He noted that in many countries, testing is conducted on a paid basis.
“If the government finances this service, it gains the ability to set its own rules. Moreover, this concerns taxpayer expenses. Thus, in the end, it is we, the taxpayers, who pay for the ORT,” he emphasized.
Myza Karimov
As the expert pointed out, the testing is conducted by an independent testing service; however, it is under pressure, even though the organization does not receive funding from the government, only pays taxes and rents premises.
The costs of testing are formed from many factors, such as transportation expenses, paper costs, employee salaries, and airfare for them to the regions.
He also added that if there were no testing service, applicants from the regions would have to travel to the capital on their own to take the exams. For example, a one-way plane ticket from Batken to Bishkek costs 4,500 soms, and typically, an applicant needs an accompanying person. In Bishkek, they would need to find temporary accommodation and pay for meals. Thanks to the testing service, students can take the ORT in their schools or district centers, which significantly simplifies the process.
According to Karimov, the ORT should be viewed as a service similar to hairdressing services.
“The government does not pay for hairdressers' services. Every parent is responsible for their child. If you have a child, they should have the opportunity to live, not just exist. A good education requires good investments. Parents may complain about the high prices of tutors, but it is their choice—whether to send their child to a tutor or to study independently. Every child now has a mobile phone, and they spend money on the internet and communication. And how much do we spend on weddings, holidays, and other events?” he added.
It is important to note that participants in the ORT, which took place in May 2025, chose to take tests in three subjects, while some even opted for six or seven.
The expert reminded that no one is obligated to take multiple subjects—choosing one is sufficient, and for medical specialties, two.
“In our time, higher education is not mandatory for everyone. Even with a Harvard diploma, you can be unemployed if you lack practical skills. You can receive vocational education and earn,” he concluded.
It is worth recalling that Deputy Dastan Bekeshev expressed the opinion that the government should pay for the ORT. He noted that the price of the test increased from 200 to 470 soms per subject and considers this a significant amount for low-income families.
In fact, the rates for basic and subject tests have remained at 470 soms in recent years. This year, only the price of the state language test increased—from 200 to 470 soms, which is related to inflation and rising service costs.
