🇷🇺 MBBS in Russia Overview
MBBS in Russia 2025-26: Complete Guide for Indian Students
Russia has emerged as one of the top destinations for Indian students aspiring to pursue MBBS abroad. With over 30 years of welcoming international students, Russia offers world-class medical education at affordable costs. Russian medical universities are known for their globally recognized degrees, advanced infrastructure, experienced faculty, and high FMGE passing rate among Indian students.
Quick Facts About MBBS in Russia
Russia has consistently ranked among the most popular destinations for Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad, thanks to its exceptional education standards, low tuition fees, and globally recognized degrees. The MBBS program in Russia typically spans six years, including one year of internship, and is taught in English in most top-ranked universities. One of the most attractive features is the absence of an entrance exam, apart from the mandatory NEET qualification. Russian medical universities are approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC), World Health Organization (WHO), and listed in global directories like WDOMS and ECFMG, allowing Indian graduates to practice or pursue further studies worldwide. The total tuition fees are significantly lower than private colleges in India, making it an ideal choice for middle-class families. Moreover, most universities provide Indian food, separate hostels for boys and girls, and a friendly, multicultural environment that makes it easier for Indian students to adapt. With over 10,000 Indian students currently studying in Russia, and a high success rate in FMGE/NEXT exams, the country remains a reliable and future-proof option for medical aspirants.
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
| Degree Offered | MD (Equivalent to MBBS in India) |
| Course Duration | 6 Years (Including Internship) |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Eligibility | NEET Qualified + 50% in PCB (12th) |
| Entrance Exam | No Entrance Exam |
| MCI/NMC Approved Colleges | Yes |
| WHO, ECFMG Recognition | Yes |
| Tuition Fees Range | INR 3 Lakh to 6 Lakh per year |
| Living Cost | INR 12,000 – 20,000/month |
MBBS in Russia for Indian Students: Advantages & Disadvantages
Studying MBBS in Russia has become a popular choice among Indian students due to its affordability, quality education, and globally recognized universities. However, like any international destination, it comes with its set of challenges. Here's a balanced overview:
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| ✅ No donation or capitation fees | ❌ Cold climate (can be extreme in some regions) |
| ✅ Direct admission after qualifying NEET | ❌ Language barrier outside campus |
| ✅ Globally recognized degrees (NMC, WHO approved) | ❌ Some lower-ranked universities may lack strong clinical exposure |
| ✅ English-medium instruction in top medical universities | |
| ✅ Indian food and cultural communities available in major cities |
NMC Approved Russian Medical Universities
Russia is home to several world-renowned medical universities that are approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC), ensuring Indian students can pursue MBBS degrees that are valid for licensure in India. These universities offer globally recognized curriculum, experienced faculty, English-medium education, and affordable tuition — making Russia one of the top destinations for medical studies abroad.
List of NMC-Approved Russian Medical Universities (2025-26)
S.No. |
University Name |
City |
Founded |
Medium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kazan Federal University | Kazan | 1804 | English |
| 2 | Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University | Moscow | 1906 | English |
| 3 | First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov) | Moscow | 1758 | English |
| 4 | Volgograd State Medical University | Volgograd | 1935 | English |
| 5 | People’s Friendship University (RUDN) | Moscow | 1960 | English |
| 6 | Bashkir State Medical University | Ufa | 1932 | English |
| 7 | Belgorod State University | Belgorod | 1876 | English |
| 8 | Crimean Federal University | Simferopol | 1918 | English |
| 9 | Orenburg State Medical University | Orenburg | 1944 | English |
| 10 | Perm State Medical University | Perm | 1916 | English |
| 11 | Ryazan State Medical University | Ryazan | 1943 | English |
| 12 | Siberian State Medical University | Tomsk | 1878 | English |
| 13 | Kursk State Medical University | Kursk | 1935 | English |
| 14 | Tambov State University | Tambov | 1917 | English |
| 15 | Far Eastern Federal University | Vladivostok | 1899 | English |
| 16 | Kuban State Medical University | Krasnodar | 1920 | English |
| 17 | Altai State Medical University | Barnaul | 1954 | English |
| 18 | Dagestan State Medical University | Makhachkala | 1932 | English |
| 19 | Mari State University | Yoshkar-Ola | 1972 | English |
| 20 | Irkutsk State Medical University | Irkutsk | 1919 | English |
| 21 | Tver State Medical University | Tver | 1936 | English |
| 22 | North Ossetian State Medical Academy | Vladikavkaz | 1939 | English |
| 23 | Ulyanovsk State University | Ulyanovsk | 1988 | English |
| 24 | Northern State Medical University | Arkhangelsk | 1936 | English |
| 25 | Kazan State Medical University | Kazan | 1814 | English |
| 26 | Voronezh State Medical University | Voronezh | 1930 | English |
| 27 | Smolensk State Medical University | Smolensk | 1920 | English |
| 28 | Chuvash State University | Cheboksary | 1967 | English |
| 29 | Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University | Saint Petersburg | 1897 | English |
| 30 | Tyumen State Medical University | Tyumen | 1963 | English |
Best Medical Universities in Russia
Russia is home to some of the world’s oldest and most reputed medical universities offering globally recognized MBBS degrees. These institutions are NMC-approved, offer English-medium courses, and boast state-of-the-art infrastructure and affordable tuition. Below is a list of the top medical universities in Russia that are ideal for Indian students planning to pursue MBBS in 2025-26.
Study in Russia Fee Structure 2025-26
Here is a detailed table showcasing the fee structure for 30 prominent medical universities in Russia for the academic year 2025-26. The table includes tuition fees, hostel fees, and the total annual cost in Indian Rupees (INR). Please note that fees are approximate and may vary; it's advisable to consult the respective university or an official representative for the most accurate information.
University Name |
Tuition Fee (Per Year) |
Hostel Fee (Per Year) |
Total Annual Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bashkir State Medical University | ₹2,45,000 | ₹70,000 | ₹3,15,000 |
| Crimea Federal University | ₹2,59,000 | ₹77,000 | ₹3,36,000 |
| Kazan Federal University | ₹5,30,000 | ₹18,000 | ₹5,48,000 |
| Orenburg State Medical University | ₹4,20,000 | ₹84,000 | ₹5,04,000 |
| Altai State Medical University | ₹3,01,000 | ₹21,000 | ₹3,22,000 |
| Dagestan State Medical University | ₹2,80,000 | ₹28,000 | ₹3,08,000 |
| Far Eastern Federal University | ₹4,40,000 | ₹45,000 | ₹4,85,000 |
| Ivanovo State Medical Academy | ₹2,34,825 | ₹25,000 | ₹2,59,825 |
| Kemerovo State Medical University | ₹2,50,000 | ₹30,000 | ₹2,80,000 |
| Kursk State Medical University | ₹4,58,500 | ₹77,000 | ₹5,35,500 |
| Mari State University | ₹3,15,000 | ₹21,000 | ₹3,36,000 |
| Northern State Medical University | ₹5,86,500 | ₹6,500 | ₹5,93,000 |
| Omsk State Medical University | ₹3,87,345 | ₹2,88,224 | ₹6,75,569 |
| Perm State Medical University | ₹3,15,000 | ₹70,000 | ₹3,85,000 |
| Rostov State Medical University | ₹4,25,000 | Included in Tuition Fee | ₹4,25,000 |
| Ryazan State Medical University | ₹3,15,000 | ₹35,000 | ₹3,50,000 |
| Saratov State Medical University | ₹4,00,000 | ₹50,000 | ₹4,50,000 |
| Siberian State Medical University | ₹5,150,000 | Included in Tuition Fee | ₹5,150,000 |
| Smolensk State Medical University | ₹3,85,000 | ₹40,000 | ₹4,25,000 |
| Stavropol State Medical University | ₹4,00,000 | ₹50,000 | ₹4,50,000 |
| Tver State Medical University | ₹4,48,000 | ₹24,500 | ₹4,72,500 |
| Ulyanovsk State University | ₹5,02,860 | ₹3,55,045 | ₹8,57,905 |
| Volgograd State Medical University | ₹4,13,000 | ₹35,000 | ₹4,48,000 |
| Voronezh State Medical University | ₹4,00,000 | ₹50,000 | ₹4,50,000 |
| Belgorod State National Research University | ₹4,60,000 | ₹50,000 | ₹5,10,000 |
| Chechen State University | ₹3,50,000 | ₹56,000 | ₹4,06,000 |
| Chuvash State University | ₹1,85,000 | ₹45,000 | ₹2,30,000 |
| First Moscow State Medical University | ₹7,00,000 | ₹1,26,000 | ₹8,26,000 |
| Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University | ₹4,18,030 | ₹3,03,790 | ₹7,21,820 |
| Kabardino-Balkarian State University | ₹3,64,055 | ₹2,48,455 | ₹6,12,510 |
Note: The above fees are approximate and subject to change. It's recommended to verify the current fee structure directly with the university or through an authorized representative.
MBBS in Russia Eligibility for Indian Students (2025-26)
Studying MBBS in Russia is a dream come true for many Indian students, especially those looking for a globally recognized degree at an affordable cost. However, before applying, students must meet specific eligibility requirements laid down by both the Russian medical universities and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India. Most universities follow a relatively straightforward admission process with no entrance exam. But having the correct academic background and documentation is essential. Below is a detailed table summarizing the MBBS in Russia eligibility criteria for Indian students in the 2025–26 intake.
Eligibility Criteria |
Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Academic Qualification | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology & English |
| Minimum Marks in PCB (General) | At least 50% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology |
| Minimum Marks in PCB (Reserved) | At least 40% for SC/ST/OBC candidates (as per NMC guidelines) |
| NEET Qualification | Mandatory for admission & future FMGE/NExT eligibility |
| Age Limit | Must be at least 17 years old by 31st December of the admission year |
| Maximum Age Limit | No upper limit as per Russian university norms (but subject to visa rules) |
| Medium of Instruction | English (in most top universities) |
| Entrance Exam Required | No entrance test required (except NEET in India) |
| NMC/MCI-Approved University Needed? | Yes – to be eligible for FMGE/NEXT licensing exam in India |
| Passport Requirement | Valid passport (minimum 2 years validity recommended) |
| Medical Fitness | Mandatory – Medical certificate with HIV & COVID reports required |
| Visa Requirement | Valid Russian student visa (provided after admission confirmation) |
| University-Specific Criteria | Some top universities may ask for higher % (e.g., 60%+ in PCB for 1st year) |
Note: Students are advised to check the individual university requirements and stay updated with any changes made by NMC for the 2025-26 session.
Documents Required for MBBS Admission in Russia
To secure admission in an MCI/NMC-approved Russian medical university, Indian students must submit a set of essential documents. These documents help verify eligibility, identity, and academic background, ensuring a smooth and transparent admission process. All documents must be clear, valid, and in English or officially translated into Russian (where required). Below is a comprehensive list of documents you must prepare:
Document |
Description / Notes |
|---|---|
| 10th Marksheet & Certificate | For academic record verification |
| 12th Marksheet & Certificate | Must include Physics, Chemistry, and Biology |
| NEET Scorecard | Mandatory for eligibility under NMC guidelines |
| Passport (Valid min. 2 years) | Original passport with sufficient validity for visa processing |
| Birth Certificate | Translated in Russian and notarized |
| Passport-Size Photographs | Minimum 8 photos with white background (35x45 mm) |
| Medical Fitness Certificate | Issued by a registered medical practitioner, stating you are fit to study abroad |
| HIV Test Report | A compulsory requirement by Russian immigration authorities |
| Offer Letter from University | Provided after provisional selection |
| Visa Invitation Letter | Issued by the Russian Ministry of Education or university after document verification |
All documents must be scanned clearly and submitted in both physical and digital format. Make sure to keep multiple copies as they will be needed during your visa application, travel, and university enrollment.
Licensing Exam in Russia After MBBS for Indian Students
After completing an MBBS degree in Russia, Indian students aiming to practice medicine in India must clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) — a mandatory screening test conducted by the National Medical Commission (NMC), India. This exam is essential to obtain a license to practice medicine in India and ensure that the education standards of foreign medical graduates align with Indian medical norms.
What is FMGE?
The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) is a national-level licensure examination conducted twice a year (June and December) by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) on behalf of the NMC. It is also referred to as the MCI Screening Test (previously governed by the Medical Council of India).
It is compulsory for all Indian citizens or Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) who have obtained their primary medical qualifications (MBBS or equivalent) from countries outside India, including Russia, to clear this exam in order to register with the State Medical Council or the NMC and legally practice medicine in India.
Why FMGE is Important?
1. It acts as a standard quality check for Indian students studying abroad.
2. Ensures that the graduate possesses the required medical knowledge equivalent to Indian standards.
3. Serves as a gateway to practice in India and pursue post-graduation.
FMGE 2025 Highlights:
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body | National Board of Examinations (NBE) |
| Exam Name | FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Frequency | Twice a year (June & December) |
| Type of Exam | Licensing / Qualifying Exam |
| Eligibility | Indian citizen with a foreign MBBS degree and NMC eligibility certificate |
| Qualifying Marks | 50% (150 out of 300 marks) |
| Language | English |
| Result Validity | Permanent (lifetime certificate for medical registration) |
FMGE Exam Pattern:
1. Total Questions: 300 MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions)
2. Duration: 5 hours (divided into two sessions of 2.5 hours each)
3. No Negative Marking
4. Subjects Covered:
-
-
Pre-clinical (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry)
-
Para-clinical (Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology)
-
Clinical subjects (Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, etc.)
-
MBBS in Russia & FMGE Preparation
Studying in NMC-approved Russian universities provides a strong foundation in medicine, but since the curriculum and language of instruction can vary, many Indian students prefer to enroll in FMGE coaching during or after MBBS. Medingo offers FMGE mentorship support and can connect students to top coaching centers for effective preparation.
✍️ Tip: While studying in Russia, students should consistently refer to Indian standard textbooks (like Across, FMGE Solutions by Deepak Marwah, etc.) alongside Russian materials to align with FMGE expectations.
FMGE Eligibility Criteria for Russian MBBS Graduates
To appear for FMGE, you must:
1. Be an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder.
2. Possess a Primary Medical Qualification from a foreign medical institution (minimum 5.5 years duration including internship).
3. Hold a provisional eligibility certificate issued by NMC (applied before joining the MBBS course abroad).
4. Provide all documents including passport, degree certificate, mark sheets, and internship proof.
Important Note on NEXT (National Exit Test)
As per NMC's upcoming reforms, the NEXT (National Exit Test) will replace FMGE and NEET PG in the coming years (tentatively from 2026). It will be a common licensure test for all MBBS graduates – both in India and abroad.
Until then, FMGE remains the standard exam for Indian students with a foreign medical degree.
NMC Regulations for FMGE (2021)
If you're planning to pursue MBBS abroad in 2025-26, understanding the latest National Medical Commission (NMC) Guidelines for FMGE/NEXT is absolutely critical. The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) is mandatory for Indian students who earn their MBBS degree from foreign universities and wish to practice in India.
The NMC's Gazette Notification published in November 2021 has introduced stricter and more defined rules for eligibility, education standards, and licensing requirements. These regulations ensure that Indian students receive medical education abroad that is equivalent in quality and structure to Indian medical standards.
Key Highlights of NMC Guidelines (Effective 2021 onwards):
1.MBBS Must Be Completed in One Go – Minimum 54 Months
As per the new rule, students must complete the MBBS degree in a single, uninterrupted program of at least 54 months (4.5 years) followed by 1 year of compulsory internship. Programs with gaps, transfers between universities, or shortened durations are not accepted.
Example: If you complete your MBBS in 5 or 5.5 years without a proper internship, your eligibility for FMGE may be at risk.
2.Internship Must Be Integrated & Recognized
The mandatory internship must be part of the curriculum, and should be:
-
At least 12 months long
-
Conducted in the same country where the MBBS degree is pursued
-
Recognized by the same foreign university
Additionally, the internship should be similar in structure to Indian CRMI (Compulsory Rotatory Medical Internship) as prescribed by the NMC.
3.Course Must Be Taught in English Medium
The entire duration of the MBBS course must be taught in English medium only.
-
Programs with dual-language instruction (e.g., partly in local language and English) are not eligible.
-
It is strongly advised to obtain a written confirmation from the university stating the medium of instruction is entirely English.
4.University Must Be Listed in WDOMS
To qualify for FMGE/NEXT, the university where a student studies MBBS must be:
-
Listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
-
Should offer a program equivalent to the primary medical qualification recognized in that country
-
Must allow the graduate to be licensed for medical practice in the country of study
5.What Makes You Ineligible Under New Rules?
-
Degrees obtained in less than 54 months (4.5 years)
-
No or invalid internship
-
Non-English medium programs
-
Universities not listed in WDOMS
-
Transferring between universities or countries during your course
Medical License Exam Process in Russia for Indian Students
After completing your MBBS degree in Russia, every international medical graduate, including Indian students, needs to understand the process to obtain a medical license — either in Russia or back in India. Here’s a clear breakdown of the Medical Licensing Exam process in Russia:
Practicing in Russia After MBBS
If you plan to practice in Russia after graduation, here are the steps:
1. Language Proficiency
-
-
Since Russian is the primary language used in hospitals, students must pass a language proficiency test (usually B2 level in Russian).
-
Some universities conduct in-house language training as part of the curriculum.
-
2. Internship/Clinical Rotations
-
Students must complete a 1-year internship (clinical rotation) in a Russian hospital to gain practical experience.
3. State Licensing Examination (Ординатура Exam)
-
-
Russian medical graduates must pass the State Final Certification (GosEkzamen).
-
This exam includes a written test, clinical skills test, and an interview.
-
Upon passing, students can apply for a Medical Practitioner License in Russia.
-
4. Medical Residency (Optional)
-
-
Students who want to specialize can enroll in Ordinatura (Postgraduate Residency Program), which typically lasts 2 years.
-
Returning to India? You Must Clear the FMGE/NEXT Exam
Indian students who graduate from a Russian medical university and plan to practice in India must follow this process:
1. Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) / NEXT
-
FMGE (currently in place) is conducted twice a year by the National Board of Examinations (NBE).
-
A score of 50% is required to pass.
-
From 2024 or 2025 onward, FMGE is expected to be replaced by the NEXT (National Exit Test) which will serve both as:
-
A licensing exam and,
-
A PG entrance exam.
-
2. Internship in India
-
After passing FMGE/NEXT, students must complete a 1-year compulsory rotatory internship in an NMC-recognized hospital.
3. Permanent Registration
-
Once the internship is completed, students can apply for a permanent registration with the State Medical Council or National Medical Commission (NMC).
-
This officially makes them eligible to practice medicine anywhere in India.
Indian Food & Accommodation in Russian Universities
Most top Russian medical universities have separate hostels for international students with Indian mess facilities. Students can choose veg or non-veg meals, and self-cooking options are also available in hostel kitchens. Rooms are typically shared and include basic amenities like heating, Wi-Fi, laundry, and security.
Syllabus of MBBS in Russia(2025-26)
Academic Year |
Subjects Covered |
Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Year | Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry | Focus on basic medical sciences, human body systems, and biochemical processes. |
| 2nd Year | Histology, Microbiology, Cell Biology, Genetics | Introduction to cellular structure, microorganisms, and medical genetics. |
| 3rd Year | Pathology, Pharmacology, Community Medicine | Study of diseases, drug mechanisms, and public health systems. |
| 4th Year | Internal Medicine, Surgery, ENT, Ophthalmology | Begins clinical training with rotations in medicine and surgical departments. |
| 5th Year | Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Radiology, Dermatology | Specialized fields with exposure to child health, mental health, and diagnostics. |
| 6th Year | Obstetrics & Gynecology, Emergency Medicine, Electives, Internship | Final clinical training, patient handling, labor & delivery, and emergency cases. |
Key Highlights:
1.The first 3 years focus primarily on theoretical foundation and pre-clinical subjects.
2.The last 3 years are intensive on clinical exposure, hospital training, and bedside practice.
3.Language of instruction is English, with basic Russian language training for communication during clinical practice.
4.The syllabus is designed to be NMC-compliant, preparing students for FMGE/NEXT exams in India.
Process of MBBS Admission in Russia (Step-by-Step)
The process of getting admission into a Russian medical university is simple and hassle-free, especially with expert guidance from Medingo.
Here's how it works:
#1Fill Online Application Form or Contact Medingo
Begin by filling out our simple online application form or reaching out directly to a Medingo counselor for personalized guidance.#2Submit Scanned Documents
Provide clear scanned copies of your academic documents, passport, NEET scorecard, and recent photographs for eligibility verification.#3Receive Admission Letter
Once your documents are reviewed, you’ll receive a provisional admission letter from the selected Russian medical university within a few days.#4Pay Initial Registration/Processing Fee
To proceed further, submit the initial registration or processing fee as instructed by the university.#5Get Invitation Letter
Upon confirmation, you will receive a government-approved invitation letter from the university — a mandatory requirement for visa application.#6Apply for Student Visa
With the invitation letter and other supporting documents, apply for a Russian student visa through the embassy or consulate.#7Travel to Russia & Join the University
After getting the visa, book your flight and travel to Russia. Our team will assist you with airport pickup, hostel accommodation, and university onboarding.
