Study in Russia for Pakistani Students 2025: Low Fee, No IELTS, & Scholarships

Russia is an increasingly popular destination for Pakistani students seeking affordable, high-quality education. To study in Russia for Pakistani students the programs in engineering, IT, and business are also widely available and often taught in English. The average undergraduate program fee in Russia ranges from $2,060 to $3,000 USD per year. For postgraduate (Master’s) programs, the fee is typically between $2,000 and $3,340 USD per year, while PhD programs can cost around $2,120 to $7,500 USD per year.

To be eligible, Pakistani students must have completed FSc Pre-Medical or Pre-Engineering with at least 50% marks, hold a valid passport, and present a medical certificate. Applicants must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission. There are no IELTS required to study in Russia. When it comes to living costs it typically ranges from $300–$600/month. The bank statement is required for the last three months as financial proof.

Overview of Stduy in Russia

The table below provides a quick overview of key information Pakistani students need to know before applying to study in Russia, including tuition fees, eligibility, visa details, and living expenses.

Best Student Cities	Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan
Top Scholarships	Russian Government Scholarship Open Doors: Russian Scholarship Project Skoltech University Scholarships HSE Global Scholarship Competition Far Eastern Federal University Scholarships
Average Tuition Fees	USD 2,000 – USD 7,500 per year depending on the university
Scholarships	Available (University-specific & Government Scholarships)
Eligibility Criteria	50%+ in FSc (Pre-Medical),
Minimum Age	17+ years
Hostel Fees	USD 1,000 – USD 2,500 per year
Living Costs	USD 300 – USD 600 per month
Intakes	September, February
Visa Processing Time	2-4 weeks
Part-time Work Allowed	Yes (up to 20 hours per week)
Student Visa Fee	USD 50 – USD 100
Application Fee	USD 50 – USD 200

Popular Courses for Pakistani Students in Russia

Pakistani students often gravitate towards programs that offer strong career prospects and global relevance. Here are some of the most sought-after fields:

Course	Duration	Average Fees (USD/Year)
General Medicine	6 years	6,000–10,000
Dentistry	5 years	4,000–8,000
Nursing & Pharmacy	4 years	4,000–8,000
Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)	3-4 years	3,000–6,000
Computer Science & IT	3-4 years	3,000–5,000
Business Administration & Economics	3-4 years	2,500–5,000
International Relations & Law	3-4 years	2,500–4,500

Top Russian Universities for Pakistani Students

Russia is home to a wide range of modern, internationally recognized institutions that consistently attract students from around the globe. Whether you’re aiming to pursue MBBS, engineering, IT, or business, you’ll find a number of outstanding options. To help you get started, here are some of the top Russian universities that are currently welcoming Pakistani students and offering programs tailored to meet global academic standards.

Lomonosov Moscow State University

Lomonosov Moscow State University, established in 1755 and located in Moscow, is Russia’s top-ranked institution offering internationally accredited programs in Medicine, Engineering, and Humanities with English-taught options.

Programs	Medicine, Engineering, Humanities
Duration	6 years (Medicine), 4 years (Engineering)
Accreditation	National and International recognition
Tuition Fee	6,000–10,000 per year
Ranking	Ranked 94th by QS World University Rankings

St. Petersburg State University

St. Petersburg State University, founded in 1724 and located in St. Petersburg, is a top-tier Russian university renowned for academic excellence, offering English-taught programs in Business, Social Sciences, and Engineering.

Programs	Business, Social Sciences, Engineering
Duration	3-4 years
Accreditation	National and International recognition
Tuition Fee	4,000–8,000 per year
Ranking	Ranked 365th in the QS World University Rankings

Kazan Federal University

Kazan Federal University, founded in 1804 and located in Kazan, is one of Russia’s oldest universities with a strong legacy in academic excellence and international student education.

Programs	Medicine, Engineering, IT
Duration	6 years (Medicine), 4 years (Engineering)
Accreditation	WHO, ECFMG
Tuition Fee	5,000–8,000 per year
Ranking	ranked 401 in the QS World University Rankings

Novosibirsk State University

Founded in 1959 and located in the scientific hub of Akademgorodok, Novosibirsk State University is renowned for fostering innovation through close collaboration with research institutes and providing a vibrant academic atmosphere for international students.

Programs	Natural Sciences, Engineering
Duration	3-4 years
Accreditation	National and International recognition
Tuition Fee	3,000–5,000 per year

Admission & Visa Requirements for Pakistani Students

To apply for a university in Russia, Pakistani students need to prepare and submit the following documents:

Valid international passport
High school diploma or equivalent (Science stream preferred for STEM courses)
Completed university application form
Passport-sized photos (6–8)
Medical certificate (including HIV negative certificate)
Academic transcripts (translated into Russian or English and notarized)
University-issued admission/invitation letter
Birth certificate (translated and notarized)
Motivation letter (optional for some universities)

Russia Student Visa Process

Most students will require a Type D (student visa) for Russia. The process includes:

Obtain University Invitation Letter: Apply and receive a formal admission letter from a licensed university.
Visa Application: Submit the application at your nearest Russian embassy/consulate along with required documents: passport, invitation, medical report, and visa form.
Visa Processing: Processing typically takes 15–30 business days. Some students may be invited for an interview.
Arrival in Russia: After receiving the visa, book your flight and notify the university for airport reception and accommodation arrangements.

Key Benefits for Pakistani Students in Russia

Russia offers a range of compelling advantages that make it an attractive destination for Pakistani students seeking quality education and a supportive learning environment:

Affordable tuition and living costs
English-taught programs in top fields
No entrance exams for many universities
Safe and culturally rich environment
Pathways to global careers and further education in Europe
Scholarships and financial aid options
Modern infrastructure and digital-friendly campuses

Studying in Russia opens the door to globally recognized education, affordable tuition, and promising career opportunities. As one of the top study abroad consultants in Pakistan, 12 Consultants specialize in helping students gain admission to leading Russian universities. From personalized guidance on course selection to support with the visa and application process, our expert team ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience. Let us help you take the first step toward a successful academic future in Russia.

FAQs

What is the cost of living for international students in Russia?

The cost of living is generally affordable, with students typically spending around $300 to $600 per month on accommodation, food, and transportation.

Are there scholarships available for international students?

Yes, many universities in Russia offer financial aid options for students based on merit or need. These scholarships are Russian Government Scholarship, Open Doors Russian Scholarship, and university-specific scholarships

Can international students work while studying in Russia?

Yes, international students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during their studies, but they must comply with local regulations.

Is there a student support system for international students?

Yes, universities typically have dedicated international offices that provide support with accommodation, cultural integration, and academic guidance.

Are there opportunities for internships or practical training?

Yes, many universities have partnerships with local businesses and organizations, providing students with internship opportunities in their fields of study.

How can I open a bank account in Russia as an international student?

To open a bank account, you will typically need your passport, student ID, and proof of residence. Some banks may have specific requirements for international students.

What cultural experiences can international students expect in Russia?

Students can enjoy a rich cultural heritage, including historical sites, traditional cuisine, and local festivals, providing a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Russian culture.

Is health insurance mandatory for international students?

Yes, it is advisable for international students to have health insurance, and some universities may require proof of insurance as part of the admission process.