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Study in Russia – All you need to know 2021

Written by  Vishesh Chogtu

Published on Tue, November 30, 2021 10:23 AM   Updated on Tue, December 28, 2021 1:56 PM   15 mins read
Source: Eli from Russia

Russia is a world leader in providing high-quality education that can compete with the top universities from anywhere in the world. Being one of the world’s most dynamic and largest growing economies, the educational sector has been developed to make it a haven for international students from every part of the world. With the amount of investment made into science, research, and technology, it is not surprising that Russia is a desirable destination for students who are looking to pursue higher education abroad. If you want to know the different academic opportunities to study in Russia, continue reading this article to learn more. 

Study in Russia for Indian Students

As mentioned above, Russia has shown tremendous growth as an academic destination for pursuing higher education for Indian students. This is because of the highly competitive universities, a highly educated population, a wide variety of disciplines to choose from, and a haven for medical aspirants.

There are a plethora of advantages for Indian students who choose to study in Russia, and they are as follows: 

  • Get a World-class and high-quality education in the field you wish to pursue
  • A wide range of disciplines, specializations, and programs to choose from
  • Bilateral treaties between India and Russia have made it such that there is no need to legalize a degree or Academic document from a Russian university. It is automatically recognized by most Indian universities.
  • Russia is also one of the few countries in the world that has highly affordable tuition fees.
  • Get the opportunity to interact with people from different parts of the world.

Check Out: MBBS in Russia


Study in Russia MBBS

Russia is known across the globe for its top-class medical programs, and as such has become one of the most popular destinations for students who wish to pursue MBBS. The country is home to nearly 60 Medical universities that provide high-quality education at a highly subsidized cost to international students. 

The MBBS course offered in Russian universities is generally a 6-year course that requires its applicants to have a minimum of 50% at a 10+2 level of education. In most cases, NEET scores are required and recommended to pursue this degree, although alternative paths to admission are also available. The Intake process for securing admission to an MBBS program generally starts in 2 intakes: September and January.    

Why Study MBBS in Russia?

There are various reasons to pursue a Bachelor’s in Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) in Russia. The combination of affordable fees and top-notch education focusing on research, application, innovation, and academic excellence makes it the best place to study medicine for international and Indian students. 

Advantages of Studying MBBS in Russia for Indian Students: 

  • Affordable and Subsidized Tuition fees
  • No management fees or donation fees required
  • No separate entrance test required to be taken in Russia
  • Generous and valuable scholarships
  • Opportunity to Learn Russian
  • Unique dual diploma programs that can be pursued on the side
  • Worldwide recognized MBBS degree

How to Study in Russia?

While studying in Russia is an incredible chance to connect with people from different walks of life, it is important to understand the process of applying for admission into the universities in Russia. There are over 741 universities, and one can choose to pursue a Bachelor’s, Master’s, Specialist, Doctorate, or diploma from these universities. While each university will have its own set of requirements, a designated application process has to be followed by those who wish to study in Russia. 

  • Register yourself on the official website, and fill the form through the online portal. 
  • Attach copies of all the supporting documents that are required
  • Choose up to 6 universities for admission, and wait for the acceptance letter.
  • Once accepted, make sure you receive the invitation to study letter from the university.
  • Use the acceptance letter to apply for a student visa and travel to Russia. 

Top Universities in Russia

We have tabulated together a list of the top Universities in Russia for Indian Students along with their average tuition fees:

University for MBBSRankingAverage Fees
Attai State Medical University2nd (Russia), 560 (World)2.97 Lakhs per annum
Bashkir State Medical University112 (Russia), 3585 (World) 2.90 Lakhs per annum
Omsk State Medical University112 (Russia), 3585 (World)1.60 Lakhs per annum
Orel State Medical University237 (Russia), 5555 (World)2.08 Lakhs per annum
Kursk State Medical University21 (Russia), 692 (World)4.61 Lakhs per annum
Smolensk State Medical University271 (Russia), 6130 (World)4.48 Lakhs per annum
Pirogov Russian NRM University51 (Russia), 2272 (World)5.39 Lakhs per annum
St. Petersburg Medical University94 (Russia), 3270 (World)3.75 Lakhs per annum
Crimean Federal University16 (Russia), 3644 (World)2.97 Lakhs per annum
Ulyanovsk State Medical University76 (Russia), 3152 (World)2.96 Lakhs per annum

Requirements to Study in Russia

As described above, students who wish to study in Russia will have to follow the online application process to secure admission to a university in Russia. Various documents are required to be submitted during this process to be eligible for studying in Russia.

In general, the following are basic requirements to study in Russia: 

  • Filled Application form
  • Proof of Higher Secondary School Education for Bachelor’s programs
  • Proof and Certificate of Bachelor’s degree or Equivalent course for Master’s programs
  • International Passport
  • Invitation Letter from the University
  • Student Visa
  • Proof of Bank Balance to afford first year expenses
  • Proof of Russian Proficiency for courses taught in Russian
  • Proof of academic achievements and courses mentioned in a resume

There are many top-tier universities in Russia, and here is a table to compare the fees structure and eligibility criteria of these universities: 

CollegeFeesEligibility
Moscow State Institute of International Relations – MGIMO University6 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent with a major that is relevant to the proposed field of study preferred. A minimum command over the russian language is recommended but not required. Application form and other documents should be emailed to the university. 
Tomsk Polytechnic University (PTU)3.13 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must possess minimum study requirements and submit the online application form. All the required documents along with passport should be sent along with the application and applicants are eligible for admission as soon as they get an invitation to study letter from the university. 
National Research University Higher School of Economics4.2 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must possess minimum study requirements and submit the online application form. All the required documents along with passport should be sent along with the application and applicants are eligible for admission as soon as they get an invitation to study letter from the university. 
Bauman Moscow State Technical University (BMSTU)2.88 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent with a major that is relevant to the proposed field of study preferred. They must submit all the required documents along with their Unified Entrance Exam Scores. 
National Research Nuclear University (MEPhI) – Moscow Engineering Physics Institute1.78 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent with a major that is relevant to the proposed field of study preferred. They must submit all the required documents along with their Unified Entrance Exam Scores. 
Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology State University3.3 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent with a major that is relevant to the proposed field of study preferred. They must submit all the required documents along with their Unified Entrance Exam Scores. 
Tomsk State University (TSU)2.23 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent with a major that is relevant to the proposed field of study preferred. They must submit all the required documents along with their Unified Entrance Exam Scores. 
Novosibirsk State University2.23 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent with a major that is relevant to the proposed field of study preferred. They must submit all the required documents along with their Unified Entrance Exam Scores. 
Saint-Petersburg State University3.1 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent with a major that is relevant to the proposed field of study preferred. They must submit all the required documents along with their Unified Entrance Exam Scores. 
Lomonosov Moscow State University3.25 Lakhs RUB per yearApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent with a major that is relevant to the proposed field of study preferred. They must submit all the required documents along with their Unified Entrance Exam Scores. 

Study in Russia Cost

In comparison to some of the other European countries, Russia offers some of the most inexpensive tuition fees for studying at their universities. When one plans to travel to Russia to stay and study there, they must be aware of the cost to study and live in Russia. The cost of living can rack up to quite a high amount if one is not prepared financially. We have put together a list of the different expenses and expenses for studying in Russia. 

Here is a list of expenses that one can incur while studying in Russia: 

  • Average Tuition Fees: 2.4 Lakhs – 2.6 Lakhs RUB per year
  • Average Monthly Cost of Living: 38,000 RUB per month without considering rent
  • Groceries: 2,100 RUB per month
  • Food at Restaurant: 550 – 2500 RUB per month
  • Monthly Transportation Pass: 2200 RUB per month
  • Taxi Charges: 17 RUB per kilometre (+ 300 RUB per hour of waiting)
  • Gasoline: 49 RUB per litre
  • Basic Utilities(Electricity, Water, etc.): 7,800 RUB per month
  • Mobile Charges: 1.95 RUB per minute
  • Internet Charges: 495 RUB per month
  • Movie Ticket: 350 RUB per ticket
  • Accommodation: 21,000 – 34,000 RUB per month
  • IELTS: 14,000 – 20,000 RUB depending on location
  • TOEFL: 18,600 RUB

Cost of Study in Russia for Indian Students

While the Tuition fees are not exorbitantly high in Russia, the cost of living is about 47% more expensive. However, the positive aspect is that the exchange rate between RUB and INR is almost negligible. 

1 RUB = 1.01 INR

Top Universities in Russia

Here is a table to compare the cost of studying and living in Russian with that of India: 

Type of ExpenseCost in Russia Cost in India
Average Tuition Fees2.4 Lakhs – 2.6 Lakhs RUB per year2.4 Lakhs – 5.8 Lakhs RUB per year
Groceries2,100 RUB per month2,100 RUB per month
Food at Restaurant550 – 2500 RUB per month160 – 900 RUB per month
Monthly Transportation Pass2200 RUB per month600 RUB per month
Taxi Charges17 RUB per kilometre (+ 300 RUB per hour of waiting)16 RUB per kilometre (+ 100 RUB per hour of waiting)
Gasoline49 RUB per litre90 RUB per litre
Basic Utilities(Electricity, Water, etc.)7,800 RUB per month2,876 RUB per month
Mobile Charges1.95 RUB per minute0.91 RUB per minute
Internet Charges495 RUB per month770 RUB per month
Movie Ticket 350 RUB per ticket250 RUB per ticket
Accommodation21,000 – 34,000 RUB per month7,000 – 21,000 RUB per month
IELTS18,600 RUB14,700 RUB

Study in Russia Scholarships

Students who wish to pursue higher education in Russia often do not need to be worried about monetary constraints as the tuition fees is highly inexpensive. However, for certain courses, the tuition fees for international students along with the cost of living might prove to be a costly affair. For such students, the ministry of education and science in Russia subsidizes the cost of education and offers public scholarships. 

Here is a list of the different types of awards and scholarships given to international students who wish to study in Russia: 

  • Russian Scholarships Project – Open Doors Russian Scholarship
  • Benjamin A Gilman Scholarships
  • BP in Russia Research Scholarships
  • University Specific Scholarships

Check Out: Exams to Study Abroad


Study MBBS in Russia without NEET

While most Russian medical universities recommend and require their applicants to submit their NEET scores at the time of applying to the MBBS programs, it is possible to secure admission without taking the NEET exam. However, these pathways often have other specifications and requirements that need to be met by the candidate to prove to the university their academic calibre.  

Here is a list of other requirements that candidates that wish to study MBBS in Russia without NEET must satisfy: 

  • The Student must have a minimum age of 17 years at the time of applying to the university
  • The Student must have completed high school education (10+2) from a recognized board 
  • Academically, they must have a minimum average of 50% in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
  • Students must submit an “Eligibility Certificate” that is issued by the official Medical Authority of India (MCI)
  • English Proficiency test scores(TOEFL, IELTS, etc. ) must be submitted. 

Study MBBS in Russia with Scholarship

As mentioned earlier, education in Russia is highly subsidized and to ease any other economic burdens. There are a plethora of scholarships available for students who wish to study MBBS in Russia. These scholarships are usually provided on a need-based and merit basis. These scholarships cover the cost of living, accommodation, tuition fees, etc. 

Here is a list of scholarships offered to students who wish to study MBBS in Russia:

Study in Russia MBA

Russia is highly diverse in terms of culture and has a robust economy. As such, it has quickly climbed the ranks to establish itself as a global power in business, economics, finance and marketing. Due to this highly influential economic and business climate, it is one of the most popular destinations to pursue higher education in the world of business. There is a repertoire of premier business schools that offer high-quality education through their MBA programs. 

There are several advantages of studying an MBA in Russia, such as: 

  • Opportunity to learn Russian, which will develop one’s communication and networking skills on the global platform
  • Highly subsidized and affordable education
  • Several scholarships to alleviate the economic stress and burden of tuition fees
  • Various discounts on the cost of living and expenses for International students
  • Chance to interact with people from all parts of the world
  • Have the opportunity to walk into a well-connected market and be part of a thriving economy
University for MBARankingAverage Fees
Saint Petersburg State University242 (World)5.90 Lakhs per annum
The Stockholm School of Economics7 (World) 37.5 Lakhs per annum
Moscow State University78 (World)4.60 Lakhs per annum
Moscow International Higher Business School5159 (World)2.88 Lakhs per annum
Vlerick Business School82 (World)5.68 Lakhs per annum
Moscow School of Management250 (World)4.80 Lakhs per annum

Study PhD in Russia

Russia is one of the few countries that remain wholeheartedly committed to technological innovation, scientific discovery, and medical advancements. The universities in Russia are renowned and recognized across the globe for their commitment to research endeavours and academic excellence. As such, pursuing a PhD in Russia is an incredible opportunity to widen one’s horizons and garner various insights and perspectives from highly-qualified personnel.

There are numerous reasons why one should study a PhD course in Russia, such as: 

  • Affordable fees structure at premier institutions
  • More than 15,000 scholarships available for Indian and International Students
  • Reputed Universities that are respected and recognized throughout the globe
  • State-of-the-art infrastructure and research equipment and facilities
  • Modern Campus lifestyle that prioritizes comfort
  • Learn the Russian Language for Free 
University for PhDRankingAverage Fees
Lomonosov Moscow State University78 (World)7 Lakhs per annum
Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT)290 (World)3.75 Lakhs per annum
HSE University305 (World)5.45 Lakhs per annum
St Petersburg Polytechnic University401 (World)2.23 Lakhs per annum
National Research Nuclear University (MEPhI)319 (World)4.20 Lakhs per annum
Saint Petersburg Mining University1001 (World)3.12 Lakhs per annum
study in russia

FAQs

Is IELTS required for Russia Student Visa?

Ans. No! IELTS or any other English proficiency test scores are not required for availing a Russian Student Visa. The only documents required are your original invitation letter from the university and educational degree certificates. 

How much cost to study MBBS in Russia?

Ans. MBBS degree programs in Russia are 6-year courses that have highly subsidized tuition fees. On average, the tuition fees per year of MBBS is about INR 2.75 Lakhs. 

✅ Can international students work in Russia while studying?

Ans. Yes, international students can work part-time. International Offices at universities can sometimes assist students in finding contract jobs. In this instance, you do not need to get permission from the Russian Interior Ministry’s General Administration for Migration Issues. A permission is necessary for some instances. Only students enrolled in full-time courses at state-accredited colleges are eligible for permits. Students are only allowed to work in the professions listed on their work permits and in the region (city) where their institution is situated.

✅ Is Russia a good place to study for Indian students?

Ans. Yes, Russia has one of the world’s top mass-education systems with a long history of providing high-quality education to all inhabitants. Russia’s education system yields a literacy rate of 98%, which is higher than that of most Western European nations.

✅ How can students get scholarships in Russia?

Ans. In Russia, Government scholarships are given to the brightest students based on their academic achievements. If you apply for a Bachelor’s degree, the commission looks at your secondary school grades; if you apply for a Master’s programme, the commission looks at your academic excellence throughout your undergraduate studies.

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Vishesh Chogtu

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