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MBBS in Russia vs Germany 2026: Fees, Admission, Language, FMGE & Career Scope

Puja Das • 16 Mins read • 21 Jan 26

MBBS in Russia vs Germany

MBBS in Russia vs Germany is one of the biggest decisions for Indian medical students. Two increasingly discussed options are Russia and Germany, each with very different models of MBBS.

Russia has dozens of government medical universities serving 6-year MBBS courses, many of which are taught in English and are recognized by Global medical authorities. Tuition fees in Russia are significantly lower than in Western countries, often around $3,000 to $4,000 yearly, making it attractive for students on a budget.

German medical degrees are internationally reputed and ideal for European practice, but India recognition is more complex due to language and structural differences. An MBBS in Germany is taught in the German language. Most of the universities in Germany offer free education to their students.

Why Do Students Compare MBBS in Russia vs Germany?

Students often compare Russia and Germany for MBBS because both countries are popular European medical education destinations, but they different greatly in cost, career outcomes, entry process, and language. Here is a clear breakdown of why the comparison happens and what students are really evaluating:

Particulars	MBBS in Russia	MBBS in Germany
Cost vs Quality Trade-off	Low tuition fees Affordable living costs MBBS programs are taught in English.	Public universities have very low or zero tuition fees. Higher living expenses. Education quality is considered top-tier globally.
Language of Instruction	The MBBS is available fully in English. Russian is learned mainly for patient interaction.	Medical education is primarily in German. Requires B2-C1 German proficiency.
Admission Process and Competition	Easier admission. No entrance exam like NEET.	Extremely competitive. Requires excellent academic sources, German language certification, and Studienkolleg.
Duration and Structure of MBBS	Russia: 6 years (including internship).	Germany: 6 - 7 years.

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Quick Comparison

Here is a quick, side-by-side comparison of Russia vs Germany MBBS:

Factors	MBBS in Russia	MBBS in Germany
Language of Instruction	English (available in many universities).	German (mandatory; B2/C1 level).
Tuition Fees	Moderate to low	Very low to no tuition fees
Living Costs	Low to moderate	High
Admission difficulty	Relatively easier.	High.
Duration	6 years (including internship).	6 - 7 years.
Recognition	WHO/NMC recognized; need FMGE/NEXT for India.	EU-recognized; need language and licensing exams.

MBBS Education System Comparison

Russia vs Germany MBBS education system comparison is explained below:

Medical Education Structure in Russia

Here is a clear and structured overview of the medical education (MBBS/MD) system in Russia, especially relevant for international students:

Particulars	Details
Program name	Degree awarded: MD (Doctor of Medicine). Equivalent to MBBS in India and many other countries.
Total Duration	6 years in total 5 years: Academic education. 1 year: Clinical internship/ practical training.
Years-Wise Structure	Year 1 - 2: Pre-Clinical Phase Focus on basic medical sciences: Anatomy Physics Biochemistry Medical Biology Histology Basic Pathology Year 3 - 4: Para-Clinical Phase Introduction to disease mechanisms and diagnostics: Pathology Pharmacology Microbiology Pathophysiology Public health and preventive medicine Year 5 - 6: Clinical Phase Hospital-based training in major specialties: Internal medicine General surgery Pediatrics Obstetrics and Gynecology Orthopedics Psychiatry ENT Ophthalmology
Medium of Instruction	English-medium MBBS available for international students. Russia language is taught alongside.

Medical Education Structure in Germany

Here is a clear, exam-oriented overview of the medical education structure in Germany. Which is quite different from Russia and India:

Particulars	Details
Degree Awarded	Degree Awarded State Examination in Medicine Equivalent to MBBS + MD. No Separate “MBBS” degree title.
Total Duration	Total Duration 6 years + 3 months, divided into three main phases.
Phase-wise Structure	Phase 1: Pre-Clinical Phase (Vorklinik) 2 years Subjects include: Anatomy Physiology Biochemistry Medical Psychology Medical Sociology Phase 2: Clinical Phase (Klinik) 3 years Subjects include: Internal Medicine Surgery Paediatrics Gynecology and Obstetrics Neurology Psychiatry Pharmacology Radiology Phase 3: Practical Year (Praktisches Jahr - PJ) 1 year Divided into 3 rotations ( 4 months each): 1. Internal Medicine 2. Surgery 3. Elective (Pediatrics and Orthopedics).
Medium of Instruction	100% german. Required level: B2 - C1 German. Medical German is Essential for Patient care.

MBBS in Russia vs Germany: Duration & Internship Comparison

The following table shows the MBBS duration and internship comparison between Russia vs Germany MBBS

Factor	Russia	Germany
Degree Name	MD (equivalent to MBBS)	State examination
Total duration	6 years	6 years+ 3 months
Academic Study	5 years	5 years
Internship/Practical Training	1 year included (6th year)	1 year practical year (PJ)
Internship Structure	Rotational hospital internship	3 rotations * 4 months

MBBS Fees & Total Cost Comparison

Russia vs Germany MBBS tuition fees, hostel fees, food and living expenses are mentioned in the following table:

Tuition Fees for MBBS in Russia Vs Germany

Tuition fees in Russia vs Germany are identified in the following table.

Universities Name	Tuition Fees (Yearly)
Russia
Voronezh State Medical University	$4680
Kirov State Medical University	$4,000
Yaroslavl State Medical University	$4450
Tver State Medical University	$4900
Hungary
Universities Name	Semester Fees (Yearly)
Heidelberg University	€1,600
University of Freiburg	$3,400
Technical University of Munich	$4,000
University of Hamburg Medical Center	$700
University of Göttingen	$850
Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen	$3,200

Read More:

Hostel and Accommodation Cost Comparison for MBBS in Russia and Germany
Hostel and accommodation cost for Russia vs Germany MBBS is mentioned here.

Universities Name	Hostel Fees (Yearly)
Russia
Voronezh State Medical University	$700
Kirov State Medical University	$600
Yaroslavl State Medical University	$300-$400
Tver State Medical University	$250 - $1000
Hungary
Semmelweis University	$3,500
University of Debrecen	$3,000
University of Szeged	$2,800
University of Pécs	$2,500

Food, Transport and Living Expenses for MBBS in Russia vs Germany

Here is a clear, realistic comparison of food, living costs and transport for MBBS students in Russia vs Germany, shown in USD and based on typical student lifestyles:

Expense Category	Russia (USD/month)	Germany (USD/month)
Food	$120 – $180	$250 – $350
Transport	$10 – $25	$60 – $100
Accommodation (Hostel / Rent)	$80 – $150	$350 – $600
Utilities & Internet	$20 – $40	$120 – $180
Health Insurance	$15 – $25	$110 – $140
Misc. / Personal	$40 – $60	$100 – $150
Total Monthly Cost	$300 – $450	$900 – $1,400

Total Cost for MBBS in Russia vs Germany

Total MBBS cost for Russia vs Germany MBBS are identified in this following table.

Particulars	MBBS in Russia	MBBS in Germany
Total Tuition fees	$18,000 – $36,000	$2,000 – $5,000
Total living costs	$18,000 – $25,000	$66,000 – $93,000
Other Total Mandatory Costs (Visa, insurance, travel, etc.)	$2,000 – $3,000	$2,000 – $4,000
Grand Total Estimate	$38,000 – $64,000	$70,000 – $110,000

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MBBS in Russia vs Germany: Admission Process & Eligibility

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany admission process and eligibility criteria are mentioned in this section.

MBBS in Russia vs Germany: Eligibility Criteria

The following table presents the clear comparison of eligibility criteria for Russia vs Germany MBBS, focusing on what actual matters for applicants:

Eligibility Criteria	MBBS in Russia	MBBS in Germany
Minimum Age	17 years by 31 Dec of admission year	17 - 18 years
Academic Qualification	10+2 (PCB)	10+2 (Science) + eligibility for German higher education
Minimum Marks	50% in PCB (40% for reserved categories)	Very high marks required (usually 85% - 90%)
NEET	Mandatory	Not required for Germany
Language Requirement	No language test for admission.	German mandatory.

MBBS in Russia Admission Process 2026

Here is a step-by-step, easy-to-understand overview of the MBBS admission process in Russia, especially significant for Indian and international students:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

You must:

Be 17 years or older.
Have completed 10+2 with Physics, Biology, and Chemistry.
Have 50% PCB (40% for the reserved category - India specific)
NEET qualified (mandatory for Indian students)

Step 2: Choose a University

Select an NMC/WHO-reognized Russia medical university.
Decide: English-medium MBBS, Budget and location and Government vs private

Step 3: Submit Application

Documents usually required:

10th and 12th marks sheets
NEET scorecard
Passport
Pass-size photos
Medical fitness certificate

Step 4: Receive Admission Letter

Universities issue a provisional admission letter within a few days.
No entrance exam or interview in most cases

Step 5: Pay Initial Fees

Pay the first-year tuition fee or registration fee
Required to generate official invitation.

Step 6: Invitation Letter from Russia

University applies to the Russian Ministry of Education/ Migration
Official invitation letter (Visa Support) issued (2 - 4 weeks)

Step 7: Apply for a Student Visa

Documents needed:

Invitation letter
Passport
HIV test report
Medical certificates
Visa application form

Step 8: Travel to Russia

Book a flight after visa approval
Inform the university about arrival details.

Step 9: University Enrollment and Registration

Original document document verification
Contract signing
Fee payment
Medical check-up
Hostel allotment
Local migration registration.

MBBS in Germany Admission Process 2026

The following points are a step-by-step explanation of the MBBS admission process in Germany, simplified for international students:

Step 1: Check academic eligibility

10+2 with very high scores (usually 85% - 95%).
Eligibility for German higher education (HZB).
Indian students are NOT directly eligible after 12th.

Step 2: Learn German

Mandatory requirement
Level needed: B2 → C1
Includes Medical German
Proof via exams like TestDaF, DSH, and Goethe/Telc C1

Step 3: Studienkolleg (Foundation Course)

Required for most non-EU students
1 year preparatory course.
Focus on Biology, Physics, Chemistry, and German.
Ends with Feststellungsprufung (FSP) exam

Step 4: Apply to Universities

Application via:

Uni-Assist
Direct university portals

Selection based on:

Academic marks
German language level
FSP performance

Step 5: Receive Admission Offer

Extremely competitive
Merit-based ranking.

Step 6: Blocked Account and Visa

Before visa:

Open Blocked Account
Health insurance
Visa interview at German Embassy

Step 7: Star Medical Studies

Degree: State exam (Staatsexamen)
Duration: 6 years + 3 months
Includes pre-clinical, clinical and practical year.

MBBS in Russia vs Germany: Documents Required

Here is a clear, side-by-side comparison of documents required for Russia vs Germany MBBS, focusing on what international students actually require:

Document	Russia	Germany
Valid Passport	Mandatory	Mandatory
10th mark sheet and certificate	Required	Required
Marksheet and certificate	Required (PCB)	required
NEET Scorecard	Mandatory (Indian students)	Not required
Birth certificate	Sometimes required	Sometimes required
Passport-size photos	Required	Required
Medical Fitness certificate	Required	Required
Visa Application Documents	Simple	Extensive
Invitation letter/ Offer letter	Required	Required

MBBS in Russia vs Germany: NMC / WHO / FAIMER Recognition

This table shows the clear and correct comparison of NMC/WHO/FAIMER approval status for MBBS in Russia vs Germany, explained in a way students usually look for:

Authority	Russia	Germany
NMC (India)	Approved	Not directly approved as MBBS
WHO	Listed	listed
FAIMER/WDOMS	Listed	Listed
ECFMG (USA)	Eligible	Eligible

Top Medical Universities in Russia

The top medical universities in Russia are listed here:

Voronezh State Medical University
Kirov State Medical University
Yaroslavl State Medical University
Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University.
Lomonsov Moscow State University
Kaxan Federal University
Saint Petersburg State Medical University
Rostov State Medical University
Bashki State Medical University
Kuban State Medical University.
Tver State Medical University

Read More: MBBS Universities in Russia

Top Medical Universities in Germany

The top medical universities in Germany are listed below:

Heidelberg University
Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
Technical University of Munich (TUM)
University of Hamburg – Medical Center
University of Tübingen – Faculty of Medicine
University of Freiburg – Faculty of Medicine
University of Bonn – Medical Faculty
Hannover Medical School (MHH)
University of Göttingen – Faculty of Medicine

Read More: MBBS Universities in Germany

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Medium of Instruction and Language Barrier

This section explained the medium of instruction and language barrier of the Russia vs Germany MBBS:

English-Medium MBBS Availability Between Russia Vs Germany

Russia vs Germany English-medium MBBS availability is explained ahead.

Russia - English Medium MBBS Availability	Germany - English Medium MBBS Availability
Many Russian medical universities serve the full 6-year MBBS/MD program in English for international students.	The vast majority of medical programs in Germany are taught in German, and students normally must provide proof of German language proficiency to enroll.
Examples include Kursk State Medical University, Kazan Federal University, and others with English instruction.	A very small number of programs exist that offer a full or partially English-Taught medical curriculum in Germany.
Students can complete most of their academic coursework entirely in English, though learning basic Russian is highly useful for clinical rotations and communicating with patients.	Popular examples include the University of Targu Mures Medical Campus, Hamburg, and European University Cyprus – Frankfurt Branch.
Because English MBBS is common, Russia is a very accessible option for students from India and other countries seeking English-taught medical degrees.	English-medium medical degrees exist but are rare and mostly at private/partner campuses; most standard medicine programs are in German.

Local Language Requirements for MBBS in Russia Vs Germany

The following table shows the local language requirements for MBBS in Germany vs Russia for Indians:

Aspect	Russia	Germany
Language for admission	Not required	German mandatory.
Language of teaching	English	German
Local language during the course	Russian taught alongside MBBS	German used from Day 1
Patient interaction	Basic Russian needed	Advanced German essential
Language exam before admission	No	Yes
Language exam during the course	Internal Russia Exams	Continuous medical German Assessments

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Language Support for Indian Students

This table presents the language support for Indian students to study MBBS in Germany vs Russia for Indians:

Particulars	Russia	Germany
Initial language requirement	Not required.	Mandatory.
Medium of Teaching	English.	German.
Local Language Training	Russian is taught from the 1st year.	German must be learned before admission.
Language classes	Included in the MBBS curriculum.	Separate language institutes are required.
Medical language training	Basic-intermediate Russian.	Advanced Medical German.

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: FMGE / NEXT & Career Opportunities

FMGE prospects, clinical exposure and internship of the MBBS in Russia vs Germany are mentioned below:

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: FMGE / NEXT Passing Prospects

This table shows the realistic and clear comparison of FMGE/NEXT passing prospects for graduates from medical universities in Russia vs Germany, focused on Indian Students’ outcomes:

Parameters	Russia	Germany
Degree alignment with NMC	Generally aligned.	Not fully aligned.
FMGE/NEXT Eligibility	Eligible	Unclear/risky.
FMGE Pass Rate Trend	Low-moderate	Not well-defined.
English-Medium Teaching	Yes	Mostly German.

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Internship & Clinical Exposure

Here is a clear, practical comparison of internship and clinical exposure for MBBS in Germany vs Russia for Indians, focused on what students actually experience in hospitals:

Aspect	Russia	Germany
Internship Included	Yes	Yes
Total duration	1 year	1 year
Type of Internship	Rotation, supervised	Full-time clinical work
Hands-on Responsibility	Moderate	Very high
Patient Interaction	Gradual	Intensive from early years
Teaching Hospitals	University-affiliated hospitals	University hospitals and clinics
Language used in hospitals	Russian	German
Paid internship	Usually unpaid	Small Stipend.
Global Clinical Exposure level	Moderate	Excellent (EU Standard)

Career Options After MBBS in Russia Vs Germany

The table represents the comparison of career options after MBBS in Germany vs Russia for Indians, pivoting on what Indian and International students can actually do after graduation:

Career Path	After MBBS in Russia	After a medical degree in Germany
Practice in India	After clearing FMGE/NEXT	Difficult/uncommon
Post-Graduation in India	After NEXT	Rare
Practice in Russia	After the Russian Licensing exam	Not applicable
Practice in Germany/EU	Possible but difficult	Direct and common
PG/Residency in Germany	Requires German + Exams	Main Pathway
USMLE	Eligible	Eligible
Hospital Jobs Abroad	Moderate	Excellent
Excellent	Limited	High

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: PG Options in India and Abroad

Here is a clear and realistic comparison of PG options in India and abroad after MBBS in Germany vs Russia for Indians, pivoted on actual pathways students follow:

PG Destination	MBBS from Russia	Medical Degree from
PG in India	After NEXT	Rate/Complex
Residency in Germany	Possible but difficult.	Primary and smooth pathway
PG in the USA	Eligible	Eligible
PG in the UK	Eligible	Eligible
PG in Australia	Eligible	Eligible
PG in Russia	Eligible	Eligible
PG in the EU	Limited	Strong
Research/PhD	Limited	Strong

Read More: PG in Russia after MBBS 2026

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Lifestyle, Safety & Student Life

Life style, Safety and Student life of the MBBS in Russia vs Germany are mentioned ahead.

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Safety for Indian Students

This table shows a clear and honest comparison of safety to study MBBS in Germany vs Russia for Indians, depending on student life, daily living, racism risk, and laws:

Aspect	Russia	Germany
Overall Safety Level	Moderate	High
Law and Order	Strong not strict	Strong and transparent
Violent Crime Risk	Low-moderate	Low
Racism/Discrimination	Occasional incidents reported	Rate, but possible
Safety for Female Students	Moderate	High
Public Transport Safety	Generally safe	Very safe

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Climate & Food Availability

Here is a practical, student-life focused comparison of climate and food availability for MBBS students in Russia vs Germany, especially from an Indian student’s perspective:

Aspect	Russia	Germany
Overall Climate	Very cold winters	Moderate European climate
Winter Temperature	−10°C to −30°C	−5°C to +5°C
Summer Temperature	15°C to 30°C	18°C to 30°C
Snowfall duration	Long (4-6 months)	Short (1-2 months)
Daylight in Winter	Very short	Shot but manageable
Indian food availability	Widely available	Widely available.
Indian Mess/Canteen	Common in MBBS universities	Limited but available
Cooking Facilities	Hostels often allow cooking	Mostly self-cooking
Halal/Veg Food	Easily available	Easily available

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Indian Student Community

Here is a clear, ground-reality comparison of the Indian student Community for MBBS in Germany vs Russia for Indians, focusing on numbers, support, and student life:

There is a large number of Indian MBBS students in Russia. Whereas there is a very small number of Indian MBBS students in Germany.
Indian Mess/food support is common in Russia. In addition, Indian mess/food support is rare in Germany.
Indian mess/food support is common in Russia, and Indian mess/food support is rate om Germany.
Indian student associations are very active in Russia, and Indian student associations are limited in Germany.

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Pros & Cons

Here are some basic pros and cons of the MBBS in Russia Vs Germany:

Advantages of Studying MBBS in Russia

Here are the key advantages of studying MBBS in Russia, explained clearly from an Indian/International student perspective:

Many universities serve full MBBS course in English.
The admission process is simple.
The admission timeline is fast.
Tuition fees are lower than private medical colleges in India.
Many universities are listed in NMC (India), WHO/WDOMS and ECFMG (USA).
Internship included within 6 years.

Read More: Why Study MBBS in Russia In 2026

Advantages of Studying MBBS in Germany

Here are the key advantages of studying MBBS in Germany, explained realistically from an international/Indian student perspective:

Germany has one of the best healthcare and medical education systems globally.
Strong focuses on clinical skills, research and innovation and evidence-based medicine.
Public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees.
Students pay only a semester contribution.
German medical degrees are USMLE, PLAB and EU.

Disadvantages Comparison for MBBS in Russia vs Germany

Here is a clear and honest comparison of the disadvantages of studying MBBS in Germany vs Russia for Indians, pivoting on academic, career and practical challenges:

Elements	Russia	Germany
Language barrier	Russian needed for clinics	German mandatory from start.
FMGE/NEXT Pass Rate	low-moderate	Unclear/risky.
Clinical Hands-on Exposure	Moderate, varies by university	Very high but demanding.
Admission standards	Lower academic filtering	Extremely competitive

Read More:

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: Which is Better for Indian Students?

For most Indian students, MBBS in Russia is the more practical choice. MBBS in Germany is better only for a small group of academically strong, German-language-ready students who wish to settle in Europe.

Below is an actual framework:

Factor	Russia	Germany
English-medium MBBS	Yes	Mostly German
NEET relevance	NEET is required and aligned	NEET does not require
NMC compatibility	MBBS in Russia has a clear pathway for NMC compatibility.	MBBS in Germany has a complicated pathway for NMC compatibility.
Admission difficulty	The MBBS in Russia admission process is easy.	The MBBS in Germany admission process is very difficult.
Language barrier	There are low language barrier in Russia.	There are very high language barrier in Germany.

Also Read:

Check Other MBBS Country-Wise Comparisons
MBBS in Georgia vs Phillipines	MBBS in Georgia vs Uzbekistan
MBBS in Kazakhstan vs Hungary	MBBS in Uzbekistan vs Hungary
MBBS in Georgia vs Kazakhstan	MBBS in Georgia vs Russia
MBBS in India v Abroad	MBBS in Germany vs India
MBBS in Kyrgyzstan vs Tajikistan	MBBS in Georgia vs Tajikistan

MBBS in Russia Vs Germany: FAQs

Ques. Is MBBS in Russia valid in India?

Ans. Yes, it is valid if you meet all NMC requirements. You must qualify the NEET in the year of admission. Without the NEET the MBBS degree is not valid in India. Medical universities in Russia are listed in WDOMS, recognized by WHO and acceptable as per NMC regulations.

Ques. Is MBBS in Germany valid in India?

Ans. Technically possible but practically difficult.

German awards Staatsexamen, not MBBS
Structure doesn’t align smoothly with NMC
Very few Indian students return successfully.

Germany is not recommended if India practice is your goal.

Ques. Is NEET required for Russia and Germany?

Yes, NEET is required for Russia, but it is not required for admission to Germany. However, the purpose of NEET is different in both cases. here is a clear and exam-oriented explanation. According to the NMC rule, Indian students must qualify for NEET to take admission for MBBS abroad and valid for practice in India.

Ques. Can I study MBBS in Germany in English?

Ans. German does not offer MBBS fully in English. All public medical universities in Germany teach medicine entirely in German. Clinical training, licensing, exams and patient interactions are 100% in German. There is no English-medium MBBS in Germany like Russia, Kazakhstan and Georgia.

Ques. Which country has easier admission?

Ans. Russia has a lower total cost. But Germany has low tuition fees with high living costs. The total MBBS cost in Russia is ₹20,00,000 – ₹35,00,000. Whereas, the total cost in Germany is ₹45,00,000 – ₹60,00,000. Germany has high living costs and a longer MBBS course duration (up to 6.5 years).

Ques. Which is cheaper overall?

Ans. Russia has a lower total cost than Germany for MBBS. But, Germany has low tuition fees with high living costs. Total MBBS fees in Russia are $20,000 – $40,000. Whereas, the total MBBS fees in Germany are $45,000 – $70,000.

Ques. Which country is better for FMGE/NEXT?

Ans. For FMGE/NEXT success, Russia is clearly the better and more practical option than Germany for most Indian students. Russia performs better because of English-medium MBBS, fully NMC-compliant and Indian MBBS pattern.

Ques. Which country has more Indian students?

Ans. Germany has more Indian students than Russia overall. Germany has 43,000 to 49,000 Indian students. Whereas, Russia has 31,000 to 32,000 Indian students. Germany hosts the larger Indian student population when all fields of study are counted.

Ques. Is Russia safe for Indian students?

Ans. Yes, Russia is generally safe for Indian students, including MBBS students. If basic precautions are followed and the right university/city is selected. Thousands of Indian students are current studying in Russia, and most complete their education safely without major issues.

Ques. Is learning the local language compulsory In Russia and Germany?

Ans. Yes, local language learning is compulsory in German and partially compulsory in Russia, but the level and purpose are very different. Basic Russian is compulsory, but MBBS is taught in English. German is compulsory at a very high level.