In March 2010, Kazakhstan became the first Central Asian state to sign up to the Bologna Declaration and to become a member of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). Since then, the country has adopted the three-cycle system of education (Bachelor’s, Master’s & PhD level) and is maintaining standards using different benchmark frameworks, including the European Quality Assurance Register (EQAR). Many higher education institutions in Kazakhstan, SDU included, are now also actively implementing the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) to facilitate international mobility by promoting recognition of academic qualifications attained in Kazakhstan.