Olympiad winners take all state-funded spots at Russia's leading universities
In 2026, Russian universities faced an unusual situation during student admissions. In the most prestigious fields of study at the country's leading universities, including Moscow State University, all state-funded spots were filled by winners and runners-up of academic Olympiads.
According to admission rules, Olympiad winners have the right to enroll in universities without entrance examinations or receive the maximum score in their specialized subject. This year, the number of such applicants was so high that there were practically no spots left in popular majors for graduates applying based on Unified State Exam (EGE) results.
Experts note that this trend has been observed for several years, but it has now reached its peak. The highest competition among Olympiad winners is seen in the fields of IT, economics, and fundamental sciences. As a result, talented students who prepared for admission by taking the Unified State Exam are forced to choose other universities or fee-paying departments.
The Ministry of Science and Higher Education has already begun discussing possible changes to admission rules. Specialists are considering options for quota-based spots to maintain a balance between Olympiad winners and applicants entering based on EGE results. This will help make the admission process fairer for all talented young people in the future.