As the new academic year approaches, approximately 10,000 first-graders are expected to enroll in schools across the region, marking a significant milestone for children and their families. This commitment to education reflects the essential stage in a child's life, which requires careful planning and timely preparation. "In the first grades, children who are already 6 years old in the current calendar year are accepted, regardless of the child's level of preparation. They can also enroll those who will turn 6 by the end of the year. In this case, it is up to the parents to decide whether to send the child to school or not," noted Anna Lazareva, press secretary of the education department.
The enrollment process is open until August 31, 2025, giving parents a crucial window to prepare their applications. Applications for admission can be submitted through the eGov.kz portal or directly at the schools in paper form, with documents needing to be meticulously prepared to ensure a smooth process. Required documents include a parent's application, medical certificate No. 065/u, child's health passport No. 052-2/u, and two color photos sized 3x4.
To aid parents during this time, Lazareva highlighted, "Parents are recommended to prepare in advance for the start of the school year. Make sure you have all the necessary medical certificates ready, as well as a digital signature (EDS) to work on the eGov.kz portal. The sooner you submit the application, the more chances your child has of getting into the school that is convenient for you." Completing applications well ahead of the deadline may also improve the likelihood of securing a place at sought-after schools, many of which have limited class sizes.
It's important to note that, starting last year, the admission process for innovative schools has seen noteworthy changes. The previous requirement for entrance exams for lyceums and gymnasiums has been completely abolished. This reform aims to make the educational landscape more accessible for all families, allowing more children the opportunity to enroll in these prestigious institutions. "Since last year, exams for admission to the first grades of lyceums and gymnasiums have been completely abolished. Now children are admitted on common grounds, which makes the admission process more accessible for all families," Lazareva emphasized.
Another significant aspect of this transitional phase for incoming students is the focus on pre-school preparation, which has become a crucial component of early education. Parents are encouraged to involve their children in educational activities ahead of their first school day. As Lazareva pointed out, "It should be noted that pre-school preparation is mandatory; it can be organized both at home and in pre-school institutions." This guidance underlines the importance of preparing young learners before entering a formal learning environment, further easing their adjustment to the school system.
As this new academic year unfolds, responsibility falls on both parents and educational institutions to ensure children experience a seamless transition into first grade. With these critical steps laid out, families can take an active role in shaping their children’s educational journey and securing their rightful place in the school of their choice.
In summary, the process of enrolling first-graders is not only a formality but also a vital part of preparing children for their future academic successes. Parents are encouraged to take charge of upcoming deadlines and ensure all necessary documentation is completed. This proactive stance can significantly impact their child's educational experience, setting a strong foundation for their school years ahead.
