How a foreigner can participate in ‘Total Dictation 2026’

‘Total Dictation’ is an annual free dictation-style event open to everyone. The project originated in Novosibirsk in 2004 and, over the past two decades, has grown into a large-scale international movement.

Each year, participants dictate a passage from a text by a Russian writer. Afterwards, the organizers check for errors and give out grades. In 2026, the dictation will take place online and in person on April 18. The author of this year's text is Russian writer Alexey Varlamov, rector of the Maxim Gorky Literature Institute.

‘TruD’ test-quest for foreigners

For those learning Russian as a foreign language, organizers have developed a special format – the ‘TruD’ test-quest. It will take place simultaneously with the main dictation.

Participants are asked to complete nine tasks based on the ‘Total Dictation’ text, as well as write a portion of it from dictation.

All tasks are developed by experts in the methodology of teaching Russian as a foreign language.

The test is designed for different language proficiency levels:
– Level A1 – will allow you to complete some of the tasks;
– Levels A2 to B2 – the optimal level for successfully completing most tasks;
– If you have a C1/C2 level, organizers recommend entering the main dictation.

The test-quest will be available at over 130 venues worldwide: in 51 Russian cities and 87 foreign cities. And, of course, online.
The full list of participating cities can be found on the test-quest page.

To participate, you need to register on the ‘Total Dictation’ website and select your desired format (online or in person). 
Registration will open on April 8, 2026 (10 days before the event). You will need to enter your email address and password, or log in through your social media account.

For those who want to prepare for the test, the organizers offer a free educational mini-course.

Total dictation for everyone

If you already have a high level of Russian proficiency, feel free to register for the main ‘Total Dictation’. 

The requirements are the same: choose a convenient venue and write the text on the designated day.
Registration begins on April 8.

At the in-person venue, you will be provided with everything you need: a special form and a pen. You don't need to bring anything with you.

The text is often dictated not only by Russian language teachers, but also by famous people: TV presenters, actors, musicians, etc.

Furthermore, the venues for the dictation can be quite unusual: it could be a university, an airport, a river tram or a commuter train.

Results are usually checked within a few weeks. You can see your grade in your personal account on the website. A participant's certificate will also appear there, which you can print if you wish.

If you took the test in person, a meeting might be organized to review the mistakes.

In 2025, over 1.3 million people in 50 countries took part in the ‘Total Dictation’.