10 Best Universities in Russia for Indian Students in 2026
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Russia offers a world-class education at a fraction of the cost of other major study abroad destinations. This article includes details on the top 10 universities in Russia in 2026 , the application process, and the student life in Russia for Indian students looking to study in the country.
For Indian students seeking an exceptional education beyond traditional destinations, studying in Russia comes off as a promising option. This vast nation boasts a rich cultural tapestry, a fascinating history, and a world-renowned education system. With its proximity to India and home to leading universities across the length and breadth of the country, Russia has grown to become a popular destination for Indian students looking for higher education abroad. This article contains the list of the top 10 universities in Russia 2025-26, their rankings and other useful information about studying in Russia as an international student.
- Top 10 Universities in Russia 2026
- Why Study in Russia?
- Cost of Studying and Living in Russia
Top 10 Universities in Russia 2026
Russia boasts top universities consistently ranked high in international listings. Let us take a look at the top universities in Russia.
| University | QS World University Ranking 2026 | THE World University Rankings 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Lomonosov Moscow State University Moscow, Russia |
=105 | =107 |
| Bauman Moscow State Technical University Moscow, Russia |
#320 | #351-400 |
| RUDN University Moscow, Russia |
=367 | #601-800 |
| Saint Petersburg State University Saint Petersburg, Russia |
=375 | - |
| HSE University Moscow, Russia |
=440 | #401-500 |
| Kazan (Volga region) Federal University Kazan, Russia |
=450 | #801-1000 |
| Novosibirsk State University Novosibirsk, Russia |
=461 | #801-1000 |
| Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT / Moscow Phystech) Dolgoprudny, Russia |
=477 | #251-300 |
| Tomsk State University Tomsk, Russia |
=499 | #501-600 |
| Ural Federal University (UrFU) Ekaterinburg, Russia |
=519 | #1001-1200 |
Why Study in Russia?
There are multiple reasons to study in Russian universities. We have mentioned few of them below:
- Russia is home to prestigious universities. Many of them secured place in top 200 universities in the world.
- Russian universities offer STEM courses. MBBS is one of popular courses here.
- Public universities in Russia offer heavily subsidised tuition fees for Indian students.
Cost of Studying and Living in Russia
What will be exact cost to study in Russia? Well, it includes tuition fee and living expenses. Here we have mentioned cost of studying first so, you will have an idea.
| Degree | Cost of Studying in Russian Ruble | Cost of Studying in INR |
|---|---|---|
| UG Degree | 122,500₽ to 880,000₽ | INR 1.14 Lac - 8.19Lacs |
| PG Degree | 79,300₽ to 413,000₽ | INR 74 K - 3.85 Lacs |
| Specialist Degree | 122,500₽ to 632,580₽ | 1.14 Lac - 5.89 Lacs |
Cost of living is another part of total expenses. It varies depending on city. In major locations like Moscow and St. Petersburg. You need to have a budget between 25,000 and 40,000 rubles. Check out table for expenses
| Items | Cost of Living in Russian Rubles | Cost of Living in Russia in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Student Housing | 150 RUB to RUB 35,000 per month | INR 140 - 33,000 |
| University Dormitories | 500 RUB to 5,000 RUB per month | INR 465 - 4650 |
| Cost of Food | 8,000 rubles per month | INR 7500 |
| Transportation cost | 500 rubles per month | INR 465 |
| Miscellaneous cost | 800-900 rubles per month | INR 745 - 840 |
| Medical Insurance | 5000 to 7000 per year. | INR 4652 - 6520 |
The best country for an MBBS comes down to what you're looking for. If its affordable education that you're interested in then Russia stands out. As does the likes of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. If you're looking for a curriculum similar to India's, then Nepal is a very good choice. MBBS graduates from Philippines tend to do well in the FMGE and NExT exams.
Securing an admission to top MBA universities in Russia is a competitive affair, but not impossible. International students must fulfill the admission requirements listed below order to boost their chances of pursuing the course:
-Completed Bachelor degree from a recognised institution;
-Academic transcripts
-Proof of English language proficiency;
-Relevant full-time work experience (as required);
-Competitive GMAT score;
-A transcripts
-Proof1 href="https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/how-to-write-an-impressive-letter-of-motivation-applycontent12595">motivation letter
-A copy of the passport and other ID;
-Bank statements;
-Passport-sized photos;
-Medical health insurance and potentially a negative COVID-19 and HIV test certificate; and
-Other university-specific requirements.
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MBBS in Russia roughly comes to around ₹15 L to ₹40 L for the full 6 year course with annual tuition fees ranging from ₹2.25 L to ₹5 L depending on university plus living costs.