The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project 2026–2027 offers international students and researchers an opportunity to pursue higher education or research in Russia through a competitive scholarship programme. Organized by the Association of Global Universities and supported by Russia’s Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the programme connects talented applicants with leading Russian universities.

The competition is conducted entirely online and welcomes eligible international applicants from countries around the world. Successful candidates can receive tuition-free education in a range of academic fields, including artificial intelligence, engineering, medicine, business, economics, computer science, and international relations.

Benefits of the Open Doors Scholarship

The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project provides successful applicants with opportunities to study or conduct research at participating Russian universities.

1. Tuition-Free Education

Winners in the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral tracks can receive coverage of tuition fees for their selected study programmes through Russia’s government scholarship quota.

2. Multiple Study Opportunities

Applicants can compete for admission to undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes, depending on their educational qualifications. The Postdoctoral track provides opportunities to join research projects at Russian universities.

3. Wide Range of Academic Fields

The competition covers disciplines such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clinical medicine, computer and data science, engineering, business management, economics, education, environmental sciences, and political studies.

4. Study in English or Russian

Participating universities offer programmes in English or Russian, depending on the course. Winners enrolling in programmes taught in Russian may receive a complimentary one-year Russian language preparatory course.

5. International Academic Experience

Selected candidates can benefit from studying at leading Russian universities, accessing academic resources, and developing their professional and research skills.

Important: Although tuition fees are covered, the scholarship does not automatically cover all living expenses. Students should budget for accommodation, food, travel, medical insurance, and personal expenses. Monthly stipend availability and amounts may vary by university.

Eligibility Criteria

The Open Doors Scholarship is open to eligible foreign citizens and stateless persons, including compatriots residing abroad. Applicants must meet the educational requirements for their chosen track.

• Bachelor’s Track: Applicants who have completed secondary education or will complete it in the year of the competition.

• Master’s Track: Applicants holding a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent higher education qualification, or completing it in the competition year.

• Doctoral (PhD) Track: Applicants holding a master’s degree or specialist qualification, or completing the required qualification in the competition year.

• Postdoctoral Track: Applicants who already hold a PhD or an equivalent qualifying research degree.

Applicants should review the official rules for the specific requirements of their selected track and subject area.

Required Documents

Applicants generally need the following documents for the first stage:

• Valid passport

• Proof of current educational level or academic qualification

• Motivation letter

• Academic achievements and supporting portfolio documents, where available

Additional documents may be required during later stages or university admission. Applicants should follow the instructions provided in their official Open Doors account.

How to Apply for the Open Doors Scholarship 2026–2027

Follow these steps to participate:

1. Visit the official Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project website.

2. Create an account and complete the online registration.

3. Select the appropriate academic track and subject area.

4. Prepare your portfolio, including your motivation letter, educational documents, and relevant achievements.

5. Complete the required entry test and submit your portfolio according to the competition rules.

7. If shortlisted, follow the instructions for the subsequent competition stage.
8. Successful candidates can proceed with the scholarship and university admission process.

Application Deadline

Registration for the 2026 Open Doors competition began on 20 August 2026. The official website lists 1 November 2026 as the registration deadline. Applicants should complete their registration and prepare their portfolio well before the deadline.