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Belarus Expands No-Exam Admission for Top Scholars in Pedagogical Programmes

Gold medalists and Olympiad winners get a fast track to teaching degrees. Will this shift raise the bar—or lower it? Schools now hold the key.

The image shows a yellow enamel pin with the Olympic logo on it, which is a badge of the USSR...
The image shows a yellow enamel pin with the Olympic logo on it, which is a badge of the USSR Olympic Committee. The badge is in the center of the image and has text written on it.

Belarus Expands No-Exam Admission for Top Scholars in Pedagogical Programmes

The Ministry of Education has updated its rules for admission to certain pedagogical specialties. From February 19, 2026, specific scholars will be able to enrol without sitting entrance exams. The changes expand the list of eligible programmes and set clear conditions for exemption.

The amendments modify Resolution No. 391, originally issued on October 19, 2022. The updated list now covers 23 specialties, including preschool education, history, and special and inclusive education. A new addition is 'Physical Education and Military-Patriotic Education' (code 6-05-0115-02).

To qualify for exemption, applicants must meet one of three criteria. They can be winners of the third stage of the national academic Olympiad. Alternatively, they may hold a special high school diploma with a gold or silver medal. A diploma of distinction in vocational and technical education also suffices.

Beyond these achievements, candidates need a recommendation from their school's pedagogical council. The resolution ensures that only those with proven academic or vocational excellence can bypass entrance tests.

The updated policy takes effect on February 19, 2026. It broadens access for high-achieving scholars while maintaining academic standards through school recommendations. The expanded list reflects a focus on both traditional and specialised pedagogical fields.

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