Russia Open Doors Scholarships 2026-2027 for Foreign Students Available
Are you an international student dreaming of studying in Russia tuition-free? Or perhaps you are a researcher looking for a paid postdoctoral opportunity at a leading Russian university? The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project 2026 is now open for applications worldwide, offering fully funded opportunities for Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral levels.
This is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Russia for international students—and here’s your complete guide to applying, eligibility, and deadlines.
Why Choose the Open Doors Scholarship 2026?
The Open Doors Scholarship is not just about financial relief—it’s about unlocking opportunities. Winners are granted the right to study at top Russian universities under the Government quota, meaning 100% tuition coverage.
Here’s why this program stands out among international scholarships:
- No tuition fees – your education is fully funded.
- No application fee – apply completely free.
- Free Russian language training if needed before your studies.
- Priority admission to chosen degree programs at leading universities.
- Postdoctoral winners receive employment contracts as researchers.
This is more than just a scholarship; it’s a career-defining opportunity.
What Do Winners Receive?
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD Winners: Full tuition-free study under the Russian Government quota.
- Runners-up: May also receive placements if seats remain.
- Postdoctoral Winners: Formal employment contracts as researchers at leading universities.
- Additional benefit: Winners can delay enrollment by one year if necessary.
This makes Open Doors one of the most flexible and rewarding scholarships in Russia.
Who Can Apply for Open Doors Russian Scholarship 2026?
The program is open to students and researchers from all countries. Eligibility depends on your education level and age:
- Bachelor’s Track: Ages 16–23, finishing or just completed high school.
- Master’s Track: Ages 20–33, holding or completing a bachelor’s degree.
- Doctoral Track (PhD): Ages 22–35, holding or completing a master’s degree.
- Postdoctoral Track: Ages 24–39, already holding a PhD or equivalent.
Applications can be submitted in English or Russian, making the process accessible to students worldwide.
Open Doors Russian Scholarship 2026 – Important Dates
Here is the official timeline for the scholarship process:
- Registration: September 1 – November 16, 2025
- Stage 1 (Portfolio Submission): September 1 – November 28, 2025
- Stage 2 (Online Exams): November 28 – December 30, 2025
- Stage 3 (PhD & Postdoc Interviews): January 12 – February 26, 2026
Missing a deadline means losing your chance—so mark these dates on your calendar.
Fields of Study Available
The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project 2026 covers a wide range of subject areas. International students can apply for programs in:
- Applied Mathematics & Artificial Intelligence
- Russian Language & Culture
- Biology & Biotechnology
- Computer & Data Science
- Business & Management
- Economics & International Relations
- Environmental & Earth Sciences
- Clinical Medicine & Public Health
- Politics & International Studies
- Engineering & Technology
- Education & Psychology.
Whether your interest lies in STEM, social sciences, or humanities—there’s a program for you.
How Does the Open Doors Competition Work?
The competition process is transparent, online, and free:
- Register on the official portal: https://od.globaluni.ru/
- Stage 1 – Portfolio: Submit transcripts, certificates, achievements, and a motivation letter.
- Stage 2 – Online Exams: Complete proctored written and oral tasks in your subject area.
- Stage 3 – Interviews (PhD & Postdoc only): Meet online with supervisors or research project heads.
Every stage includes identity verification to ensure fairness and credibility.
The registration period for the Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project 2026 begins on September 1, 2025, and will remain open until November 16, 2025. Applicants must also complete their portfolio submissions by November 28, 2025.
The second stage, consisting of online proctored exams, will run from November 28 to December 30, 2025. For those applying to the Doctoral and Postdoctoral tracks, the final stage of interviews will take place between January 12 and February 26, 2026. All international students are strongly advised to prepare early and keep these dates in mind, as late applications will not be accepted.
