Free IT Schools Open in 18 Russian Cities

Russia is scaling up digital education with a nationwide program that offers free training in software development, cybersecurity, and AI. A new resume platform is helping graduates land jobs straight out of the program.

Eighteen cities across Russia have launched campuses of 'School 21,' a large-scale educational initiative offering free IT training to anyone over 18—no prior tech background required. The program is designed to feed the country’s growing demand for developers and digital specialists.

Students can specialize in backend and frontend development, mobile apps, game design, cybersecurity, data science, systems and business analysis, DevOps, and software testing. Training begins with an online assessment of algorithmic thinking, memory, and logic. Depending on the chosen track and learning pace, the program lasts from nine months to two years.

To ease the transition into the workforce, a dedicated service has been created where graduates can post resumes and connect with employers.

The expansion of digital education doesn’t stop there. Russia is also opening specialized IT high schools. Starting in the first grade, students are gradually introduced to computer science, mathematics, robotics, programming, 3D modeling, neural networks, virtual reality, and even drone piloting—building a pipeline of talent for the country’s growing tech ecosystem.