The 10 Best Cities To Study in Russia

Russia is one of the most important educational destinations that became desirable for international students. The last one and half decades have witnessed a huge increase in the number of international students who pursue their postgraduate studies, or at least a part of their university studies, in Russia.

Higher education in both of the governmental and private universities all over Russia offers more than 650 institutions, including hundreds of private schools, that receive foreign students from more than 200 countries around the world.

There are tens of cities in Russia that are famous for offering the most student focus. However, most of the foreign students prefer pursuing their studies in either Moscow or Saint Petersburg. Here you are some information about the best student cities in Russia for international students:

Do not forget to check our articles about how to enroll in a Russian university; how to get a study visa in Russia, and the cost of studying and living in Russia.

The best cities in Russia for international student

Moscow, the capital

The capital of Russia and the most attractive city for students from all over the world. This is for including the most prestigious universities in the country.

It has the strongest and most important scientific centers in Russia. This is in addition to the essential public utilities, such as transportation, restaurants and others.

Moreover, Moscow has many recreation services, which makes the cost of accommodation and food higher than the rest of the Russian cities.

Saint Petersburg, the cultural capital

It is also known as the cultural capital of Russia. The city is famous for its special environment with incredibly-designed buildings, and arts and history, as it includes many museums.

Saint Petersburg is one of the most favorite cities for students who love nature and tours to the suburbs. Moreover, it is also one of the top student cities in Europe, not only in Russia.

Nizhny Novgorod, for nature fans

It is one of the most beautiful Russian cities. The city is also one of the largest industrial and cultural centers in the Volga River region. It includes more than 50 universities, academies, and governmental and civil institutes.

Also, Nizhny Novgorod has the branches of other universities, such as Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University and Volga State Academy of Water Transport.

Moreover, it undertakes various activities, such as festivals and concerts. It also includes complexes, playgrounds, and different sports facilities.

Kazan, on the Volga River

It is one of the most famous cities in Russia thanks to its hospitality for international students. It is called the third capital.

Kazan is famous for the quality of education in the natural sciences, mathematics, and music. It includes many universities and higher education institutions, in addition to the private scientific research institutes, specialized in technology, geology, and chemistry.

Kazan Federal University or Ulyanov is one of the oldest universities in Russia. It was established in 1804. The city is famous for its warm temperature, exhibitions, markets, and prestigious entertaining facilities.

Novosibirsk, for theater lovers

It is the capital of Siberia. The city is distinguished by its rapid economic growth. Novosibirsk includes many industrial institutions and tens of scientific and research institutions, in addition to the companies involved in the production of software and researches.

Novosibirsk State University is one of the top universities in Russia.

Samara, the ninth-largest city in Russia

It is a comforting city, with its authentic lifestyle. The city includes 35 large-scale universities, which makes it the students’ city with distinction.

Yekaterinburg, Asia window

This is one of the fastest developing cities in Russia. It is also one of the most important industrial and commercial centers in the Ural Mountains region and also its biggest city.

The city is the most suitable for students who are willing to study theoretical sciences. It includes many research institutes. Also, it is one of the most comforting cities in Russia, which is great for a student. UNESCO ranked Yekaterinburg as one of the ideal cities.

Krasnodar, one of Russia’s economic hubs

Situated in the southern region of Russia, Krasnodar is one of the fastest-growing economies in the country. International students who look for a city that is warmer and cheaper than Moscow to study, Krasnodar is worth the shot.

Located on the banks of the Kuban River, Krasnodar is one of the best cities for students, hosting eminent universities such as Kuban State University, Kuban State University of Technology, Kuban State Medical University, or the Krasnodar State University of Culture and the Arts.  

Krasnoyarsk, a major educational center in Russia

Krasnoyarsk is located on the banks of the Yenisei river and at the easternmost part of Russia. It is a place famous for being an industrial, economic, cultural and of course educational center in Russia. For international students who consider studying in Krasnoyarsk, it’s one of the best cities to study in Russia.

It has 30 universities, among which is the Siberian Federal University. Also, there is the Krasnoyarsk Akademgorodok which comprises 7 scientific research institutes working in various areas.

Sochi, a warm and cost-effective city in Russia

International students looking for a warmer destination in Russia to study, live and even work while studying, Sochi is on top of the list. The city has increasingly attracted foreign students in Russia as not only it is warmer, but also cost-effective with a housing rent at around $300 only.

It also offers many opportunities for student jobs during summer vacations, since it is the most popular resort town in Russia.

Check also our article about the best universities in Russia