Things you should know about studying medicine in Russia

Russia is one of the more popular study destinations among Malaysians wanting to study medicine, after Egypt.

There are 5 universities recognised by the the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC):

1. First Moscow State Medical University

Previously known as Moscow Medical Academy, established in 1930 and is one of Russia’s best institutions in the field. The university receives about 8,000 Russian and foreign students every year.

2. Russian National Research Medical University

The university was established in 1906 and has 100 years of experience and academic excellence in the field of medicine. The institution has been training foreign students for several decades. This university is known for the first Paediatric Faculty in the world, which was established in 1930.

3. Kursk State Medical University

Established in 1935, KSMU was the first university in Russia to offer their entire medical programme fully in English. The institution has a long experience and has trained more than 25,000 medical professionals.

4. Nizhny Novgorod State Medical Academy

Founded in 1920 and has a long history in terms of contributing to modern medicine on a global scale due to high level research and advance clinical practices. The academy conducts its classes and training in both English and Russian mediums. In 1999, the academy started training international students in the English medium.

5. Volgograd State Medical Academy

Founded in 1935, the academy is situated in the southern parts of Russia on the west bank of the Volga River. The institution began teaching and training international students since 1962. Since 2000, they began teaching international students in the English language.

Fees and cost of living

Medic Pro Link stated that the average cost of studying medicine in Russia ranges between RM200,000  - RM250,000 based on the current value of the ringgit. These fees may include tuition and accommodation fees, depending on the university of choice. As for the cost of living in Russia, the average is between RM600 – RM1,000 a month.

These expenses are an average estimate. The real expenses depend highly on the individual and their habits.

One of the most popular places Malaysian students in Russia prefer is Moscow. However, they tend to travel to the EU during long holidays and get to experience different places and cultures.

Language

Students will receive Russian language classes once they begin their tertiary education there. However, it is mandatory to get an IELTS certification with minimum of 6.5. However, students with scores less than 6.5 and higher than 5.0, may appeal to their university of choice. Admission is often assessed based on individual cases.

More information needed

Parents of children who intend or plan to pursue a medical degree in Russia can get the help they need from organisations like Medic Pro Link.  They will help assess the academic qualifications, provide a comprehensive guidance to those who wish to know more about studying in Russia. They will also guide parents and students through the process of visa applications and processing.

In addition to Medic Pro Link, there are other student agencies that help students and parents: RutraMedic.com.my, Nugrahan.com.my.

Related links:

• Ask Medic Pro Link to help you.