open doors
The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project is your chance for an early admission and to a tuition-free study program at one of the leading universities in Russia.

If you are a young and ambitious PhD holder, this is your chance to get a post-doc position at one of the leading universities in Russia.
in the Russian Scholarship Project
Participate
open doors
The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project is your chance for an early admission and to a tuition-free study program at one of the leading universities in Russia.



If you are a young and ambitious PhD holder, this is your chance to get a post-doc position at one of the leading universities in Russia.
in the Russian
Scholarship
Project
Participate
Track Schedule
First Stage
01.09.2025 - 28.11.2025
1 September 2025
Registration of participants
1 September - 16 November 202
5 Portfolio filling
Entrance test
16 November 2025
Deadline for portfolio submissio
17 - 24 November 2025
Grading of the portfolios
28 November 2025
Announcement of the First stage results
Second Stage
2 december - 30 december 2025
2 - 15 December 2025
Completion of tasks in the proctoring mode
3 December 2025 - 21 December 2025
Grading of the Second stage of the competition
22 December 2025
Announcement of the Second stage results
23 December 2025
Appeal process
30 December 2025
Announcement of the Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project winners and runners-up of the bachelor's track by Subject areas
First Stage
01.09.2025 - 28.11.2025
1 September 2025
Registration of participants
1 September - 16 November 2025
Portfolio filling, entrance test
16 November 2025
Deadline for porttfolio submission
17 - 27 November 2025
Grading of the portfolios
28 November 2025
Announcement of the First stage results
second Stage
01.12.2025 - 30.12.2025
2 - 15 December 2025
Completion of tasks in the proctoring mode
3 December 2025 - 21 December 2025
Grading of the Second stage of the competition
22 December 2025
Announcement of the Second stage results
23 December 2025
Appeal process
30 December 2025
Announcement of The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project winners and runners-up of the master's track by Subject areas
First Stage
01.09.2025 - 28.11.2025
1 September 2025
Registration of participants
1 September - 16 November 2025
Portfolio filling and entrance test
16 November 2025
Deadline for portfolio submission
17 - 27 November 2025
Grading of the portfolios
28 November 2025
Announcement of the First stage results
second Stage
01.12.2025 - 27.01.2026
1 December 2025
Competition of the video presentation of research results
30 December 2025
Publication of the list of the Third stage participants on the Subject area pages
third Stage
12 January - 26 February 2026
Online inerviews with six research supervisors whose interests align with those of participant

27 February 2026
Announcement of the Open Doors Russian Scholarship Projectwinners of the post-doctoral track by Subject areas
first Stage
01.09.2025 - 28.11.2025
1 September 2025
Registration of participants
1 September - 16 November 2025
Portfolio filling and entrance test
16 November 2025
Deadline for portfolio submission
17 - 27 November 2025
Grading of the portfolios
28 November 2025
Announcement of the First stage results
second Stage
01.12.2025 - 30.12.2025
2 - 15 December 2025
Completion of tasks in the proctoring mode




3 December 2025 - 21 December 2025
Grading of the Second stage of the competition
22 December 2025
Announcement of the Second stage results
23 December 2025
Appeal process
30 December 2025
Publication of the lists of the third stage participants on the Subject area pages

Third Stage
12 January - 26 February 2026
Online inerviews with three prospective research supervisors

27 February 2026
Announcement of the Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project winners of the doctoral track (analogous to PhD)
The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project is your chance for an early admission and to a tuition-free study program at one of the leading universities in Russia.
Degree Programs
Degree Programs
Degree Programs
1.4.1. Inorganic Chemistry
2.5.13. Design, Construction, Production, Testing and Operation of Aircraft
2.5.15 Thermal Engines, Electric Propulsion Systems and Power Plants
2.5.16. Dynamics, Ballistics, Aircraft Motion Control
5.8.2. Theory and Methodology of Education and Upbringing (by fields and degrees)
5.8.7. Methodology and Technology of Vocational Education
5.9.6 Foreign Languages (Germanic Languages)
5.9.8. Theoretical, Applied and Comparative Linguistics
Research Supervisors
  • Anton V. Savchenkov
    Doctor of Sciences in Chemistry
    1.4.1. Inorganic Chemistry (Chemical Sciences)

    About Research Supervisor
  • Dmitry A. Uglanov
    Doctor of Sciences in Engineering
    2.5.15 Thermal Engines, Electric Propulsion Systems and Power Plants
    About Research Supervisor
  • Olga L. Starinova
    Doctor of Sciences in Engineering
    2.5.16. Dynamics, Ballistics, Aircraft Motion Control

    About Research Supervisor
  • Vyacheslav D. Shevchenko
    Doctor of Sciences in Philology
    5.9.6 Foreign Languages (Germanic Languages)

    About Research Supervisor
  • Victoria V. Levchenko
    Doctor of Sciences in Education
    5.8.7. Methodology and Technology of Vocational Education

    About Research Supervisor
  • Denis V. Pushkin
    Doctor of Sciences in Chemistry
    1.4.1. Inorganic Chemistry (Chemical Sciences)

    About Research Supervisor
  • Larisa A. Kiseleva
    Doctor of Sciences in Philology
    5.9.5. Russian Language. Languages of the Peoples of Russia

    About Research Supervisor
Research Supervisor
Artem V. Nikonorov
Doctor,
Director of the Institute of Artificial Intelligence,
Director of the Centre for Intelligent Mobility of Multifunctional Unmanned Aircraft Systems,
Professor at the Department of Supercomputers and General Informatics.
Scientific Fields and Research Areas:
  • Applied Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence
  • Applied Mathematics and Informatics
Samara
Why
University
?
Why
?
University
Samara
Samara University is a world-class multidisciplinary research and education center. Samara University is a flagship university of the Russian space industry. Our key focus lies in the development and implementation of advanced solutions in Aerospace Technology, Aviation, Photonics, Digital Engineering, Information Systems and Advanced Materials. The university integrates fundamental and applied sciences, engineering innovation, and humanities, creating a unique educational and research ecosystem.

CHOOSE A DEGREE PROGRAM
What makes Samara University unique?
  • 18 000+

    students
  • 900+

    international students from 65 countries
  • 8

    institutes
  • 250+

    degree programs
  • 53

    research laboratories
  • 150+

    industry partners — internships and career opportunities;
    international partners
6
5
4
3
2
1
Since 1942, our university scientists and graduates have contributed to the creation of world-renowned rocket and space technologies.
There are dozens of research centers and even our own satellite constellation which is currently in orbit.
Degree programs are delivered in collaboration with major industry leaders.
Rich history
Scientific and technological infrastructure
Opportunities
We are more than just about space. The university also trains highly skilled professionals in Natural Sciences, Humanities, Economics, and Law.
You will be part of our vibrant, multicultural community.
We are located in Samara — the space capital of Russia and a resort city on the Volga River.
Multidisciplinarity
Community
Location
6
5
4
3
2
1
Since 1942, our university scientists and graduates have contributed to the creation of world-renowned rocket and space technologies.
There are dozens of research centers and even our own satellite constellation which is currently in orbit.
Degree programs are delivered in collaboration with major industry leaders.
Rich history
Scientific and technological infrastructure
Opportunities
We are more than just about space. The university also trains highly skilled professionals in Natural Sciences, Humanities, Economics, and Law.
You will be part of our vibrant, multicultural community.
We are located in Samara — the space capital of Russia and a resort city on the Volga River.
Multidisciplinarity
Community
Location
Samara University in Rankings
Russia
  • in five subject rankings by RAEX Agency (2025):
    • 3rd place in «Aviation and Rocket Technology»
    • 15th place in «Chemistry»
    • 16th place in «Pedagogical Education»
    • 18th place in «History and Archaeology»
    • 20th place in «Sociology»
  • in the national ranking of entrepreneurial universitie by the Expert Analytical Center (2024)
  • in IT Salary Ranking for Young Specialists by the SuperJob Research Center
    (2025)
  • in the ranking of the best universities in the Digital Economy field
    (2024)
International
    • Top Engineering school rankings 2025: Leading universities for Engineering
    • Top Physical Sciences school rankings 2025: Leading universities for Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Statistics
    • Top Computing Science school rankings 2025
    • Top Social Sciences school rankings 2025
  • in the BRICS Universities Ranking 2024 by the Association of Rating Makers (ARM)
  • в The QS World University Rankings 2025
International Partnership
Samara University collaborates with over 150 international organizations in the fields of education and science.
Key Partners
Association of Sino-Russian Technical Universities (ASRTU)
International Astronautical Federation (IAF)
University Space Engineering Consortium (UNISEC-Global)
Beijing Institute of Technology (BIT, China)
Northwestern Polytechnical University (NWPU, China)
Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (NUAA, China)
Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU, China)
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay, China)
Admission
Winners of The Open Doors Russian Scholarship Project have the opportunity to study for free at one of the leading Russian universities, including Samara University.
Samara University offers programs in both Russian and English. You can explore the available programs in your preferred language here.

To ensure a comfortable learning experience and smooth adaptation, we recommend that when applying for the quota, you also consider enrolling in the Preparatory Course of Samara University.


1. register on the website

ass the required entrance tests according to your selected track: bachelor’s, master’s, PhD or postdoctoral
wait for the results
choose a degree program at Samara University, ask all your questions in the Telegram channel
follow the instructions provided by “Open Doors” Organizing Committee
come to study at Samara University!

If you need any help - contact our Telegram channel or one of our buddies.

Science
At Samara University,we believe science should be accessible to everyone - from applicants to graduates
  • 11

    research institutes
  • 38

    advanced research laboratories
  • 11

    interdisciplinary research and education centers
  • 7

    design bureaus
Samara University is a key academic center for Russian cosmonautics. Our priority research areas include: Aerospace Technologies, Photonics, Physics and Chemistry of Combustion.
Learn more here

Science at our university is not limited to laboratory work — it also offers opportunities to engage in educational outreach and science communication activities.Our researchers are winners of national and regional media awards, participants in nationwide science popularization campaigns, authors of textbooks, and leaders of international projects.

Samara University is a member of the Science Slam Russia Federal Association . Science Slam Russia is an international science popularization project where young researchers compete for audience recognition by presenting the key scientific ideas of our time and their own research in an engaging and accessible format.

Over 3,000 of our students present their research at national and international venues every year, winning grants and bringing innovative projects to life.

Join us!
Campus Life
at Samara University

The campus of Samara University is more than just a place to study — it’s a vibrant ecosystem that combines advanced scientific research, entrepreneurial opportunities, and a comfortable living environment for learning and personal growth.

One of the key features of our student campus is walkability: academic buildings and dormitories are 5 minute-walk from each other, saving both time and money on transportation.

free access to publications indexed
Students are granted access to professional databases and online resources, both Russian and international.
free Wi-Fi
Campus-wide free Wi-Fi network
  • 30+

    academic and laboratory buildings
  • 100+

    research centers, laboratories, and coworking spaces
  • 10+

    sports facilities, including fields, gyms, and arenas
  • 2

    swimming pools
  • 10

    student dormitory buildings
  • 1 600 000+

    items in the university library collection
Unique Campus Locations
Training Airfield of Samara University is a dedicated training site for future aviation professionals, located near Smyshlyayevka Airport. Students complete their flight practice on various types of aircraft and receive hands-on instruction in specialized classrooms and technical facilities.

More information
Aircraft Engine History Center (AEHC) is a unique museum and educational complex showcasing the evolution of aviation technologies. Its collection includes rare examples of aircraft engines from various eras — from the earliest piston models to modern jet engines. The Center serves not only as an exhibition space but also as a research center for aerospace students.
More information
Museum of Aviation and Cosmonautics is a proud highlight of our campus, dedicated to the history of Russian space exploration. The exhibition features unique artifacts — from components of the first spacecraft to full-scale models of rocket engines. A special section is devoted to the contribution of Samara-based enterprises to space exploration. The museum also serves as an educational platform for future engineers and space researchers.
More information
Botanical Garden is a state-designated natural monument covering an area of 33.98 hectares, open for free access to students and faculty. It offers not only a peaceful walk among rare plant species but also opportunities for scientific work: specialized laboratories located on-site support biological research conducted by the university scientists.
More information
Startup Center is a platform for students and young researchers to bring their entrepreneurial ideas to life. Future innovators gain access to modern coworking spaces, expert guidance from business mentors, and opportunities to attract investment. The Center regularly hosts hackathons, acceleration programs, and pitch sessions, helping promising projects enter the market.
More information
Smart Butterfly House is a project based at the Interdepartmental Laboratory of Animal Systematics and Faunistics of Samara University. Its unique collection includes over 75,000 specimens of Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) from Africa, North and South America, Asia, and Europe. The collection ranks among the top five in Russia and is one of the top three largest butterfly collections in the world.
More information
Students of Samara University are offered accommodation in modern apartment-style dormitories. These are comfortable blocks equipped with private kitchens, bathrooms, and relaxation areas, providing a home-like living environment.
More than 250 dormitory places are reserved for international students, with priority given to winners of the "Open Doors" Olympiad. Accommodation fees depend on the level of comfort and range from 770 to 5,100 RUB (approximately $10 to $65) per month.
More information
Student life
Student life at Samara University is dynamic, diverse, and enriching!
Samara University offers a unique environment where academic excellence goes hand in hand with creativity, community, and personal development:
  • 90+ student clubs and organizations
    from academic and research societies to artistic, cultural, and interest-based groups
  • Vibrant campus culture
    take part in international projects and student-led cultural events
  • Strong student support system
    including the Student Council, Trade Union, and Council of Young Scientists and Specialists
  • Well-being and health support

Our students take an active role in organizing and participating in the university’s major events, including: Knowledge Day, Student Awards Ceremony, Student’s Day, Lukachev street Festival, and many more!


Join us and make your university years truly unforgettable!

for International Students
Services
Every student of Samara University has a digital personal cabinet, which provides convenient access to:
• class schedule;
• academic performance;
• study plans;
• online classes;
• resume builder;
• open positions offered by partner companies.
More information

Key platform for international cooperation, supporting international collaboration among young people from Samara region and foreign countries. There are seven clubs operating under the Center: Chinese, German, English, French, and Turkish Clubs, as well as the International Students Club and the Unitis Club.
The Unitis Club focuses on three main UNESCO priority areas: preservation of cultural heritage, education, and youth development.
More information
Language clubs, Chinese Centre, English language club “English Speaking Club” , as well as annual competitions “Mister International” and “Miss International”, where students demonstrate their talents and national traditions.

More information
International students of Samara University have the opportunity to continue studying the Russian language throughout the entire period of study at the university.

More information
Implemented throughout the entire period of study: visa support, academic process, adaptation.
More information

Mentoring system from senior international students: advice on admission, studies and unlocking your potential through university opportunities.
More information
Career Opportunities

More about employment of foreigners in Russia in the Telegram channel “Adventures of Foreigners in Russia”.

Samara University Through Student Eyes
Discover first-hand experiences of our international students in the Student Voices section.

Below, view video testimonials from winners of the Russian Scholarship Project about their studies at our university.
Samara city
Samara: A Vibrant City in the Heart of Russia
  • UTC+4 (SAMT – Samara Time)
    Time zone

  • 1.2 million
    Population
  • 81,032 rubles (~$1,030) per month
    Average salary (2024)
  • 15,000 rubles (~$190) per month (excluding dormitory fees)
    Average student cost of living (2025)
  • 1,000 rubles (~$13) per person
    Average restaurant bill (2025)
  • 770–5,100 rubles (~$10–65) per month
    University dormitory room rental (2025)
  • Historic Foundation
    Founded in 1586 as a fortress outpost, Samara has deep historical roots. During World War II, the city—then named Kuibyshev (1935–1990)—served as the de facto backup capital of the Soviet Union, with government institutions and foreign embassies relocated there from Moscow.
  • Space City
    Samara is a global center of the space industry. The legendary Soyuz launch vehicles, with over 1,900 successful missions, are produced here. Samara engineers designed and built the rocket that carried Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space. It is the only city in Russia offering a complete aerospace production cycle—from design and engineering to spacecraft assembly and specialized training in aviation and rocket space technology.
  • Resort Destination
    Stretching along the Volga River, Samara boasts one of the longest riverfront embankments in Europe (5 km). Residents and tourists enjoy sunbathing on sandy beaches, camping along the river, and admiring the breathtaking Volga sunsets.
  • Major Industrial Center
    In addition to its natural beauty, Samara offers strong career prospects. Leading companies such as JSC AVTOVAZ , the Progress Space-Rocket Centre JSC (RKTs-Progress), PJSC ODK-Kuznetsov, and JSC Aviacor - Aviation Plant, and others actively recruit young professionals.

  • Spectacular Nature
    Just outside the city lies Samarskaya Luka National Park and the Zhiguli Mountains—a natural treasure and the crown jewel of the Samara region.
  • Comfortable Climate
    Samara enjoys a mild, moderately continental climate with approximately 123 sunny days per year. Summers are warm and pleasant (average +26°C), while winters are snowy and picturesque (average -12°C), offering a full experience of all four seasons.
  • Unique Architecture
    Samara features buildings constructed in a variety of architectural styles, including Classicism, Art Nouveau, Gothic Revival, and high-tech design.


  • Modern and Diverse Infrastructure
    Samara is a modern metropolis with well-developed infrastructure that preserves its historical charm and natural heritage.
    The city offers a comprehensive network of air, rail, river, and road transportation, making it highly accessible for residents and visitors alike. Key transport facilities include Kurumoch International Airport, Europe’s tallest railway station, a metro system, trams, river and bus terminals.
    A new International Inter-University Campus is currently under construction.
    Samara’s historic city center is home to over 100 cultural and historical landmarks.
  • Cultural and Social Center
    Samara offers a wide variety of cultural activities . The city is home to 60 museums, 21 theaters, concert halls, a circus, a zoo, art galleries, and creative spaces.
    There are 10 public parks, the scenic Volga River embankment, and numerous art clusters. Samara is also home to the professional football club Krylya Sovetov (Wings of the Soviets).
    In winter, visitors can enjoy downhill skiing at SOK Krasnaya Glinka or go cross-country skiing at the Chaika ski base.
    Samara also hosts a variety of unique creative and music festivals, such as Rock over the Volga, the iVolga Youth Forum, SamFest, VolgaFest, the All-Russian Grushinsky Bard Song Festival, and many others.

  • Birthplace of “Volga Hedonism”
    This local philosophy embraces the joy of life—whether it’s watching a Volga sunset, listening to live music, spending time outdoors, or enjoying warm company and local food.
International Student Support Services
Mobility and Recruiting Department
32а Moskovskoye Shosse, off. 2
admission@ssau.ru
+7 (846) 267-48-17
Center for Russian Language Education
34 Moskovskoye Shosse (bldg. 3a), off. 504a
rc@ssau.ru
+7 (846) 267-43-73
Department of International Protocol
32а Moskovskoye Shosse, off. 4
dip@ssau.ru
+7 (846) 267-49-77
Dormitory Office
32а Moskovskoye Shosse (Dormitory №6), off. 113
uso@ssau.ru
+7 (846) 334-43-13