The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) invites qualified South African citizens to apply for the Russian Government Scholarship Programme 2026/2027. This prestigious opportunity enables students to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees at leading Russian universities — strengthening academic and cultural cooperation between South Africa and Russia.
About the Scholarship
The Russian Government Scholarship Programme offers South African students the chance to study in English or Russian, depending on the chosen university and program.
If a program is taught in Russian, recipients will first complete a one-year preparatory course (included in the scholarship) to learn the language and develop academic readiness.
This initiative supports South Africa’s national human capital development strategy by equipping graduates with global expertise and fostering educational partnerships between the two nations.
Levels of Study
Scholarships are available for:
- Bachelor’s Degrees
- Master’s Degrees
- Doctoral (PhD) Programs
Application Period: 15 October 2025 – 15 January 2026
Academic Year: September – May
Priority Fields of Study
Although all fields are welcome, preference will be given to applicants in science, technology, and innovation, aligned with South Africa’s strategic priorities.
Key Priority Areas
- Green Energy
- Nuclear Physics
- Engineering and Technology (including Aeronautical Engineering)
- Physics and Chemistry
- Financial Software
- Architecture
- Media Studies
- Marine Studies
- Fine Arts
- Economics
Note: Health sciences applications will not be considered for the 2026 intake. Applicants for professional degrees (e.g., engineering) must confirm degree recognition with relevant South African professional bodies before applying.
Who Can Apply
The scholarship is open to South African citizens who fit one of the following categories:
- High school or TVET college graduates seeking a Bachelor’s degree
- Bachelor’s degree holders applying for a Master’s degree
- Master’s degree holders pursuing a PhD
- Current South African students in Russia applying for continued DHET support
Additional Requirements
- Minimum 60% average (excluding Life Orientation)
- Meet academic entry requirements for chosen Russian programs
- Be in good physical and mental health
- Postgraduate applicants must demonstrate research readiness
- Commitment to contribute to South Africa’s socio-economic development after graduation
Application Process
- All applications must be completed online via the official platform: https://education-in-russia.com/
- Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Step 1: Create an Online Profile
Provide:
- Full name, date of birth, and contact details
- Chosen field of study and education level
- Language proficiency and program preference
Step 2: Upload Required Documents
- Valid passport (minimum validity of 18 months from intended arrival) or birth certificate
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- Proof of qualification for your chosen degree level
Applicants may choose up to six universities, with these limits:
- No more than three in one federal district
- A maximum of two each in Moscow and St. Petersburg
Only applicants who complete the full online process will be considered for nomination and final selection.
Note: All qualifications obtained outside South Africa must be SAQA-verified. Current students in Russia reapplying must include a progress report.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens in good health
- Have at least 60% average in previous studies
- Meet academic and language requirements for chosen programs
- Be ready to start studies in September 2026
- Show a clear motivation to study in Russia and contribute to South Africa’s development
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
Check other opportunities:
Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship Program 2026 (U.S. Students Only)
Study Free in Hungary: University of Pécs Stipendium Hungaricum 2026 (Fully Funded)
