Russia is one of the most popular destinations for studying health-related courses, including MBBS. Russia welcomes many international students from over 150 different countries every year.
Russia offers some of the best tuition fees for international students amongst elite European nations. About 57 medical universities in Russia are offering MBBS to international students.
About 30 of these Russian universities feature amongst the top 100 ranking Medical Universities in the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)’s “Directory of World Medical Schools.”
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Besides, medical degrees from these universities are recognized by many UN countries’ medical councils, including the United States, India, Australia, Canada, UK, etc.
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Benefits of Studying MBBS in Russia
Ease of Securing Admission
Russian medical universities have one the most straightforward selection process. There is no entrance tests and English test for India students. International students are not also required to provide English test results for admission.
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The requirement is to score good grades in their 12th standard exams. This exam is equivalent to secondary school or high school, passing out exams in some countries. Students who score at least 50% are qualified to apply for MBBS admissions in Russia.
World-Class Education, Infrastructure and Facilities
Russian medical universities have world-class infrastructure and facilities for modern-day medical training. These universities have links to some of the world’s best medical centres where students undergo clinical postings.
Also, these universities have some of the best medical tutors across the globe. They also have an excellent teacher to students’ ratio (about 7:1). Russian medical universities also provide comfortable accommodation and hostel facilities for students.
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These hostels have central electric heating and ultra-modern facilities like reading rooms, laundry, shower rooms, etc. These facilities are also safe. Remember, 30 Russian universities feature amongst the top 100 ranking Medical Universities in the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)’s “Directory of World Medical Schools.”
Dual-language Medium
Most medical universities in Russia offer both English and Russian study mediums. These allow non-native international students to learn in English. However, these students can extend their stay in Russia to take the Russian language preparatory classes.
Affordable Fees Structure and Scholarships
The Russian Ministry of Health and Education has provided a subsidized fee structure for international students. Russia offers one the most affordable MBBS degree when compared to other western countries.
The average annual cost of studying MBBS in many Russian medical universities is $5000-$7000, including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. There are also many governments and non-government scholarship opportunities for MBBS students in Russia.
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World-Recognized Degree
The dream of every medical student is to work in a leading medical facility after school. Alumni members of these Russian medical universities are already working in some of the world’s best facilities. Every medical council recognizes a Russian MBBS degree in the world.
Other benefits of studying MBBS in Russia Include:
- Racism Free Environment
- Opportunity to learn the Russian language
- International Exposure
- Opportunity to obtain dual degrees
- Job opportunity
- Affordable Cost of Living
You may have heard some negative things about studying MBBS in Russia. But those things will lose significance if you focus on these priceless benefits of being in a Russian medical campus.

How to Secure MBBS Admission in Russia?
There Are Five Simple Steps to Securing MBBS Admission in Any Russian Medical University:
1. Discover
There are about 57 medical universities in Nigeria. You need to do some research to choose a medical university. Some of the factors that should influence your choice include:
- The location of the university
- Eligibility criteria
- Fees structure
- Accommodation options
- Learning language medium
You can visit these universities’ websites or call their contact representative to learn everything you need to know about the university.
2. Apply
Fill in the application form of the university you have chosen to study your MBBS. Submit the application form and other required documents. Most Russian medical universities will request for:
- A copy of your higher secondary school certificate.
- A copy of your international passport (valid for a minimum of two years).
However, some universities may require other documents. Have all your materials ready before you start your application. You should send your application letter and all other supporting documents via email or fax as required by the university.
3. Wait For Admission Notification and Pay for Invitation Letter
Your chosen medical universities will send you a notification of admission after reviewing your application form and documents. However, you will need to pay about $500 (including shipping cost) for your invitation letter.
You can make your payment through Money Gram or Western Union and submit your proof of payment via email. You will receive your original invitation letter, admission confirmation letter, and visa support letter through a courier service provider.
These letters will be sent to you from the State Home Office within 35-40 days.
4. Apply For A VISA
Consult your country’s Russian Embassy or Consulate to apply for a Student Visa. Visa eligibility requirements differ in different countries. Ensure you contact the Russian Embassy in your state to learn about their specific needs.
5. Arrive Russia, Make Documentation and Start Classes
The Russian Embassy or Consulate will inform your university of your flight details. A university representative will pick you at the airport and take you to the university to begin your documentation. You are expected to have:
- All your application documents
- Admission and invitation letters
- Full first-year expenses receipts
You will be expected to complete your documentation within the next 4-5 working days and start taking your classes.
Top 10 Medical Universities in Russia
- Orenburg State Medical University
- Tver State Medical University
- Siberian State Medical University
- Lomonosov Moscow State University
- The Pavlov First State Medical University of St. Petersburg
- Kursk State Medical University
- Northern State Medical University
- Dagestan State Medical University
- Altai State Medical University
- Perm State Medical University
You can visit the websites of these universities for more details.
Conclusion
Russia remains one of the best Western countries for foreigners, and Russian medical universities are the best options for international students who want to study medicine abroad.
Their application and selection processes are elementary, their fees are affordable, their facilities are up-to-date, and their MBBS degree is recognized worldwide. Come to Russia and make your dream come true.