This competition gives high school students worldwide a chance to study tuition-free at Russia’s leading diplomatic university
On August 25, 2025 MGIMO University of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia opened registration for its International School Olympiad. Held for the fourth time, the competition offers high school students from all over the globe the opportunity to enroll at MGIMO on a tuition-free basis.
For over 80 years, MGIMO University has been the premier institution for shaping the minds that shape the world. Founded in 1944 as a dedicated diplomatic academy, it has evolved into one of the world’s leading universities for international relations, economics, law, business, political science, and many other humanitarian fields of study.
MGIMO is famously known as the “School of Presidents, Ministers, and Billionaires.” Some call it the “Harvard of the Non-Western World.” Among its graduates are acting heads of state, foreign ministers, ambassadors, and top executives leading multinational corporations and international organizations.
However, it’s not all about politics and business. With its 60+ degree programs in 18 fields of study ranging from international relations to art and culture management (including eight taught entirely in English), MGIMO University offers a unique blend of profound academic tradition and modern, interdisciplinary education. Many graduates pursue careers in journalism, event management and creative industries, as MGIMO nurtures diverse talents, empowering students to unlock their full potential. In 2021 the University classified first in the QS Global Employability Ranking.
MGIMO’s international family unites students and alumni from 87 countries. This diverse environment, combined with the University’s Guiness World Record for teaching 55 foreign languages, prepares you for a career on the world stage like no other.
Winners of the MGIMO International School Olympiad will be granted the chance to enroll in one of the University’s bachelor programs, or in a preparatory program for international students. The prize-winners will be able to enter the University on a priority basis as a result of a portfolio competition for places with tuition fees.
Over the past three years, over 7,000 students have taken part in the Olympiad, and many have already become MGIMO students.
The tasks of the Olympiad can be done either in Russian or in English. Participants will be assessed on their language proficiency in English, as well as their general knowledge of geography, world history, and international relations.
The competition will be conducted in two stages: the online qualifying round will take place in November 2025, and the final round – in February-March 2026 in a hybrid (online and in-person) format.
Over the years, the Olympiad has spawned many remarkable stories of success, showing how determination and ambition can turn a dream into reality. One such story is that of Stanley Sajere from Sapele, Nigeria. For him, choosing MGIMO was not only about its academic excellence and a reputation of one the best diplomatic schools in the world. He admires Russia’s global standing and shares values promoted by Russian diplomats on the international arena. Stanley is sure that MGIMO has a role to play here: the school cultivates foreign policy leaders with a truly global vision, strategic thinking and intellectual courage. The MGIMO School Olympiad helped Stanley overcome the fear that studying at such a prestigious school may be far beyond his means.
“MGIMO’s tradition of producing leaders truly inspired me,” says Stanley. “For me, the MGIMO Olympiad was more than just a competition, it was a lifeline. The Olympiad gave me a fair chance to prove myself through knowledge, determination, and talent – not money. What made the journey even more remarkable was the incredible support I received. MGIMO’s staff communicated with clarity, warmth, and professionalism, while the MGIMO student community was always ready to guide, encourage, and help me. Long before setting foot in Moscow, I already felt welcomed into a global family.”
Registration for the MGIMO International School Olympiad will be open until October 31, 2025 at https://int-olymp-mgimo.com/. Don’t miss your chance to start your personal path towards global influence!
