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Many aspiring doctors dream of studying medicine, but the competition for medical seats in India might make it difficult to gain admission to medical colleges. As a result, an increasing number of Indian students are thinking of studying MBBS abroad, with Russia emerging as a popular choice. Russia has been India's most reliable ally since independence. This long-standing partnership has helped to make MBBS Russia popular among Indian students. An MBBS degree in Russia is a popular choice for Indian students looking to study medicine overseas. Since 1985, India has seen a constant stream of students travel to Russia to pursue medical studies, strengthening its position as a top destination for MBBS education in Russia. This article looks at the advantages and disadvantages of getting an MBBS degree in Russia for Indian students, to help you decide if it's a worthy investment.
Recognition | NMC and WHO approved |
Eligibility | 50% in Physics, Chemistry and Biology + English |
Course Duration | 6 Years (Include Internship) |
NEET | Yes , compulsory |
IELTS/TOFEL | Not Required |
Medium of Teaching | English |
MBBS in Russia is considered to be one of the top possibilities for doing MBBS abroad. Studying MBBS in Russia is growing popular among Indian students since it offers a high-quality education at a reasonable price. Russian medical universities have excellent infrastructure, and faculty, and provide high-quality medical education. The level of MBBS education in Russia is highly developed and advanced. Over 20,000 Indian students are currently studying medicine at Russian universities, with the majority enrolled in the MBBS program. These figures are rising each year.
Russia's medical universities are recognized by both the WHO and NMC India. An MBBS degree from Russia is accepted in India. The MBBS curriculum in Russia is comparable to that in Indian medical institutes. Thus, students who complete their MBBS in Russia can sit the FMGE (MCI screening test) in India.
Several countries provide medical courses at lower prices than Indian universities, with Russia standing out as a popular choice due to its strong global reputation and outstanding educational standards. Russia has a more reasonable fee system for medical education compared to other countries.
Here's a closer look at the causes:According to the WHO Rankings, Russian medical universities rank about 30th out of the top 100 medical schools. Because Russian medical schools are well-equipped and their teaching strategies are streamlined and regulated, they provide the most sophisticated and advanced medical education available worldwide. Based on their standing and medical research, these are the best Russian medical schools for Indian students.
Established in 1804, Kazan Federal University (KFU) is one of the oldest and most renowned Russian universities, especially for medical science, research, and innovation. KFU has modern facilities located in the heart of the city; with advanced laboratories and faculty of international recognition, KFU draws in students from more than 100 countries. KFU meets international standards in medical education, offering an MBBS course in English. According to QS World Ranking 2024, KFU is in the top 400 universities in the world and 5 in Russia. The yearly tuition for MBBS programs averages $5,000 to $7,000. International Rank: #400| Country Rank: #5 | Tuition Fee: US$5,000 to $7,000.
State Medical University of Bashkir One of the biggest medical-scientific institutions in Ufa, Russia, is Bashkir State Medical University, it was established on 25th March 1932. The Russian Ministry of Education has granted Bashkir State Medical University a license to instruct foreign students. Among these, Bashkir State Medical University, one of Russia's best medical schools, is placed fifth. World rank: #3538; Annual tuition fee:4,90,000 Rubles.
Russia's Volgograd State Medical University Among Russian medical schools, Volgograd State Medical University rose to a very high position. Since its establishment, the university has drawn highly skilled faculty members who have taught in various parts of the world. Currently, the university employs 763 highly skilled teachers and instructors, including 401 associate professors, 96 professors, and 11 academicians. World ranking: 3108; tuition cost: $5,000 per year.
Established in 1918, Crimea Federal University (CFU) is a prestigious medical university in Russia with an exquisite MBBS program and modern facilities. The university provides a world-class medical education in English that includes supplementary clinical training and advanced laboratory facilities. Students from over 50 countries are enrolled at CFU due to its internationally accepted degree. CFU has advanced facilities which top the country’s standard and welcomes students from all over the world. World Rank: #197 | Country Rank: #15 | Tuition Fee: US$4,000 to $6,000
Russia's Orel State University Orel State University is distinct in a lot of ways. The only classical university in Russia to be a member of the Association of Classical Universities is Orel State University. 110 foundational higher education programs are offered by Orel State University in sizable groups of 14 training areas and specializations. The institution is currently carrying on the greatest tradition of medical education in Russia.
The Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (RNRMU), founded in 1906, is a medical institution in Moscow, Russia, of high reputation. Remarkably, it established the world's first Pediatric Faculty in 1930, being a great example to other countries’ faculties. It has a wide array of medical programs, and along with other institutions like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission (NMC), it supports the validity of the University’s degrees on a global scale. World Rank: #401-450 | Country Rank: #51 | Tuition Fee: US$7,700
Saint Petersburg State Medical University is one of Russia's top medical colleges. The Saint Petersburg State Medical University makes significant contributions to the development of medical sciences and health care services in Russia, and it is renowned around the world as a major training center for specialists in a variety of medical fields. The University has a high scientific-teaching potential and has positive relationships with numerous medical schools and institutions in other countries. Students at St Petersburg State Medical University have the opportunity to study on a modern level while maintaining the best traditions of traditional Russian medical schools. Tuition Fee: $450,000 per year; World Ranking #3804.
Kazan Medical University, Russia Kazan State Medical University is located in the center of Russia. Kazan State Medical University is one of Russia's most prestigious medical institutions, with thousands of Indian graduates in the past. Kazan State Medical University is a state institution of higher education in medicine that serves multiple functions and levels. World rank #3358, Tuition Fee 4,60,000 per year.
Orenburg State Medical University was established in 1944. Orenburg State Medical University, Russia Orenburg Medical University is regarded as the top university in Russia for Indian students. The faculty offers students the field of General Medicine. Every year, over 200 specialists graduate from this university and treat patients all over the world. During the training program, students will study around 54 subjects. World rank #5109, Tuition Fee 4,80,000 per year
Altai State Medical University Altai State Medical University (AGMU) is a major medical university in Russia's West Siberian region, providing high-quality medical training. Barnaul, the seat of Altai Krai in southeast Russia, is home to Altai State Medical University. For sixty years, Altai State Medical University has served as a source of competent specialists for the region's healthcare system.World rank #4471, Tuition Fee $4,00,000 per year.
Students applying for admission to a Russian medical college for the MBBS program must present a set of needed documents. These documents verify entrance eligibility and support a smooth admissions process. A list of essential documents for studying MBBS in Russia 2025 is given below:
With the proper documentation, studying MBBS in Russia for Indian students becomes easier, paving the path to a successful medical career. These documents must be created and submitted on time to ensure that the application is processed smoothly.
Russia stands as a popular choice for international MBBS students because it provides both inexpensive tuition costs and international degree recognition together with excellent academic programs. The educational language students learn Medicine at Russian universities depends on each institution and which medium international students prefer. The medical universities in Russia provide MBBS programs through three main language options.
Many universities in Russia offer MBBS courses entirely in English, especially for international students. Students who want to study medical courses through English find this option beneficial when they prefer global recognition instead of Russian as their academic language.
Ideal for students unprepared to study in Russian and those who want a seamless entrance into the medical profession abroad.
Bilingual MBBS education in some Russian universities includes: Basic sciences and pre-clinical subjects are delivered through an English instructional curriculum spanning from two to three years. During the third and fourth year clinical subjects students learn their material through Russian instruction since direct communication with Russian patients is necessary in hospital settings.
Ideal for learners on a budget who would not mind using Russia for practical learning purposes.
Foreign students in Russian universities who choose MBBS must first learn Russian at an academic level because the entire medical curriculum exists in Russian.
Students who intend to stay in Russia as permanent residents will find this option most suitable.
Russian universities offer the following courses
Course | Duration |
MBBS | 6 Years |
Dentistry | 5 Years |
Pharmacy | 4 Years |
Nursing | 4 Years |
In Russia, the MBBS course normally lasts six years, including five years of academic study and one year of internship.
Here's a thorough breakdown:
The admission procedure for MBBS studies in Russia begins in the "month of September" at most universities. Some colleges also begin "MBBS admission in Russia in March". To learn more about the entrance date, contact Nile Education Consultancy’s education specialist education counselors.
The number of students pursuing MBBS in Russian universities differs concerning the university itself, the batch sizes, and the medium of teaching. Here is an example of what class sizes look like across various MBBS programs:
International students choose to study MBBS at Russian universities because it has become one popular destination. International students who want to budget MBBS study in Russian need to recognize the expenses of traveling to and from the country along with low tuition fees and world-class educational institutions.
Travelers paying from India's major cities of Delhi or Mumbai among others can purchase one-way plane tickets to both Moscow and St. Petersburg for ₹30,000 to ₹45,000. Getting airline tickets back home will typically be somewhat costlier depending on both the time of year and which airline customers select. Weak booking flight schedules in advance produces meaningful price reductions. Travel expenses between India and Russia should be included in the budget at between ₹60,000 and ₹90,000 for annual return trips to handle vacations or urgent situations.
Students moving to Russia after arrival must depend on local transit modes. Public transportation services through the metro system together with buses provide the main and least expensive way to move along city streets. You can get a monthly transportation pass which includes metro, bus and tram access for ₽500 to ₽1000 at an additional discount rate available for students. Short-trip taxi journeys and rides on Yandex or Uber platforms in Russia typically cost between ₽200–₽400 (₹200–₹400) from point A to point B.
The prices of city travel fluctuate based on which city you visit. Both Moscow and St. Petersburg maintains higher prices compared to Belgorod, Orenburg, and Kazan along with other smaller cities in Russia. Commuting with public transportation in smaller Russian cities provides students with inexpensive and convenient daily travel options.
All students needing a student visa must obtain travel insurance before visa approval becomes possible. The yearly cost of obtaining suitable student travel insurance ranges between ₹3,000 and ₹6,000 which protects you from medical emergencies while also covering baggage loss and travel delays.
Students will encounter the following expenses during their first arrival in Russia. Airport to university travel: ₹1,000–₹2,000. Establishing both a local SIM card as well as a transportation pass requires a cost of ₹500–₹1,000.
Expense | Approximate Cost (INR) |
Flight Tickets (Round-trip) | ₹60,000 – ₹90,000 |
Local Transport (Annual) | ₹6,000 – ₹12,000 |
Travel Insurance | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 |
Miscellaneous Travel | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 |
Total | ₹74,000 – ₹1,18,000 per year |
Studying medicine is a goal for many medical students around the world. However, the high expense of MBBS education due to fierce competition and the availability of places in medical colleges makes it difficult for many people to pursue their aspirations. Here, we talk about studying MBBS in Russia, which has a long tradition of distinction in medical education. Russia is a popular choice for international students seeking to study MBBS in Russia. So, let us explore the benefits and drawbacks of studying MBBS in Russia.
1. Affordable education: The most significant advantage of studying MBBS in Russia is the low cost of course fees. The course fee for MBBS studies in Russia is quite affordable when compared to other popular destinations such as the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, and other European nations.
2. No entrance examination: Another benefit of studying MBBS in Russia is that there is no admission exam.
3. Provide high-quality education: Russia has a rich history of medical education. Many of its universities are internationally renowned and offer high-quality education to its pupils.
4. Degree Recognition: The MBBS degree from Russia is recognized in many countries throughout the world, including India.
5. Multicultural environment: Studying MBBS in Russia allows students to immerse themselves in a new culture while also meeting people from various backgrounds. It helps them broaden their vision and become more open-minded individuals.
1. Language barrier: One of the most difficult aspects of studying MBBS in Russia is the language barrier. Although several colleges in Russia offer courses in English, the majority of the population speaks Russian.
2. Difficult weather conditions: Russia is notorious for its harsh weather, with lengthy winters and short summers. Indian students who come from warm climates may struggle to acclimate to the cold weather.
3. Cultural differences: Studying in a new nation entails adapting to a new culture. Students who are unfamiliar with Russian culture may struggle to adjust to local norms and traditions.
4. Distance from home: Because Russia is so far away from many other nations, students who return home or want to see their families during the vacation may face difficulties.
5. Limited career opportunities: Although an MBBS degree from Russia is recognized in many countries, finding work in some of them may be challenging.
Let us evaluate many features of MBBS in Russia vs MBBS in India using the points provided below:
Duration: The MBBS curriculum in Russia lasts roughly 5.8 years, including both academic and practical training. In India, the average course duration is 5 years.
Curriculum: There may be some variations in the MBBS curriculum between Russia and India. However, both programs cover clinical rotations as well as fundamental medical courses such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, pathology, and microbiology.
Cost: Overall, MBBS in Russia is less expensive than in India and other countries. Russian institutions usually feature lower tuition costs, making them an appealing option for students on a limited budget.
Concurrence: Indian medical universities often have a high level of competition for the few available seats. In contrast, Russian institutions may provide additional seats to abroad students, boosting the number of admissions opportunities.
Clinical exposure: Clinical exposure is provided in both India and Russia as part of the MBBS degree. Medical universities in India often offer rotations at various hospitals. Students in Russia have the opportunity to gain practical experience in Russian medical facilities.
MBBS In Russia | MBBS In India |
The fee structure in Russia is INR 2 to INR 4 lakhs per annum. | The fee structure in Indian Government college: INR 40000 to INR 2 Lacs per annum. In Private college: INR 10 lakhs to INR 20 lakhs per annum. |
Studying in Russia is cheap and flexible because Russian government provides the subsidy. | In India, it is expensive. |
In Russia, the duration of course is 6 years (Including Internship) | In India, the course duration is 5 years. |
One batch of students in Russia is 12 to 15 | One batch of students in India is about 100 to 120 or more. |
List of the Top Medical Colleges in Russia
Find the fee structure to study mbbs in Russia according to their top Medical colleges and universities.
Sr.No | University Name | Duration | Location | Fee Structure (Rub) | Hostel (Rub) | More Information |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Kazan Federal University | 6 Years | Kazan | 4,90,674 | 12,507 | |
2 | Kazan State Medical University | 6 Years | Kazan | 475,000 Rubles | 26200 Rubles | |
3 | Far Eastern Federal University | 6 Years | Vladivostok | 390,500 Rubles | 40,000 Rubles | |
4 | Samara State Medical University | 6 Years | Samara, Russia | 355,000 Rubles | 55,000 Rubles | |
5 | Yaroslavl State Medical University. | 6 Years | Yaroslavl | 262,750 Rubles | 48,000 Rubles | |
6 | Chechen State University | 6 Years | Chechnya | 200,000 Rubles | 400 USD | |
7 | Kabardino Balkarian State University | 6 Years | Cheboksary | 245,500 Rubles | 12,000 Rubles | |
8 | Altai State Medical University | 6 Years | Barnaul | 5000 USD | 500 USD | |
9 | Crimea Federal University | 6 Years | Crimea | 315,000 Rubles | 45,000 Rubles | |
10 | Bashkir State Medical University | 6 Years | Ufa | 490,000 Rubles | 72,000 Rubles | |
11 | Kemerovo State Medical University | 6 Years | Kemerovo | 250,000 Rubles | 12,000 Rubles | |
12 | Ulyanovsk State Medical University | 6 Years | Ulyanovsk | 4,000 USD | 1,000 USD | |
13 | Tver State Medical University | 6 Years | Tver | 350,000 Rubles | 12,000 Rubles | |
14 | Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University | 6 Years | Kaliningrad | 303,700 Rubles | 15,000 Rubles | |
15 | Izhevsk State Medical Academy | 6 Years | Izhevsk | 4000 USD | Included in Tuition Fees | |
16 | Kirov State Medical University | 6 Years | Kemerovo | 270,000 Rubles | 60,000 Rubles | |
17 | Kuban State Medical University | 6 Years | Krasnodar | 300,000 Rubles | 16000 Rubles | |
18 | Kursk State Medical University | 6 Years | Kursk | 5800 USD | 400 USD | |
19 | Mari State University | 6 Years | Mari | 5000 USD | Included in Tuition Fees | |
20 | Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University | 6 Years | Moscow | 600,000 Rubles | 110,000 Rubles | |
21 | National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University | 6 Years | Saransk | 4500 USD | 400 USD | |
22 | South Ural state Medical University | 6 Years | Chelyabinsk | 258,400 Rubles | 18,000 Rubles | |
23 | North Ossetian State Medical Academy | 6 Years | Vladikavkaz | 300,000 Rubles | 30,000 Rubles | |
24 | Northern State Medical University | 6 Years | Arkhangelsk O'blast | 6000 USD | 500 USD | |
25 | Novosibirsk State University | 6 Years | Novosibirsk | 5000 USD | 1000 USD | |
26 | Omsk State Medical University | 6 Years | Omsk | 289,200 Rubles | 40,000 Rubles | |
27 | Orel State University | 6 Years | Oryol | 317,000 Rubles | 15,600 Rubles | |
28 | Orenburg State Medical University | 6 Years | Orenburg | 6000 USD | Included in Tuition Fees | |
29 | Pacific State Medical University | 6 Years | Vladivostok | 277,000 Rubles | 500 USD | |
30 | Penza State University | 6 Years | Penza Oblast | 348,000 Rubles | 1000 USD | |
31 | Perm State Medical University | 6 Years | Perm Krai | 5500 USD | Included in Tuition Fees | |
32 | Privolzhsky Research Medical University | 6 Years | Nizhny Novgorod | 5000 USD | 850 USD | |
33 | Pskov State University | 6 Years | Pskov | 3500 USD | Included in Tuition Fees | |
34 | Rostov State Medical University | 6 Years | Rostov | 326,000 Rubles | 38,000 Rubles | |
35 | Peoples' Friendship University of Russia | 6 Years | Moscow | 8800 USD | 720 USD | |
36 | Petrozavodsk State University | 6 Years | Near St. Petersburg | 285,000 Rubles | 18,600 Rubles | |
37 | Ryazan State Medical University | 6 Years | Ryazan | 4000 USD | 500 USD | |
38 | Saratov State Medical University | 6 Years | Saratov | 4800 USD | 400 USD | |
39 | Siberian State Medical University | 6 Years | Tomsk | 360,000 Rubles | 54,000 Rubles | |
40 | Smolensk State Medical University | 6 Years | Smolensk | 5500 USD | 750 USD | |
41 | Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University | 6 Years | Saint Petersburg | 320,000 Rubles | 35,000 Rubles | |
42 | Tambov State University | 6 Years | Tambov | 350,000 Rubles | Included in Tuition Fees | |
43 | Tula State University | 6 Years | Tula | 4400 USD | Included in Tuition Fees | |
44 | Ulyanovsk State University | 6 Years | Ulyanovsk | 300,000 Rubles | 60000 Rubles | |
45 | Ural State Medical University | 6 Years | Yekaterinburg | 260,000 Rubles | 12,000 Rubles | |
46 | Volgograd State Medical University | 6 Years | Volgograd | 441,000 Rubles | 40,000 Rubles | |
47 | Voronezh State Medical University | 6 Years | Voronezh | 450,000 Rubles | 50,000 Rubles |
The cost of MBBS in Russia is primarily due to the program price. Medical college costs in Russia are far lower than those at any private medical university in India or other Western countries. The Russian medical institutes will be sponsored, making them incredibly cost-effective. The Russian government's funding for education has made the system very cost-effective, making MBBS in Russia much more affordable. Every year, more Indian students are drawn to Russia because of the low MBBS tuition and low living costs. In contrast to some other countries, no capitation fees or donations are required. The entire cost of pursuing a six-year MBBS program in Russia is fairly inexpensive, allowing students to receive a high-quality education without putting a strain on their financial situation. This makes Russia one of the greatest places to pursue a profession in medicine at a reasonable cost.
Please refer to the below table for the approx cost for Indian Students:Particulars | Average cost in INR/Month |
Accommodation cost | 12300 - 16,400 |
Food | 8200 - 9020 |
Transport | 820 - 1230 |
MBBS Admission in Russia for Indian Students is very uncomplicated, making Russia one of the most popular destinations for students seeking admission to medical schools. Medical colleges in Russia provide a smooth and hassle-free approach with minimal restrictions, making it accessible to both Indian and international students.The MBBS admission procedure in Russia consists of following stages:
The following is the eligibility for overseas and Indian students to be considered for completing MBBS from Russia.
While MBBS in Russia is reasonably priced, the availability of scholarships makes Russia significantly more appealing for overseas students, especially those from India, seeking higher education and training. Scholarships ensure that their financial limits do not pose substantial impediments to achieving this goal.
The syllabus for MBBS is the same for all countries. The difference in the syllabus is only the length and sequence of the subject. Russian universities follow European pattern.
First Year | The first year focuses on fundamentals. Biology, physics, chemistry, nursing (surgery and therapy), anatomy, histology, Latin, and public health will all be covered. Students also study history, economics, philosophy, culturology, Russian, physical training, research basics, and mathematics |
Second Year | The second year focuses on the operation of the human body and metabolic processes. It covers disciplines such as physiology, biochemistry, immunology, and hygiene. In addition, students learn Psychology, Medical Law, Bioethics, and the Russian language for doctor-patient communication. Students must work as nurses in hospitals for at least two weeks after receiving their degrees |
Third Year | In the third year, students receive training in illness etiology and medication action, which covers Microbiology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Radiology, Internal Medicine, Topographical Anatomy, and Operative Surgery |
Fourth Year | The fourth year starts with hospital cycles. As part of their degree, students receive instruction in several hospital departments. The practical class is broken into two parts: the first half is a discussion, and the second half is a practice in the department's patient wards. In their fourth year, potential doctors must rotate through several hospital departments such as surgery, dermatology and venereology, obstetrics and gynecology, neurology, therapy, medical rehabilitation, urology, public health, pediatrics, phthisiology, and endocrinology |
Fifth Year | In the fifth year, students will receive training in E.N.T., Ophthalmology, Surgical Gynecology, Psychiatry, Traumatology, Orthopedics, Physiotherapy, Outpatient Therapy, Gene Therapy, and Infectious Disease |
Sixth Year | The last year of the MBBS program comprises oncology and radiation therapy, occupational illnesses, anesthesiology, intensive care training, dentistry, clinical immunology, general medical practice, neurosurgery, forensic medicine, and epidemiology |
Career opportunities after MBBS in Russia might range from highly professional employment on a local scale to global opportunities. The majority of students are expected to begin their careers as doctors at hospitals, clinics, or health centers to gain hands-on experience in surgery, pediatrics, cardiology, and neuroscience. A considerable percentage of students pursue advanced specialization through postgraduate study, which opens up opportunities for further professional development. Those interested in academic or scientific employment can also find research opportunities at universities, pharmaceutical companies, or research institutions. Other job prospects for medical graduates who have completed their MBBS in Russia include working for international organizations such as the WHO or UNICEF on global health initiatives. Other graduates become teachers in medical colleges and universities, passing on knowledge and expertise to future healthcare professionals. Entrepreneurial students can even start their own private clinics or health businesses. Some may go into public health administration or policymaking, influencing health policies in their areas. As a medical student in Russia, you may expect well-equipped facilities, including contemporary classrooms, laboratories, and libraries. Cultural events, athletics, and student groups are examples of social activities that students participate in.
Admission requires a score of 50% in PCB and sufficient marks in English.
Yes, Russia can be regarded as an exceedingly safe destination for an international student. Most colleges provide well-organized campus security and a very helpful support system, which includes but is not limited to, hostels, cultural programs, and many more.
The student seeking MBBS admission in Russia should have completed 12th grade with science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) and be at least 17 years old. Certain universities may also demand a qualifying examination or an interview.
Russia's MBBS fees are lower than in other nations, ranging from ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 each year. Furthermore, the cost of living is very low, which makes it more appealing to international students.
The application process for MBBS in Russia would include submitting relevant documents, such as transcripts, along with a valid passport, to the chosen university. The majority of these universities do not require entrance exams for admission, but the application process is usually simple and online.
The best kind of education is observation of the outside world!