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Skoltech Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded) | Master’s & PhD Programs

Applications are now officially open for the Skoltech Scholarships 2026 for international students seeking admission to fully funded Master’s and PhD programs. The Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech), located in Moscow, Russia, is a world-class research university established in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Skoltech offers an exceptional opportunity for talented students from all countries to study in English, receive generous monthly scholarships, access cutting-edge laboratories, and participate in industry-driven research and innovation projects. This scholarship program is highly competitive and attracts applicants interested in STEM fields, entrepreneurship, and applied research.

Why Choose Skoltech?

Skoltech is designed as a next-generation technological university, combining strong academic foundations with real-world problem solving. Faculty members bring decades of research experience from top global institutions, creating an international academic environment focused on innovation, commercialization, and impact.

• English-taught Master’s and PhD programs
• Strong partnership with MIT and global research networks
• Industry internships and applied research opportunities
• Individual study plans with interdisciplinary flexibility
• Entrepreneurship and startup support ecosystem

Scholarship Benefits

Students admitted through the competitive selection process are eligible for comprehensive financial support. International students can receive both tuition coverage and a monthly stipend, making Skoltech one of the most attractive funded study options in Russia.

• Monthly stipend:  

  • Master’s students: 40,000 RUB per month
  • PhD students: 75,000 RUB per month

• Full or partial tuition coverage based on selection results
• Medical insurance for international students
• Access to academic exchange programs with foreign universities
• Internships at leading corporations and research centers

High-performing students may also receive an increased scholarship during their studies based on academic excellence and research output.

Available Degree Programs

Skoltech focuses exclusively on STEM and innovation-oriented disciplines. Programs are designed to meet global research and industry demands.

• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science and Computational Engineering
• Energy Systems and Petroleum Engineering
• Materials Science and Nanotechnology
• Biotechnology and Life Sciences
• Applied Mathematics and Physics
• Engineering Systems and Robotics

English Language Requirement

All programs at Skoltech are taught entirely in English. Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency at a minimum CEFR B2 level. Accepted proofs include:

• TOEFL iBT (minimum 72)
• TOEFL ITP (minimum 543)
• Duolingo English Test (B2 level)
• Skoltech internal “Lingvotest”

Applicants who graduated from a fully English-taught degree program may be exempt from submitting test scores. Candidates without official scores can take an internal English test during the final selection stage.

Who Can Apply?

Skoltech welcomes applications from motivated and academically strong students worldwide.

• Senior undergraduate students (final year or beyond)
• Graduates with a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s programs)
• Graduates with a Master’s degree (for PhD programs)
• Applicants from any country and nationality

There is no minimum GPA requirement, making this scholarship accessible to a broad range of talented candidates.

Required Documents

For Master’s Programs

• Higher education diploma or current academic transcript
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter / Statement of Purpose
• Two letters of recommendation
• English proficiency certificate (if available)
• Additional materials such as publications or projects (optional)

For PhD Programs

• All Master’s application documents
• Detailed research proposal outlining topic, objectives, and methodology

All documents must be submitted in English. Translations do not require notarization.

Application Timeline (2026 Intake)

Master’s Programs

• Wave 1: February 2 – March 16, 2026
• Wave 2: March 17 – June 1, 2026
• Wave 3: June 2 – July 7, 2026

PhD Programs

• Wave 1: February 2 – April 27, 2026
• Wave 2: April 28 – June 29, 2026

Applicants are strongly advised to apply in earlier waves to increase their chances of receiving full financial support.

Application Fee

• 1,000 RUB (cards issued by Russian banks)
• 50 USD (cards issued outside Russia)

The application fee covers administrative costs and does not influence admission decisions.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their application through the official Skoltech admissions portal. The selection process includes online application submission, academic testing, and a final interview round.

Only complete applications submitted within the official deadlines are considered.

Final Thoughts

The Skoltech Scholarships 2026 offer a rare opportunity to study at a globally connected research institute with strong industry integration, generous funding, and English-taught programs. For students interested in science, technology, and innovation, Skoltech provides an ideal platform to build a competitive international career.

Early preparation, a strong motivation letter, and a clear academic or research focus can significantly improve your chances of success.