For early-career researchers interested in international relations, political science, and regional studies, gaining first-hand exposure to global policy environments can significantly shape future academic and professional success. One of the most exciting opportunities currently available is the InteRussia Fellowship for PhD Students 2026 in Russia, a fully funded international research programme designed to bring together promising scholars from around the world.

Hosted in partnership with MGIMO University and supported by the Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund, this fellowship offers participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in Russian academia while engaging directly with policy experts, researchers, universities, and think tanks. Fellows gain practical research experience, develop publication-ready projects, and establish lasting international academic networks.

The programme is fully funded and does not charge an application fee. Successful applicants receive travel support, accommodation, and a scholarship, making it an excellent opportunity for researchers seeking international exposure and interdisciplinary collaboration.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the InteRussia Fellowship for PhD Students 2026, including programme benefits, eligibility requirements, funding, application process, important dates, and tips for submitting a competitive application.

What Is the InteRussia Fellowship?

The InteRussia Fellowship is an international academic mobility programme created to strengthen dialogue between emerging scholars from different countries.

The fellowship focuses primarily on:

• International Relations
• Political Science
• Regional Studies
• International Policy Research
• Global Affairs

Participants spend several weeks in Moscow engaging with leading Russian academics, researchers, and policy specialists while conducting independent research under professional supervision.

The programme encourages academic exchange, cross-cultural dialogue, and deeper understanding of contemporary international issues from multiple perspectives.

Programme Overview

The fellowship offers participants a structured research experience within one of Russia's leading institutions for international relations.

Host Country

Russia

Host Institution

MGIMO University

Programme Duration

26 October 2026 – 6 December 2026

Language of Instruction

English

Application Fee

No application fee

Application Deadline

1 September 202611:59 p.m. Moscow Time (UTC+3)

What Does the Fellowship Offer?

The InteRussia Fellowship provides a rich academic experience combined with comprehensive financial support.

Participants benefit from research opportunities, professional networking, and practical exposure to Russian academic and policy institutions.

Academic Immersion

Fellows become fully immersed in Russian academic life while exploring current discussions surrounding international affairs and global politics.

This direct experience provides valuable insights that are difficult to obtain through classroom study alone.

Policy Institution Visits

Participants visit:

• Government-related policy institutions
• Research centres
• Universities
• Think tanks
• Non-governmental organizations

These visits provide practical understanding of policy development and international cooperation.

Professional Mentorship

One of the programme's strongest features is mentorship from distinguished scholars at MGIMO University.

Participants receive guidance while:

• Refining research ideas
• Developing analytical skills
• Preparing publication-quality work
• Expanding professional networks

International Networking

The fellowship brings together scholars from numerous countries.

Participants exchange ideas with fellow researchers while establishing long-term academic collaborations that often continue beyond the programme.

Research Development

Throughout the fellowship, participants work on an individual research project.

By the end of the programme, fellows are expected to have developed research suitable for publication or future academic presentation.

Financial Benefits

The InteRussia Fellowship is fully funded.

Successful participants receive several forms of financial support throughout the programme.

Travel Support

The programme covers:

• Round-trip travel between the participant's place of residence and Moscow.

Accommodation

Participants receive:

• Single-room accommodation in the MGIMO University dormitory.

This allows fellows to remain close to academic activities while interacting with other international researchers.

Scholarship

Each fellow receives:

• One-time scholarship of RUB 45,000

The scholarship supports personal expenses during the fellowship period.

Costs Participants Must Cover

Although the programme is fully funded, participants remain responsible for certain personal expenses.

These include:

• Visa fees
• Medical insurance
• Meals
• Personal spending

Applicants should budget for these costs before travelling.

Why Apply for the InteRussia Fellowship?

The programme offers several unique advantages that distinguish it from traditional research fellowships.

Gain First-Hand Regional Knowledge

Participants experience Russian academic and policy discussions directly rather than relying solely on secondary literature.This enriches both research quality and professional understanding.

Build an International Research Network

Networking remains one of the most valuable outcomes of international fellowships.

Participants establish long-term relationships with:

• Fellow researchers
• University faculty
• Policy experts
• International scholars

These connections often lead to future collaborations and research opportunities.

Improve Research Skills

Fellows strengthen their ability to:

• Design research projects
• Conduct policy analysis
• Write academic publications
• Present research findings
• Engage in interdisciplinary dialogue

Develop Professional Credibility

International research experience demonstrates initiative, adaptability, and global engagement.These qualities strengthen future applications for:

• Academic positions
• Postdoctoral fellowships
• Research grants
• International organizations
• Policy institutions

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy all programme requirements before applying.

Nationality

Applicants must:

• Be non-Russian citizens.

Residence

Applicants should currently reside:

• Outside Russia.

Age Requirement

Eligible applicants must be:

• Between 25 and 39 years old.

English Language Proficiency

Applicants should demonstrate:

• English proficiency at C1 level or above.

Strong communication skills are essential since the programme is conducted entirely in English.

Academic Qualifications

Applicants should meet at least one of the following conditions:

• Hold a PhD degree.
• Possess at least three years of professional experience at an academic institution or think tank.
• Be currently enrolled in a PhD programme.

Research Proposal

Applicants must submit a well-developed research proposal related to the programme's academic theme.

A strong proposal demonstrates originality, relevance, and feasibility.

MGIMO Affiliation

Applicants must not have:

• Current employment at MGIMO University.
• Previous employment at MGIMO.
• Current enrollment at MGIMO.
• Previous academic affiliation with MGIMO.

This ensures equal opportunities for new international participants.

Application Process

Applications are completed online through the official Gorchakov Fund platform.

Step 1

Register on the English-language version of the Gorchakov Fund website.

If you do not receive the verification email, check your spam or junk folder.

Step 2

After logging in:

• Open the "My Projects" section.
• Click "Create Application."

Step 3

Select: InteRussia IR MGIMO 2026 (Autumn)Confirm your selection.

Step 4

Complete every mandatory section of the application form.

Ensure all information is accurate before submission.

Step 5

Click: Submit Application

Your application status should change from:

• Preparing

to

• Submitted

Applicants should verify this change before leaving the system.

Tips for Preparing a Strong Application

Competition for international fellowships is often intense.

The following strategies can strengthen your application.

Develop a High-Quality Research Proposal

Your proposal should:

• Address an important research question.
• Demonstrate originality.
• Show methodological clarity.
• Explain expected outcomes.
• Align with the programme's academic focus.

Demonstrate International Perspective

Reviewers value applicants capable of engaging with diverse viewpoints.

Highlight:

• International collaboration.
• Cross-cultural research.
• Comparative analysis.
• Global policy interests.

Showcase Academic Experience

Include:

• Publications
• Conference presentations
• Research projects
• Teaching experience
• Policy work
• Think tank involvement

These experiences strengthen your academic profile.

Review Your Application Carefully

Before submission:

• Check spelling and grammar.
• Verify dates.
• Confirm eligibility.
• Review uploaded documents.
• Ensure the application status changes to Submitted.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is particularly valuable for:

• PhD students
• Postdoctoral researchers
• Political scientists
• International relations specialists
• Regional studies researchers
• Think tank professionals
• Early-career academics

Applicants interested in diplomacy, international cooperation, security studies, foreign policy, and global governance will especially benefit from the programme.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the InteRussia Fellowship fully funded?

Yes. The programme provides travel support, accommodation, and a one-time scholarship. Participants only cover personal expenses such as visa fees, meals, and medical insurance.

Is there an application fee?

No. Applications are completely free.

What language is used during the programme?

All academic activities are conducted in English.

Who can apply?

The fellowship is open exclusively to non-Russian citizens living outside Russia who satisfy the academic and professional requirements.

What financial support is provided?

Successful fellows receive:

• Round-trip travel
• Single-room accommodation
• One-time scholarship of RUB 45,000

When does the programme take place?

The fellowship runs from 26 October 2026 to 6 December 2026.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 1 September 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Moscow Time (UTC+3).

Official Website       Apply Now

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