Study in Russia

STUDY IN RUSSIA

International Student in Russia?

Here’s what the international sanctions against Russia mean for your studies.

The Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow and the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg are just a few of the landmarks that come to mind when international students think about Russia as a study abroad destination. However, studying abroad in Russia is an experience that will take you far beyond its well-known tourist destinations.

With its rich and diverse history, Russian culture today is a complex mixture of tradition and innovation. Home to some of the world’s most famed cultural figures from Dostoyevsky to Tchaikovsky, Tolstoy, Plisetskaya and countless others, Russia has played a huge role in developing the global outlook on art forms like ballet, classical music, literature, and the fine arts.

The two largest cities in Russia are Moscow and St. Petersburg. Both located in the Western side of the country, Moscow is the country’s bustling capital full of contrasts, famous for its metro system often likened to a museum, and is home to Moscow State University, the oldest university in Russia dating all the way back to 1755. St. Petersburg is known as a global cultural capital, and the historic city center is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boasting over 100 museums, studying abroad in St. Petersburg offers international students endless opportunities to explore the diversity of Russian culture that has developed throughout the country’s history.

While its two largest cities are exciting attractions for international students hoping to study in Russia, it would be a mistake to overlook the other urban centers and towns in Russia that offer students the bona fide Russian study abroad experience. Destinations like Nizhny Novgorod, Chelyabinsk and Tambov will bring you out of Russia’s westernmost regions and illustrate the diversity of Russian culture, and its opportunities for higher education across its expansive geographic territory.

The biggest country in the world by a significant margin, Russia spans more than 17 million square kilometers from Europe to Asia, with 776 universities open to international students to boot!  

With its tremendous size comes an extremely heterogeneous population, as the country is home to around 200 ethnic groups which speak an estimated 100 unique languages. If you’re looking to brush up on your Russian skills before starting your studies, there are many options for studying Russian outside of Russia.  Russia is an extraordinarily diverse country, filled to the brim with different traditions and cultures, and higher education institutions of all shapes and sizes. Higher education in Russia especially renowned for its achievements in scientific research.

Want to study abroad in this amazing country? The sections below provide a broad overview of everything you need to know about studying abroad in Russia. Whether you know Russia is the destination for you or if you’re just starting to think about studying abroad, it’s never too early to start your research! 

For Direct information for Higher Studies,Scholarship and others, Contact Fortune Education: Call or  WhatsApp +880 1995529533, +91-9903355537 

More about Russia

Russia is renowned for higher education in the sciences, but it is not to be outdone in the humanities and social sciences. Choosing to pursue your education in Russia means studying in the birthplace of some of the world’s most prolific artists and writers.

Aside from its diverse culture, pursuing an education in Russia is made even more exciting with the fact that the country is home to 26 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, attracting millions of tourists and Russians alike. It’s common practice in Russia for universities to organize student trips to landmarks such as the Red Square, the Kremlin and the Golden Mountains of Altai amongst many others, making Russia the perfect destination for students itching to explore.

Rapid development in Russia over the last two decades have made it an incredibly different destination than the Russia your parents may be familiar with. Continuously broadening its opportunities for international students, Russia may be an ‘off the beaten path’ study abroad destination for some, and all the more interesting for you! Read on to learn everything you need to know about the unique and vibrant study abroad experience awaiting you in Russia.

Education System

Higher education in Russia is similar in structure to the central European system, with a few key differences. The system is divided into four main sections – primary, secondary, higher and postgraduate education. 776 higher education institutions across 82 regions in Russia accept international students, and choosing Russia as your study abroad destination will give you a wide variety of choices in finding the right higher education for you!

It takes 11 years to complete a secondary education in Russia before students can enter the higher education system. After successfully finishing their ninth year of schooling, students will receive a certificate of Basic General Education with the option of pursuing two more years of secondary education. After finishing the two additional years, a Certificate of Complete Secondary Education will then be awarded. This certificate serves as proof that the student is eligible to pursue their higher education.

Three kinds of higher education institutions in Russia

1. Universities offer a broad range of programs on all levels.
2. Academies place a larger emphasis on research and practical skills, normally dedicated to specific subject areas such as art, architecture or science.
3. Institutes are independent branches of universities or academies which offer professional educational courses. 

The higher education system in Russia is renowned for its achievements and emphasis in the field of science and technology.  Many of the courses offered at state-funded institutions are focused around the sciences, but a large variety of humanities and social sciences programs are offered as well! 

In recent years, private higher education institutions have emerged to complement these traditional Russian institutions, offering programs in other fields such as economics, business and law.

Degree Structures in the Russian Education System 

While education in Russia is largely based on the Bologna principles, education in Russia structures degrees slightly differently than other countries in Europe.

• Upon completion of secondary education, students can pursue either a Bachelor’s or Specialist’s degree, both qualifying students to later pursue a master’s degree. Bachelor’s degrees are given after four years of full-time study at a university. Specialist degrees are awarded after a minimum of five years of study and are more focused on practical education in a student’s chosen field. Both qualifications require students to successfully defend a thesis and pass examinations. This degree is conferred in all fields except medicine, where the first stage of education lasts for six years.

• Master’s degrees are awarded after two years of study with one year dedicated to research which includes practice and preparation for a thesis defense.  

• Students who possess a master’s degree are eligible to pursue their PhD studies. Postgraduate education is divided into two parts in Russia, and two degrees are required to confirm students’ status as a scientist. Postgraduate studies can only be pursued at a university or scientific institute. After successful completion of the first part of their postgraduate education, students are awarded a Candidate of Sciences degree. 

• The final Doctoral degree is obtained after an additional 2-4 years of study in postgraduate education. This certification then leads to a Doctorate degree. As there is a 10-year gap between both degrees, the final Doctorate qualifications are often awarded to Candidates of Science after they’re well into their careers in academia. 

Neither Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees existed in the Soviet system and were introduced to conform the Russian education system with international standards in accordance with the Bologna Process.

In addition, an MBA in Russia is becoming more and more popular among international students, since Russia is considered a financial superpower in the energy and gas sectors. 

This change has helped Russian higher education qualifications receive recognition and acceptance abroad, which was a previous problem for international alumni, and explains the rising number of international students choosing Russia as their study abroad destination! 

Universities in Russia

Russia is a highly educated country, with a long academic tradition. Its universities have spawned many great minds, among them a number of notable Nobel prize winners.

In recent years, Russia has been making an enormous effort to modernise its higher education system and open it up to foreign students. At the same time, the government-led “Project 5-100” has been aiming at bringing at least 5 Russian universities into the top 100 into the most respected global university rankings. The initiative has started to show results; more than a dozen Russian universities are now among the world’s top 500, and the results are improving every year.

The most prestigious by far is Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU). But there are countless other great universities in Russia. All in all, if you want to study in Russia in English, you can choose from well over 500 Bachelor programmes, Master programmes and PhD options, and that number is growing every year.

The Russian Academic Year

The academic year in Russia is split into two semesters. The first runs from September until January, and the second from February to June. This schedule is mandatory for all universities.

Student Visas

Do you need a visa to study in Russia? Student visas in Russia are required for students from most foreign countries. Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country.

Student visas in Russia are required for students from most foreign countries. Russia is not a member state of the EU/EFTA, so the EU visa-free entry privilege does not apply for European students. Exceptions to this rule are made for members of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) which includes Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Abkhazia, Moldova, Southern Ossetia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. 

You can begin your visa application once you’ve been accepted into your Russian university, up to 45 days before your planned arrival to Russia. Visa processing typically takes two to three weeks and can be done at your local Russian embassy or visa center.

A Russian student visa is initially valid for 90 days, with the option to extend the visa for a year, and then can be continuously renewed throughout the duration of your studies.

For Direct information for Higher Studies,Scholarship and others, Contact Fortune Education: Call or  WhatsApp +880 1995529533, +91-9903355537

Required Documents for Study Visas in Russia

• An official invitation letter from your chosen university or from the GUVM (Main Directorate for Migration Affairs);
• A valid passport which will be valid for at least 18 months from the issue date of the visa. and with at least two unmarked pages;
• A certificate showing your HIV-negative status no older than 90 days;
• A printed application form (this can be done online) for submission to the embassy, consulate or visa center;
• A letter of consent from your parents and certified by a notary (if you’re under 18).

Make sure to register your arrival in Russia at the local GUVM office within seven days of arrival. Failing to do so can result in a fine, or at times, expulsion from Russia. When it comes time to extend your 90-day visa to a one-year visa, contact your university’s international office to make sure you have all the tools, information and documents to complete the process successfully. 

Working While Studying

Student visas in Russia allows international students to combine your work with your studies. You will need to acquire a work permit from the Federal Migration Service (FMS) – unless you’ll be working during the holidays or at your academic institution.

The permit requires you to be studying full-time at a state-accredited university and at least 18 years old. The permit costs RUB 3,500 (USD 63), is valid for 1 year, and generally takes 10 days to acquire from the regional Federal Migration Service.

Housing & Living Costs

Student accommodation and living costs in for international students in Russia can greatly vary, depending on where you’re staying. Learn more about different student housing options and how much everything costs.

The cost of a student accommodation in Russia can range from RUB 150 to RUB 35,000 (USD2.6 – USD 612) per month, depending on where you’re staying, the amenities, and the type of lodging you choose.  Among the cities in Russia, Moscow and Saint Petersburg are well known for being the most expensive to live in.

Multiple factors come into play when considering the type of accommodation that’s fitting for you, so we recommend doing additional research as early as possible. Consult our Ultimate How To Study Abroad Guide for some general tips and tricks when it comes to planning your study abroad experience. Finding student accommodation in Russia, however, requires keeping a few key particularities in mind. 

For Direct information for Higher Studies,Scholarship and others, Contact Fortune Education: Call or  WhatsApp +880 1995529533, +91-9903355537

Types of Student Accommodation in Russia

• Home Stay – A common accommodation option for foreign students is to live with host families. While this may cost slightly more than university dormitories, homestays provide a great opportunity for you to be completely immersed in both the Russian language and culture.

• University Dormitories – University dormitories range from 500 RUB (7 USD) to 5,000 RUB (780 USD) per month and are often cheaper than private rentals with prices set by your institution. University dormitories always come with a shared kitchen and bathroom. The dorms are furnished, usually located on campus, and often near cafes and sports facilities, which may not always be the case with a home stay accommodation. With many foreign students opting for dormitory accommodation, the option may give you more options for socializing with other students. It’s important to remember that only your university office can offer you a place in a dormitory, a tenancy agreement, and are the only body able to decide if you qualify to live in a dormitory. Don’t follow leads from individuals or companies that claim to give you the option!  

• Privately Rented Accommodation – Many students recommend staying in a dorm for the first few months before moving into a private accommodation. Some universities will help you with finding private lodgings, going through your university or a realtor is the best way to find secure and fast lodging!

Other Living Costs

Like in other countries, the cost of living in Russia will largely depend on your location and lifestyle. Like accommodation costs, prices in Moscow and St. Petersburg can vary highly in comparison with other cities in Russia. If you’re considering multiple cities in Russia, use this calculator to compare living costs in different cities. We’ve compiled some overall averages for the cost of living in Russia in terms of some common student expenses:

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

For some students, Russian university tuition will seem a lot less expensive than their home countries. Find out more about the range of tuition fees in Russia.

Tuition fees for international students in Russia can vary from institution to institution. Coming from North America or Europe, they tend to be inexpensive, especially in relation to the high quality of education. 

The minimum tuition – which is determined by The Ministry of Education – cannot be less than the amount invested in education per student by the Russian government. 

Range of Tuition Fees in Russia

• A Bachelor’s degree in Russia can cost from RUB 220,000 to 240,000 (USD 3,385 to 3,690) per year;
• A Specialist’s degree can cost from RUB 220,00 to 240,000 (USD 3,385 to 3,690) per year;
• A Master’s degree can cost from RUB 240,000 to 260,000 (USD 3746 to USD 4058) up to RUB 450,000 (USD 8082) per year;
• Postgraduates course can cost anywhere from RUB 72,000 (USD 1293) to 250,000 (USD 4490) per year

To help international students have an easier time in integrating themselves to Russian society, some universities may offer preparatory programs which are designed to teach enrollees about the Russian language, traditions and lifestyle. The average cost of a program is RUB 120,000 (USD 2155). 

Scholarships in Russia

In 2019, the Russian government provided 15,000 state-funded places to international students studying at Russian universities. 

To qualify for government scholarships, international students must pass the same exam taken by Russian secondary school students, the Uniform State Examination (EGE). If you do qualify for a scholarship from the Russian government, it will include:

• Free tuition for the duration of your study program;
• A small maintenance allowance;
• Dormitory accommodation (if available). 

The number of scholarships available to international students is based on the nature of your home country’s relationship with Russia. Contact your country’s local representation of the Rossotrudnichestvo, an agency of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to get more information on the scholarship opportunities available to you! 

Looking for more information on scholarships? Consult our scholarship guide for some key tips and tricks or, apply to our €5000 European Master’s Scholarship for the chance to fund your master’s level education in Russia!

Language & Culture

When you think about the size of Russia, it comes as no surprise that the country has a wide variety of languages and cultures. Take a look.

With its massive landmass, it comes as no surprise that Russia has become a melting pot for a wide variety of languages and cultures. Russia is a perfect country for students who are open to exploring different interests, fields and cultures all within the borders of one nation. 

The Russian Language

81% of the total population in Russia speak Russian as their sole and primary language, and Russian remains the country’s only official language. Simultaneously, the country has a diverse mix of more than 100 languages scattered across an estimated 200 ethnic groups, and 37 other languages are taught in schools in different republics across the country. Many regional languages have different origins, making Russia a linguistic melting pot with the Russian language as its glue.  If you’re unfamiliar with Slavic languages learning Russian may be a challenge, but following these four easy tips for learning a new language can give you a huge head start. 

Due to the recent influx of international students, many universities have started offering programs in English, especially at the graduate and postgraduate levels. Study programs in English can mostly be found in Russia’s two main international hubs, Moscow and St. Petersburg. Learning Russian, however, will be a huge help to make yourself understood your day-to-day life as an international student in Russia.

Many Russians will appreciate your effort to integrate into Russian culture by picking up the language. If you’re interested in learning Russian before you travel to Russia, explore your study options to study the Russian language outside of Russia and be ready to flex your Russian language muscles from the moment you land in your new home!

Russian Culture

Russia boasts many impressive achievements in literature and the arts. Many great writers, philosophers and artists were from Russia, including Leo Tolstoy, Anton Chekhov, Feodor Dostoyevsky and Piotr Tchaikovsky to name but a few. National and international ballet, music concerts, art exhibitions and cinemas are commonplace in most Russian cities. Not to mention, Russia is home to a whopping 26 World UNESCO Heritage Sites, such as the Kremlin, Red Square and Lake Baikal.

Russians are known for being hospitable and friendly towards guests, and it’s custom to return the favor by bringing a gift when you’re invited to a Russian household. Trips to the local banya (steam bath), creating lifelong friendships and celebrating over 50 national holidays like Women’s Day and Undergraduate’s Day are all cultural staples to look forward to when you choose Russia as your study abroad destination.

Superstitions are also commonplace in Russia, and some students will never write an exam without a five-roble coin under their heel or cut their hair during exam season. Decide for yourself if you’ll be spitting over your left shoulder when a black cat crosses your path or avoid whistling inside homes!

Application Process

All countries have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance into a university. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in Russia, and what you need to apply.

The entry requirements for Russian universities can vary, depending on the university and study program you are applying to, your previous grades, and the results of your entrance exam and interview, with the former being a major component of the selection procedure. Follow these six strategies for getting into an international university in conjunction with the information below specific to applying to Russian universities to make your application shine! 

For Direct information for Higher Studies, Scholarship and others, Contact Fortune Education: Call or  WhatsApp +880 1995529533, +91-9903355537

The 5 Steps to Applying to Russian Universities Include:

1. Choosing your program or university.
2. Learning about the financing and scholarship opportunities available to you.
3. Preparing your document package, specific to the university and program you’re applying to.
4. Undergoing competitive selection, including tests, interviews or academic competitions.
5. Get your invitation to study at a Russian university and make your application for a student visa!

Undergraduate Programs

Since many courses in Russian universities are taught in Russian at the undergraduate level, it is likely that you’ll need to learn the language first and provide proof of your proficiency, possibly through writing the Unified State Entrance Examination (EGE). If you need to learn Russian in order to tackle the EGE, opportunities abound to learn Russian outside of Russia.  

Are your Russian skills rusty, or non-existent? Don’t fret! Some Russian universities offer one-year preparatory programs which allow newcomers to fully integrate themselves into Russian society through courses about the Russian language, culture and lifestyle. 

Entrance exams in Russia play a huge part in determining whether a student will get accepted into their chosen university or not. The Unified State Examination (EGE), like the SAT used in the United States, is a standardized test used for university admissions across the country. Top universities require the highest scores on the EGE for candidates to be eligible for consideration, making them the toughest to get into. 

Also, all required documents such as your Application for Admission, ID, previous education certificates, medical certificate and passport photographs, should all be presented with official copies translated into Russian.

If you have a dual citizenship, you can apply as a foreign student using your non-Russian passport.

Graduate and Postgraduate Programs

If you are applying for advanced degrees (M.A./M.Sc., Ph.D., D.Sc.) you will need to have proof of have your previous degree(s), like your Bachelor’s or Specialist’s degrees, in the same (or a very similar field) to the program you’re hoping to pursue. This requirement is rather strict, especially in comparison to the US or the UK. Unlike undergraduate programs, there are a larger quantity of courses offered in English after the undergraduate level.

Keep in mind that universities receive many applications throughout the year, so it’s a wise choice to send the required documents and proof of qualifications well before the deadline to avoid any unfortunate delays.

Frequently Ask Question

• When does academic year start in Russian universities?

Academic year starts on 1st of September, and on January/February every year. However, you need to calculate timing of admission process, preparation of your documents, translations, and visa processing timing in more advanced time.

     2.How can I study in Russia if I don’t know Russia

Russian universities normally offer Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree Programmes in English. You can choose to study Russian at the university’s international student preparatory intensive course. If you enrol with Russian language or preparatory, you will also be able to study in Russian free of charge.

     3.What do preparatory departments for international students teach?

Leading Russian universities normally have preparatory departments where international students study for one year. In addition to the Russian language, students study other subjects, depending on the chosen programme, e.g. Maths, Chemistry, or Biology.

     4.What’s the average cost of studying at a Russian university? Can I pay for my tuition in instalments?

Russian universities are praised for their best price-to-value ratio. Tuition costs vary from 2500 to 8000 $US dollars per year and depend on the city and chosen university. Most Russian universities accept payment in installment starting from your second year living in Russia.

     5.Is it difficult to get a scholarship from the Russian government?

Government scholarships are awarded to the most talented students on the basis of their academic merit. The commission looks at your secondary school marks if you apply for a Bachelor’s programme, or at your academic excellence during undergraduate studies if you apply for a Master’s programme. However, best option is starting to apply for scholarship starting from your second year living in Russia

     6.Can foreigners study and work in Russia at the same time?

International students can work at the university (or at its organizations) on their free time. In this case you don’t need to take the relevant permit from the Federal Migration Service (FMS). In other cases a permit is required. Permits are issued only to students on full-time courses at state-accredited universities. Students can work only according to the profession specified in the permit, and in the region (city) where their university is located.

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About US

Fortune Education is a leading consultancy in the field of student visa assistance, admission, scholarship, and Others student-related issues for studies abroad. We are closely associated with the government of India and various educational institutions in foreign countries to provide quality service and accurate information. We are dedicated to serve our customer with all possible efforts and provide them best guidance at their doorstep. We help students to get admission in top level universities and colleges.Contact us any time; we are ready to help!

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