Finding International Internships and Grants and Using Them Effectively

At the Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics, a seminar titled “Finding International Internships and Grants and Using Them Effectively” was held within the framework of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 17. This informative and highly beneficial event for students was conducted by the Deputy Deans Äbenov B.K. and Sabirova R.F., as well as Senior Curator Tapeeva S.

During the seminar, participants were introduced to valuable information from the ORKENLINK platform, which compiles the most relevant opportunities for students in 2026 — ranging from science and leadership to politics, culture, and sustainable development — helping young people build successful careers.

It was emphasized that through programs capable of significantly transforming career paths, students can gain access to international education, scholarships, and financial support. Internships open up diverse career opportunities, facilitate adaptation to a global environment, and enable the establishment of professional networks.

Students were presented with the following pathways to gain international experience and begin building their careers while still at university:

1) State Scholarship for Study in Hungary
The Ministries of Education of Kazakhstan and Hungary are offering 250 grants for Kazakhstani students.
The grants cover tuition fees, meals, a monthly stipend, accommodation in a dormitory or rental compensation, medical insurance, visa expenses, and airfare.

2) Erasmus Mundus MESPOM Program
Under this program, universities in Austria, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Greece invite students to enroll in one of the world’s most prestigious master’s programs in environmental studies, policy, governance, and sustainable development.

Key requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in ecology, politics, governance, or a related field;

• GPA of 3.5 or higher;

• The program is conducted entirely in English.

Graduates of the program have opportunities to work in the UN, the EU, and other international organizations.

3) University of San Diego International Leadership Program
A fully funded three-week international leadership program open to students from all fields of study. IELTS/TOEFL is not required; instead, a recommendation letter confirming English proficiency is sufficient.

The program focuses on leadership development, international cooperation, public diplomacy, mediation and peacebuilding, and intercultural communication.

4) ECOSOC Youth Forum (New York)
A global youth forum that provides an opportunity to participate in UN activities in New York. Participants discuss key issues related to human rights, education, sustainable development, social and economic policy, and environmental challenges.

5) Confucius Institute Scholarships
Fully funded study programs in China aimed at learning the Chinese language and culture for applicants aged 16–35.

Available formats include:

• 11-month programs;

• 5-month semester programs;

• 4-week winter/summer schools.

More than 150 universities across China accept students throughout the year.

The seminar also explained why students should consider applying for these programs. All of them:

• provide international experience;

• help build professional networks;

• develop practical skills;

• strengthen a resume and portfolio.

Bolat Abenov

Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics for Social and Educational Affairs.