The Open Doors Scholarship 2026 in Russia is a fully funded opportunity offered by the Government of Russia for international students to study at top universities across the country. The program is open for Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral degrees.
In 2025, more than 6,300 winners were selected through this competition. Students from any country can apply without paying an application fee. Winners will not only receive free tuition but also a monthly stipend, accommodation, and the right to work in Russia. Additionally, scholars are granted a residence permit during their studies.
Below is everything you need to know about eligibility, benefits, and the application process.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country: Russia
- Participating Universities: 24 top Russian universities
- Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral
- Funded by: Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Russia
- Deadline: 16 November 2025
What is the Open Doors Scholarship?
The program provides early admission to Russian universities without entrance exams. All tuition fees are waived, and winners receive a monthly allowance funded by the Russian Federation.
Benefits of the Open Doors Scholarship 2026
Winners will enjoy:
- Full Tuition Coverage
- Free Admission to chosen universities
- Monthly Stipend
- Accommodation
- Permission to Work in Russia
Available Study Fields
The Open Doors Scholarship covers a wide range of academic disciplines, including:
- Biology & Biotechnology
- Computer & Data Science
- Applied Mathematics & Artificial Intelligence
- Business & Management
- Politics & International Studies
- Physical Sciences & Technology
- Linguistics & Modern Languages
- Chemistry & Materials Science
- Economics & Econometrics
- Engineering & Technology
- Clinical Medicine & Public Health
- Earth & Environmental Sciences for Sustainability
- Education & Psychology
- Urbanism & Civil Engineering
Eligibility Criteria
- All nationalities are eligible to apply.
- Bachelor’s Track: Must have completed or be completing secondary education.
- Master’s Track: Must hold (or be completing) a bachelor’s degree.
- PhD Track: Must hold (or be completing) a master’s or specialist degree.
- Applicants must carefully read the Rules & FAQs before applying.
How to Apply for the Russia Open Doors Scholarship 2026?
Follow these steps:
- Register online by creating an account.
- Complete your portfolio and take the online entrance test. Attach all required documents.
Note: You cannot edit your portfolio after 16 November 2025. - After evaluation, selected candidates will proceed to the second stage.
- The final stage includes interviews and academic assessment.
- Winners will be awarded fully funded places at participating Russian universities.
University Selection
- Applicants can select 1–6 universities when applying.
- If your first-choice university does not offer your program, your application will be automatically transferred to your next preferred institution.
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