The InteRussia MGIMO University Fellowship 2026 (Spring) is a prestigious six-week academic residency for non-Russian experts in International Relations, Political Science, and Regional Studies. Hosted at MGIMO University from March 16 to April 26, 2026, the program focuses on the theme “Security, Science, and Technology: Managing Change in a Turbulent World.” Participants conduct original research (20,000-35,000 characters) under the mentorship of leading Russian scholars. The fellowship provides comprehensive support, including round-trip travel to Moscow, single dormitory accommodation, visa assistance, and a RUB 45,000 stipend. Eligible candidates must be aged 25-39, possess a PhD or equivalent experience, and have C1 English proficiency. Applications close February 8, 2026.
Fully Funded InteRussia MGIMO University Fellowship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | MGIMO University / Gorchakov Fund |
| Location | Moscow, Russia |
| Research Theme | Security, Science, and Technology |
| Fellowship Dates | March 16 – April 26, 2026 |
| Scholarship Value | Travel + Single Housing + RUB 45,000 |
| Target Age | 25 – 39 years old |
| Language Requirement | English (CEFR C1 or higher) |
| Deadline | February 8, 2026 |
Fully Funded InteRussia MGIMO University Fellowship 2026 Details
The InteRussia fellowship is a unique initiative designed to integrate aspiring international relations experts into the Russian academic and policy-making landscape. Participants spend six weeks at the prestigious MGIMO University, engaging in a rigorous schedule of expert sessions, institutional visits, and collaborative research.
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The 2026 Spring cycle, titled “Security, Science, and Technology: Managing Change in a Turbulent World,” challenges fellows to produce an original individual research project of 20,000-35,000 characters. By working under the guidance of lead Russian scholars, fellows gain first-hand insights into the Russian foreign policy agenda while exchanging diverse perspectives with counterparts from around the globe.
Benefits of the Fully Funded InteRussia MGIMO University Fellowship 2026
The InteRussia IR program offers a unique immersion into the Russian foreign policy agenda, allowing scholars to work directly with MGIMO faculty and visit key policy-making institutions.
Tier 1: Specialized Research Mentorship and Academic Integration
- Expert Guidance: Direct supervision by lead Russian International Relations scholars from MGIMO University for the duration of the project.
- Institutional Access: Full immersion into Russian academia through think tanks, NGOs, and expert sessions at leading universities.
- Policy Exposure: Organized visits to Russian policy-making institutions to understand the national agenda first-hand.
Tier 2: Comprehensive Logistical and Housing Package
- Travel Coverage: Provision of round-trip travel expenses between the participant’s place of residence and Moscow.
- Private Accommodation: Unlike standard fellowships, this program offers single accommodation in the MGIMO dormitory.
- Administrative Facilitation: Official visa support provided by the Gorchakov Fund to streamline the entry process.
Tier 3: Financial Stipend and Professional Recognition
- Research Stipend: A fixed scholarship of RUB 45,000 is awarded for the entire six-week duration to support local costs.
- Publication Opportunity: Support in producing a high-quality original research project of up to 35,000 characters for academic dissemination.
Eligibility Requirements for MGIMO University Fellowship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must hold a Ph.D., be currently enrolled in Ph.D. studies, or have at least 3 years of professional experience in academic institutions or think tanks.
- Study Status: Applicants must have no previous employment or enrollment history with MGIMO University.
- Visa/Residency Status: Open only to non-Russian nationals residing permanently outside of Russia.
- Program Admission: Professional command of English (CEFR C1 or higher) and the submission of a mature research proposal are mandatory.
How to Apply for InteRussia IR MGIMO Fellowship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Create an account on the English version of the Gorchakov Fund website and verify your registration.
- Automatic Evaluation: Navigate to the “My Projects” section and select the “InteRussia IR MGIMO 2026 (Spring)” contest.
- Eligibility Assessment: Complete all mandatory fields, including the upload of your research proposal, academic publications, and 2-3 recommendation letters.
- Notification of Award: Submit the application and await an invitation for an online interview; final results are sent via email.
Application Deadline: February 8, 2026 (23:59 Moscow Time)
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main research theme for the Spring 2026 cycle?
The theme is “Security, Science, and Technology: Managing Change in a Turbulent World.”
2. Is the stipend of RUB 45,000 paid monthly?
No, the RUB 45,000 scholarship is a single payment covering the entire six-week duration of the fellowship.
3. Will I have to share a room in the MGIMO dormitory?
No, the IR fellowship provides single accommodation for the selected participants.
4. What are the specific character requirements for the final research project?
The final individual research project must be between 20,000 and 35,000 characters, including spaces.
5. Can I apply if I previously studied at MGIMO?
No, the eligibility criteria specifically state an absence of any previous enrollment or employment relations with MGIMO University.
6. Do I need to provide proof of English proficiency?
The program requires a CEFR C1 level or higher, which will be assessed through your application materials and the online interview.
7. Does the fellowship cover medical insurance?
No, participants are responsible for purchasing their own medical insurance and covering their daily meal expenses.
8. How many recommendation letters are required?
Applicants must submit between two and three letters of recommendation as part of their competitive file.
9. What are the age requirements for this specific IR fellowship?
For the IR MGIMO program, applicants must be between the ages of 25 and 39.
10. When will I receive the results of my application?
The results of the competitive selection will be sent to all candidates via email after the February 8 deadline and subsequent interviews.
