Who Is Behind Kazakhstan’s Most Expensive Private Schools?

Private education in Kazakhstan is increasingly emerging as a distinct investment segment. In Almaty and Astana, a number of schools already operate with revenues in the billions of tenge, backed by some of the country’s most influential business figures. We looked at which institutions lead in revenue in 2026—and how much it now costs to study at the top end of the market.

Haileybury Almaty (Almaty)

Estimated revenue: 10.8 billion KZT
Average monthly tuition: approximately 1.4 million KZT
Number of students: 757

The school operates in partnership with the British Haileybury and remains one of the most expensive in the country. Its shareholder structure includes prominent investors and entrepreneurs. The largest stake—32.65%—belongs to Bulat Utemuratov through his private foundation. Other shareholders include Serzhan Zhumash (26.02%), Nurzhan Subkhanberdin (19.7%), Aidan Karibzhanov (8.82%), Margulan Seisembayev (8.82%), and Alfiya Askar Abulkhair (3.99%).

Legally, the school is structured as a non-profit joint-stock company. Its teaching staff includes around 70 international educators, primarily from the United Kingdom.

Haileybury Astana (Astana)

Estimated revenue: 8.04 billion KZT
Average monthly tuition: approximately 1.4 million KZT
Number of students: 574

The school is backed by three investors. A controlling 61.99% stake is held by Bulat Utemuratov’s foundation, while Serzhan Zhumash owns 32.09% and Nurzhan Subkhanberdin holds 5.92%.

Operating in the capital since 2011, the school recently introduced a Sci-Tech Hub—a dedicated learning space focused on STEM disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The 3,000-square-meter facility accommodates 286 students and features laboratories, co-working areas, and specialized classrooms. The project required an investment of 3.4 billion KZT and was supported by Verny Capital Group.

Shokan Ualikhanov Private School (Almaty)

Estimated revenue: 5.46 billion KZT
Average monthly tuition: 512,700 KZT
Number of students: 1,185

The school was founded by entrepreneur Kenes Rakishev and public figure Assel Tasmagambetova. In 2025, Rakishev transferred a 9% stake to his spouse, while retaining control of 91% through the Fincraft investment group.

Quantum STEM School (Astana)

Estimated revenue: 3.83 billion KZT
Average monthly tuition: 407,200 KZT
Number of students: 1,046
Founders: Berik Kaniyev, Aidyn Rakhimbayev

Quantum STEM School was established by entrepreneurs featured in Forbes Kazakhstan—Berik Kaniyev and Aidyn Rakhimbayev (net worth $967 million; ranked among the country’s most influential business leaders). The school, along with Quantum TECH, is managed by Quantum Management Company.

The academic model is built on progressive complexity. In primary school, the Singaporean approach is used, including the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) methodology, designed to develop a structured understanding of mathematics and the sciences.

In grades 6–7, selected STEM subjects are taught under Cambridge programs. By grades 8–9, the focus shifts toward analytical thinking, with students developing problem-solving, argumentation, and independent research skills.

In senior school, students follow A-Level and Advanced Placement tracks, choosing between physics-chemistry or chemistry-biology pathways for deeper specialization.

High Tech Academy (Almaty)

Estimated revenue: 3.77 billion KZT
Average monthly tuition: approximately 846,900 KZT
Number of students: 510

The school is owned by entrepreneur Yerkin Tatishev, co-founder of Kusto Group. Established in 2017, High Tech Academy emphasizes applied learning—project-based work, real-world problem solving, and the development of civic responsibility.

Students regularly participate in national and international competitions, applying their skills in practical settings.

Riviera International School (Astana)

Estimated revenue: 3 billion KZT
Average monthly tuition: 405,300 KZT
Number of students: 782
Founder: Aidyn Rakhimbayev

The school is part of BI Education and operates within the broader BI Group ecosystem. The project was initiated by Aidyn Rakhimbayev, one of Kazakhstan’s leading business figures.

Its academic model combines a strong educational foundation with personalized mentorship. Following the most recent admissions cycle, graduates received 26 offers from universities in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, China, the United States, and Switzerland.

Among the school’s key highlights is a direct admission to the University of Oxford, currently ranked No. 1 in the world by THE.

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