (fit), safety schools 

When compiling a college list, it is important to consider the following categories: 

Here are some tips to help you with this process: 

• Research universities based on your academic and career interests, location and campus culture. 
• Consider financial aid and scholarships. 
• Look at the entry requirements and compare them to your own achievements. 
• Let’s look at the ratio of university students to teachers and the percentage of employed graduates. 
• Contact current students and alumni for more reliable information. 
• Visit campus, if possible, to get a better feel for the atmosphere and community. 

                 Keep in mind that your list should be balanced and reflect your individual priorities, not just prestige. 

Remember that your list of universities is a personal document, so feel free to make changes as you learn more about certain schools and gain new perspectives. 

Search Engines: 

 

5.2. Requirements of the program 

To find admission requirements for a university program, you can start by visiting the university’s website and searching for the specific program you are interested in. Please refer to the program page for information on entry requirements, including any specific qualifications. , assessments or tests that must be taken. You can also contact the admissions office directly for more information. 

When reviewing requirements, it is important to ensure that you meet or exceed the minimum requirements. Pay attention to specific grades or test scores and make sure you choose the right courses to meet those requirements. Additionally, some universities may require additional materials such as an essay, cover letter, or letters of recommendation, so make sure you clearly understand all components of the application. 

Your chances of getting into a university program vary depending on many factors, including the number of applicants, the competitiveness of the program, and your achievements and portfolio. It’s always best to aim for the highest grades and test scores to increase your chances of getting into the program you want. However, it is also important to remember that the admissions process is holistic, and other factors such as essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities may also play a role in the admissions decision.

Admission requirements for a university program vary depending on the institution and the specific program. In general, the following is usually required: 

 

5.3. Types of grants for international students 

6 Types of US Scholarships for International Students 

Merit Scholarships 

Awarded based on student performance. There are many types of scholarships, including: 

Academic Scholarships: These scholarships may be funded by a college or university or by private organizations. They go to students with excellent grades and/or SAT or ACT scores. 

Average Academic Performance Scholarships: These types of scholarships affect more than just your grades and standardized test scores. They evaluate your overall performance as a student, such as whether you were involved in extracurricular activities or participated in any community service. 

Athletic Scholarships: Athletic scholarships are regulated by the NCAA, NAIA and NJCAA. They are fiercely competitive and there are many rules for students receiving athletic scholarships. However, it is one of the best options for international student-athletes who want to study in the United States. 

 

• From a developing country 
• Mainly for women 
• For minorities 
• Help in specific areas of study 

All other countries generally, but not always, adhere to Merit based scholarships. 

 

 5.4. International exams and useful links for preparation 

IELTS  

Registration for the test: http://ielts.kz/    https://kazakhstan.britishcouncil.org/exam/ielts/book–test  

Date: Several times a month 

IELTS — a globally recognized international testing system designed to confirm the level of English language proficiency. The exam is most common in the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. 

Reading and writing tasks differ depending on the type of test: 

• Academic — for admission to English-language programs abroad, sometimes for recognition of professional qualifications;
• General Training — For immigration to the UK, Canada, New Zealand and Australia and employment abroad, as well as for admission to some colleges and language schools.

 The IELTS result is scored on a scale from 0 to 9 points. 

The candidate finds out his result online and/or receives it at the test center on the 13th day after passing (paper based). The certificate includes assessment in four test modules: 

 The test result is valid for two years from the date of receipt. 

The University of Warwick has the highest requirements – 8.0 points – for a PhD in Marketing. Most schools have requirements ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. To find out if the organization you are interested in accepts IELTS results, you can use the Global Recognition System (GRS). 

  

Resources for Study and Preparation: 

Website of the British Council in Kazakhstan – https://www.britishcouncil.kz/ru/exam/ielts 

Online preparation: 

 

SAT  

Registration for the test: https://www.collegeboard.org/ 
https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration/international–testing/dates–deadlines  

Date: 5 – 6 times a year 

SAT – Literally “Academic Assessment Test”. A standardized test for admission to higher education institutions in the United States. Many universities around the world accept the results of this test. 

Structure: 

Useful Resources 

Textbooks: 

AP  

Registration for the test: https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/  

Advanced Placement (AP) is a “program of in-depth study of a subject”, which is a course in preparation for entering a university. Advanced Placement was developed by the College Board, which administers the AP and SAT exams. AP programs also offer AP exams, which must be taken for admission to the most prestigious universities in the UK; AP results are also highly rated by US universities. 

AP Benefits 

• Increases the chances of admission to prestigious universities. For example, the average GPA for freshmen at Harvard University is 4.18, a grade that cannot be achieved without AP courses. 
• Allows you to reduce the time spent studying in college. Subjects studied at school will not have to be repeated. 
• Increases your chances of receiving a scholarship. According to the College Board, 31% of US universities consider AP exam scores when selecting applicants. 
• Helps develop skills needed for learning and careers. AP courses develop academics, writing, time management, and teamwork skills. 

https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/what-is-ap

AP Ledger in Kazakhstan: РФМШ in Almaty and Nur-Sultan, KBTU 

 

TOEFL   

Registration for the test: https://www.ets.org/toefl/  

Date: Several times a month 

 

 

5.5. Knowledge of foreign languages – free training: Germany, Czech Republic, France, China, etc. 

If you know a foreign language, then you have a unique opportunity to receive education abroad for free. Many countries offer free tuition at their universities and colleges to students who speak the local language. 

Below is a list of some countries that offer free education at their universities and colleges for foreign students who speak the local language at C1 level: 

1. Germany: International students who speak German can study at public universities for free. Some universities also offer English language courses, but fees may apply for these programs. 
2. Czech Republic: The Czech Republic is another European country where you can study for free if you know the local language. 
3.  France: France provides free education in French. Some private universities and specialized programs may charge tuition, so be sure to check the specific requirements for your chosen field of study. 
4. China: China also provides free Chinese language education for international students. 
5.  Sweden: Sweden provides free education in Swedish. 
6.  Denmark: Denmark also provides free education in Danish. 
7.  Norway: Norway provides free education in Norwegian.  

It is important to note that you will have to take language exams to demonstrate your ability to learn in that language. 

 

5.6. Extracurricular activities 

Extracurricular activities can play an important role in the admission process to many foreign universities. These classes/activities can showcase your interests, skills, and accomplishments outside of the classroom and can give admissions officers a better idea of your potential as a student. Here are some types of extracurricular activities that may be relevant when applying to foreign universities, as well as tips for choosing suitable activities and where to look for them: 

1. Academic Activities: Participation in academic activities, such as research projects, academic clubs, or academic competitions, can demonstrate your passion for learning and your ability to succeed in a rigorous academic environment. 
2. Volunteer work: Volunteering in your community or for social or environmental causes can demonstrate your commitment to helping others and your ability to show initiative and leadership. 
3. Sports and Fitness: Participating in sports or fitness activities can show your ability to work in a team, your discipline and your dedication to personal goals. 
4. Arts and Culture: Participating in arts and culture activities such as music, theater or visual arts can demonstrate your creativity and cultural awareness. 

When choosing extracurricular activities, it is important to choose activities that align with your interests and goals and demonstrate skills and values that align with the programs and universities you are considering applying to in the future. It is also important to be consistent and dedicated to the activities you choose, rather than participating in many activities superficially. 

You can look for extracurricular activities in various places, such as: 

1. Your school: Many schools offer various clubs, clubs, and other extracurricular activities that you can join. 
2. Nonprofits: Volunteering for nonprofits can provide opportunities for community service and leadership. 
3. Professional Organizations: Joining professional organizations related to your field of study can provide opportunities for networking and professional development. 
4. Online Platforms: Online platforms such as Meetup or LinkedIn can provide opportunities to find like-minded people and events related to your interests. 

When choosing extracurricular activities, it is important to balance your time and commitments to ensure that your academic performance is not compromised. You should also keep track of your actions and accomplishments and be prepared to describe and highlight them in your application materials. By choosing relevant and meaningful extracurricular activities, you can increase your chances of getting into your desired foreign universities. 

 

5.7. Olympiads, scientific projects 

Olympiads and research/scientific projects can play an important role in admission to university, especially in highly competitive programs and prestigious institutions. These events can demonstrate your skills, knowledge and potential in a particular field and can give you a competitive advantage in the admissions process. Olympiads and research projects may affect your admission to university in the following ways: 

Olympiads: Olympiads are academic competitions that test students’ knowledge and skills in a specific subject area. Participation and success in Olympiads can demonstrate your aptitude and interest in a particular field, as well as your ability to work under pressure and solve complex problems. Winning the Olympics can also be a prestigious achievement that sets you apart from other contenders. 

Research Projects: Research projects are an opportunity to study a specific topic or issue in depth and can demonstrate your ability to think critically, conduct independent research, and analyze data. Participating in research projects can also demonstrate your interest and passion for a particular field and can provide valuable experience and skills for future academic and professional pursuits. 

When applying to universities, it is important to highlight your achievements in academic competitions and research projects in your application materials, such as your resume, essays, and letters of recommendation. These achievements can demonstrate your dedication, passion and potential in a particular field and can help you stand out from other applicants. 

It is also important to note that the impact of competitions and research projects on admission may vary depending on the institution and program. Some universities and programs may place a heavy emphasis on these activities, while others may place more emphasis on other aspects such as academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities. It is important to research the specific requirements and admissions criteria for your desired universities and programs and tailor your application materials accordingly. 

Thus, Olympiads and research projects can be valuable activities that can help demonstrate your skills, knowledge and potential in a particular field and can increase your chances of getting into competitive and prestigious universities. By participating in these activities and highlighting your accomplishments in your application materials, you can demonstrate your dedication and passion for your field of interest. 

 

5.8. Platforms for applying to universities in foreign countries: 

 

There are several online platforms and resources that can help you get into universities in other countries. Here are some of the most popular platforms and what you need to know about them: 

 

Common Application: Common Application — is a platform that allows you to apply to over 900 universities in the US and abroad with a single application. You can complete and submit the application, including essays, transcripts, and letters of recommendation, through the Common App website. You will need to create an account, select the universities (maximum 20 universities) you want to apply to, and pay the application fees for each university. 

UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) – it is a centralized university application system that helps many students start their studies in England every year. Using the UCAS system, an international student can submit up to 5 applications for admission to various undergraduate and graduate programs.

Studyportals: Studyportals — is an online platform that allows you to search and compare courses and universities in Europe. You can search by country, field of study and degree, and view information about tuition fees, admission requirements and application deadlines. You will need to create an account and go through the application process for each university you are interested in. 

CUCAS: CUCAS — is an online platform that processes applications to universities in China. On the CUCAS website you can search for courses and universities and apply to multiple universities using one application. You will need to create an account, provide personal and academic information, and provide supporting documents such as transcripts and letters of recommendation. 

DAAD: DAAD — is a German academic exchange service that provides information and resources for students interested in studying in Germany. On the DAAD website you can search for courses and universities, and apply for scholarships and funding. You will need to create an account and follow the application process for each university or scholarship you are interested in. 

It is important to research and understand the specific application requirements and deadlines for each university and program you are interested in, as well as the application fee and process. You should also be prepared to provide supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation and results of international standardized tests, examinations, and write essays or letters of motivation as part of the application process. 

 

Stipendium Hungaricum: Stipendium Hungaricum — is a scholarship program offered by the Hungarian government to support international students who want to study in Hungary. The program offers full scholarships to pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in a variety of fields. The application process is processed through the Stipendium Hungaricum online application system, which allows students to apply for scholarships and upload supporting documents. 

Türkiye Bursları: Türkiye Bursları — is a scholarship program offered by the Turkish government to support international students. The program offers scholarships for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as language courses and summer programs. 

 

Links to the above platforms: 

 

5.9. Motivation letter, personal statements 

When applying to universities, you may be required to submit different types of letters or statements, such as a letter of motivation or a personal statement. Here are some tips on how to write such letters and statements: 

Letter of Motivation: A letter of motivation, also known as a statement of purpose, is a letter that explains why you are applying to a certain program or university and what your goals are. It should be short and clear and highlight your relevant skills and experience. To write a good motivation letter, you must: 

• Study the program, university and understand their values and goals; 
• Highlight your relevant skills and experience and how they relate to the program or university; 
• Explain your motivations and goals for enrolling in a program or university; 
• Demonstrate enthusiasm and passion for the field of study or research activity. 

Personal Statement: A personal statement is a letter that describes your personal background, experiences, and accomplishments and how they relate to your academic and career goals. It should be focused and highlight your unique qualities and strengths. To write a good personal statement: 

• Focus on your unique qualities and experiences and how they have prepared you to achieve your academic and career goals; 
•  Show your passion and enthusiasm for your field of study or research; 
•  Demonstrate your knowledge and reflections on your personal and academic experiences; 
•  Be concise and clear and use specific examples to support your statements. 

Here are some guides and helpful tips for writing a strong and effective cover letter or personal statement: 

• Know your audience: Before writing your cover letter, research the organization or institution you are applying to and understand their values, goals and expectations. Tailor your letter to suit their needs and show them how you fit into their program. 
•  Highlight your strengths and experience: Showcase your strengths and experience that are relevant to the program to which you are applying. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments. 
• Be clear and concise: Your letter should be clear, concise and to the point. Avoid long and complex sentences and focus on getting your message across effectively. 
•  Be Authentic: Your letter should reflect your personality and writing style. Show your passion, enthusiasm and motivation for the program you are applying for. 
•  Follow Guidelines: Be sure to follow the guidelines and instructions of the organization or institution you are applying to. Pay attention to word count, formatting, and submission deadlines. 
•  Edit and Proofread: Before sending your email, review it several times to check for spelling and grammatical errors. It is also helpful to have someone else read and provide feedback on your writing. 

Remember, your letter of motivation or personal statement is your opportunity to demonstrate your skills and experience and convince the organization or institution to which you are applying that you are the best candidate for the program. By following these tips and using the right resources, you can craft a strong, effective letter that will set you apart from other applicants. 

Useful resources and links: 

1. “The Art of the Personal Essay” by Phillip Lopate 
2. “How to Write a Winning Personal Statement” by Richard J. Stelzer 
3. “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White 
4. “Writing Your Personal Statement: A Step-by-Step Guide” by Jane Marshall 
5. “50 Successful IVY LEAGUE Application Essays” by Gen and Kelly Tanabe 
6. http://collegeessayguy.com/ 
7. https://www.khanacademy.org/  

 

 5.10. Letters of recommendation, transcripts and other documents from school: 

Letter of Recommendation: A letter of recommendation is a letter written by a teacher, guidance counselor, or other professional who has worked with the applicant that describes your academic or professional achievements and qualities. It should be positive and contain specific examples of your strengths and accomplishments. To request a good letter of recommendation, you need: 

• Choose someone who knows you well and can tell you about your strengths and achievements; 
•  Ask to write a letter well in advance of the application deadline and provide the person with all the necessary information and deadlines; 
•  Provide the person with their resume, transcripts, and other relevant information to help them write a detailed and accurate letter; 
•  Contact the person to make sure they sent the email on time. 

Transcripts: 

Transcripts are official records of an applicant’s academic progress that include subjects and/or courses taken, grades received, and other relevant information. Transcripts are usually required by universities to evaluate a student’s qualifications. 

  

School reports: 

School reports are documents that provide information about a student’s performance and behavior at school. They may include class attendance records, disciplinary history, and faculty comments and are often required by universities as part of the admissions process. 

Important: these documents must be requested from a career guidance counselor, supervisor, or school administration at least 2 weeks before the deadline for submitting an application to the university. 

 

 

5.11 Arrival Features: North America, Asia and Europe 

University admission requirements vary by country and institution, but here are some common features and requirements for applicants in North America, Asia and Europe: 

 

North America: 

In the United States and Canada, students typically apply to universities during their senior year of high school. 

Admission is based on a combination of factors, including academic performance, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. 

Some universities in the US also require interviews with admissions officers or alumni. 

Students may also be required to provide financial information to demonstrate their ability to pay tuition and living expenses, especially if they are not eligible for financial aid or scholarships. 

  

Asia: 

In many Asian countries, university admission is based almost exclusively on the applicant’s academic achievements: GPA, exam and standardized test results, participation in academic competitions and research projects. 

In addition to test scores, some universities in Asia may also consider factors such as extracurricular activities, essays, and interviews. 

Europe:  

Entry requirements in Europe can vary greatly depending on the country and institution, but many universities require students to have completed secondary education or a certain number of years of post-secondary education before applying. 

Some universities in Europe also require applicants to take a standardized test such as the SAT or ACT, but this is less common than in North America. 

In addition to academic requirements, universities in Europe may also consider factors such as work experience, extracurricular activities, essays and letters of recommendation. 

In some cases, international students may also be required to demonstrate their ability to pay tuition and living expenses. However, many European countries offer more affordable tuition and more generous financial aid and scholarships for both local and international students. And also many European universities offer free education for foreign students who are ready to study in the national language of a particular country.