How admissions work
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Step 01
Exam
You sit four subjects: maths, English, an essay and drawing.
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Step 02
Meeting
Meet the admissions committee and choose your programme.
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Step 03
Contract
Signing the contract with a parent or legal guardian.
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Step 04
Payment
The fee is fixed for the whole period of study
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Step 05
Ministry portal
Enrolment is confirmed on the Ministry of Education portal.
Exams in four disciplines
The exam gives an objective picture of an applicant's preparation and helps us tailor their learning.
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Drawing and painting
Creative thinking, working with colour and materials.
Download a sample task -
English
Your level of English for further study.
Download a sample task -
Maths
Logical and analytical thinking.
Download a sample task -
Essay
Written literacy, argument, expressing ideas.
Download a sample task
What to bring to the exam
- Passport or birth certificate
- Art materials for drawing and painting (pencils, paints, brushes)
- A pen and a graphite pencil
- Water and a light snack
National Testing is not required — neither after Year 9 nor after Year 11.
Compass College runs the Design programme (by industry), and National Testing is not needed for it. Admission is by the College's own entrance exams.
Create to Compass
An annual creative work competition for school pupils. A chance to win a grant, show what you can do in your chosen creative department and make your talent known.
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Stage 01
Application
A motivation essay and a creative piece for your chosen department.
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Stage 02
Shortlist
The jury selects the finalists.
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Stage 03
Final
Participants present and defend their work.
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Stage 04
Awards
Winners receive a grant to study at the College.
Pre-Creator Winter Boost
Courses for pupils in Years 9–11 that prepare them for the entrance exams and help them approach them with confidence.
- Prepare for the College entrance exams
- Strengthen academic knowledge across subjects
- Develop creative skills and visual literacy
3 months of intensive preparation
- Duration 1198 months
- Schedule At weekends
- Session 2 hours
- Year 9–11 years
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be able to draw to get in?
Not necessarily. In the creative task we look at your vision, not your technique. You can draw in pencil, in paint or digitally — it's up to you. Drawing is not required for the Product Design and Information Technology programme.
Do I need National Testing?
No. National Testing is not required, whether you apply after Year 9 or after Year 11. Compass College runs the Design programme (by industry), and National Testing is not needed for it.
What qualification will I receive?
Two documents: a state diploma of vocational secondary education of the Kyrgyz Republic (recognised across the CIS) and Compass College's own diploma with a GPA transcript.
What language is teaching in?
The first two years are taught in Russian; in the third year selected lectures and/or subjects are taught in English.
Can I transfer to Compass College from another college?
Yes, we accept students from other colleges.
Is there a hall of residence?
We do not have our own hall of residence at present. We help students from other cities find accommodation — please contact the admissions committee.
Can I go on to a university abroad after Compass College?
Yes. The Careers Centre helps with applications abroad. We have partnerships with international universities offering special terms for our graduates. For example, Aiym Samatova (2024) received a 90% scholarship at Westphal College, USA.
What is the average age of students?
First-year students join us after Year 9. We also accept those who have already finished school or hold a higher education degree.
Is it a college or a school?
Compass College is a vocational secondary education institution. After Year 9 or Year 11 you study for three years and gain a specialism and a state-recognised diploma. The emphasis is on practice and portfolio.
Register now
Every year there are fewer places and more competition. Your moment is today.