Summer field schools are available to people from all backgrounds interested in archaeology and the culture of Kazakhstan.
Each summer we provide opportunities for training in archaeological field methods and post-excavation data processing to volunteers across the globe. Camping for 3-4 weeks in the scenic Dzhungar Mountains and/or the green steppe of Kazakhstan, students, professionals, and tourists participate in projects focusing on the archaeology of Proto and Historic Silk Road societies to learn about their unique past and how they helped shape the famous civilizations of the East and West, as well as research into dynamic prehistory and population turnovers starting from the Paleolithic and continuing right up to just a few hundred years ago.
Participants reside in hotels when the team is in the city. In the field we live in a camp complex, where each member lives in their own tent. Hired cooks will prepare and provide 3 meals a day. Participants are responsible for airfare and for providing their own tent and personal camping gear.
Cost depending on field site location: $1800 - $2200 US (plus visa, airfare to/from Kazakhstan, and hotel accommodation in city).
Want to get involved?
Field dates: Summer 2026, July 1 to August 30
Applications for the summer 2026 session are now closed.
Updates for the 2027 season will be posted on the following weblink: Archaeological Institute of America
Feel free to be in touch with any questions and please follow this page for updates.