Study in Russia: Universities, Courses, Scholarships & Placements

Discover Universities, Courses, Eligibility, Scholarships & More


Last Updated on 14th June 2025

Russia

Overview

Ever wondered how affordable it is to study in Russia? Pursuing higher education in Russia is one of the most preferred choices for international students today. From medicine, engineering, IT, business, to the arts, Russian universities offer globally recognized programs. The most popular course among Indian students is MBBS in Russia, which is especially popular due to low fees with high academic standards.

An MBBS degree from Russia opens doors to global medical careers. With tuition fees as low as $1,500 per year and living costs between $300 to $600 per month, it is a budget-friendly option for many. The cost of MBBS in Russia is far more affordable than in many Western countries. Some of the Top universities in Russia are:

These Russian universities offer strong academic support and modern facilities. Russian degrees are respected worldwide and accepted in countries like the USA, UK, India, and Canada. Graduates in Russia earn starting salaries of about $12,000–$18,000 a year, depending on the industry and specialty, and with the ability to earn even more in the IT, engineering, and healthcare fields.

Apart from studying in Russia, students also enjoy a rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and a safe environment. Government scholarships make studying here even more accessible. Whether you're aiming for a medical career or a future in business or tech, Russia offers the right platform. Continue reading to explore the world-class study abroad opportunities in Russia.


Study in Russia: Quick Highlights

The table below shows the key aspects for study in Russia for Indian students.

Feature

Details

Top Universities

  • Lomonosov Moscow State University
  • Saint Petersburg State University
  • Novosibirsk State University
  • Tomsk State University
  • Kazan Federal University

Popular Courses

  • Medicine
  • Engineering
  • IT and Technology
  • Business and Management
  • Arts and Humanities

Tuition Fees

$1,500-$7,000 per year

Cost of Living

$300-$600 per month(including housing, food and transportation)

Scholarships

Government-funded and university-specific scholarships are available

Average Starting Salary

$12,000-$18,000 annually

Language 

English and Russian

Key Benefits

Affordable education, globally recognized degrees, vibrant culture and diverse students community


Why Study in Russia?

Study in Russia for Indian students opens up a gateway of excellence in education, affordable fees, and rich Russian culture. Here are the reasons why international students now increasingly choose Russia as their study destination:


1. Quality Education

Universities in Russia have long been among the world's leading centres for learning, and are always known for their high academic standards and research opportunities. Engineering, IT, arts, and medicine in Russia tend to shine the brightest. Top universities such as Lomonosov Moscow State University and Saint Petersburg State University are among the very best universities in the world.

2. Low-Cost Tuition

Russian universities provide a world-class education at surprisingly low rates. The cost of studying in Russia is much lower than the tuition fees in other Western countries. The tuition varies from $1,500 to $7,000 a year; which is quite reasonable for a low-cost study program.

3. Low Cost of Living in Russia

Cost of living in Russia for Indian students varies from $300- $600/month, including accommodation, food, and transportation. The lower cost of living in Russia makes it one of the top choices to study abroad.

4. Scholarships in Russia for Indian Students

The Russian government and universities give innumerable scholarships to international students willing to study in Russia, which include full tuition coverage and stipends.

5. Culture and Job Opportunity

One thing with studying in Russia is exposure to cultural diversity, architectural landmarks, and dynamic student life. Russian degrees are accepted worldwide, and a Russian graduate generally expects to receive a good entry-level salary, especially in the field of engineering and IT.

The qualities of education amidst affordable tuition and cultural diversity make Russia a crossroads towards academic and professional success.

Read More: Why Choose Russia to Study MBBS 2025?


Popular Courses in Russia

Russia offers a wide range of academic programs, attracting international students to pursue high-quality education. Popular courses in Russia include higher education in medicine, engineering, the arts, and many more. Here is the data for the popular courses offered in Russia:

Course

Average Fees 

MBBS in Russia

₹2 to 10 Lakhs

UG certificate in Russia

₹6 to 7 Lakhs

MS in Russia 

₹5,000 to 6 Lakhs

MBA in Russia

₹2 to 6 Lakhs

MIM in Russia

₹2 to 6 Lakhs



Study in Russia: Admission Intakes

Russian Universities generally offer two main intakes for international students, providing flexibility for applications and enrollment. Below is an overview of the intake period:

Type

Details

Fall Intake

  • Applications: February-July
  • Start: September
  • Details: Most programs, including bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees.

Spring Intake

  • Applications: September-November
  • Start: February
  • Details: Limited programs, primarily in Engineering, IT, and some Master’s Courses.


Study in Russia: Admission Process 2025

For international students wishing to study in Russia, they must follow the intake schedule carefully. The Fall Intake in Russia runs from February to July (classes start in September) for most programs. Spring Intake is from September to November (classes start in February) for limited fields like Engineering and IT. Here are the general steps involved when applying for a program in Russian universities.


1. Choose a Program and University

  • Find out what courses are available and which program best matches your career aspirations. Check university websites and the official Russian study portal.

2. Prepare Required Documents

The following are some important documents to study in Russia.

  • Passport
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Language proficiency proof (Russian or English, depending on the program)
  • Medical certificate (optional for some programs) 

3. Apply Online

  • Submit your application through the university's online portal or the Russian Study Portal. Some universities may require that you appear in person for an interview or test. 

4. Receive Invitation Letter

  • After processing your application, the university will go ahead and send you the invitation letter, which you will need for your student visa application. 

5. Apply for a Student Visa 

  • With the invitation letter, apply for a Russian student visa at your nearest Russian embassy or consulate. You will need to show proof of finances, etc. 

6. Final Enrollment   

  • Upon arriving in Russia, finish your enrollment process: Submit original documents and register with local authorities, followed by an orientation. 

7. Start Your Classes    

  • Classes start from the intake you apply for (Fall or Spring) on the specified date.


Study in Russia: Documents Required

The following documents are required for admission to Russia:

  • 10th-grade mark-sheet
  • 12th-grade mark-sheet
  • NEET scorecard(If applicable)
  • 10 passport-size photographs
  • Official invitation letter from the university
  • Medical test documents (report)
  • Covid 19 (-) ve report
  • Valid passport
  • Academic transcripts (10+2 or equivalent)
  • Proof of funds (bank statement or sponsor letter)
  • Travel insurance
  • Translated & notarized documents in Russian.


Top Exams for Admission to Universities in Russia

The following are the top exams required for securing admission in the top russian universities:

Exam Name

University Level

Purpose

NEET (National Eligibility Entrance Test)

Undergraduate (MBBS/BDS)

Medical admissions (MBBS, BDS, etc.)

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

Undergraduate

English proficiency for non-Russian medium courses

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

Undergraduate

English proficiency for non-Russian medium courses

Unified State Exam (USE)

Undergraduate (for Russian citizens)

General entrance exam for Russian universities

GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)

Graduate (MBA, Master’s)

Admission to business and management programs

GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

Graduate/Postgraduate

Admission to graduate programs in various fields

Russian Language Proficiency Exam

Undergraduate/Graduate

For non-Russian speakers


Russia Student Visa Process: Step-By-Step Guide

The following is a step-by-step guide for students to apply for a student visa in Russia.

Step

Process

1. Admission Confirmation

Receive an admission letter from a Russian university.

2. Payment of Tuition Fees

Pay the first-year tuition fees.

3. Apply for an Invitation Letter

Apply for a Russian Invitation Letter (Visa Support).

4. Visa Application Form

Fill out the Russian student visa application form.

5. Gather Documents

Collect required documents.

6. Submit Visa Application

Submit your visa application along with documents.

7. Visa Fee Payment

Pay the visa application fee.

8. Medical Certificate

Get a medical certificate for visa purposes.

9. Biometrics Appointment

Attend the biometrics appointment at the Russian consulate.

10. Wait for Visa Processing

Wait for the visa application to be processed.

11. Collect Visa

Collect your Russian student visa from the consulate.

12. Travel to Russia

Travel to Russia with your student visa.

82

Universities

50000 RUB

Cost of Living

3

Work permit duration

410000

International Students

Russia

Top Universities in Russia

Russia is home to some of the top universities of the world, offering high-quality education in various fields. These universities are well known for their academic excellence, research, and affordability. The following table shows the data for the top universities of Russia, along with their location and popular courses:

Top Universities in Russia

Location

Popular Courses

Samara State Medical University

Samara

Medicine, 

Orel State University

Oryol

Law, Science, Medicine, Technology & Entrepreneurship.

Volgograd State Medical University

Volgograd

Medicine

Kursk State Medical University

Kursk

Medicine

Orenburg State Medical University

Orenburg

Medicine

Lomonosov Moscow State University (LMSU)

Moscow

Management, Arts and Medicine

Kazan Federal University (KFU)

Kazan

Management, Science, Medicine, and Arts

Novosibirsk National Research State University (NNRSU)

Novosibirsk

Medicine, Philology, and Foreign Languages

Belgorod State University (BSU)

Belgorod

Medicine, Management, and Engineering 

Peoples' Friendship University (PFU)

Moscow

Medicine, Computer Science, and International Law

Medical

Russia

Guides

Russia

Cost of Studying in Russia

The cost of studying in Russia is lower than in several Western countries without compromising the quality of education. As such, the cost of tuition and other living expenses is comparatively low compared to other international study destinations. The following table shows the details of the cost of study in Russia for Indian Students.

Program Level

Estimated Tuition Fees (Per Year)

Undergraduate Programs

$2,500 - $7,000

Graduate (Master's) Programs

$3,000 - $7,000

Postgraduate (PhD) Programs

$4,000 - $10,000

Doctoral Programs

$3,500 - $12,000

Russia

Top Scholarships in Russia

The table below shows the top scholarships available for Indian students studying in Russia:

Scholarship Name

University/Institute

Eligibility Criteria

Coverage

Application Deadline

Russian Government Scholarship

All Russian Universities

Indian students with good academic records

Full tuition fee waiver, living stipend

Varies, generally March-April

Open Doors Russian Scholarship

Partner Russian Universities

Outstanding academic performance, strong motivation for studying

Full tuition, living stipend, travel expenses

January 2025

Siberian Federal University Scholarships

Siberian Federal University

Excellent academic record, English proficiency

Full or partial tuition waiver

Varies

Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT) Scholarship

Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT)

High academic standing, strong entrance exam results

Full tuition, monthly stipend

April 2025

Skoltech Scholarship

Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology

Strong academic background, English proficiency

Full tuition fee waiver, research opportunities

April 2025

Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University Scholarship

Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University

Excellent academic performance, GRE scores may be required

Full or partial tuition waiver

April-May 2025

Saint Petersburg State University (SPbU) Scholarship

Saint Petersburg State University

High academic performance, motivation to study in Russia

Full tuition, accommodation, living stipend

June 2025

Kazan Federal University Scholarships

Kazan Federal University

Strong academic performance, specific course relevance

Full tuition, living stipend

April 2025

Russia

Cost of Living in Russia

The cost of living in Russia for Indian students is very low, making it a good choice for them. Accommodation, food, transportation, and living in Russia is generally cheaper than in many Western countries. The following table shows the cost of living for International students in Russia:

Expense Type

Monthly Cost(USD)

Description

Accommodation

$150-$500 per month

Dormitory: $150 - $250, Private Apartments: $300 - $500 (depending on city and type)

Food

$150-$250 per month

Monthly grocery expenses or eating out (restaurant/cafeteria).

Transportation

$20-$50 per month

Public transport (bus, metro) costs. Taxis or rideshares may cost more.

Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet, etc.)

$30-$80 per month

Monthly utility costs (for private apartments).

Study Materials (Books, Supplies)

$20-$40 per month

Cost for academic materials, books, and stationery.

Health Insurance

$10-$25 per month

Mandatory health insurance for international students.

Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Social Activities, etc.)

$50-$100 per month

Entertainment, social activities, mobile phone bills, etc.

Total Estimated Monthly Cost

$430-$1045 per month

Total monthly living expenses depending on lifestyle and city of residence.

CapitalMoscow
Universities82
States85
Timezones11
CurrencyRUB
Popular SportsFootball (Soccer), Ice Hockey