Abstract
The study examines the role of online educational platforms in enhancing access to higher education, as well as the benefits and challenges they present in Kazakhstan. The study employed a mixed-methods approach design (systematic literature review and a quantitative survey). A sample of 20 literature materials and 20 undergraduate students was carefully chosen using the purposive sampling procedure. Data were collected using multiple studies and an online survey. Synthesis method and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The results show that the advantages of online learning platforms include increased motivation and involvement, flexibility, autonomous learning, equal access to education, instructional innovation, and enhanced engagement. However, there are limitations, such as a deficiency of engagement, social and rural disparities, and the absence of institutional technical assistance. The results also showed that e-learning improves academic access and success for both regions, but to a greater extent for urban students (mean = 4.42) than for rural students (mean = 4.16). The perceived barriers for urban students include poor internet connectivity, financial constraints, and language barriers, while rural students perceive barriers such as language, limited access to devices, and inadequate technological infrastructure. The study concluded that online learning platforms enhance access to higher education in Kazakhstan.