Study in Russia FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

About Russia

Where is Russia located?

Russia is the biggest country in the world, and situated in the eastern part of Europe, and Asia.

What is the Capital of Russia and its population?

Moscow is the Capital of Russia, which has an overall population of 250 million (UN, 2004 data).

What is one of the major religion followed by the people in Russia?

Russian Orthodox 52%, Muslim 8%, Non-religious 28%, Atheist 5%, other (Jewish, Roman Catholic, Protestant, Buddhist) 7%

Hows the weather in Russia? Is Russia Cold?

Russia has all the four seasons of nature.Winters in Russia are cold like other European countries. Winters starts in September and continues till March. The average temperature in Moscow and St. Petersburg is about - 10C. This season is the time for ice-cold festivities in Russia.

What is the language used in Russia?

The language is used Russian, English, French, German, Polish and Spanish.

What are the security conditions in Russia?

Russia is a secure and safe place to live, however, sometimes, people may misguide the foreigners. So as your advisors, we recommend you to stay with our special travel guides. They will guide you all about Russia

What is the currency used in Russia?

The currency used in Russia is Ruble and the coins are known as Kopiyka. US Dollars are also acceptable. US$ 1 = 58 Rubles approximately.


Russian Universities Admission

How to submit an application?

To submit your application, please use the following link. You will need to submit by email A clear photocopy of your passport, and your school documents, should be enclosed to your application.

What are the Universities you are representing in Russia?

We cover all universities in Russia.

Are these Universities recognized or affiliated by any board of education or any other Educational Council?

Yes, they are recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education of Russian Federation.

What is the duration of the undergraduate programmes in Russia?

The duration varies between 3 - 6 years depending upon the courses of study.

What is the medium of instruction in Russia?

The medium of instruction is Russian and/or English.

Do we need to qualify any English test like IELTS or TOEFL for seeking admission into Russian University?

No, it is not mandatory, but there are educational support programs available for those who need extra help in areas such as ESL

Are Russian degrees valued globally?

Yes, Russian degrees are valued and recognized globally.

Are there any age limits for applicants to Russian universities?

Russian laws do not limit the age of university applicants. However, applicants need to have a completed high school or vocational school education.

Can I pay the tuition fee in installments?

Yes, you can pay the tuition fees in instalments (by semester), starting from your second year in Russia.

Do we need to pay the books and exam fee separately or is it included in the fee?

It is included in the Tuition fee.

Will I need a visa to come to study in Russia?

Almost of forign students required to obtain a student visa at their home country, please check back with Russian embassy in your country, or feel free to contact us for consultation.


Study in Russia

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.

What is the visa invitation for education?

The invitation for education is the official document, which is processed by the department of passport-visa service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, it confirms that the student is admitted to a particular University.

Is it difficult to study at the preparatory faculty?

The program of the preparatory faculty is worked out for an ordinary level of complexity. The student who attend all the classes, carry out practical and home tasks, do not face any problems with studying in this programme.

How can I get the information on the University where I'll continue my education after the completion of the preparatory faculty?

In the months of April - May every year, Study in Russia organizes an educational exhibition for the students of the preparatory faculty. Students can come to the office and get the information on the universities most suitable for studying according to the specialty chosen.

Do I need to pass exams to apply for Masters program in Russia?

No. Some Russian universities may take their own entrance exams. These exams are based on subject testings and general aptitude.

How many academic sessions are there in Russian Universities?

There are 2 academic sessions/ intakes. First semester starts in September and ends in January. The second semester starts in February and ends in June. However Russian language courses and diploma sessions take admissions all around the year.

What are the requirements of Russian universities for Bachelors Program?

Here are the general requirements of Russian universities for Bachelors Program.

  • University application.
  • Original and copies of your high school certificate.
  • Russian translations of all documents.
  • Copy of valid passport.
  • Students need to pass the subject tests/general tests in some of the Russian Universities.
  • University general interviews (in some cases).
What are the requirements of Russian universities for Master’s Program?
  • University application.
  • Original and copies of your bachelor's degree.
  • A research statement (To explain that why you want to do masters or research).
  • Russian translations of all documents.
  • Copy of valid passport.
  • Students need to pass the subject tests/general tests in some of the Russian Universities.
  • University general interviews (in some cases).
  • Work experience for MBA programme.
What documents are required to apply for your student visa at Russian embassy?

These documents are required to apply for your student visa at Russian embassy:

  • Visa Application with processing fee.
  • Valid Passport (Should be valid at least for about 18 months).
  • Colored Passport Size Pics.
  • Medical Test for HIV Negative.
  • Copy of Tuition Fee Invoice of the University (if required).
  • Academic Certificates (attested by your official bodies).
  • Russian translations of all documents.
  • Visa Invitation Letter (Explaining the purpose of your visit to Russia. Issued by Ministry of foreign affairs of Russia (MFA).
What is the duration of my Russian student visa?

First time arriving students, they will receive 90 entry visa. After arrive they will be able to change it to long term student visa. Your visa should have the validity of at least 30-days , when you arrive to Russia.


Living in Russia

What is the Migration card?

The migration card is the document, which testifies that the student has crossed the border of the Russian Federation. It is an obligatory document for the further processing of the student registration and hence is an important document. Without the migration card the registration on the territory of Russian Federation cannot be done and the student would be deported back to the home country. The migration card is handed out by the flight attendant on the plane. It is also available at the airport at the immigration department. The card consists of 2 identical parts, which are necessary to fill. At the immigration of the International airport, the immigration officer stamps the both parts of the card and retains one while the other part is handed over to the student. Before leaving the immigration desk, it is important to check that you have received the stamped part from the officer. It is important and obligatory to retain the migration card till the departure from the Russian Federation.

What is the Visa Registration?

Registration gives foreign student a legal right to stay on the territory of the Russian Federation for the period of registration. Usually the period of registration is one year. Registration should be renewed annually 2-3 weeks before its termination. Upon arrival at the University, the student should submit the required documents to process the registration within 3 days after arrival. The duration of the registration and processing is 10-15 days. The original passport of the student is taken by the concerned department. The registration is stamped on the migration card, There the address of the student hostel where the student lives is noted. The registration of the passport and the visa requires that the passport is valid for a minimum period of 2 years. It is recommended to renew the passport before traveling to Russia for the full period of study.

Will I have any additional expenses when I arrive in Russia?

When students arrive in Russia, they need to be re-examined for HIV and medical fitness which would cost an additional US$50-$100 depends on the city/university.

What is life and health insurance?

Before the arrival of the student to Russia, Study In Russia processes the life and the health insurance on the behalf of the student. Within several days of the arrival to Russia, the insurance certificate is given to the student. The health insurance guarantees that the student gets the required medical aid in times of illness according to the program of the insurance cover. The insurance policy mentions the names and the telephone numbers of the doctors and the hospitals. The insurance company also informs Study In Russia of the illness of the student who apply for the medical help. Study In Russia therefore is in a position not only to monitor and supervise the condition of the student’s health but also to inform the parents of the student and keeping them informed about the progress of the student’s health. Without the life and the health insurance it is not possible to process the registration of the student. Therefore, the life and the health insurance is necessary and obligatory for all foreign students wishing to study in Russia.

Is it necessary for me to have the policy of medical insurance during training in Russia?

Yes.

Is there any scholarship or grant available for foreign students?

Yes, you can apply to scholarship starting from your second year living/studying in Russia.

How much are the cost living in Russia?

Generally a student can stay quite comfortably in around US$ 50 - US$ 150 per month. This figure is approximate and would differ from city to another city, person to person based on his/her living standards.

Can a student open a bank account?

Yes, a foreign student can open a bank account in his name.

What is the type of accommodation that is given by the Universities in Russia?

University provides enough space in the hostels for all international students with comfortable living condition. All hostels are supplied with cold and hot water and central heating system, each room contains beds, a desk, chairs and storage space, internet and telephone facility.

What would be the type of food generally found in Russia?

All types of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food is available. There are rich variety of milk products and fresh fruits available.

Who does the student contact in Russia if he / she have any queries or problems at the University / hostel?

Students can contact the relevant authorities at the University/hostel to solve their problem. Also you can contact Study in Russia regarding your problem in case you need.