How can we help you?

If you have the time, we would strongly encourage you to drop in to see us. It will give us an opportunity to better explain and to advise you about your Higher Education prospects in Russia. You can contact us at +604 609 9165 or email us at info@russian-resources.com for an appointment.

Alternatively, you can also browse the topics below. 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

Applying to a Russian University

1. Why should I study in Russia?

The standard of higher education in Russia is considered to be one of the most advanced and sophisticated in the world. Russian degrees have received global recognition and have topped World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) rankings.

2. What are the intake periods for Russian Universities?

Each Russian academic year comprises of 2 semesters. First semester starts in September / October and ends around mid-January. Second semester starts around the second week of February and ends around end of June. After this they have holidays: 2 weeks in winter (from 25th of January to 9th of February), 2 months in summer (from 1t of July to 30th of August).

Typically, you should start your application process at least 4 months before the start of the semester. For more specific deadlines, please contact us.

3. How do I choose a university or an institute?

Russia offers many undergraduate and post-graduate courses in a variety of fields including medicine, arts, music, architecture, aerospace engineering and IT. Choose the one best suited to your needs. At Russian Resources Sdn Bhd, we have a comprehensive list of Russian universities for you to refer to. Please come and see us and we can assist you with the selection.

4. Are the Russian medical institutions you represent recognised in Malaysia?

Yes, we currently represent two medical institutions (Privolzhsky Research Medical University and Volgograd State Medical University) that are recognised by the Malaysian government.

5. How do I apply to a Russian university? What are the admissions requirements?

Please refer to the "Academic Pathway" section in the "University" page.

6. When do I need to apply to a Russian university?

For every academic year, dates for submitting applications and sitting entrance examinations are determined by the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia. Based on these deadlines, universities set their own dates, which are then published on their websites. Therefore, you need to check the application and examination dates on your chosen university’s website or with their international offices. If you are interested to apply to study in Russia, you should contact us as soon as your examination results are out.

7. I want to enroll at the university in Russia. Where do I start?

Please contact us as soon as your examination results are out. We will help you with the University selection and guide you through the application process.

8. Is there an age limit for applicants to Russian universities?

Russian laws do not limit the age of university applicants. However, applicants need to have a completed high school or vocational school education.

9. What if the classes are conducted in Russian? I don’t even speak Russian.

If the medium of instruction for your intended course is Russian, you will receive an academic year-long Preparatory language course conducted in Russian before you begin your actual university studies. Leading Russian universities normally have preparatory departments where international students study for one year. This course teaches you Russian in more detail and also covers the prerequisite subjects that you need to know to begin your university studies. For example, in addition to the Russian language, students study other subjects, depending on the chosen programme, e.g. Maths, Chemistry, or Biology.

10. What if the classes are conducted in English? Do I need to be proficient in Russian?

Students admitted into the English medium will undertake the courses in English simultaneously with the systematic study of the Russian language. It gives an opportunity for students to overcome the language barrier at the beginning and to learn Russian at a less intensive pace.

In some medical courses, the disciplines in the senior years (4th – 6th year) including the clinical studies at local hospitals and clinics will be conducted in Russian. Students are therefore required to be proficient in the Russian language so that they are able to gain the most out of their higher education in Russia. In short, proficiency in Russian is a MUST if you choose to enrol in Russian Higher Education.

11. Do I need to have my CIS university diploma validatedto be accepted into postgraduate programmes in Russia?

Our experts have written detailed instructions “How to legalise an education certificates and diplomas in your country”. Please remember that the preparation of documents is a serious and important procedure; your enrollment in a Russian school greatly depends on it. For detailed information please contact representatives of the Russian university where you are planning to study. The contact information of each university is published on its official website. Employees of international student relations departments will inform you whether or not you need to undergo a diploma recognition procedure and how exactly you can do it.

Study Cost / Scholarships

1. What are the costs like when compared to other Western countries?

For Malaysian students, compared to Western countries, the cost of your higher education in Russia is less than half. A Russian university degree will cost around RM 250,000 to RM 400,000 for the whole course.

2. Will fees increase after I am enrolled at the university?

Tuition fees may be reviewed and increased from year to year. But for students who are already enrolled, the increase in tuition fees will not affect them. The university or institution will stipulate the yearly tuition fees at the time of the student’s enrolment. These fees are then fixed for the duration of the whole course.

However, hostel fees are subjected to increment as stipulated by the university.

3. When would I need to pay my tuition fees? How and where should I pay it?

Students who are enrolled for the preparatory course, pre-university course, and the first academic year must pay their tuition fees to us before leaving for the university in Russia. For subsequent years, tuition fees must be paid prior to beginning of the next academic year at the university or to RRSB. Students may choose to pay, in cash, directly to the university in Russia. But, to avoid carrying large sums of money to Russia, students are advised to pay their fees through us (via bank-draft), and we will then transmit the fees to the university. Returning students are strongly advised to pay RRSB immediately upon their return.

4. When does the application process for the Russian government scholarship begin?

The application deadlines for Russian government scholarships are announced annually between December and January. Visit the websites of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia or Rossotrudnichestvo for details. Different deadlines are set for different regions and countries, taking into account their specific education systems. For instance, in the 2014-2015 academic year, applicants from the CIS countries, the Baltic states, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia were expected to apply by 1 March, applicants from Europe, North and South America – by 1 April, and applicants from Africa, the Middle East, and Asia – by 1 May.

5. Russian Government Scholarship: how to get it, how to check if you have been admitted, when to expect an invitation?

Please contact your local office of Rossotrudnichestvo (if there is none, please turn to the Russian Embassy) for all matters concerning scholarships, documents required etc. For general questions, you can call +7 (499) 321-54-99 or email rossotr@rs.gov.ru. In addition, electronic forms can be submitted through the Rossotrunichestvo website. You can check if you have been admitted at russia-edu.ru, +7 (495) 134-28-70 or by using the feedback form in the bottom right-hand corner.

6. How are scholarships (quotas) allocated to countries?

The number of state-funded spots available to a country is driven by intergovernmental agreements. The stronger the collaboration between countries, the more students will be able to study at Russian universities free of charge. For instance, in 2016/17 academic year Vietnam, China and Tajikistan have 855, 830 and 342 spots, respectively, according to Rossotrudnichestvo statistics. Contact your local office of Rossotrudnichestvo or the Russian Embassy to check this year’s allocation to your country.

7. Is it true that international students can study for free at Russian universities?

There are several options for foreigners to study for free in Russia. You can participate in an academic competition or apply for a Russian government scholarship. Certain categories of international students may even get their tuition funded by the Russian government.

8. What’s the average cost of studying at a Russian university? Can I pay in installments?

Russian universities are praised for their best price-to-value ratio. Tuition costs vary from 1000 to 6000 US dollars per year and depend on the city and chosen university. Most Russian universities offer the option of paying for tuition by terms.

Living in Russia

1. Where will I live?

The university you choose to go to will provide comfortable basic student accommodation with common kitchen facilities. The cost is included in the yearly tuition fee that is paid to the university. Student housing will provide you an exciting opportunity to learn more about Russian culture and students cultures from other countries.
For those who prefer to live out of university, private apartments are available, but students will have to rent them on their own. The applicable hostel fees will be refunded. However this refund is limited on a yearly basis and no transfer will be made until expiry of the yearly contract.

2. Are student housing in or near the campus? If not, how do I travel to classes?

For some institutions, the hostel is walking distance to the campus, but for others, some travelling is required. The normal mode of transportation for students is by bus and subway (underground trains). Russia has an efficient and extensive public transportation system. Buses and underground trains are reasonably priced and easily accessible.

If you need to take a taxi, take only official cabs, as opposed to a “private or gypsy taxi” with a self-employed driver. Negotiate fare in advance as meters are rarely used. Never enter a taxi with another person, who is not known to you, already in it.

3. What will I eat?

Students can dine at low-priced cafeterias which are located in the University or institution. Alternatively, there are cafes, restaurants and fast-foods chains (McDonalds, Pizza Hut etc) in the cities where you can dine. Student housing usually provides shared kitchen facilities for those who prefer to cook their meals. There are many supermarkets and stores where you can purchase your food if you choose to cook. Shared cooking among the international students is also a popular activity.

4. This is my first extended stay in another country. What can I expect?

Life in Russia is very different from home. Things that are taken for granted as routine at home may be very time consuming and frustrating in Russia. Also, life in student housing can be very challenging. Besides taking care of yourself, you will have to adapt and live with students from all over the world whose cultures are very different from yours. It is very important that you learn to adapt and handle each situation with maturity and poise.

5. What about food and toiletries? Should I bring them with me?

You may be better off taking a few extra dollars with you as you can buy practically every kind of food and toiletry in Russia. It is recommended, however, that you bring something just for the first few days.

6. What is student life like in Russia?

It is not all hard work when studying in Russia. Learning is not just confined to the classroom. There is a wide range of cultural activities to check out. Universities can arrange trips which provide an insight into the culture, history and geography of Russia. There are also museums and galleries to explore.

Students enjoy a wide selection of extracurricular activities that may include drama productions, horse riding, pilot lessons and sports. There are also concerts, parties, and camping trips that are organised by the student unions.

With most universities located in communities, many social and recreational activities and facilities are available to students; these include opera houses, ballets, and plays. There are also numerous yearly traditional and cultural events to look forward to.

7. What kind of clothes should I bring?

Winters are extremely cold and damp; temperatures can fall as low as -30 deg C. Interiors are usually well heated, so it is preferable to dress in layers. Winter clothing is cheaper and is easily available in Russia, so you should plan to buy most of your winter clothes there.

Summers are warm and humid, and temperatures can rise to the mid-30C. So, pack some light clothing for warm weather especially those that you can throw on a sweater over if the weather gets colder.

8. Can I use the Internet or a hand phone while in Russia?

Yes, you can. If you have a notebook or hand phone you can take it with you. If not, you can buy them in Russia. Prices for these products and many other items may be lower there than in Malaysia. There are also numerous cyber-cafés in the cities where you can e-mail or chat online with your friends and family.

9. May I practice my religion in Russia?

Yes, you can. Russia is home to over 100 nationalities and ethnic groups, as well as different religions. The Russian Orthodox Church is the largest religious group while Islam is the second most practiced religion.

10. What about appliances? What is the electricity requirement in Russia?

Russia operates on 220 volts 50Hz. It is NOT recommended that you bring appliances with you. They can be purchased there later if you need them. Otherwise, DO bring along a universal adapter.

11. How much money should I bring when I leave for Russia for the first time?

Students are advised to bring about USD 1000-1500 (new notes) when they leave for Russia for the first time. This will be needed for initial expenditures for clothes, medical insurance, and other items that you may need to begin your stay in Russia

12. What is the best way for my parents to send me money for my living expenses?

Students can withdraw money through ATM machines in Russia if they have a savings account in Malaysia which has a Global ATM card that is on the CIRRUS, MAESTRO or PLUS network. Money deposited in the saving account in Malaysia will be available for withdrawal in Russia the next working day. Depending on the ATM machine, US dollars or Russian rubles can be withdrawn. There will be a transaction fee associated with each withdrawal; you are advised to check this with your bank.

13. Are credit cards readily accepted? Should I carry some cash?

Although credit cards are readily accepted in Moscow, it is best to limit their use. In the smaller cities, however, very few businesses accept them. It is best to bring cash in denominations of USD $20-50. With frequent changes in exchange, it is best not to cash more than your need. Also, please ensure that you have clean, crisp dollar bills not older than 2002, because each one is checked. Torn, disfigured or crumpled notes may not be accepted for exchange in Russia.

14. Is Russia really as unsafe as the media says?

Moscow is a very big city, and thus carries with it some of the dangers of similar large cities in the world. Most problems arise as a result of alcohol, in or around places where there is considerable drinking. This can easily and should be avoided. Common sense is the best thing to carry with you. Do not travel alone especially in the late evenings and night, and to avoid quiet streets. Other cities are smaller, quieter and safer but still, it is no substitute for plain common sense.
Students are also advised not to carry too much cash or valuables with them.

15. I have heard stories about “skinheads”. Are they true?

These “skinheads” do exist, and they apparently have no other purpose in their lives other than to target individuals that they perceive as foreigners. Skinheads are not unique to Russia as they are also found in other European cities. Although they are a concern, especially in Moscow, incidents involving them are rare.

16. What about daily living expenses? How much would I need each month?

Living in Russia is quite affordable although the cost of living differ from city to city; the most expensive being in Moscow. For living expenses, students are recommended to set aside about US$ 300-400 per month for personal needs in Moscow. Other cities may require less expenditure; for example in Volgograd and Nizhny Novgorod US$ 200-300 will be sufficient.
As Russian institutions have a statutory obligation to provide students with hostel rooms the accommodation costs are included in the tuition fees. Rooms are shared with one or two other students. Any changes in terms of hostel improvements or transfer to bigger rooms can sometimes be marginally imposed by the University and students will need to comply accordingly.

Health

1. Do I need medical insurance while studying in Russia?

Yes, medical insurance is required upon registration at the University. It is not included in the tuition fees, but it is provided at a nominal sum to be paid directly to your university. Students sponsored by the Russian Government will be given medical insurance in accordance with the law of the Russian Federation.

2. Do I need any vaccinations? What are the medical tests that I will have to take to support my application?

No, you do not need any vaccinations. But, students will have to undergo a general medical examination and a standard blood screen that includes a mandatory test for HIV in Malaysia as part of the application requirement.
Additionally as of year 2005, all new and returning students must undergo HIV test in Russia at a nominal fee. As long as you return, you need to repeat this HIV test.

3. Can I purchase health insurance in my own country?

Foreign companies usually offer tourist healthcare policies which do not cover regular treatment in Russian hospitals. To be able to obtain qualified and prompt medical treatment throughout your studies in Russia, you need to enter into a voluntary health insurance policy with a Russian insurer. For help in arranging health insurance, contact your university’s international office.

Visa

1. Do I need a visa to enter Russia as a student? How do I apply for the visa?

Yes, international students require a visa to enter Russia for their education. The visa application must be submitted together with your Application for Admission to Higher Education in Russia. For new application, your passport must be valid for at least 18 months from your departure date. Upon acceptance to the university or institution, the university (your host) will issue you an official letter of invitation. We will submit this letter together with your visa application to the local Russian embassy or consulate for processing.

2. When will I receive my visa?

Visa approvals take approximately 8-10 weeks. Students are encouraged to submit their applications and payments early to allow sufficient time for approvals. Visas are generally scheduled to arrive 1-2 weeks before departure to Russia.


However, late applicants may not receive their visas in time. Urgent approvals for visas will incur additional cost.

3. What type of Visa will I have? How long will it be valid?

As a student, you will enter Russia on a student visa that is sponsored by the University or Institution that will be hosting you. Student visas are valid for the duration of the course that you are pursuing in Russia. Students with student visas are NOT allowed to seek employment in Russia.

4. What if I want to go home or travel out of Russia during my studies?

When you know your travel dates out of the country, you MUST apply with the Russian University for what is termed as an “Exit-Re-Entry” visa, which allows you to leave and return again without giving up your student visa. You will need to submit additional photos, and to pay a fee. You should also apply for this at least 3 weeks before your planned travel dates, and you will need to specify the “travel window (exit and return dates)” during which this “Exit-Re-Entry” visa should be valid.

Do not lose this “Exit-Re-Entry” visa, as entry to Russia is not permitted without this document. Re application / replacement can only be processed by the University concerned. This may take between 4 to 6 weeks. All students are strongly advised to staple this visa slip to their passport as this is not done by the authorities.

5. What does it mean to “register” my visa?

The visa you receive initially is only your permission to enter Russia. Once you arrive, you have 72 hours during which to register the visa. In the case of a student visa, this registration process is done by the university. They will register it for the period for which you have enrolled in your course. Important: You must register your visa within 72 hours of your arrival in Russia otherwise you will be liable to a hefty fine.

6. Can foreigners study and work in Russia at the same time?

International students can work at the university (or at its organizations) on their free time. In this case you don’t need to take the relevant permit from the Federal Migration Service (FMS). In other cases a permit is required. Permits are issued only to students on full-time courses at state-accredited universities. Students can work only according to the profession specified in the permit, and in the region (city) where their university is located.

7. Can I visit Russia on a tourist visa to sit examinations?

In theory, you could use a tourist visa to apply to a university (in this case, you would need to have an invitation from the accepting party – either a hotel or a friend who invited you to stay. Universities issue invitations for student visas only). However, for any further legal stay in Russia, you still need to obtain a student visa. For this, you need to go back to your country and submit a student visa application there. To avoid wasting time and money, you are advised to apply for a student visa from the very outset: it is issued for three months, to be further extended within Russia (at the Russian Federal Migration Service office). Applicants from countries with visa requirements to enter Russia should take into account that the process of obtaining an invitation and an entry visa in average takes about 2 months.

International/Domestic Travel

1. Will I be accompanied on my trip to enroll at the university for the first time?

First time students going to Russia are encouraged to travel with us in a group with other students. Students will be accompanied and met at the airport and brought to the university to register and to check in to student housing.

2. Where can I get more information about flight arrangements and departure before I go to Russia for the first time?

A few weeks before departure, a briefing session will be conducted to brief students and parents with regards to travel arrangements and departure dates. Parents and students are strongly encouraged to attend and to participate in the Q&A session following the briefing. This is the best time to seek answers to questions that you may have prior the students’ departure to Russia.

3. What are some the travel requirements for international flights that I should be aware of?

Students should have bags that can be securely fastened, locked and labelled. International airlines allow passengers to check two bags per person, with a MAXIMUM weight of 30 kilograms. In addition, a small, less than 6 kg, carry-on bag is allowed, including a laptop.

Please note domestic Malaysian airlines impose lower baggage limitations. Students are strongly encouraged to keep to the maximum weight allowed to avoid check-in delays and additional costs of excess baggage.

4. Should I purchase an open-ended return ticket or a fixed return ticket?

Often students who are staying for a year are not sure about their return date. From experience, students are advised to purchase a fixed ticket with a tentative return date. If you need to change your return date, it is often changeable for a small fee, but this should be confirmed with the ticketing agent at the time of purchase.

5. What about travel within Russia? What are some of the requirements on domestic airlines and trains?

Domestic flights in Russia are quite strict and permit only a MAXIMUM of 20 kilograms per person in total for both their carry-on and check-in baggage. As for trains, there are typically four passengers per compartment, and it is not necessary that passengers of the same sex share the same compartment – so you should be prepared! There are also sleeping cars with two passengers per compartment but the cost is very much higher. Each passenger is limited to 35 kilograms without extra payment. An overnight trip from Moscow to Nizhny Novgorod takes about eight hours (450 miles).

6. I have heard about “Registration” when I visit another city. What does this mean?

Registration is a process that affects all travellers in Russia including Russian citizens. Visitors to any city for more than 72 hours (count business days only) are technically required to register. This function is performed by hotels at check-in; in the case where a visitor is staying at a private residence, the registration must be done by the visitor at the local police station. While this is not regularly enforced, it can come up during your travel. If you take a weekend trip somewhere, this is generally not a problem. But, you can be stopped at anytime by the local police and asked to prove you that you are here less than 72 hours if you do not have local registration. Therefore to avoid any issues with the police, you are strongly advised to abide by this regulation.

7. Can my parents or family visit me while I study in Russia?

Of course, they can! However, the Russian university or institute you are currently studying at and the Russian government is not responsible for the travel expenses or arranging accommodation for your family. Students must apply to the University for an Invitation letter for your family. With this letter, your family then can apply for a visa for entry into Russia at the local Russian Embassy or Consulate. Please allow between 4-8 weeks for the visa application process.