A new draft order from Russia’s Ministry of Education and Science proposes extending free education in university preparatory departments to a broader group of citizens. The document outlines new eligibility that would include participants in special military operations and their children, enabling them to pursue preparatory studies at no cost.
The draft emphasizes expanding the current list of beneficiaries who can access budget-funded spots in university preparatory programs. According to the proposal, members of special military operations and their offspring would be granted this benefit alongside other categories of military personnel.
The proposal specifies that a separate quota would apply, allowing those who qualify for budget-funded places to take part in this opportunity. This includes mobilized personnel, volunteers, and their children, as well as other groups connected to military service.
In a related development, the rector of Moscow State University, Lomonosov, announced in late August that 115 individuals connected to combat operations in Ukraine were admitted under the fighters quota. This statement highlighted the university’s adherence to the quota system for those serving in or connected to hostilities abroad.
Earlier, the government took steps to formalize the transition process for students who participate in special military operations. A government measure approved by the prime minister established rules for redistributing vacancies across budget-funded departments. The decree enables vacancies to be moved between specialties or educational directions within budget education, facilitating mobility for these students as needed.
In another legal development, a draft age law was signed by a former president, signaling ongoing adjustments to the framework governing eligible entrants and the conditions under which budget-funded education can be accessed by participants in military operations and their families.