Skoltech Scholarship in Russia for Local and International Students

Application for the Skoltech Scholarship in Russia for national and international students is now open for the 2026 academic year. This fully funded scholarship supports students who want to pursue a master’s or PhD degree at the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech) in Russia, covering tuition fees and providing a monthly stipend to successful applicants.

Skoltech is a prestigious research university located in Moscow, situated within the Skolkovo innovation hub. It was founded in 2011 in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to establish a new model of science education in Russia. The institute trains specialists in science, technology, and engineering while focusing on research, innovation, and the practical use of scientific results to address modern challenges.

The university offers English-taught graduate programs in STEM disciplines, attracting students from around the world, and conducts research across areas such as artificial intelligence, energy, materials science, life sciences, telecommunications, robotics, and computational science. This global outlook ensures that graduates are well-prepared for international careers in academia and industry.

Program Details

• Host institution: Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech) in Russia.
• Fields of Study: STEM programs offered at the institute (see the list below).
• Number of Awards: Not specified.
• Duration: MSc programs last 2 years. PhD programs typically last 3 to 4 years.
• Eligible countries: Open to all nationalities.

Skoltech Scholarship in Russia Benefits

All applicants are automatically considered for financial support during the admissions process. Funding decisions depend on the results of the competitive selection. Students who receive financial support may obtain the following benefits:

1. Full tuition fee coverage;
2. Medical insurance;
3. A monthly stipend of about 40,000 rubles for Master’s students;
4. A monthly stipend of about 75,000 rubles for PhD students;
5. Additional financial support may be awarded based on academic performance.

For international students who do not receive tuition coverage, the tuition fee is currently 875,000 rubles per year for MSc programs.

Available Programs at Skoltech

Below is the list of available master’s degrees and PhD degrees at the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology.

Master of Science Programs

1. Advanced Manufacturing Technologies
2. Data Science
3. Photonics & Quantum Materials
4. Digital Electrical Energy
5. Advanced Computational Science
6. Materials Science
7. Life Sciences
8. Next Generation Communication Technologies
9. Petroleum Engineering
10. Engineering Systems
11. AI Robotics
12. Mathematical and Theoretical Physics
13. Applied Photonics and Optical Information Systems
14. Applied Computational Mechanics

PhD Programs

1. AgroBiotechnologies and Engineering
2. Computational & Data Science & Engineering
3. Engineering Systems
4. Life Sciences
5. Materials Science & Engineering
6. Mathematics and Mechanics (Mathematics track)
7. Mathematics and Mechanics (Mechanics track)
8. Mathematics and Mechanics (Computational Mechanics track)
9. Petroleum Engineering
10. Physics

Skoltech Scholarship in Russia Eligibility

To apply for the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Applicants to master’s programs must hold a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized university.
• Applicants to PhD programs must hold a master’s degree, Specialist degree, or an equivalent qualification.
• Applications are open to both domestic and international students.
• Senior undergraduate students may apply if they will receive their diploma before enrollment.
• Language Requirements:
  • Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at a minimum level of CEFR B2.
  • Accepted tests include TOEFL iBT (minimum 72), TOEFL ITP (minimum 543), the Duolingo English Test with a B2 level, or the Skoltech “Lingvotest” (minimum 66).
  • Applicants who do not have an official test score may take an internal English test during the final stage of the selection process.
  • Proof of English proficiency is not required if the previous degree was fully taught in English.

Why study at Skoltech?

Below are several reasons students choose the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology.

• Study with internationally recognized researchers and professors.
• Design an individual academic path within interdisciplinary STEM programs.
• Work in an international academic environment where English is the language of study and research.
• Participate in research projects and collaborations with global universities and technology companies.
• Study on a modern campus equipped with advanced laboratories and research facilities.

How to Apply for the Skoltech Scholarship in Russia

There is no separate scholarship application. All admitted master’s and PhD students are automatically considered for funding during the admissions process.

Step 1: Application at Skoltech’s online portal

Prepare the required documents and submit your application through the online system. Upload all materials and complete the form before the deadline.

Step 2: Online testing

Candidates complete an online subject test evaluating academic knowledge and analytical skills. You will receive test instructions and timing by email. Please find sample exams here.

Step 3: Final selection stage

Shortlisted candidates are invited to the final stage, which may include interviews, group challenges, written exams, and an English proficiency test if needed.

Required Documents

1. CV;
2. two letters of recommendation;
3. motivation letter;
4. diploma and academic transcript (or current academic record if still studying);
5. English language test results, if available;
6. additional materials such as publications or research projects (optional).

Applications for MSc programs are accepted from February 2, 2026 to July 7, 2026. The first selection wave deadline is March 16, 2026. Applications for PhD programs are accepted from February 2, 2026 to June 29, 2026, with the first wave deadline on April 27, 2026. For further details about the Skoltech Scholarship in Russia, please visit the official website.