Russia is an affordable option for those looking for quality higher education abroad without denting their pockets. To study in Russia, you must know the environment, living costs, and the courses.
Russia is one of the largest countries across two continents and falls under nine different time zones. Due to the comprehensive education system and advanced research opportunities, Russia boasts 400 different study fields for Indian students.
The UG programs are for four years, and the PG programs are for two to four years. Since there are more than 240 universities in this country, you have plenty of options.
In addition, many colleges in Russiahave a high acceptance rate of 97%, increasing your chance of getting a call. There is plenty of opportunities, such as internships and work, provided your code of conduct is decent, with good grades.
Regarding the cost of the study, you can either choose a college in Russia with an optimal fee structure or study for free with a scholarship. Russia also offers a friendly environment for Indian students, with language not being a barrier.
Key Benefits of Studying in Russia for Indian Students
Russia is outperforming countries like Canada, Japan, and the USA regarding the education system. This fact is confirmed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
Some of the biggest advantages of studying in Russia are:
Degree recognized by the world:
Apart from a world-class education, colleges in Russiaare known for building the best human resource. If you are "made in Russia," it is a seal of quality in engineering and scientific research.
Diverse opportunities:
With more than 17,500 degree programs, you can choose from various courses in Russia. There are unique professional courses associated with art, film, and music.
No language barrier:
Almost all the graduate courses in Russiaare taught in English medium. However, very few courses at the UG level are taught in English.
Friendly environment:
Nearly 12% of the student population comprises people from foreign countries.
Affordable living expense:
A student’s living expenses are very reasonable in Russia. There are multiple concession schemes for the students, provided you show a valid student ID at places like museums, cinemas, opera houses, and swimming pools.
Now that you understand the Russian environment, you must learn about the universities you can apply to. Keep reading and explore the best options for yourself!
5 Best Universities in Russia
Knowing Russia has produced some famous personalities like Maria Sharapova and Tolstoi, it is fair for anybody to get intrigued and study in well-respected colleges in Russia.
Below are 5 best universities in Russia for Indian students:
Among multiple colleges in Russia, these 5 colleges offer master’s in Russia for Indian students in English medium. The following section highlights the admission procedure to study in Russia for Indian students.
Tuition Costs in Russian Universities
The tuition costs one has to pay will depend largely on the university and course chosen. As per estimates, an undergraduate degree may cost anywhere from RUB 1,30,000-9,00,000 rubles/per year, while master’s programs may have a cost of RUB 1,50,000-5,00,000/ year.
Admission Requirements for Studying in Russia
One of the most basic preparations to study in Russia is brushing up on your language skills. Additionally, if you are doubtful of opting for the programs directly, there are several one-year preparatory courses in Russia that can help you develop language and subject skills needed to pursue any course.
Below are some basic steps to apply for courses in Russia:
Choose a program and look for universities that offer courses in English medium.
Explore the fee structure and figure out the steps to finance your studies.
Keep your documents in place, as you might have to submit them twice. The first submission is virtual for application, and the second one is at the university at the time of admission. You will need a schooling certificate, copy of identification, photographs, and completed university application. The second submission will also require a visa/passport, standard medical form, and admission letter.
Another way to apply for studies in Russia is through the Russian embassy by claiming government scholarships and preparing for competitive selection.
The competitive exams are like entrance exams and introductory unified state exams from EGE. Once you pass this test, the score is accepted by all the universities. Additionally, there are many tests conducted by universities individually.
After applying, the students are required to wait for a thorough inspection. Once selected, they will receive the selection letter through the mail, which can be used for visa application.
In addition to a passport, admission letter, and photographs, the candidates also need HIV negative certificate and parental consent letter if they are under 18 years of age.
A Russian student visa costs range from RUB 3000 to 9000. However, if you wish to work in Russia after completing the course, you must head to the next section.
Post-Study Work Visa Options in Russia
As an international student, your legal stay is defined by the validity of your student visa. Thus, after graduating from a Russian university, you need a work visa or work permit to stay and work in the country.
The post-study work visa allows you to seek a temporary Russian residence permit to continue your work. It is given for three years and requires renewal every three years. You might need the following documents to get temporary residency in Russia:
Application form
Passport photographs
Passport with a validity
Proof of income
Health certificate stating the absence of contagious diseases
Wrapping Up
After considering all the possibilities, it is evident that Russia has multiple facilities for international students. You can make the best of their policies for international students from nominal fee structure to post-study work visa.
Therefore, if you wish to study in Russia, this might be the sign to start preparing and looking for the right colleges. Are you excited to start this journey?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it mandatory to learn the Russian language to study in Russia?
No. International students don’t need to learn Russian compulsorily as most PG degrees are English-taught. However, due to the lack of sufficient UG programs in English medium, international students wanting to pursue them will have to be proficient in the Russian language.
Can Indian students get scholarships from the Russian government easily?
While there are multiple scholarship options, government-funded programs depend on intergovernmental agreements. The stronger the relationship with the country, the higher the chance a student gets a scholarship.
What do preparatory courses involve?
The preparatory courses for foreign students at Russian colleges involve the basics of the subjects as per the chosen program as well as language proficiency. They may cost around RUB 170 000 per year.
She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!