Russia Tightens Admission Rules for Foreign Vocational Students

Stricter admission policies aim to raise standards—but will they shut out promising students? Lawmakers say proficiency is key to classroom success.

, and Administrator

2025 November 8 . 5:13 PM

1 min read

This picture shows a vodka bottle placed here. In the background, there is a wooden wall.

Russia Tightens Admission Rules for Foreign Vocational Students

The State Duma Deputy Leonid Slutsky and Senator Yelena Afanasyeva have proposed new rules for foreign students seeking vocational education in Russia. The changes aim to enhance the quality of training and student outcomes. Under the proposed legislation, foreign applicants must demonstrate their Russian language proficiency by passing a special test. This requirement aims to ensure effective communication and understanding in the classroom. Additionally, applicants must provide documents confirming their legal status in Russia. Those who fail the Russian language test will not be admitted to vocational programs. The new rules also target students pursuing vocational training alongside their secondary education, aiming to improve overall outcomes in these dual-enrollment programs. The proposed stricter admission rules for foreign students at vocational schools in Russia seek to enhance the quality of education and student success. The changes include mandatory Russian language proficiency tests and proof of legal stay in the country.