The Open Doors Scholarship 2027 offers international students and researchers an opportunity to pursue higher education and research in Russia with tuition-free study opportunities.
The competition is open to talented applicants from around the world and covers several levels of study, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral and Postdoctoral programs.
Unlike many traditional scholarships, the Open Doors competition is conducted online and free to enter, allowing eligible international applicants to compete for opportunities at participating Russian universities.
The competition is organized by the Association of Global Universities with support from Russia’s Ministry of Science and Higher Education and Rossotrudnichestvo.
For the 2027 academic cycle, registration is scheduled to begin on August 20, 2026, with the main portfolio submission deadline on November 1, 2026.
Important: Applicants should check the official Open Doors platform for the latest rules, participating universities, subject areas and application instructions before submitting an application.
Open Doors Scholarship 2027 at a Glance
| Scholarship | Open Doors Scholarship |
| Study destination | Russia |
| Study levels | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral and Postdoctoral |
| Funding | Tuition-free study / scholarship benefits |
| Eligible applicants | International students and eligible stateless persons |
| Application fee | Free |
| Application method | Online competition |
| Registration opens | August 20, 2026 |
| Main deadline | November 1, 2026 |
| Languages | English and Russian |
| Official application website | Open Doors |
What Is the Open Doors Scholarship?
The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project is an international academic competition that gives talented applicants the opportunity to pursue higher education or research in Russia.
The competition has been held annually since 2017 and attracts applicants from different parts of the world.
Participants compete across multiple interdisciplinary subject areas, with opportunities available for:
- Bachelor’s degree applicants
- Master’s degree applicants
- Doctoral applicants
- Postdoctoral researchers
Successful participants can receive opportunities to study at participating Russian universities without paying tuition for the eligible study program.
What Does the Open Doors Scholarship Cover?
The benefits depend on the track and the conditions applicable to the selected program.
Tuition-Free Education
One of the main benefits is the opportunity to study without paying tuition fees for the selected eligible degree program.
Programs may be offered in Russian or English, depending on the university and field of study.
Russian Language Training
Applicants who choose a degree program taught in Russian may be eligible for Russian language preparation before beginning their academic program, according to the applicable scholarship conditions.
Choice of University and Program
Successful participants can use the Open Doors system to select an eligible university and degree program.
This provides a centralized route for exploring available study options.
Academic Support
Scholarship winners can receive support throughout their academic journey, depending on the participating institution and applicable program arrangements.
Benefits for Postdoctoral Researchers
The Postdoctoral track is different from the degree tracks.
Successful postdoctoral participants can receive the opportunity to:
- Join a research project at a participating Russian university.
- Select from available research projects.
- Work under the supervision of experienced researchers.
- Access university research facilities and equipment.
- Receive support during their research activities.
Applicants interested in the Postdoctoral track should carefully review the specific research-project requirements before applying.
Who Can Apply for the Open Doors Scholarship 2027?
The competition is open to foreign citizens and eligible stateless persons, including certain compatriots residing outside Russia.
However, applicants must meet the age, educational and degree requirements for the specific track they wish to enter.
Bachelor’s Track Eligibility
The Bachelor’s track is intended for applicants who:
- Are between 16 and 23 years old at the time of registration.
- Do not already hold a bachelor’s, specialist’s or master’s degree.
- Have completed, or are completing, an educational program that qualifies them for admission to higher education under the applicable rules of their country.
This track is suitable for students who are preparing to enter university-level education.
Master’s Track Eligibility
The Master’s track is intended for applicants who:
- Are between 20 and 33 years old at the time of registration.
- Do not already hold a specialist’s or master’s degree.
- Have completed, or are completing, at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification during the relevant academic year.
Applicants should ensure that their previous qualification meets the requirements for admission to their intended master’s program.
Doctoral Track Eligibility
The Doctoral track is intended for applicants who:
- Are between 22 and 35 years old at the time of registration.
- Do not already hold a doctoral degree.
- Have completed, or are completing, at least a specialist’s or master’s degree or equivalent qualification.
Applicants should also consider the academic and research requirements associated with their intended doctoral field.
Postdoctoral Track Eligibility
The Postdoctoral track is intended for researchers who:
- Are between 24 and 39 years old at the time of registration.
- Hold a doctoral degree, PhD or equivalent qualification.
Postdoctoral applicants should review the available research projects and ensure that their research background aligns with the requirements of the project they intend to pursue.
What Languages Are Used in the Open Doors Competition?
The official languages of the Open Doors competition are:
- English
- Russian
Applicants should check the specific requirements of their selected subject area and university before applying.
What Subject Areas Are Available?
The Open Doors competition covers a wide range of interdisciplinary subject areas.
Depending on the competition cycle, areas can include fields related to:
- Engineering
- Computer science
- Medicine
- Economics
- Linguistics
- Natural sciences
- Social sciences
- Humanities
- Other academic disciplines
The exact subject areas and available programs for the 2027 cycle should be confirmed on the official Open Doors platform when applicants begin preparing their applications.
Open Doors Scholarship 2027 Application Timeline
The competition follows several stages.
According to the published 2027 schedule:
- Registration and Portfolio Submission: August 20 – November 1, 2026. Applicants can register and complete their portfolios during this period.
- Portfolio Submission Deadline: November 1, 2026. This is the main deadline for submitting the portfolio.
- First Stage – Portfolio Evaluation: November 2 – 12, 2026. Submitted portfolios are evaluated.
- First Stage Results: November 13, 2026. The results of the first stage are announced.
- Second Stage Registration: November 13 – 16, 2026. Applicants who progress to the next stage complete the required registration.
- Second Stage Tasks: November 17 – December 7, 2026. Participants complete the second-stage tasks for the Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral tracks.
- Second Stage Evaluation: November 18 – December 10, 2026. The submitted work is evaluated.
- Postdoctoral Video Presentations: Postdoctoral applicants upload their required video presentations beginning December 6, 2026.
- Second Stage Results: December 11, 2026. Results for the Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral tracks are announced.
- Appeals: December 11 – 13, 2026. Eligible participants can submit appeals during the designated period.
- Winners and Runners-Up: December 21, 2026. Winners and runners-up for the Bachelor’s and Master’s tracks are announced by subject area.
- Doctoral and Postdoctoral Final Stage: December 22, 2026 – February 26, 2027. The final stage for Doctoral and Postdoctoral participants takes place during this period.
- Final Doctoral and Postdoctoral Results: February 26, 2027. The winners of the Doctoral and Postdoctoral tracks are expected to be announced.
How to Apply for the Open Doors Scholarship 2027
The application process is completed online.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Determine whether you qualify for the Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral or Postdoctoral track.
Check your:
- Age
- Nationality
- Academic qualification
- Current degree status
- Intended field of study
Step 2: Create an Account
Visit the official Open Doors platform and create your applicant account when registration opens.
Step 3: Select Your Track and Subject Area
Choose the appropriate academic track and subject area based on your educational background and future study goals.
Step 4: Complete Your Portfolio
Provide the information and supporting materials requested by the competition.
Your portfolio should accurately represent your academic achievements, experience and qualifications.
Step 5: Submit Your Portfolio
Review all information carefully before submitting your application.
The main portfolio submission deadline for the 2027 competition is November 1, 2026.
Step 6: Complete Subsequent Competition Stages
If you qualify for the next stage, follow the instructions provided through the Open Doors platform.
Depending on your track, this may involve completing additional tasks or submitting other materials.
Step 7: Wait for the Final Results
Successful participants are announced according to the competition schedule.
Winners can then proceed with the relevant university or research placement process.
How to Prepare a Strong Open Doors Application
Although the competition is free to enter, it can be highly competitive.
Here are some practical ways to improve your preparation.
Build a Strong Academic Profile
Your academic history is important, particularly when applying for a competitive international scholarship.
Make sure your transcripts and educational information are accurate and complete.
Highlight Your Achievements
Include relevant achievements such as:
- Academic awards
- Research projects
- Competitions
- Publications
- Volunteer activities
- Leadership experience
- Professional achievements
- Relevant certifications
Only include achievements that are genuine and relevant.
Choose the Right Subject Area
Select a subject area that matches your previous education and future academic goals.
Avoid choosing a field simply because you believe it is less competitive.
Research Your University Options
Before selecting a university or program, investigate:
- Available degree programs
- Language of instruction
- Course content
- Research opportunities
- University location
- Admission requirements
- Academic requirements
Prepare Early
Do not wait until the final days of registration to complete your portfolio.
Early preparation gives you time to identify missing documents and correct mistakes.
Is the Open Doors Scholarship Fully Funded?
The Open Doors program provides tuition-free study opportunities for successful participants under the applicable scholarship arrangements.
However, applicants should understand that tuition-free does not automatically mean every living or personal expense is fully covered.
Before making travel or financial plans, carefully check what expenses are covered by the specific scholarship and university arrangement.
Is There an Application Fee?
No. Participation in the Open Doors competition is free of charge.
Applicants should be cautious of third parties claiming that they can guarantee selection in exchange for an application fee.
Can African Students Apply?
Yes, eligible applicants from African countries can participate if they satisfy the nationality and other requirements for the relevant competition track.
However, applicants should confirm the latest eligibility rules on the official Open Doors platform before applying.
Can I Apply Without Speaking Russian?
Yes, the competition operates in English and Russian, and some participating degree programs are taught in English.
Applicants interested in Russian-taught programs may have access to Russian language preparation under the applicable scholarship arrangements.
Always check the language requirements of the specific university and program you select.
Important Things to Know Before Applying
The Open Doors Scholarship is competitive, and simply submitting an application does not guarantee that you will become a winner.
Applicants should also remember that:
- Requirements can change between competition cycles.
- Not every university offers every subject area.
- Program availability can vary.
- Language requirements may differ between programs.
- Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection.
- Successful competition results may still require additional university admission procedures.
Always follow the official instructions for the 2027 competition.
Official Open Doors Scholarship Website
Applicants should use the official Open Doors platform for registration, competition information, deadlines, subject areas and application instructions.
Official application website:
Applicants should verify all important information directly on the official platform before submitting their application.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Open Doors Scholarship 2027 open?
Registration is scheduled to open on August 20, 2026.
What is the application deadline?
The main portfolio submission deadline is November 1, 2026.
Who can apply?
The competition is open to eligible foreign citizens and stateless persons who meet the requirements for their chosen Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral or Postdoctoral track.
Is the Open Doors Scholarship free to apply for?
Yes. Participation in the competition is free.
What levels of study are available?
The competition has tracks for:
- Bachelor’s
- Master’s
- Doctoral
- Postdoctoral
Can I apply for a Master’s degree?
Yes, provided you meet the Master’s track’s age, educational and other eligibility requirements.
Can I apply for a PhD?
Yes. Applicants who meet the requirements can apply through the Doctoral track.
Is the scholarship available in English?
Some programs are taught in English. Others are taught in Russian. Applicants should check the language of instruction for their chosen program.
Does the scholarship cover tuition?
Successful participants can receive tuition-free study under the applicable Open Doors arrangements.
Do I have to pay an agent to apply?
No. The Open Doors competition itself is free to enter. Applicants should be cautious about anyone demanding payment in exchange for guaranteed selection.
Final Advice
The Open Doors Scholarship 2027 is worth considering if you are looking for an opportunity to pursue higher education or research in Russia.
Because the competition covers multiple academic levels and allows international applicants to participate online, it can be particularly useful for students and researchers who want to explore Russian universities.
If you intend to apply, don’t wait until November to begin preparing.
Start by confirming your eligibility, researching your subject area, gathering your academic documents and preparing your portfolio.
Most importantly, check the official Open Doors platform regularly because the official 2027 competition rules and instructions are the final authority.
Disclaimer: OpportunityShape shares scholarship and international opportunity information for educational and informational purposes only.
We are not the scholarship provider, Russian government, Association of Global Universities, Rossotrudnichestvo or any participating university.
Scholarship requirements, deadlines, eligible countries, participating universities, study programs and funding arrangements may change. Applicants should always verify the latest information directly through the official scholarship provider or participating institution before applying or making financial commitments.
OpportunityShape does not guarantee scholarship selection, university admission, employment or visa approval.
Always rely on the official Open Doors instructions when submitting your application.
