Nizhny Novgorod students more and more often choose secondary vocational education.

      Photo: Alexander Volozhanin

      NIА "Nizhny Novgorod" - Polina Zubova

      Interest in secondary vocational education (SVO) among ninth-grade graduates in the Nizhny Novgorod region is growing, especially among those with high grades on their certificates. Irina Zvereva, head of the department for cooperation with higher education institutions and the scientific-educational sphere of the regional Ministry of Education, discussed this at a press conference on the outcomes of the admission campaign for Nizhny Novgorod universities for the 2025-2026 academic year on August 8.

      According to her, this trend has been observed for several years. Young people with high scores prefer to enroll in colleges and technical schools, although competition for state-funded places there is also high. Since entrance exams are generally not required, the main selection criterion becomes the average grade of the certificate. In some colleges, it consistently remains at 4.8-4.9.

      Zvereva cited active regional participation in federal projects aimed at developing the material and technical base of educational institutions as one of the reasons for the popularity of SVO. Specifically, within the framework of the "Professional" project, about 2.3 billion rubles have been attracted over three years from federal and regional budgets. These funds have allowed for the modernization of educational facilities and the professional development of teachers. Additionally, participation in such initiatives promotes cooperation with major employers.

      Regional universities are also actively developing SVO programs. For example, N.G. Dobrolyubov NNLU offers four such programs with stable demand. Acting university rector Nikita Avralev noted that applicants come not only from the region but also from other areas, as there are few such institutions in the country. Special accommodations are created for out-of-town students, especially if they are minors.

      At Minin University, the competition for SVO programs has increased tenfold over the past year. As a result, the university plans to increase the number of state-funded and fee-paying places. Fields related to pedagogy, physical education, and additional education are particularly popular.

      Nizhny Novgorod State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering (NNGASU) offered 30 state-funded places this year for SVO programs. The average score of admitted students was 5.0.

      Nizhny Novgorod Lobachevsky State University also emphasizes the development of secondary vocational education. About 200 state-funded places are available here, with programs offered both on a state-funded and paid basis. NNSU Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Evgenia Chernykh highlighted that SVO graduates become potential bachelor's degree students, already possessing practical skills and a profession.

      Earlier, it was reported that colleges and technical schools in the Nizhny Novgorod region opened nearly 800 additional budget places.

      NIА "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay updated on main events, exclusive materials, and real-time information.