Overview
- The new structure takes effect on September 1, 2026, replacing bachelor and master formats with basic higher education lasting four to six years and specialized study of one to three years.
- Leading universities begin the transition in the 2026–27 academic year, with a nationwide rollout slated for 2027–28, and 177 programs already operate under the model in 2025/26.
- Students currently enrolled will finish their existing programs, while the new system applies to applicants starting in the 2026–27 cycle to ensure a controlled transition.
- Specialized training updates the magistracy with professional, managerial, and research tracks, and aspirantura is defined as a separate level of professional education.
- A pilot launched in 2023 at six universities informed the reforms, and officials say employers rate the new programs highly and expect graduates to be better prepared for workplace tasks.