Thai students will soon have the chance to pursue higher education in Russia, as the Russian government announced a new scholarship program offering full tuition coverage at selected universities. Applications open on October 7, 2025, through the platform education-in-russia.com, and the deadline is set for January 15, 2026, according to several news sources.
The program gives Thai applicants the opportunity to study at one of six universities across Russia. Students will be able to choose their preferred fields of study, ranging from engineering and science to humanities. While the scholarships cover tuition fees for the full period of study, they do not include living expenses, accommodation, insurance, or travel, leaving students responsible for those costs.
Russia has announced a new scholarship program for Thai students, covering tuition at selected universities Photo Courtesy I.s.Kopytov
Officials promoting the program explained that the scholarships are part of Russia’s ongoing education diplomacy, which sees tens of thousands of placements offered to international students every year. For Thailand, this initiative opens up a pathway for students seeking an international degree at a time when global study options are becoming more competitive.
The announcement has already drawn interest from education counselors in Bangkok, who said such programs could expand opportunities for students from middle-income families who may not otherwise be able to afford tuition abroad. However, they also cautioned that students should carefully prepare for cultural and financial challenges. Living in Russia requires navigating a different climate, language, and social environment, all of which may take time to adjust to.
Another important consideration is whether Russian degrees will be easily recognized by employers and institutions in Thailand. While many graduates return home with valuable international experience, experts warn that students should confirm program accreditation and career prospects before committing.
Still, for those ready to embrace the challenge, the scholarships represent a rare opportunity. With tuition costs rising worldwide, free education in Russia could provide Thai students with access to programs in fields where demand is growing, such as technology, medicine, and engineering.
As applications open in October, education agencies expect strong interest, particularly from students looking for alternatives to the United States, United Kingdom, or Australia, where costs are higher. The program is seen not only as an academic opportunity but also as a symbol of strengthening ties between Thailand and Russia.
