How to study in English in a Russian University

Russia is not an English speaking country but students who are not proficient in Russian language can still study in Russia. Many students who wish to study here have abandoned the idea simply because of the language barrier. The good news is that you can study in Russia with or without knowing how to speak the language. If you wish to study in Russia in English read further.

How to study in Russia in English

International students desiring to study in Russia in English can achieve that. There are some English-taught programs available for students to choose from. However, the study medium can be based on the study level. This is because most courses taught in English are at master’s level. Although, a few especially in sciences can be studied in bachelor’s degree.

Read also: How We Can Help You Study in Russia, Cyprus and Turkey

Russian universities offering undergraduate English-language programs

• Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT) – Offers English-taught programs in aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, mathematics and computer science.
• National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering Physics Institute) – Offers bilingual English/Russian programs in various subjects.
• National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE) – English-taught bachelor’s degrees are available in mathematics, politics, Russian studies, business, management and economics, some of which are double degree programs run in conjunction with the University of London.
• Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University) – One of the few Russian universities to offer English-taught programs in humanities subjects (History, Politics), as well as linguistics, regional studies and state and municipal management.
• Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University – Offers an English-taught bachelor’s degree in International Business,
• Lomonosov Moscow State University – Offers programs in English in the faculties of biology, political science, economics, and the business school.
• National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE)
• National University of Science and Technology MISiS – English-taught postgraduate programs include the Physics of Condensed Matter and Quantum Technologies program, open in the areas of Physics and Astronomy and Materials Technology.
• Novosibirsk State University – You can study some management programs here.
• Tomsk Polytechnic University – English-taught master’s degrees are available in subjects such as nuclear medicine, big data solutions and physics.

How to find English taught programmes in a Russian university website

• From the search box, type to find the appropriate education programme.
• Select your education level and language of instruction (English).
• The description of each programme contains much useful information and shows the tuition fee and the supervisor’s contacts.

Admission requirements

The admission requirements and deadlines for applying for English medium programmes depend on the university, programme and specialization. The requirements include:

• Applicants are requested to send a degree or secondary education certificate
• A cover letter
• International IELTS or TOEFL certificates confirming proficiency in English.
• Prospective students applying for masters programme at some universities are not required to take examinations; they have to provide their resume, portfolio, published papers and teachers’ references and have a phone or Skype interview in English.
• Sign into the website to find out all details.
• Follow the link and fill out the application form. Then you can directly write to the International Office of the university you’re interested in, ask all your questions and send your application.

Conclusion

Even if you can’t speak the Russian language, you can study there. The only challenge is the tuition fee is always higher than those studying in Russian medium. The admission requirements differ a little but in general you will need to provide a document such as a diploma or certificate that certifies your previous education, a cover letter and proof of your English language proficiency with the required score on a test such as IELTS or TOEFL (not required if you’re a native speaker).

Please note: Some universities might also ask for a CV, portfolio, references from teachers, and for you to complete a Skype or phone interview in English.