With its rich culture and strong education system, Russia attracts students from all over the world. The country has over 1,100 universities known for their excellent medical, engineering, and science programs.
For those who choose to study in Russia, the country offers a lively educational journey and a thriving work environment. Read on to learn how to study abroad in Russia, including scholarship opportunities and intake periods.
Study in Russia: Key Highlights
| Number of Universities for Indian Students to Study in Russia | Eleven universities ranked in QS World University Ranking, Top 500 (2025). |
| Top Universities in Russia for International Students | ● Moscow State University
● St. Petersburg State University ● Bauman Moscow State Technical University |
| Scholarships & Financial Aid | ● Russian Government Scholarships (up to 100% tuition coverage)
● University-specific scholarships |
| Intakes at Top Universities in Russia in 2024 | ● Fall Semester (Session starts in September)
● Spring Semester (Session begins in February) |
Why Study in Russia?
Russia’s higher education system is renowned for its education system, advanced research and rich cultural heritage. Here are a few reasons to study in Russia:
- Affordable Cost of Study: The average cost of study in Russia is far below the average in other popular study destinations such as the UK and US. The average tuition fees for many courses in Russia range from approximately INR 3L to INR 8.2L per year.
- Top-notch Higher Education System: Russia’s higher education system is among the best in the world. It is highly respected and follows international standards, ensuring compatibility with global academic norms.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Russia offers a unique cultural experience that combines history, art, literature, and natural beauty, providing a well-rounded environment for personal growth and exploration.
- Growing Economy: Russia is working to change its economy and rely less on natural resources like oil and gas. The government invests over INR 6 trillion in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This means more job opportunities for skilled workers in these fields will exist.
Top Universities to Study in Russia
Russia is home to many top universities. Some of them are as follows:
| QS World University Ranking 2025 | Name of University |
| =94 | Lomonosov Moscow State University |
| =298 | Bauman Moscow State Technical University |
| =316 | RUDN University |
| =365 | St. Petersburg State University |
| =401 | Kazan Federal University |
| =410 | HSE University |
| =431 | Tomsk State University |
Top Courses to Study in Russia
Private and public universities in Russia offer a wide range of bachelor’s and master’s programs to students catering to their wide career specializations and interests.
- Engineering: Russian universities offer many types of engineering programs, including biomedical, computer science, and nuclear engineering.
- Business Administration: As a financial hub, business administration courses like the BBA and MBA remain perennially relevant for students.
- Computer Science: As the IT sector continues to grow in Russia, Computer Science majors have quickly gained prominence, preparing students for successful careers in the field.
- International Relations: Some of the country’s top universities offer students to study International Relations and contribute towards international policy-related roles.
- Physics: Russia has long held a reputation for excellence in science and technology and has many micro-industries focused on their related fields.
Eligibility Criteria for Top Courses to Study in Russia
The eligibility criteria for courses to study in Russia may vary depending on the university as well as course specialization.
Bachelor Courses Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must have completed their 10+2 qualification and may have to have studied specific core subjects to apply to some courses
- 2 LORs from previous employers or teachers
- A minimum aggregate score on their 10+2 qualifying examinations (this varies by university and course)
Master’s Courses Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, according to the course they are applying for
- 2-3 LORs from previous employers or professors
- A minimum final score on their final examinations from their previous qualification (this varies by university)
Admission Checklist to Study in Russia
Here is a simple checklist to make your admission process easier:
| Step | Details |
| Research Universities | Through in-depth research, shortlist the universities and courses aligned with your interests. |
| Check Eligibility and Application Deadlines | Find out the eligibility and application deadlines of each university and course to ensure all applications can be planned and submitted efficiently. |
| Gather Documents | Prepare and gather all relevant documents like academic transcripts, LORs and SOPs. |
| Take Required Tests | Schedule and take all required tests. |
| Submit Applications | Fill out the online application forms, attach relevant documents, and pay the application fee. |
| Track Your Application | Regularly monitor the university portals and your email to track your application. |
| Interview Preparation | Some universities may require you to give interviews. Practice answering relevant questions. |
| Review Offers and Pay Deposit | Evaluate the offers and compare the fee and program details to select the university. Confirm your acceptance and pay any necessary deposits. |
| Arrange Finances | Organise funds for tuition, travel and living expenses. |
| Apply for Student Visa | Apply for a student visa, gather all necessary documents, and attend the visa interview. |
| Book Travel and Accommodation | Plan your travel itinerary and book on-campus or off-campus housing. |
| Check Vaccine Requirements | Ensure compliance with vaccines and other health prerequisites as mandated by the Government of Russia. |
| Arrive Early | Reach the campus early to settle in and attend the orientation. |
Fees of Top Universities in Russia
The average fees at top universities in Russia range between INR 1.5L- 2L annually.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the fee structure to study in Russia.
| University | Fees (approx.) |
| Lomonosov Moscow State University | Expanded program: $8900 (₹7.5 lakh)
One-year program: $7000 (₹5.9 lakh) |
| Bauman Moscow State Technical University | Bachelor’s: $4395 (₹3.7 lakh)
Master’s: $4452 (₹3.7 lakh) |
| RUDN University | $5250 to $8050 (₹4.4 lakh to ₹6.7 lakh) |
| St. Petersburg State University | Bachelor’s: $2611 to $4958 (₹2.2 lakh to ₹4.1 lakh)
Master’s: $3048 to $4719 (₹2.5 lakh to ₹3.9 lakh) |
| Kazan Federal University | Bachelor’s: $4969 (₹4.1 lakh)
Master’s: $3974 (₹3.3 lakh) |
Scholarships to Study in Russia
Although the cost of studying at Russian universities is lower than in other destinations, there are many scholarship opportunities for Indian students wishing to study in the country:
In 2024, the Russian Government offered over 2000 scholarships to Indian students. This scholarship programme spanned 466 government-run Russian universities.
| Scholarship | Covers | Additional Information |
| Moscow State University Scholarships | Covers tuition fees and provides a monthly allowance
|
● Awarded based on academic performance and entrance exam scores
● Open to international students admitted to various programs
|
| St. Petersburg State University Scholarships | Offers full or partial tuition waivers | ● Awarded based on academic merit and extracurricular achievements
● Available for both undergraduate and graduate programs
|
| Tomsk Polytechnic University International Scholarships | Covers tuition fees and provides a monthly allowance
|
● Granted to outstanding international students admitted to TPU
● Requires excellent academic records and language proficiency
|
Intake & Application Deadlines to Study in Russia
The universities follow a typical two-semester system in Russia. The two-semester system is the fall semester (Osenniy semester) and the spring semester (Vesenniy semester). The semester starts in September and February, respectively.
| Semester | Application Period | Semester Start |
| Fall Semester | December – July | September |
| Spring Semester | October – January | February |
Application deadlines for top universities in Russia typically fall between December and July for programs starting in the fall semester (September) and between October and January for the spring semester (February). However, students are always advised to cross-check the information with their university.
What Is the Scope after Studying in Russia?
Studying in Russia opens doors for exciting opportunities in the country and internationally.
| Job Title | Course Needed |
| Software Developer | ● Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field |
| Petroleum Engineer | ● Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Petroleum Engineering or a related discipline |
| Mechanical Engineer | ● Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field |
| Financial Analyst | ● Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field |
| Marketing Manager | ● Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related discipline |
Top Recruiters after Study in Russia
Given Russia’s growing economy, it has many employment opportunities for students graduating from Russian universities. These recruiters offer excellent salaries and various growth opportunities.
Some of the top recruiters in Russia are:
| Company | Industry | Common Entry Roles |
| Gazprom | Oil & Gas | ● Engineering
● Finance ● Business Analysis |
| Yandex | Technology | ● Software Development
● Data Science ● Marketing |
| Sberbank | Banking | ● Finance
● IT ● Business Operations |
| Rosneft | Oil & Gas | ● Engineering
● Geology ● Project Management |
| VTB Bank | Banking | ● Finance
● Risk Analysis ● Corporate Banking |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can International students work part-time in Russia?
Yes, international students have the right to work part-time in Russia, especially on their campuses.
What is the cost of study for Indian students in Russia?
The average cost of study in Russia for Indian students ranges between INR 3 to 10 lakh annually.
Can I study in Russia without IELTS?
English language proficiency tests are generally not required by Russian universities but students are advised to cross check.
How many intakes are there in Russia for international students?
Russia offers two intakes, i.e., fall and spring semesters, to all students.
Is Russia good for Indian students?
Yes, Russia can be an affordable study destination for Indian students and offer great opportunities for work.
