Free Education for Foreign Students in Russia for the 2025-2026 Academic Year

Russian education is renowned for its long history, classical traditions, strong scientific foundation, and high level of professional training. The centuries-old experience is closely linked with modern technologies, comfortable campuses, and innovative laboratories. Today, it is easier than ever for foreign applicants to get a higher education at a Russian university, whether on a commercial basis or through a government scholarship. Programs for state support and adaptation of foreign applicants are constantly evolving. Scholarships are awarded annually, and new forms of funding, including international grants and scholarships, are emerging.

Admission Process:

1. Choose a program and up to 6 universities.
2. Submit an online application and attach the required documents.
3. Pass a competitive selection in your country.
4. Receive an invitation to study and a student visa.

You can apply for admission to a university through your personal account on the website. Before filling out the application, it is important to decide on the level of education, form of study, and funding options. It is also advisable to make a list of universities where you are willing to study.

The following documents must be attached to the application:

• Passport scan (notarized translation into Russian)
• Grade report for the 11th grade in Russian for two semesters
• OR High school diploma
• Character reference in Russian
• Completed application form
• 3×4 photo
• Download the form from the provided link. After downloading, print and sign it. Then scan all the pages into PDF format and upload them to your personal account.

You must list at least 6 universities where you are willing to study, in order of preference. No more than two universities can be selected in Moscow, no more than two in St. Petersburg, and no more than three in one federal district. It is important that all documents are translated into Russian and notarized by a notary or consulate. After receiving information about admission to a specific university, clarify the list of required documents, as additional ones may be needed.

Pass the selection process in your country:

For applicants seeking state-funded education under the government quota, the first stage of selection may involve an interview with representatives of Rossotrudnichestvo or the Russian Federation’s consular office in your country, as well as qualifying exams.

Steps to follow:

1. Receive information about interviews and qualifying exams in your personal account.
2. Register for the interview or qualifying exam (if registration is required).
3. At the scheduled time, participate in the interview or exam in the format specified for these events.
4. Based on the results of the testing and qualifying exam, you will receive scores that will determine your ranking among candidates in your country, allowing you to assess your chances of proceeding to the second stage of selection.
5. Receive information in your personal account about advancing to the second stage or rejection of admission to a Russian university.

Second Stage:

In the second stage, the applications of candidates for state-funded education, as well as those applying through other funding sources, are reviewed by the universities.

Before arriving in Russia, the applicant must have all the necessary documents ready. These documents will be submitted to the admissions office upon arrival at the educational institution. Here’ is the list:

1. Application for admission to study;
2. Identity document and proof of citizenship + notarized translation;
3. Education certificate showing the qualification (degree), subjects studied, and grades received + notarized translation;
4. Medical certificate confirming the absence of HIV and contraindications for studying in the country in Russian or with a notarized translation;
5. 3×4 photo;

Note: Document legalization (in Turkmenistan) refers to a stamp placed at the Russian Federation’s consulate, confirming the document’s authenticity.

Online Registration:

Registration link

More information: Education in Russia