Russia becomes preferred destination for Indian MBBS students

The 26th Russian Education Fair took place in New Delhi, organized by the Russian Centre for Science and Culture and Rus-Education, showcasing Russia’s growing appeal for Indian medical students with 10 top universities participating.

Among the institutions present were Orenburg State Medical University, Perm State Medical University, BB Gorodovikov Kalmyk State University, Pskov State University, and Mari State University.

These universities showcased their educational programs, facilities, and student support services designed especially for international students, with a focus on attracting Indian applicants.

Dr Elena Remizova, Director of the Russian House in New Delhi, underscored the significance of academic collaboration between India and Russia.

“Education is one of the strongest pillars of Indo-Russian cooperation. Through initiatives like the Russian Education Fair, we aim to empower Indian students with access to world-class universities in Russia,” she said.

Earlier this month, the fair was conducted in several Indian cities, including Mumbai, Trivandrum, Kolkata, Patna, Ahmedabad, and Indore, and will soon continue in Chandigarh and Jaipur.

The vice chancellor of Mari State University addressed the increasing interest among Indian students, pointing out that there are no national restrictions on their admission to Russian universities.

She contrasted this open-door policy with the stricter immigration and education rules adopted by many Western countries, particularly for medical studies.

“We will make every effort to accept everyone and guarantee them a decent education,” she said.

Data from India’s Ministry of External Affairs reveals that the number of Indian students studying in Russia has steadily risen from 19,784 in 2022 to 31,444 in 2024, with medical education being the leading choice.

While increasing access, Russian universities remain committed to maintaining educational quality.

The vice chancellor emphasized that preserving academic standards is essential, especially as many Indian students prepare to take licensing exams in India after graduating abroad.

To better support this, Russian institutions are aligning their curricula with these requirements.

“Expanding capacity while preserving educational quality is a challenge, but it’s one we are committed to meeting,” she added.

New universities joining the Indo-Russian education network are starting with smaller intakes to ensure adequate support and quality.

Cost remains an important consideration. A six-year MBBS program in Russia typically costs between ₹18 lakh and ₹45 lakh, which is significantly more affordable than private medical colleges in India, where fees can exceed ₹1 crore.

In addition to affordability, Russian universities have adapted their campuses to suit Indian cultural preferences.

Facilities such as separate hostels for male and female students, the availability of Indian cuisine, cultural support systems, and enhanced safety measures have made these institutions more attractive to Indian families.

The vice chancellor also highlighted the longstanding educational relationship between the two countries, noting that Indian students have been pursuing studies in Russia since 1948.

“This longstanding relationship ensures stability and trust, which is a key factor for Indian families when choosing where to send their children,” she explained.