The Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) is inviting applications from qualified Zambian nationals for the Russian Government Scholarships for the 2026/2027 academic year. A total of 160 scholarships are available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies in various disciplines at recognized Russian universities.
The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and basic living expenses, while applicants are expected to meet travel and minor personal costs. This opportunity supports Zambia’s human resource development and strengthens academic cooperation between Zambia and the Russian Federation.
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants should:
- Be a Zambian citizen with a Green National Registration Card (NRC)
- Have a Zambian valid passport or be able to obtain one by 15th January 2026
Undergraduate Applicants:
- Be School Leavers who completed Grade 12 in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025;
- Have Grades 1-3 in English, Mathematics and subjects relevant to the intended field of study;
- Have Pure Sciences if applying for General Medicine and all Engineering programmes;
- Be between age 18 and 24 years old by September 2026
Masters Applicants:
- Hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree, preferably obtained from Russia;
- Be maximum of 34 years old by September 2026
PhD Applicants:
- Hold a relevant Master’s degree; and
- Be of maximum age 39 years by September 2026
DURATION
This is dependent on the programme to be pursued, however, all programmes include one (1) year of Russian language for undergraduate applicants (5 to 7 years for Undergraduate programmes, 2 to 3 years for Masters programmes and 4 years for PhD).
METHOD OF APPLICATION
Applicants should submit:
- A typed application letter responding to the advertisement, clearly stating the field of study desired, age and mobile phone number for easy communication;
- Curriculum Vitae, Photocopies of Educational Certificates, Transcript/Statement of Results and NRC.
- A study plan or synopsis of summarized details of the preferred course and how the intended course of study will enhance one’s contribution to Zambia’s development (200 words for undergraduate, 400 words for Masters applicants and 600 words for Phd)
- Employer’s Recommendation letter stating that they would be granted leave to take up offers if selected for those in employment (Masters and PhD).
- All candidates applying for the scholarships must complete the registration on the online student’s portal on the website provided: https://education-in-russia.com and attach printed online application.
- A clear copy of deposit slip from NATSAVE of K100 application fee (application fee should be deposited at any NATSAVE branch).
NOTE: No cash payments will be accepted at HELSB Offices.
It is a requirement by the host country that all nominated candidates undergo comprehensive medical examinations including HIV, Hepatitis A & B tests, Tuberculosis and Pregnancy test for females.
Nominated candidates must note that last-minute withdrawals will attract serious sanctions from HELSB which may include being blacklisted.
Applications should be addressed to: or Hand delivered to:
The Chief Executive Officer The Reception
Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board P.O. Box 320298, LUSAKA Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board 2nd Floor United Church House, No. 8 Mosi-oa- Tunya Road, Woodlands, LUSAKA.
Or
The Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board, C4 Copperbelt University Riverside Campus, Kitwe.
ONLINE APPLICATION PROCESS
Registration and Account Creation
- Visit official website for the selection of foreign citizens to study in Russia:
https://education-in-russia.com - Create a user account using your personal email
Submit Your Application
- Complete your personal profile
- Select your study program
Upload documents:
- Passport
- Educational documents (IGCSE/Grade 12 mock results are also accepted)
Print sign and upload:
- Consent for personal data
- Application form
Submit your application online for verification
Online application deadline: 15th January, 2026
Candidate Requirements
- Must be a Zambia Citizen
- Grades 1-3 in at least 5 O-level subjects, including Mathematics and English
Additional Financial Support
Candidates needing additional financial support can apply for a Russian scholarship under the Higher Education Loans and Scholarship Board (HELSB).
Candidates should meet own cost towards:
(i) Expenses to and from the Airport;
(ii) Any short fall not adequately covered by the scholarship;
CONDITIONS
All candidates applying for a Russian scholarship are mandated to sign-up for a user account, complete and submit their application online.
More information & Free Consultation
Visit: Russian House, 324 Independence Avenue, Woodlands, Lusaka
Facebook: @Russian House in Lusaka
For more information: Visit the website for Russian Government Scholarships 2026/2027
Also Read: AUB Mastercard Foundation PhD Scholarships 2025–26 for African Students and Refugees
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is eligible to apply for the Russian Government Scholarships 2026/2027?
Applicants must be Zambian citizens with a Green National Registration Card and a valid passport or proof they can obtain one by 15th January 2026.
2. What are the academic requirements for undergraduate applicants?
Applicants must have completed Grade 12 in 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025, with Grades 1–3 in English, Mathematics, and other relevant subjects. Those applying for Medicine or Engineering must have studied Pure Sciences and be 18–24 years old by September 2026.
3. What qualifications are needed for master’s and PhD applicants?
Master’s applicants: Must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree, preferably from Russia, and be below 34 years old by September 2026.
PhD applicants: Must have a relevant master’s degree and be below 39 years old by September 2026.
4. How long is the study period under this scholarship?
Programme duration varies by level:
Undergraduate: 5–7 years (includes 1 year of Russian language study)
Master’s: 2–3 years
PhD: 4 years
5. How should applicants apply?
Applicants must:
Submit a typed application letter, CV, certified copies of academic certificates, NRC, and transcripts.
Write a study plan or synopsis (200 words for undergraduates, 400 for master’s, 600 for PhD).
Include an employer’s recommendation (for employed master’s and PhD applicants).
Complete online registration at https://education-in-russia.com
and print the application.
Attach a K100 NATSAVE deposit slip as proof of payment (no cash at HELSB offices).
6. Where should applications be submitted?
Applications can be hand-delivered or posted to:
The Chief Executive Officer
Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board
P.O. Box 320298, Lusaka
Or delivered to the 2nd Floor, United Church House, No. 8 Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, Woodlands, Lusaka, or to the HELSB Office, C4 Copperbelt University Riverside Campus, Kitwe.
7. What is the online application deadline?
All online applications must be submitted by 15th January 2026.
8. Are applicants required to undergo medical examinations?
Yes. Selected candidates must complete medical tests for HIV, Hepatitis A & B, Tuberculosis, and a pregnancy test for female applicants before departure.
9. Are there any costs not covered by the scholarship?
Yes. Applicants must cover their own transportation to and from the airport and any expenses not covered by the scholarship.
10. What happens if a nominated candidate withdraws at the last minute?
Late withdrawals will attract sanctions from HELSB, including being blacklisted from future opportunities.
11. Where can applicants get assistance or more details?
Visit the Russian House, 324 Independence Avenue, Woodlands, Lusaka, or follow @Russian House in Lusaka on Facebook for guidance and consultation.
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