Student Academic Support specialist

Job Description

Position Title: Student Academic Support specialist
Reports to: Director of Student Academic support
Location: Astana, Kazakhstan

Role Purpose

The Student Academic Affairs Specialist provides administrative and advisory support to students and faculty across various academic processes. This role works closely with the Registrar’s Office, Admissions and Student Hub to ensure accurate academic records, smooth registration operations, and high-quality student services.

Key Responsibilities

Student Support

• Provide guidance on academic policies, degree requirements, and procedures.
• Support students with course selection, registration, and academic standing enquiries/issues.
• Respond to student queries in a timely and professional manner​​​​​​​

Academic Administration

• Process academic forms (withdrawals, petitions, extensions, leave of absence).
• Coordinate with faculty on schedule changes, grade submissions, and academic reports.
• Assist in communication of academic deadlines, announcements, and policy updates.
• Maintain accurate academic records in compliance with institutional standards.
• Maintain the official student academic database, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and timely updates by effectively utilizing SIS (Student Information System)
• Keep accurate and up-to-date information about students, including grades, attendance, course registrations, and degree progress.
• Coordinating with academic departments to create a balanced and efficient schedule.
• Advise academic and administrative staff on Ministry of Education and University regulations concerning academic records and student status.
• Contribute to the development of administrative policies and procedures.

Communication

• Prepare and distribute academic announcements and deadlines.
• Support student engagement initiatives related to academic wellbeing.
• Assist in organizing academic workshops, advising sessions, and orientation events.

System Management

• Maintain and update student academic records in the University’s academic systems.
• Run reports and assist with data quality checks for internal and external audits.

Events & Engagement

• Support orientation sessions, advising week activities, and academic workshops.
• Assist in the preparation of academic calendars, guides, and student-facing materials.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Higher education degree, preferably in Education, or related field.
• At least 1-3 years of experience in academic advising, student services, or academic administration ideally in higher education.
• Strong knowledge of Kazakhstan’s higher education system, including Ministry reporting and credit-modular frameworks.
• Excellent communication skills in English and Russian (Kazakh proficiency desirable).

Key Skills and Competencies

• Organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining accurate advising records.
• High level of professionalism, confidentiality, and cultural awareness.
• Strong interpersonal skills and student-centred mindset.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize deadlines.
• Good analytical and administrative abilities.