Most Popular Russian Universities Among International Students

Discover where most foreign students study in Russia.

An ever-increasing number of foreign students enroll in Russian universities every year. Their choice is clear – education in Russia has numerous advantages, such as variety of programs and universities, great value for money and availability of governmental grants (see here for a list of other perks).

Over 5 million students, including more than 200 000 foreigners, are studying at 950 Russian institutes and universities. In 2015, top three universities in terms of foreign student populations include Moscow State, Saint Petersburg State and Russian People’s Friendship (RPFU).

RPFU has traditionally specialized in international education; it even shows in its name. In 2015, 4 655 students from abroad studied there.

Tomsk Polytechnic University (2400), Peter the Great St.-Petersburg Polytechnic University (2291) and Kazan Federal University (1935) also boast large international student cohorts. Each of the universities below had over 1,000 foreign students – Sechenov First Moscow State Medical, Tomsk State, Higher School of Economics, Urals Federal, MISiS, ITMO, South Urals State, LETI.

All these institutions have extensive experience in catering to the needs of foreign students, they provide on-boarding and support programs and international clubs, and organize excursions, sports and entertainment activities.

Moreover, every university has an international office (please find their contacts here) that will promptly respond to your enquiries.