There are more than 1,200 public and private universities in Russia and more than 5,000 study programs. This makes Russia one of the European countries with the largest number of universities and the most diverse study programs. All these universities in Russia offer hundreds of study specialties in all fields. In addition, Russian universities are considered among the best universities in Europe. Today we will analyze the 2 most prestigious universities in Russia.

1. Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov

Moscow University has a rich academic history. Today, the emphasis is on the promotion of applied science: new materials, genetics, biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, cognitive sciences, ecology, and information technology.

All MSU faculties provide full-time BS, MS, and Specialist programs. Postgraduate studies can be full-time or part-time. Most programs at Moscow State University are taught in Russian. In order to ensure an appropriate level of Russian for the entrance exam and a further successful understanding of the curriculum, the university recommends a preparatory Russian language course at the Institute of Russian Language and Culture of LMSU.

University faculties:

• Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics;
• Faculty of Physics;
• Chemical faculty;
• Department of Biology;
• Faculty of Geology;
• History department;
• Faculty of Philology;
• Faculty of Economics;
• Faculty of Journalism;
• Faculty of Philosophy.

Applicants are enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs based on the results of entrance exams. BEFORE uploading a document online or arriving in Moscow, applicants should contact the international office of the faculty for all the necessary information: educational programs, dates and exam requirements, documents for admission and visa, as well as other details of the academic process.

Cost of living

The cost of living in a student dormitory is about 14,000 rubles per month ($240) depending on living conditions.

Food expenses are about 15,000 rubles ($255) per month.

Other personal expenses - about 10,000 rubles ($170) per month.

Tuition fees by faculties can be viewed on the official website of the university.

To get the most out of university life students can join the rich life of the campus, develop their talents in various clubs and creative groups, take part in numerous cultural events, and visit museums and exhibitions.

2. St. Petersburg State University

Each year, the university enrolls more than 5,000 international students from 117 countries. They are offered to choose from 14 double degree programs; 24 master's programs in English, German, Spanish, French, and Italian; as well as more than 400 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in Russian.

University faculties for undergraduate level:

1. Academic singing;
2. Advertising and public relations;
3. Applied Arts;
4. Applied computer technologies;
5. Applied physics and mathematics;
6. Archeology;
7. Astronomy;
8. Biology;
9. Business Informatics.

Required documents

A set of documents required to apply for the Russian Government Scholarship in 2022:

• Application for admission to the educational program of the appropriate level in the format established by the admission committee;
  
• Candidate's consent to the processing, transfer, and storage of personal data;
• Application form for admission within the quota (filled out in block letters and accompanied by a color photograph);
• Copy of an identity document;
• Medical certificate confirming the absence of medical contraindications to study in the Russian Federation, as well as the absence of all types of hepatitis and tuberculosis;
• Medical certificate confirming the absence of HIV and AIDS;
• Certificates confirming the conduct of medical examinations;
• Educational certificates and supplements prepared in accordance with the rules;
• Photo (3×4 cm);
• Documents for the portfolio competition.

Student Accommodation

The SPbU campus offers 21 dormitories, of which 12 are located in the Petrodvortsovy district of St. Petersburg.

All housing is furnished for living and studying; the halls have laundry, cafes, canteens, shops, gyms, and fitness centers, as well as ATMs. All rooms have internet access.

Student life at St Petersburg University is varied and full of events. In addition to classes, open academic and research seminars, conferences, and lectures by renowned scholars, the university hosts more than 300 student events each year.

Russian universities are well known for their excellent research in fields such as physics, engineering, medicine and psychology. They are also available at a price compared with their Western counterparts.