Study in Russia for International Students | Fees & Eligibility

After the war with Ukraine, many international students are questioning the safety of studying in Russia. As a result, many are turning to Georgia, which offers the same quality education at an affordable price. Don’t worry, Russia is completely safe for international students. To study in Russia means gaining access to world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and affordable living. Students can pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs at top universities like Moscow State University, Saint Petersburg State University, and Sechenov Medical University. 

Moreover, the tuition fees are among the lowest in Europe, starting from €2,500–€5,000 per year, while medical programs like Medicine cost €4,000–€7,000 per year. For a Russian student visa, applicants must provide admission documents, tuition payment proof, health insurance, and financial evidence of around €4,000–€6,000 per year. 

Quick Facts About Studying in Russia 2026

Language of Instruction	Russian & English
Popular Universities	Lomonosov Moscow State University Saint Petersburg State University Sechenov University Novosibirsk State University Tomsk State University
Degree Duration	Bachelor: 4 years Master: 2 years PhD: 3–5 years Medicine: 6 years
Popular Programs	Medicine (MBBS) Engineering IT Business International Relations Natural Sciences
Tuition Fees	€2,500 – €5,000/year (Medicine €4,000–€7,000/year)
Living Costs	€400 – €600/month
Work Rights	20 hrs/week (with work permit)
Post-Study Work	Extendable visa for job search
Visa Type	Russian Student Visa
Visa Approval Rate	~90% (with complete documents)
Bank Statement Requirement	Proof of sufficient funds for tuition + living costs (~€4,500/year)

Top Universities in Russia for International Students 

International students choose Russia for its affordable tuition, highly ranked universities, and strong programs across science, engineering, and humanities.

University	Top Programs	Tuition Range (€/year)
Lomonosov Moscow State University	Natural SciencesLawBusinessEngineering	€3,000 – €5,000
Saint Petersburg State University	ITEconomicsHumanitiesPhysics	€2,800 – €4,800
Sechenov University (Moscow Medical Academy)	Medicine (MBBS)DentistryPharmacy	€4,000 – €7,000
Novosibirsk State University	MathematicsPhysicsEngineeringIT	€2,500 – €4,500
Tomsk State University	BusinessEngineeringSocial Sciences	€2,500 – €4,000
Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN)	MedicineInternational RelationsBusiness	€3,500 – €6,000

Tuition Fees & Cost of Living in Russia 

Russia combines affordable tuition with low living costs, making it one of the most budget-friendly destinations for international students.

Expense Type	Average Cost (€)
Tuition (General Programs)	€2,500 – €5,000/year
Tuition (Medicine/Pharmacy)	€4,000 – €7,000/year
Accommodation (Dormitory)	€600 – €1,200/year (€50–€100/month)
Private Accommodation	€200 – €400/month
Food & Utilities	€150 – €250/month
Transport	€20 – €40/month
Health Insurance	€150 – €300/year

Estimated Living Cost: €400–€600/month 

Scholarships in Russia for International Students 

Russia offers a variety of scholarships to support international students and make higher education more affordable. These scholarships range from full tuition coverage with living stipends to partial fee reductions, depending on merit and eligibility. 

Scholarship	Coverage	Eligibility
Russian Government Scholarships	Full tuition + monthly stipend	Students from partner countries
University-Specific Scholarships	25%–100% tuition reduction	Merit-based, awarded by individual universities
Erasmus+ Mobility	Tuition + stipend	EU and non-EU exchange students
Open Doors Russian Scholarship	Full tuition + stipend	Master’s & PhD students in selected academic fields

Admission Process for Studying in Russia

Are you also worried or myths about the lengthy admission process?. Don’t worry! the admission process for Russian universities is straightforward, but it requires careful preparation of documents and timely applications. Here’s how it works:

Choose a Program & University

Start by selecting the right program and university that matches your academic background and career goals. Russia offers a wide range of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in English and Russian, so you can choose based on your language preference.

Check Entry Requirements

Before applying, it is important to check the entry requirements listed below.

• A valid passport
• Minimum 50–60% marks required in previous academics.
• Minimum 3.0+ CGPA for Master’s and PhD programs
• For Russian-taught courses, a one-year language preparatory program is required.

Prepare Required Documents

Applicants need to prepare important documents such as 

• Transcripts
• Valid Passport
• Updated CV/Resume
• SOP/Motivation letter
• Recommendation letters

Make sure your documents are attested and translated (if necessary).

Receive Offer Letter

Once your application is reviewed, the university will issue a conditional or unconditional offer letter along with a tuition fee invoice. This letter is essential for moving forward in the admission process.

Pay Tuition Deposit

To confirm your place, students must pay an initial deposit, typically between €1,000–€3,000. This deposit secures your admission and allows the university to issue your final acceptance documents.

Apply for Russian Student Visa

After paying the deposit, you can apply for a Russian student visa. You’ll need to submit your 

• Offer Letter
• Tuition fee receipt
• Bank Statement/Financial proof
• Health insurance, and proof of accommodation.. 

For complete assistance, our best overseas education consultants in Europe at Right Turn provide visa guidance services to make your visa application smooth and hassle-free.

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