Studying MBBS in Russia has become one of the most popular choices for Indian students who aspire to pursue a career in medicine abroad. With globally recognized universities, affordable tuition fees, and advanced medical infrastructure, Russia has emerged as a leading destination for medical education. Every year, thousands of Indian students travel to Russian cities like Moscow, Kazan, Volgograd, and Orenburg to enroll in top-ranked government medical universities. The degrees awarded by these institutions are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, and other international medical bodies, making them valid for practice in India and many other countries.
Why Choose Russia for MBBS?
Before exploring the universities, it is essential to understand why Russia is a hub for international medical aspirants:
Affordable Tuition Fees: MBBS in Russia costs significantly less compared to private medical colleges in India. On average, tuition ranges from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹6 lakh per year.
No Donation or Capitation: Unlike private institutions in India, Russian universities charge only tuition fees without any donation.
Global Recognition: Universities are recognized by NMC, WHO, UNESCO, and FAIMER.
English-Medium Courses: Many universities provide MBBS in English, removing language barriers for Indian students.
High FMGE/NExT Passing Support: Indian students are provided coaching and assistance for licensing exams.
Multicultural Environment: Russia hosts thousands of international students, offering global exposure.
Top Medical Universities in Russia for Indian Students
Below is a detailed overview of some of the best universities where Indian students can pursue their MBBS degree:
1. I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University
Establishment: 1758 – oldest and most prestigious medical university in Russia.
Highlights:
Known as “Sechenov University,” it is ranked among the top global medical schools.
Offers modern laboratories, clinical exposure, and global exchange programs.
Collaborates with institutions like Harvard Medical School and Cambridge University.
Fee Structure: Approx. $9,000 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Exceptional reputation, English-medium teaching, and high global ranking.
2. Kazan State Medical University (KSMU)
Establishment: 1814 – one of the oldest universities in Russia.
Highlights:
Recognized by NMC, WHO, and other international councils.
Offers affordable fees and hostel facilities for Indian students.
Over 5,500 students, including 1,500+ international students from 57 countries.
Fee Structure: Approx. $5,500 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Balanced mix of affordability, academic excellence, and international exposure.
3. Volgograd State Medical University
Establishment: 1935.
Highlights:
One of the top 10 medical universities in Russia.
Faculties include general medicine, pediatrics, dentistry, and pharmacy.
More than 4,000 students, including 900+ foreign students.
Fee Structure: Approx. $6,000 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Advanced infrastructure, English-medium program, and experienced faculty.
4. Crimea Federal University
Establishment: 1918.
Highlights:
Offers MBBS at one of the lowest fee structures among Russian universities.
Provides English-medium programs, student-friendly environment, and affordable hostel facilities.
Fee Structure: Approx. $4,000 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Budget-friendly MBBS option with global recognition.
5. Orenburg State Medical University
Establishment: 1944.
Highlights:
Over 1,200 Indian students currently enrolled.
Recognized by NMC and WHO, and well known for FMGE coaching programs.
Offers strong clinical exposure in affiliated hospitals.
Fee Structure: Approx. $6,000 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: High success rate for Indian students in FMGE/NExT.
6. Tver State Medical University
Establishment: 1936.
Highlights:
Among the top 10 Russian medical universities.
Strong international presence with students from 50+ countries.
Provides English-medium MBBS with practical training in leading hospitals.
Fee Structure: Approx. $5,500 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Affordable fees, safe environment, and focus on practical training.
7. Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
Establishment: 1960.
Highlights:
Known for multiculturalism, with students from 150+ countries.
Ranked among top universities globally in clinical medicine.
Offers a six-year MBBS program in English.
Fee Structure: Approx. $8,000 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Global exposure and top-class campus facilities.
8. Bashkir State Medical University
Establishment: 1932.
Highlights:
One of the largest medical centers in Russia.
Affordable tuition fees with modern medical facilities.
Offers preparatory Russian language courses along with MBBS.
Fee Structure: Approx. $4,800 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Affordable and high-quality medical education.
9. Northern State Medical University
Establishment: 1932, located in Arkhangelsk.
Highlights:
Recognized by WHO and NMC.
Provides medical education with modern laboratories and simulation centers.
Fee Structure: Approx. $5,000 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Safe city, affordable fees, and supportive environment for foreign students.
10. Perm State Medical University
Establishment: 1916.
Highlights:
Oldest and most reputed university in the Ural region.
More than 2,000 international students enrolled.
English-medium MBBS available with advanced facilities.
Fee Structure: Approx. $6,000 per year.
Why Indian Students Prefer It: Affordable education and strong faculty.
Comparative Table of MBBS in Top Russian Universities
| University Name | Year of Establishment | Annual Fees (USD) | Medium of Teaching | Indian Students (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sechenov First Moscow State University | 1758 | 9,000 | English/Russian | 800+ |
| Kazan State Medical University | 1814 | 5,500 | English | 1,500+ |
| Volgograd State Medical University | 1935 | 6,000 | English | 900+ |
| Crimea Federal University | 1918 | 4,000 | English | 700+ |
| Orenburg State Medical University | 1944 | 6,000 | English | 1,200+ |
| Tver State Medical University | 1936 | 5,500 | English | 1,000+ |
| RUDN University | 1960 | 8,000 | English | 600+ |
| Bashkir State Medical University | 1932 | 4,800 | English/Russian | 500+ |
| Northern State Medical University | 1932 | 5,000 | English/Russian | 400+ |
| Perm State Medical University | 1916 | 6,000 | English | 450+ |
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students
Minimum 50% in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in Class 12th (40% for SC/ST/OBC).
NEET Qualification is mandatory as per NMC guidelines.
Minimum age: 17 years by December 31 of the admission year.
No additional entrance exams like IELTS or TOEFL required.
Living Costs in Russia
Hostel Fees: $300 – $1,000 per year depending on university.
Food & Personal Expenses: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 per month.
Overall Living Costs: ₹1.5 lakh – ₹2 lakh annually.
Conclusion
Russia has firmly established itself as a leading destination for Indian students who dream of becoming doctors. With affordable tuition fees, globally recognized degrees, and quality infrastructure, the top universities in Russia such as Sechenov University, Kazan State Medical University, Volgograd State Medical University, and Orenburg State Medical University stand out as excellent choices. From world-class academics to practical clinical exposure, these universities provide everything an aspiring medical professional needs to succeed. For Indian students, choosing MBBS in Russia is not just about earning a degree—it is about securing a global medical career at a reasonable cost.
