In Russia, the typical scholarship for students averages about 4.5 thousand rubles per month. A member of the State Duma Committee on Science and Higher Education, Olga Pilipenko, asserted that reducing the amount of scholarships at individual universities without a valid reason is illegal. She noted that experts and representatives of the Ministry of Education would review such cases, and she spoke about it in conversations with NSN.
Earlier reports indicated that Ryazan State University named after Yesenin reduced its scholarships by 500 rubles in some cases and by up to 1000 rubles in others. Similar reductions were reported in other regions. Pilipenko emphasized that these actions are unacceptable and require clarification.
She added that it is essential to determine what actually occurred. If a scholarship was not properly accrued before and the new rector identifies what he believes to be a violation in accrual, that is not a justification to cut a scholarship in contravention of the law.
The deputy explained that traditionally the full amount is allocated for the first year, and social scholarships are distributed as well. For the remaining years, scholarships are allocated from the university’s available funds with input from the student community, guided by the results of the first semester. Pilipenko urged deputies to reach out to the Ministry of Education to resolve issues related to underpayments and to submit inquiries to the State Duma. She promised that every case would be looked at carefully.
Regarding the highest possible payments, it is noted that in priority areas a scholarship can reach up to 25 thousand rubles. There are also special allowances, along with presidential and government scholarships, and various grants.
Her message to students was simple: focus on good study and active participation during student years. This advice remains central to decisions about funding and recognition in higher education.
Analysts note that, given inflation and the overall economic climate for 2024, a fair level of scholarship across Russian universities would likely fall in the range of 50 to 60 thousand rubles when adjusted for living costs. In more demanded fields, such as information technology, the amount could be higher, with top students potentially earning around 70 thousand rubles per month for strong academic results.
There was also discussion about potential changes that could broaden access to scholarships, including proposals to grant support to married students. This would expand eligibility and help families pursuing higher education.