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Altai Krai's high schoolers shift toward STEM in 2026 exam choices

A record number of students are betting on science and tech for their futures. Why math is now the gateway to Russia's top universities—and careers.

The image shows a poster with the text "Top Selected Field of Study for International Students...
The image shows a poster with the text "Top Selected Field of Study for International Students Engineering 216,932" and a logo at the top. The poster is likely used to inform international students of the top selected field of study for engineering.

Altai Krai's high schoolers shift toward STEM in 2026 exam choices

High school graduates in Altai Krai have now chosen their exam subjects for the 2026 Unified State Exam (EGE). The selections reflect broader national trends, with more students opting for STEM-related disciplines. Universities have also updated their entrance requirements in response to these shifts.

Russia's EGE system has seen significant changes in recent years. Since 2022, minimum passing scores have risen—mathematics, for example, now requires 39 points instead of 27. Digital testing has expanded, and subjects like history and social studies have gained importance for humanities programmes.

The latest data from Altai Krai shows a clear preference for STEM fields. Nearly 4,500 eleventh-graders have chosen advanced mathematics for 2026, making it one of the most popular subjects. Other top picks include Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, and Physics.

Natalya Polosina, head of the General Education and Assessment Procedures Department, highlighted the evolving demands of universities. She noted that institutions have adjusted their admission criteria to align with national priorities in science, technology, and mathematics.

The shift toward STEM subjects in Altai Krai mirrors wider educational reforms in Russia. With updated exam requirements and a growing focus on mathematics and sciences, universities are preparing for a new wave of applicants. The changes aim to strengthen the country's technical and scientific workforce in the coming years.

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