The Open Doors Russian Scholarship 2027 offers international students a tuition-free route to study at participating universities in Russia, with a monthly stipend also included for winners. The competition is organized by the Association of Global Universities with support from the Russian Government and is open to applicants from more than 185 countries.
Key facts
- The scholarship covers tuition at participating Russian universities and includes a monthly stipend for winners.
- Applicants can compete for Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD and Postdoctoral study.
- More than 24 leading Russian universities take part, including HSE University, ITMO University, Kazan Federal University and Novosibirsk State University.
- The application and selection process is fully online, so no travel is required for exams.
- The competition covers subject areas such as artificial intelligence, business, engineering, medicine and Russian language and culture.
What does this mean for students applying to study in Russia?
For international applicants, the project can reduce one of the biggest barriers to studying abroad: tuition. It also allows candidates to apply and compete online, which broadens access for students who cannot travel for entrance tests. Winners still need to plan for living costs such as travel, accommodation, food and insurance.
How does the Open Doors scholarship work?
The scholarship is run in stages. Applicants register online, choose one or more subject areas, and upload a portfolio that includes a motivation letter and proof of education. Those who advance then take an online problem-solving challenge in their chosen subject area. PhD and postdoctoral candidates also face an online interview with potential supervisors.
After the results are announced, winners and runners-up receive certificates in their personal account and must select one university and one program from the participating list. Winners then submit notarized translations of their documents to the chosen university for enrollment under the Russian Government quota.
Who can apply?
The competition is open across multiple degree levels. Bachelor’s applicants must have completed secondary education or be in the final year of high school. Master’s applicants must already hold a bachelor’s degree or be in the final year of undergraduate study. PhD applicants need a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification, while postdoctoral applicants must already hold a Candidate of Science, Doctor of Science or PhD degree.
Which subjects are included?
Participating subject areas include Applied Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence, Biology and Biotechnology, Business and Management, Chemistry and Materials Science, Clinical Medicine and Public Health, Computer and Data Science, Earth and Environmental Sciences for Sustainability, Economics and Econometrics, Education and Psychology, Engineering and Technology, Physical Sciences and Technology, Politics and International Studies, Russian Language and Culture, and Urbanism and Civil Engineering.
When is the deadline?
The stated deadline is 1 November 2026. Applicants are instructed to submit their portfolio before that date through the official application site.
Frequently asked questions
How many universities are part of the project?
More than 24 leading Russian universities participate in the scholarship project, including HSE University, ITMO University, Kazan Federal University and Novosibirsk State University.
Do applicants need to travel for exams?
No. The selection process is fully online, and the exam stage does not require travel.
