Russia's Higher Education System: A Major Overhaul for 2025

Russia Overhauls Higher Education System in 2025 MOSCOW, June 4, 2025 – The Russian government has announced sweeping changes to its higher education system, effective immediately. These changes mark a significant departure from previous efforts towards international integration, focusing instead on national priorities and the training of a workforce to meet domestic needs. Key changes include the abolition of the bachelor's/master's system and a return to specializations. The government will now set tuition fees and control the number of places available in non-priority fields. The curriculum will include a greater emphasis on Russian history, geopolitics, and traditional values. Furthermore, children of citizens involved in the ongoing military operation will be given priority admission to universities. "This reform is essential to ensure that our higher education system aligns with the nation's strategic goals," stated a government official in an official statement. The changes are expected to generate considerable debate among students and educators alike. While details on specific priority fields and enrollment quotas remain unclear, the government assures that this reform will strengthen the nation's human capital and contribute to its long-term development.