Study MBBS in Russia: Costs, accommodation, scholarship options for Indian students
MBBS in Russia is a popular, affordable option for Indian students with tuition fees ranging from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 10 lakh per year. The six-year programme includes theoretical study and clinical training. Students should also consider living expenses and can explore scholarships from Russian universities, the government, WHO, and other organisations.
New Delhi: President of Russia Vladimir Putin begins his two-day visit to India on Thursday for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit, marking his first trip in four years. As New Delhi and Moscow discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation including education Russia’s popularity as a destination for Indian medical aspirants is once again in focus.
With thousands of Indian students heading to Russia each year for affordable, globally recognised MBBS programmes, the timing of Putin’s visit is expected to further boost academic exchanges and make medical education a key talking point between the two nations.
Why Russia is a top choice for MBBS aspirants
Russia attracts over 20,000 international students annually for medical degrees, with its six-year MBBS programme combining classroom learning and one year of clinical training. The curriculum closely mirrors that of Indian medical colleges, enabling graduates to appear for India’s FMGE screening test.
For Indian students unable to secure government seats at home or afford private medical colleges, Russia offers a cost-effective alternative without compromising on quality.
Top 10 medical universities for MBBS in Russia
The top 10 medical universities in Russia and tuition fees for MBBS is detailed in the table below-
| University | Tuition Fees (per year) |
|---|---|
| Sechenov University | 8.22 Lakhs |
| Lomonosov Moscow State University | 5.60 Lakhs |
| Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University | 4.20 Lakhs |
| RUDN University | 6.58 Lakhs |
| Pavlov University | 2.39 Lakhs |
| Saint Petersburg State University | 4.21 Lakhs |
| Kazan (Volga region) Federal University | 3.21 Lakhs |
| Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT) | 3.01 Lakhs |
| North-Western State Medical University named after Mechnikov0 | 3.20 Lakhs |
| Novosibirsk State University | 2.72 Lakhs |
Living expenses for MBBS students in Russia
In addition to tuition fees, Indian students incur monthly living costs that include hostel fees, food, transportation and insurance. On average the accommodation cost is between 500 to 5,000 RUB per month (dormitory). The other expenses can be check below-
- Food 9,000–18,000 RUB per month
- Transport: approx. 500 RUB per month
- Utilities and Misc.: around 8,000 RUB per month
- Medical Insurance: 5,000–7,000 RUB per year
Scholarships for MBBS students
Though direct scholarships for Indian MBBS students are limited, several financial aid options are available:
- Russian Government Scholarship: Covers tuition, stipend and accommodation (in some cases).
- University Scholarships: Merit-based fee waivers and support at institutions like RUDN, Sechenov University and Kazan Federal University.
- WHO Scholarships: Support for students from developing countries committed to returning home to practice.
- Open Society Foundations Scholarships: Aid for academically strong students from disadvantaged backgrounds.