Qazaq AI Research University has opened applications for the INFLECTION 2026 grant competition.

Qazaq AI Research University has announced the launch of the national grant competition QAIRU INFLECTION 2026, designed to identify talented young people with high potential, leadership qualities, and a drive to create the technologies of the future.

The core idea of the competition is that the university is not looking for ready-made winners, but for those capable of becoming them. It is not necessary to have numerous diplomas, medals, or olympiad victories to participate. QAIRU believes that talent can be found in any graduate—regardless of whether they live in a large city or a small village. Therefore, the competition focuses on identifying potential, motivation, ambition, and the desire to shape the future through technology and AI.

Winners of the competition will receive:
— A 100% institutional grant for the entire duration of study at QAIRU
— Two international internships at partner universities and companies abroad
— University investment in the best AI projects of the winners
— Participation in QAIRU acceleration programs
— A personal mentor for leadership, professional, and entrepreneurial development
— Guaranteed professional internships at companies that are industrial partners of the university.

Participants in the competition can be 2026 graduates of schools and colleges who are citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as applicants planning to enroll in QAIRU educational programs. The minimum ENT (Unified National Testing) score is 70 points.

If a participant took the ENT with a different combination of profile subjects but becomes a winner of the competition, they will be able to retake the ENT in August 2026 and, upon achieving the required result, activate their grant.

The competition will take place in three stages. In the first stage, Show Yourself, participants must record a short video about themselves, their hobbies, dreams, goals, and motivation. The main task is to showcase their personality, not the number of diplomas or certificates. The submission of videos will be open until July 15, 2026, inclusive.

The second stage is an online selection process, which will take place from July 22 to 29. Participants will undergo a comprehensive assessment of their potential, including tests of logical and analytical thinking, solving a practical case study, evaluation of the ability to learn quickly, and an online interview.

The final stage of the competition will be held from August 12 to 14, 2026 at QAIRU. The top 20 participants from across the country will advance to the final. Finalists will participate in project sessions, masterclasses, and the defense of their own projects before an expert commission. The university will cover all expenses related to travel, accommodation, and meals.

More information about the competition is available on the website.