Life Changing Funding For Russian Students To Study Abroad

Russian President Vladimir Putin has devised a plan to boost the skilled workforce of Russia. 

Putin has signed a decree to provide state funding for 1,000 postgraduate students to study overseas, every year for the next three years. What is the catch?

Well, the catch is that each student must return to work in Russia for three years. Those who don’t will be required to pay back the funds, along with a hefty fine that could amount to twice the amount of the scholarship they received.

That said, the average grant given is proposed to be the equivalent of $45,000 for a year to study abroad, I would say that that was pretty generous!

The program is to boost workers in the science, education, government, social services, medicine and engineering industries.

The program has of course been speculated upon. The deputy of the Russian government’s lower house Ivan Grachev says that he believed it would be difficult to enforce the penalty and ensure that graduates return.

“I think it is extremely unlikely that talented people would come back and do something useful for the country,” he said.

“I do not support this idea because the Russian education in engineering, physics, and science is one of the best in the world,” he added.

There is currently a three month 'cooling off' period for the details of the decree to be finalised. So, March 2014 all the details will have been decided. 

I believe this experience would be a true eye opener for Russian students. Bringing them a wealth of knowledge and experience. Some may slip through the net and not back to work in Russia for three years. However, this minority would be a small price to pay for the advantages a year studying abroad could be to the future of Russia’s workforce.

And to the students of Russia ‘keep your eye on the ball for a life changing grant!’

Amber Williams

Director-Bearla International Studies