Relevance. It is known from the practice of world oil production that the development of oil fields is accompanied by a decrease in oil withdrawal and an increase in water cut of production wells. In the section from the injection well to the reacting production wells, there may still be significant oil saturated and unaffected oil saturated intervals in reservoirs with heterogeneous reservoir rocks. The application of flow-removal technologies is a promising option for increasing the coverage of productive horizons, increasing the coverage factor and final oil recovery. Aim. To review, evaluate the effectiveness and prospects of crosslinked polymer compositions for enhanced oil recovery. Methods. Analysis of existing studies and comparative analysis of the performance of various crosslinked polymer composites used in petroleum applications. Results and conclusions. The authors have carried out a review on the application of crosslinked polymer compositions for enhanced oil recovery. The paper concludes that polymers can be of two types: synthetic polymers and biopolymers. One of the most common synthetic polymers is partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide, and the most generally used biopolymer is xanthan gum. The text also discussed the application of crosslinked polymer systems in field conditions, basic principles, mechanisms of action and applicability criteria, taking into account the main geological and physical conditions of reservoirs. Crosslinked polymer systems are classified into three types: colloidal dispersed gels, pre-crosslinked granular gels, and in-situ gelation polymers. The different types of polymers crosslinkers used in each type of system are noted. Based on this review it is possible for the researcher to determine the choice of reagent for the preparation of crosslinked polymer compositions taking into account the specific requirements and conditions of a particular field for optimal selection of the reagent.