Russia offers affordable medical education for international students, with tuition fees starting from $4,000/year and English-medium programs widely available. Top universities such as Dagestan State, Chechen State, and Pskov State provide cost-effective MBBS degrees without requiring IELTS. Prestigious institutions like Sechenov and Pirogov University also welcome international applicants with modern clinical training and global recognition. The admission process is simple, apply online, pay $500 for the invitation letter, and receive your visa within weeks. Students must cover the first-year tuition and living costs (around $200–$350/month). With degrees recognized globally and accessible visa procedures, studying medicine in Russia in 2025 is a practical choice for students from Asia, Africa, and beyond.
Top Affordable Medical Universities in Russia
Here’s a detailed look at the most affordable medical universities to study in Russia that welcome international students.
Dagestan State Medical University (DSMU)
Dagestan State Medical University (DSMU) offers affordable medical education with English-taught programs in General Medicine. With low tuition fees, no IELTS requirement, and reasonable living costs, it’s a practical choice for international students pursuing a medical degree in Russia.
| Courses Offered | General Medicine, Preparatory Program |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| IELTS Requirement | Not usually required (MOI accepted) |
| Tuition Fees |
|
| Living Cost | USD 200–350/month |
| Program Duration | 6 years |
| Eligibility | 12 years schooling, minimum 50% marks |
Chechen State University
Chechen State University provides cost-effective medical and dental programs in English for international students. With affordable tuition, simple admission requirements, and no IELTS needed, it offers a welcoming and budget-friendly environment for those pursuing careers in healthcare.
| Courses Offered | Medicine, Preparatory Program, Dentist |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| IELTS Requirement | Not usually required (MOI accepted) |
| Tuition Fees |
|
| Living Cost | USD 200–350/month |
| Program Duration | 3–4 years (Bachelor’s), 2 years (Master’s) |
| Eligibility | 12 years schooling, minimum 50% marks |
Pitirym Sorokin Syktyvkar State University
Pitirym Sorokin Syktyvkar State University (PSSU) provides an excellent blend of affordability and quality for international medical aspirants. Offering six-year English-language General Medicine degrees and a one-year preparatory program, PSSU runs on modest tuition fees and living costs. With no IELTS requirement and straightforward admission criteria, it’s a practical choice for students seeking accessible medical education in Russia.
| Courses Offered | General Medicine, Preparatory Program |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| IELTS Requirement | Not usually required (MOI accepted) |
| Tuition Fees |
|
| Living Cost | USD 200–350/month |
| Program Duration | 3–4 years (Bachelor’s), 2 years (Master’s) |
| Eligibility | 12 years schooling, minimum 50% marks |
Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (RNRMU)
Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University is one of Russia’s oldest and most prestigious medical institutions, offering advanced clinical training, strong academic partnerships, and a globally respected reputation ideal for international students pursuing a future in healthcare.
| Courses Offered | Medicine, Preparatory Program, Dentistry |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| IELTS Requirement | Not usually required (MOI accepted) |
| Tuition Fees |
|
| Living Cost | USD 200–350/month |
| Program Duration | 3–4 years (Bachelor’s), 2 years (Master’s) |
| Eligibility | 12 years schooling, minimum 50% marks |
First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
First Moscow State Medical University, also known as Sechenov University, is Russia’s oldest medical university. It offers world-class education, modern clinical facilities, and strong global recognition, making it a top choice for aspiring international medical professionals.
| Courses Offered | Medicine, Preparatory Program, Pharmacy, Dentistry |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| IELTS Requirement | Not usually required (MOI accepted) |
| Tuition Fees |
|
| Living Cost | USD 200–350/month |
| Program Duration | 3–4 years (Bachelor’s), 2 years (Master’s) |
| Eligibility | 12 years schooling, minimum 50% marks |
Pskov State University
Pskov State University offers a modern medical education experience with affordable tuition, English-language instruction, and supportive faculty. Its focus on student success, practical training, and welcoming campus environment makes it an excellent choice for international medical students seeking opportunity and value.
| Courses Offered | Medicine, Preparatory Program |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| IELTS Requirement | Not usually required (MOI accepted) |
| Tuition Fees |
|
| Living Cost | USD 200–350/month |
| Program Duration | 3–4 years (Bachelor’s), 2 years (Master’s) |
| Eligibility | 12 years schooling, minimum 50% marks |
Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN)
Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia (RUDN) is a globally respected institution offering multicultural academic excellence. Known for its strong international presence, it provides top-tier medical education and fosters global connections through diverse student communities and modern learning environments.
| Courses Offered | Medicine, Preparatory Program |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| IELTS Requirement | Not usually required (MOI accepted) |
| Tuition Fees |
|
| Living Cost | USD 200–350/month |
| Program Duration | 3–4 years (Bachelor’s), 2 years (Master’s) |
| Eligibility | 12 years schooling, minimum 50% marks |
Admission Process to Russian Medical Universities
Studying medicine in Russia requires following a clear step-by-step process, ensuring students smoothly transition from application to classroom.
Application Submission:
Apply online by submitting a completed application form along with scanned copies of your passport and academic certificates. You’ll receive an Admission Confirmation Letter within 1 business week.
Payment for Invitation Letter
Pay a $500 fee, which includes processing and courier charges, to initiate your invitation letter.
Invitation Letter Issuance
Once documents and payment are submitted, the official invitation letter will be issued within 30–45 business days.
Visa Application
Use the invitation letter to apply for a Russian student visa. Visa processing usually takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on your country.
Financial Preparation
Students must pay full first-year tuition and cover living expenses before traveling to Russia.
Arrival in Russia:
Send your flight details to the Russian Education Group at least 7 days before arrival. A university representative will receive you at the airport.
Final Admission & Registration
Upon arrival, submit your original documents and proof of payment. You must complete university registration within 3 working days to begin your classes.
Conclusion
For international students looking to pursue medicine at globally recognized institutions without spending a fortune, Russia offers a practical and quality-driven alternative. Whether you aim to study in major hubs like Moscow or in cost-effective cities like Pskov and Syktyvkar, Russian medical universities cater to a wide range of budgets and academic goals.
If you’re unsure where to begin or how to apply, our professional admission advisers are ready to assist you with selecting the right university, completing application forms, preparing documents, and guiding you through the visa process. Contact us today and take the first step toward your Medicine journey in Russia.
FAQs
What is the average tuition fee to study medicine in Russia?
Tuition fees to study medicine in Russia start from $4,000 per year at affordable universities.
Do Russian medical universities offer programs in English?
Yes, many Russian universities offer medicine programs entirely in English for international students.
Is IELTS or TOEFL required to study medicine in Russia?
No, most universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter instead of IELTS or TOEFL.
How long does it take to complete a medical degree in Russia?
The general duration to study medicine in Russia is 6 years, including clinical training.
What is the average cost of living in Russia for students?
International students usually spend between $200 and $350 per month on living expenses.
What documents are required for admission to medical universities?
You typically need a scanned passport, academic certificates, and a filled application form.
How long does it take to receive the invitation letter?
The invitation letter is usually issued within 30 to 45 business days after payment and document submission.
Are Russian medical degrees accepted internationally?
Yes, degrees from accredited Russian medical universities are recognized in many countries worldwide.
Is it safe to study medicine in Russia as a foreign student?
Yes, Russia is considered safe for international students, with most universities offering student support and secure campuses.
