Russia is world’s largest countries by area, it possesses a beautiful landscape, and it is an only country in the world from where twelve seas pass. Russian literature and heritage has influenced many ethnicities and the country’s development and progress is not hidden from anyone.  Russia has been putting a lot of emphasis in improving the education standards of its Universities and had made huge investments in past few years.  As a matter of fact, Russia is one of the world’s most educated nations with 54% of its population having university degrees. More specifically, the fields of science, technology, engineering, medicine and literature are highly progressed in Russia. Might be surprising for majority of readers, Russia is home to 950 universities and each one of them follows merit based education system. Russian education system is based on innovation and conceptual building of students, no wonder why degrees earned from Russia Universities are top pick by recruiters.

Academic Sublimity of Russian Universities 2020

Russian Universities have recently joined the Bologna process of education which ensures the quality of education and academic design is of international standards. About 22 universities of Russia rank at top position of world university rankings such as QS and TIMES. Russian universities are offering a well fused traditional academic system and innovative approach making the degrees highly credible and demanded by employers.  Besides Russia’s national academic sublimity, the universities have collaborated with international institutions for enhancement and improvement. These steps have taken Russian Universities to next level of excellence with more than 296,176 international students studying in Russia each year.

A Land of Innovation and Opportunities

Russia is broad in opportunities as it is broad in area. Russia has been declared as world’s most innovative economy by Bloomberg’s roundup in 2017. Studying in Russia will provide you a global exposure and internship opportunities at world’s largest organizations as the country is host to many of those. Russian education system is based on competency and high standards owing to which universities encourage students to do internships at the end of their study program to make them skillful in their field of education and job market ready.

Accessibility to Work Permit after Graduating From Russia for Pakistani students

Russian government has eased the laws of immigration for international students since 2014. The international students enrolled in full time study programs at an accredited institution of Russia can apply for work permit of Russia after graduating from there.

A Wondrous Place to Live

The parable history and architecture of Russia is marvel for adventurers. Russia is home to over 22 ethnicities, fusion of cultures, delicious cousins and urbanized and modern city life. The lovers of art and literature will have much to explore from Russia as UNESCO ranked Russia at 26^th position for possessing world heritage sites. Russia’s unique lifestyle and vibrant atmosphere will fill you with an awe and amazement and lead you to loving this country whole heartedly. Russia has multiple climate zones and plenty of visiting spots such as: Red Square, the Golden Mountains of Altai, Lake Baikal, the Kremlin and the Holy Trinity Monastery of St. Sergius.

universities of russia

Russia’s higher education system is impressive and excellent with mix of meticulous tradition and innovation. Due to recent participation in Bologna process by Russian Universities the value of degrees attained from there have gained more prestige and recognition globally. Russia has progressed and reclaimed its title of super power back in recent years through education and consistent progress. Despite being ranked at top position of world university rankings, the universities in Russia are offering plethora of study programmes with incredibly affordable tuition fee. Those currently in process of deciding Russia as their study abroad destination can have an overview of admission requirements of Russian Universities to understand the process in the following guide:

Choosing a study program and subject major is certainly the most crucial decision as it is decisive of one’s career and life path. There are many choices and career options these days for students to pick from and each one of them is promising. The student must choose particularly those subjects and study programmes which are of their interest and have potential of professional growth. Although, the universities in Russia offer majority of its study programmes in Russian languages but due to rising inclination of international students towards Russia, the English taught programmes are being offered also.  The students must give a thorough consideration and searching about which study programme they want to continue and then pick final one. After deciding in which course they want to pursue their degree they must ascertain following factors:

• Check entry requirements of your chosen study program

• Check if the course you have chosen is offered in your preferred language of instruction

In Russia You Can Choose:

• Full Time Study Programme (morning) (requiring full attendance and classes occur in day time)

• Full Time Study Programme (evening)(you can study in weekdays or weekends at evening timings)

• Part Time Study Programme (Attend introductory lectures, study specially designed curriculum at home and appear at university to deliver assignments and conduct tests and examinations).

Russia’s universities offer internationally recognized degrees and are accredited globally. There are 950 universities in Russia and many technical colleges and their teaching methodology and academic structure is highly prized and credited for its quality. Moreover, the tuition fee is affordable and on campus residence at public universities is free of cost. Russia as a nation values education highly and it is shown through its rich tradition, inventions, history and literature. While choosing a university in Russia for studies, quality does not have to be your concern as it will be delivered assuredly. However, students must choose 5 to 10 universities and short list them based on following factors:

• World ranking

• Entry requirements

• Tuition fee

• Scholarships and financial grants

• City where it is situated

• Availability of On campus accommodation

• Undergraduate Admission Requirements to study in Russia Universities 2020

The minimum grades requirements for your study program vary from university to university. The students have to ascertain the entry requirements from their chosen university in Russia and then submit the documents.

• For admission in Under Graduate Medicine, Pediatrics, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Veterinary Courses the student must have studied Biology, Chemistry and Physics in their high school study program. 

• For admission in Under Graduate Aeronautical, IT, Computer and Engineering Courses the student must have studied Mathematics and Physics in their high school study program.

• For admission in Under Graduate Economics, Arts & Culture and Agriculture there no specific subject requirements.

• Unified State Examination (EGE) which is just like SAT examinations, it is taken as an entry examination before admission to assess academic capability of student.

The Russian Universities accept admission of international students who have passed their high school diploma in good passing grades and the student must acquire a school certificate from institution of their home country.

• Post Graduate (Masters) Amission Requirements 2020 in Russia Universities for Pakistanis

The minimum grades required will be set by the university itself according to the study programme you are applying for. For admissions in Masters Courses following requirements are essential:

• Bachelors degree (4 years duration) with transcript of subjects and grades

• Higher Secondary School Passing Certificate

• Competitive selection examinations for admission

• Interviews

The subjects’ requirements will be according to your study program. The entry examination for admission in Russia is generally required by all the state universities of Russia. The university you have chosen to study in Russia will inform you about the entry examination pattern and schedule as soon as you submit documents for admissions.

• Post Graduate (PhD) Admission Requirements 2020 in Russian Universities 

The universities will ask for your previous research experience and research proposal related to your field.

• Bachelors honors degree (4 years duration) with transcripts of related subjects

• Masters degree with transcripts of related subjects

• Competitive selection examinations for admission

• Interviews

The language of instruction for most of the courses at under graduate level is Russian but there are English taught courses offered by Russian Universities. But in Russia there are more English taught courses available at post graduate level. For admission in Russian Universities for a English taught program the students need to provide English language proficiency test certificate such as IELTS and TOEFL with high bands. For Russian taught courses, the universities in Russia offer preparatory Russian language courses to international students. You might even be asked to give language assessment test during admission application process. NOTE: the English Language Proficiency Test Certificate Such as IELTs and TOEFL is Only Required By Those Candidates Who are Not Natives of English Speaking Countries.

All the required documents for admissions in universities of Russia are needed to be legalized in the country of issue before submitting them. The concerned authorities will verify the authenticity of academic certificates of the candidate. The international affairs department of the Embassy of your country will verify the documents then Russian Embassy will verify them again before your submission. Both of the organization will stamp the copies of your documents as verified for Russian University to accept them.

The required documents for admission of international students are correlated with visa documents and nationality identification.

• Transcripts of Your Academic Records (details about your subjects studied and grades achieved) the transcripts should be translated in Russian Language

• Copy of Your Valid Passport (Confirming Your Identification)

• A Completed Admission Application Form

• Photographs of Candidate

• Medical Certificate (Confirming the Candidate is Not Suffering From Any Disease That Could Be Threat to General Public’s Health)

• Language Proficiency Test Certificate

• Proof of Finances

• 2 Recommendation Letters From Professors of Candidate (For Post Graduate Programmes)

• Invitation Letter Fee ($400 USD)

• Courier Fee ($100 USD)

You will apply for admission directly at your chosen university’s website online or submit the documents via fax. For online application you will be required to sign up at the website and follow the procedure step by step. The university will keep you informed about your selection through this account and when you will give entrance examination the results will be informed to you through this account as well.

The deadlines for admission application submission may vary from university to university in Russia but typically the admission intake start from March till July allowing the candidate to have enough time for their student visa preparation and arrangement of accommodation and travelling perquisites.

After fulfilling the admission requirements and passing the entrance examination the candidate will be sent a letter of acceptance from Russian University. You will be then asked to submit the tuition fee and registration fee. The candidates passing the entrance examinations in high grades will be offered scholarships and fee grants. The admissions in Russia are competition based and you will only be granted a seat in state universities of Russia if you are capable and pass the entrance examination. Along with letter of acceptance, your hosting Russian university will send invitation letter and a visa support letter through courier.

To study in Russia you must be enrolled in an accredited college, university or higher education institution of Russia. After meeting the entry requirements and passing the entrance examinations, your hosting Russian institution will send a formal invitation letter and other necessary documents including visa support letter. By getting these documents you can commence your student visa process which must start at least 45 days before your study programme begins in Russia. The student visa for Russia will have 90 days duration validity initially which you can extend later according to your study program duration after entering in Russia and it is applicable for all short term and long term study programmes. The step to step procedure of attaining student visa for Russia is explained below:

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia and the Federal Migration Service of Russia issues the invitation letter for student visa of Russia. You will pay your tuition fee and get enrolled for study program and your hosting Russian University will handle the invitation letter procedure. Once you receive the invitation letter it has validity of three months, therefore your student visa documents must be ready by then.

You must visit the Russian Embassy or Consulate nearest to your area in your home country as soon as you receive invitation letter. You will get the details of required documents and visa application form. The Embassy might even arrange an interview meeting before granting you student visa for Russia. The applicant is required to appear in the Embassy in person and submit all of his/her documents by hand.

The required documents may vary from country to country. During your visit to Russian Embassy the authorities will give you details of documents according to your country’s requirements. The documents enlisted below are generally required from all countries:

• A Valid Passport of Applicant (must have at least 18 months validity and two blank pages, a copy of your passport’s front page would also be required)

• One Passport Size Photograph of Applicant (Recently Taken)

• Letter of Invitation from Your Hosting Russian Institution (Original Letter not a Copy of It)

• Medical Certificate (the medical examination must be taken recently at least within 3 months prior to your visit to Russia, the applicant must not be HIV positive, visa of HIV positive will be denied right away, The medical certificate must contain the date of examination, doctor’s signature and your own signature)

• Completely Filled Visa Application Form

• The Applicants Under 18 Years of Age Need To Provide Consent Letter From Their Parents or Guardians

•  Proof Of Finance (Bank Statement of Credit Card Statement Proving You Have Enough resources to Cover Your Study and Living Expenses, If You Have Applied At Public University of Russia You Can Apply for Scholarship If You Meet Eligibility Criteria, If Granted You Can Write 6 Digit Code of Scholarship on Your Visa Application Form in Place of Bank Statement)

• Travel Ticket (Valid till one year)

• All the documents must be translated into Russian language by a certified translator

The visa processing time is usually within two to five weeks and those who require the visa to be processed faster than this duration can pay an extra visa application fee. The actual visa fee depends on the country from you are applying.

Migration Form:

All the foreigners entering into Russia are handed over an immigration form in the airport before the cross border control. The immigration card remains with them until they leave Russia. If they leave Russia for visiting their country for a short period of time and then arrive back in Russia they will be given another immigration form to be filled and kept with them until they leave the country again. Apart from filling the immigration form at border control and leaving detachable portion of the form to them, you will also be required to register at the Russian Federal Migration Service. After registering your immigration form at immigration department you will be issued an immigration card. For registering at the Russian Federal Migration Service, you will need following documents:

• Your Passport’

• Immigration Form

• Your Visa

Visa Extension

Your student visa will have validity of 90 days initially. After entering into Russian territory on student visa, within 7 days you will have to register at the local GUVM branch. If you fail to do so in 7 days you will be fined and in some cases the students can be expelled from Russia. Most of the institutions handle this procedure of registering international students at local GUVM branch themselves, but you must confirm if they have. The visa has validity of 90 days; you will extend the visa duration according to your study program duration by applying at local GUVM branch. The student visa can be extended for maximum duration of 3 years.

The visa will be extended for one year at first and then to maximum three years. To extend it for another one year, you will file an application two weeks prior to your visa’s expiry date at the Russian Federal Migration Service. The visa arrival and registration of documents is free of charges. The international student affairs department of your hosting Russian University will assist you through this procedure. If you lose your migration card or damage it by mistake you can apply for it again by providing your passport, student card and travel documents. For Visa Extension you will submit following documents:

• Passport

• Application form (completely filled)

• Recently Taken photograph

• Enrollment agreement from the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation

• A letter explaining your reason of visa extension

• Migration Card (both original and copy)

• The detachable portion of immigration form granted to you upon your arrival by border control

• Fee of visa extension (nearly RUB 1,600)

The student visa cost is different for every country and depends on single or multiple entry visas. For Pakistani citizens the single entry student visa cost is Rs. 11200.

The international students who want to work part time in Russia will attain a work permit from the Federal Migration Service (FMS). Those employed part time by their hosting university on campus or are going to work only during semester breaks do not require a work permit.  The conditions of work permit for part time job as an international students are as follows:

• You must be over 18 years of age

• You must be enrolled in a full time study program

• The institution you are enrolled in must be an accredited institute’

• You will work only at the city or region of Russia where your institution is located

• You can work only at that profession which is allowed on your work permit

• The work permit cost of Russia for international students on study visa is RUB 3,500 (USD 60)

• If you are found to be working in Russia without a valid work permit, you will be fined an amount of RUB 7,000 and might even be deported.

• The work permit processing time is 10 days

• The work permit will be valid for 1 year duration similar to your student visa; it can be extended according to your employment contract.

• The student is allowed to change the jobs but always have to inform the migration office about their new job.

• If a student leaves quits studying in between his study course, the work permit will be cancelled immediately.

You will apply for work permit at the regional Federal Migration Service of your region of residence in Russia. They will ask for following documents:

• Passport of applicant

• Migration card

• Work permit application form filled and signed

• Employment contract for part time job

• Medical Certificate (Stating that you are HIV free, not affected by any infectious disease, do not have any drug addiction)

• A letter of confirmation from your hosting university in Russia stating that you are enrolled in a full time study program and fulfilling academic and attendance requirements

Studying in Russia is combination of affordability and high standards of education quality. The competitive and merit based education system of Russia is parallel to Europe’s prestigious institutions. Russia has joined Bologna process of education in recent years which has added more credibility and recognition to degrees offered by its institutions.

Gaining a seat at University of Russia is solely dependent on student’s academic capabilities and potential, the international students taking admission at state universities of Russia can apply for scholarships and free grants if they meet academic eligibility. The Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation is responsible for deciding the minimum tuition fee possible at state run universities of Russia to encourage more enrollments.

In terms of living expenses, Russia is much affordable than European countries. The international students enrolled in full time study program at Russian Universities enjoy same benefits as national students. Overall, Studying in Russia is ideal combination of high standards of education, gaining globally recognized degrees, affordable living and enhancement of knowledge.

Under Graduate Degree Program Cost in Russia for Pakistani Students 2020:

The full time study program at under graduate level in Russian University can maximum 180-200 thousand rubles* ($ 3,000-3,340) per year and minimum 123 500 rubles ($ 2,060) per year.

Specialist’s Degree Equivalent such as Ed.S. or S.Ed:

The full time study program of 5 years duration equivalent to Masters degree maximum cots in Russian Universities is 200-220 thousand rubles* ($ 3,340-3,670) per year and minimum 120 thousand rubles ($ 2,000) per year.

Specialist Degree at Medical University:

On average a specialist degree at medical university will cost 250-270 thousand rubles ($4,170-4,500) per year.

Post Graduate (Masters) Degree Program in Russia Cost for Pakistani Students 2020:

The full time two years duration Masters degree in Russia will cost maximum 450 000 rubles ($ 7,500) per year and minimum 127 000 rubles ($ 2,120) per year

Post Graduate (PhD) Degree Cost in Russia 2020:

The three year duration full time post graduate PhD degree program in Russian Universities will cost you maximum 405 000 rubles ($ 6,750) per year and minimum 136 500 rubles ($ 2,275) per year.

Preparatory Course:

Many Russian Universities are offering preparatory courses of one year duration to train international students in Russian language or other general subjects which require preparation before conducting entrance examination for admission.  The one year preparatory course in Russian University will cost you on average 120 thousand rubles* ($ 2,000) per year.

Summer School Fee:

The summer schools or universities or colleges offer short thematic courses to international students for training of certain course, cultural knowledge or entertainment programmes. The courses offered by summer schools have 3 to 8 weeks duration and at end of the course the hosting institute provides certificate of course. Universities also organize winter, spring and autumn courses. On average, a course in summer school in Russia will cost 20-50 thousand rubles ($ 330-830).

Most of the students studying in abroad are staying away from their families for the first time and it is a great way to start owning the responsibility of managing one’s own expenses and budget. The living expenses of students are mainly comprised of accommodation, food, study, transportation and entertainment on weekends such as going to movies or adventures and exploring the tourist’s spots of country where they reside. Russia’s living expenses are less expensive than US, UK, Canada and Europe.

Accommodation:

• An apartment in central city with one bedroom: $350. 89 USD per month

• An apartment outside the central city with one bedroom: $240. 35 USD per month

• An apartment in the central city with two bedrooms: $703.36 USD per month

• An apartment outside the central city with two bedrooms: $476.00 USD per month

• On Campus accommodation with one bedroom: 500 to 5,000 Rubles per month (depends on the city and facilities available)

Food Expenses:

• Basic menu meal for one person in an inexpensive restaurant in central city of Russia: $7.66 USD

• Basic menu mean for two persons in mediocre restaurant in the central city of Russia: $ 30.66 USD

• Meal for one person at McDonalds or Big Mac: $4.60 USD

• 1 liter milk bottle: $0.90 USD

• Fresh bread (white): $ 0.51 USD

• 1 kg rice: $0.93 USD

• Dozen eggs: $1.10USD

• 1 kg local cheese: $7.45 USD

• 1 kg chicken breast: $3.95 USD

• 1 kg beef meat: $7.23 USD

• 1 kg apples: $1.33 USD

• 1 kg bananas: $0.97 USD

• 1 kg oranges: $1.27 USD

• 1 kg tomatoes: $1.94 USD

• 1 kg potatoes: $0.49 USD

• 1 kg onions: $0.44USD

• 1 Liter water bottle: $0.56 USD

Transportation:

Living in central city saves travel expenses and time. The public transport in Russia is utilized by majority of students and local public and it is providing good services, There public buses, trams, trolleybus and marshrutkas. The urban cities have metro train stations but in outside cities, the public transport is bus and routed taxis.  The cost of day to day travel in Russia through public transport will cost:

• One way ticket of local public transport: $0.38 USD

• Monthly pass for public transport: $27.59 USD

• Normal Tariff of Taxi inside city: $1.53 USD

• Taxi Tariff for 1 km travel: $0.21 USD

Other Expenditures:

• Basic utility bills of electricity, gas, water, heating for one room accommodation: $105 USD per month

• Internet monthly connection bill: $7.38 USD

• Fitness Club Fee Monthly: $32.11 USD

• Cinema Ticket (1 Seat): $4.60 USD

Health Insurance Coverage

International students entering in Russia for education have option to purchase health insurance coverage or pay for their medical expenses in cash whenever they have need of it. In case of any sickness, the students can take services of hospital near them and pay the fee of doctor and purchase prescribed medicines. The public hospitals are usually crowded therefore the international students living in Russia take services of private hospitals and clinics. The private clinics and hospitals are expensive than public health care facilities in Russia.

Living in a distant land for studying comes with challenges and struggle to keep up with attendance requirements and deliver satisfactory academic performance all at once while adopting the new culture and atmosphere. In this chaotic change, one certainly wants a comfortable accommodation to call it home. Choosing an apt accommodation option for studying in abroad is the most important planning step of the process which a student must execute with complete consideration and exploration of options. Russia is a civilized and economically developed country, the way of living there is similar to Europe and international students are facilitated with security, affordability and high quality education. You can find on campus and off campus accommodation in Russia according to your budget. The types of accommodation available in Russia for international students are enumerated in the guide below:

Dormitories:

The international students invited by state universities of Russia for full time study programmes are offered an accommodation at their dormitories. The rent of dorm room is decided by universities which may differ from university to university and according to the facilities offered. You can pay rent per month or pay it at once for your whole academic year.  (Get Details about Living and Study Expenses in Russia Here)

Why Live in Dormitories:

Majority of international student prefer residing in dormitories because of their proximity to their university, affordable rent and facilities. Living in a dormitory saves your money and time and enhances your knowledge about other cultures through your fellow students. In terms of security, dormitories are safe as they have set electronic scanners at entrances, there will be guards and 24/7 security cameras function to keep check and balance.

Cost of Dormitory:

The cost of shared dorm room is around 1,000 to 5,000 Rubles per month including utility bills.

Facilities:

• Furnished room with chair, table, bed, mattress

• Free internet

• Communal kitchen and laundry room (equipped with electronic stove, micro wave, fridge)

• Sports halls and study lounge

Restrictions:

The dormitories are university handled and to manage a large number of students belonging from different countries and cultures, the universities have set a general rules to be followed by each and every student.

• Dorm room are shared by two or three students, they must keep their room tidy

• There must be no damage to furniture

• There must not be too much noise as it disturbs others

• The supervisor of your floor must be notified of your absence from dormitory in case you have to be out of town

• Smoking and drinking are not allowed and there is zero tolerance policy for that. You will be expelled at once if you found doing any of it.

Hostels:

Hostels are another affordable accommodation for international students. The hostels are owned by private student accommodation organizations and hostels are usually located in city centers near to universities and public transport. The hostels are rented by majority of international students; therefore the atmosphere is almost similar to dormitory except restrictions of time. The hostels offer private bedroom or shared bedroom facility which will be furnished.

Why Live in Hostels:

The hostels are designed to cater the needs of students belonging from various countries and they are equipped with facilities one might need away from home. The rooms in hostels are in various sizes and the security is ensured by the organizers. You can meet international students studying in various universities of Russia and share your experience with each other. The cost of hostels is affordable in comparison to facilities offered and it is a platform for adapting a new disciplined life style and getting to know students from all over the world.

Facilities:

• Each room with have private kitchen and private bathroom

• 24/7 security system

• Emergency alarms set in each floor

• Study lounge and laundry room

• Furnished rooms with mattress, bed, chair, table, closet

• Free Internet

Restrictions:

There will be no damage to the property of hostels such as furniture, utensils, electronics and laundry equipment. The students are not allowed to drink or smoke and not allowed to make noise that can disturb others. The timings of entering the house are not as restricted as in dormitories but the students have to follow the schedule given to them by house handlers.

Those international students who do not want to live in an on campus accommodation can find an accommodation in Russia according to their preference on their own. Usually, the students who have stayed in Russia for a year or two find private renting apartments or those students who are known to the local culture and area of the country, otherwise private renting accommodation option is not for those students who are going to Russia for the first time. The rents of private accommodation may vary from one location to another and facilities and size of the accommodation. Moscow and St. Petersburg are the most expensive cities of Russia, the cost of rent in other cities of Russia will be less expensive than these two. The private renting options in Russia are as follows:

Private Flats:

Flats are a common accommodation type in Russia. The Russian cities are urbanized and modernly architecture. Most of the Russian population is inhabited in urban cities therefore finding a one bedroom or two bed rooms flat in central city of Russia is not difficult. The rents will be high or low based on the location and its proximity to shopping centers and public transport. T is certainly an expensive accommodation type for international students.

Why Live in Private Flats:

The two main benefits are privacy and freedom. Living in communal environment is obviously not for everyone. Some students even require complete silence and solitude to focus on their studies. Living in a private flat certainly provides you this peaceful and unrushed environment. You can have your own kitchen and private bathroom and decorate your room and house as you want and invite your friends on weekends for group study or just for company.

Cost:

The rent of a one bedroom flat in Russia will be around 250 to 300US$ per month.

Facilities:

• Furnished Flat

• Laundry room and kitchen (equipped with necessities)

• Utility bills are not included in the rent

Restrictions:

You will be asked to deposit rent of 3 months as a security I advance before getting keys of the Flat. The furniture should and owner provided equipment should not be damaged. The rent must be paid on decided date and the tenant has to follow the terms written on rental contract.

Shared Flats:

It is common for group of friends and fellow students to rent a shared flat in the central city of Russia and live with freedom as well as sharing home chore and cost of living. You can rent a two or three bedrooms apartment with facilities of common kitchen and laundry room.

Why Live in Flat Share Accommodation:

First of all the cost is shared between two and three house mates which makes it affordable. You can divide home chores between each other giving an off day to each of the house mate. You can set the rules of the house by mutual understanding and above all if one of you falls ill the others can take care of him. Moreover, you can enjoy the freedom and privacy which you want for focusing on your education.

Cost:

The rent of flat is basically dependent on the locality and facilities. On average a two bedroom flat will cost $476.00 and a three bedroom flat will cost $703.36 USD per month.

Facilities:

• Furnished bedrooms

• Kitchen and Laundry (Equipped with necessities)

• Utility bills are not included in the rent

Restrictions:

The tenants will have to pay three months rent in advance as a security to the owner. The utility bills and monthly rent must be paid on due time and date. The furniture and owner provided facilities must be in same order when you leave the flat as they were at the time of your arrival.

Tips on Renting Accommodation in Russia:

• If you are searching an off campus housing chose a reliable source of renting services.

• Take assistance from international student affairs department of your hosting Russian University for renting an accommodation.

• Do not commit to any renting contract which seems difficult to be followed at first.

• Do not pay any amount until you have signed rental contract.

• For shared flats, only move in with those house mates you know personally.

• Check the condition of furniture and owner provided facilities before moving in and show it to the owners how they are so that you are not blamed for the damage of furniture and equipment you have not done.

• Read the rental contract and assure there are not any clauses which hold unnecessary payment on your behalf.

• Ask the renting services to fix a meeting with the owner of the accommodation before signing rental contract.

• Choose an accommodation that is nearby public transport.

The years you spend while studying in abroad will be your struggling years. Adjusting in a new environment, keeping up with your academic requirements, meeting attendance criteria and managing your living expenses are part and parcel of studying in abroad. But all this struggling and hard work will pay off a much greater reward in your professional career and personality growth. No wonder, why recruiters prefer hiring the graduates who have studied in abroad. Russia is although an affordable country in terms of tuition fee despite high standards of education quality, but managing the living expenses will not be easy there.

 You will have to do part time job to earn some extra amount for supporting your expenditure and enjoying your time in abroad to the fullest. Besides, supporting your expenditure, part time jobs are best way to acquire working agility, develop a habit hard work, being responsible and preparing yourself for entering professional field after completion of your education. The procedure of getting work permit of Russia while you study and types of part time jobs you can do in Russia are explained in the following guide:

Doing part time job in Russia is allowed after attaining work permit and only if you are enrolled in full time study programme at an accredited institute of Russia.

Terms and Conditions Applied to International Students for Doing Part Time Jobs:

• The student can do part time job only according to that profession that is allowed in their work permit.

• They can work only in the region or city of Russia where their university is located.

• The work permit will be granted for one year duration and will be valid until your student visa is valid.

• If the students change their job under the current permit’s duration, their permit remains valid for the other job also but they have to notify the General Administration for Migration about it.

The Procedure to Get Part Time Work Permit in Russia:

You will visit the regional office of the General Administration for Migration where your university is located in Russia. The regional office has authority to issue work permit to international students. You will be asked to submit following documents there:

• Application form of work permit

• Your Passport

• Migration Card

• You will have to pay around 3,500 roubles fee for issuance of work permit

• Employment Contract

• Medical Examination Certificate (Confirming that you are not suffering from HIV Aids, any infectious disease nor have drug addiction).

• Confirmation Letter from Your Hosting Russian University (Confirming that you are enrolled in a full time study programme)

• The work permit issuance will take 10 working days.

• If any international student is caught doing job without a work permit he will be fined 2,000 to 5,000 Roubles and will be deported from the country immediately.

As it has being specified the part time jobs allowed to international students will be according to the profession decided by the immigration department and only in the region of their university’s location. The following part time jobs are generally allowed to international students in Russia:

University Offered Jobs:

There is not a requirement of work permit if you work within premises of your university as an intern or research and teaching assistant. Usually Russian universities that offer English taught courses hire international student for on campus part time jobs. The salary will not be as good but still will be enough to help you earn some pocket money. Another benefit of university offered job is that it will add value to your CV. The students who have experience of working as a research or teaching assistant have chance of getting this position much easily. The job is related to preparing lectures and research regarding lectures with the professors and being a mediator between the teachers and students.

Language Tuition:

The majority of population in Russia does not know English much. The students who have command over English language even they have not come from an English speaking country will have no problem finding tutoring job in Russia. You might be hired by parents for their school going kids, your fellow Russian class fellows could take your services for teaching them and any individual who wants to hone their language skills. The tutoring jobs are not limited till English Language, native speakers of Italian, Chinese, German and French are also high in demand. This job will pay you per hour $10 to $50 USD.

Free Lancing:

There is no limitation and restriction when it comes to free lancing and online jobs. Free lancing writing for instant is a common job for international students. The job requires you to do proof reading, research for thesis, creative articles or writing for online magazines. Similar thing is for web designers, graphic designers and web developers, they can do free lancing jobs and earn per project.

Social Media Marketing:

Companies hire young and enthusiastic university students for social media marketing because it is present day phenomenon and these students are very much part of the customer base. They know better what youth of today is attracted towards; they can strategize and bring spark to the marketing campaign of the companies with their contemporary taste and choices. The job will involve doing research, bring up creative marketing ideas, increase customer base, proof reading of content and advertise on social media.  This job can pay you $13 to $17 USD per hour.

Finance Assistant:

Finance assistant job is offered to the students enrolled in full time study program related to business administration, banking, economics, statistics, mathematics and MBA. The job will not only train for your future career but also pay you a good amount. With virtue of hard work and good performance, you might even get a permanent job position in the same company by the end of your degree. It will be paid internship position in local companies of Russia.

Post graduation work opportunities in Russia are not easy to attain. One have to gain an employment contract first, your employer will apply for work permit on your behalf. You will exit from the country first and get invitation letter from your employer to work post graduation in Russia. The work permit will be valid for one year duration and renewed after one year until you have job contract. Except for highly qualified professionals who earn over R1 million monthly are granted 3 years duration work permit for Russia. The part time work you do in during your studying years in Russia can be extremely helpful for securing a permanent job position if you aim to settle in Russia post graduation. Because the immigration department allows only those part time jobs to international students that are related to their education that way you not only gain training but also get to have experience of your professional field. As Russia is economically developed country and hub for investors, there are many chances for jobs after you graduate according to your degree majors but the process is difficult.

It is natural for students to consider settling in and working in the country they have studied abroad. You get used to the atmosphere and make new friends after residing for several years in a country. Russia is an economically developed country and offers many career opportunities to graduates. Since the higher education system of Russia is competitive and high standard, the graduates tend to get jobs after completing their degrees easily. For international students graduating from Russian Universities, the procedure of attaining work permit and permanent residency of Russia is complicated but possible. The procedure of getting permanent residency of Russia after completing degree from there is explained below:

The Graduates Studying in Russia on Student Visa Will First Attain a Work Permit

It is not possible to convert your Russian student visa to work permit in Russia after completing your studies there. The students must have an employment contract to attain work permit of Russia. Even if you have employment contract of Russia, you will have to exit Russian territory and then re enter the country on work permit. The work permit types of Russia applicable to graduates are standard Russian work permit, highly skilled migrant visa and business visa. To attain any type of work permit the employer will send an invitation letter via The General Directorate of Migratory Affairs (GUVM).

The Types of Work Permits for Russia

For staying in Russia to work, an employment contract is necessary. Based on your employment contract and qualification, your employer will apply for work permit on your behalf through The General Directorate of Migratory Affairs (GUVM).  There are following types of work permits for Russia:

Standard Russian Work Permit:

The standard Russian work permit is granted to candidates belonging from non CIS countries. The visa validity of this type of work permit is till your employment contract. The candidate will initially granted one year visa which can be renewed every year based on employment contract. The candidate can apply for a temporary resident permit of Russia after living on this work for one year.

Russian Work Permit for Highly Qualified Professionals:

 This type of work permit is applicable to highly qualified professionals who have monthly salary over R1 million. This work permit has validity of three years and the candidate can invite his/her spouse, children and parents.

Russian Work Permit for Business and Self Employment:

The work permit procedure for self employment is similar to other work permits except for self permit visa will be applied by the candidate himself at GUVM. The candidate needs a letter of support from an organization based in Russia or Russian citizen stating the benefit your business will bring to Russia. An introductory letter will be submitted by the applicant in place of the letter submitted by employers. The introductory letter will state you business details and its benefits to Russia.

Documents Required for Work Permit

The employer who is providing you employment is responsible to handle the procedure. The GUVM office will ask to submit following documents to be submitted:

• Passport size photograph of employee

• A valid passport or ID of employee

• Copies of academic qualification certificates’

• Medical examination certificate (the applicant must not be suffering from HIV or any diseas which is infectious)

• Proof of Payment of Visa fees

The GUVM will issue an invitation letter of visa to you if the GUVM approves the work permit request submitted by your employer. The nest procedure starts with your visit to Russian Embassy or Consulate near your area in your home country and submitting the following documents:

• Completed work permit visa application form

• Passport of applicant

• The letter of invitation sent to you by GUVM’

• Letter from your intended employer, contract details, your job details, location of the job and contract date

• Medical examination certificate (confirming you medically fit and free from any infectious disease)

• You might be called to Russian Embassy for biometric scanning (depends on your country)

• The work permit process will take 20 days

• Once you receive the work permit and enter Russia you will have to register at local GUVM office within a week of your arrival in the country

• Russian work permit cost is £165

Any individual residing in Russia legally for one year is eligible to apply for permanent residency visa of Russia. The Russian permanent residency visa has 5 years validity. The application for permanent residency visa must be submitted 6 months before your temporary residency visa expires. The permanent residency of Russia can be extended for multiple times but make sure your passport has validity period until that duration. The permanent residency renewal application must be submitted two to three months before your permit expires. If the holder of permanent residency visa fails to meet the terms and conditions of Russian law in the duration of his visa, the immigration department has authority to revoke his permanent residency right away and he can be send back to his country within 15 days.  The permanent residency visa application is submitted at local GUVM office and the following documents would be required:

• Passport size photographs (4x)

• Valid passport

• Proof of sustenance for your living and also for the family members accompanying you’

• Proof of accommodation in Russia

• Medical examination certificate (proving the applicant is not suffering from HIV AIDS)

• Proof of proficiency in Russian language

• Proof of knowledge about Russian history and the Russian Federation Foundation

The permanent resident holders of Russia can apply for citizenship of Russia after residing in Russia for 5 years. The permanent resident holder must not have lived outside Russia for more than 3 months during these 5 years. She/he should meet following requirements to apply for citizenship of Russia:

• The applicant must have a permanent resident permit of Russia’

• The applicant has lived in Russia for past five years and has not lived outside Russian territory for more than 3 months’

• The applicant has abided the rules and regulations of Russia in these 5 years

• The applicant can provide a proper proof of sustenance for their living expenditure and any family member living with them or whom expenditure they are supporting

• If the applicant has renounced the citizenship of his native land (the natives belonging to the countries which have signed dual citizenship treaties with Russia are exempted from this  clause)

The following groups can apply for Russian citizenship after one year of living in Russia:

• The holders of Highly Qualified Professional Visas

• The individuals who have been awarded refugee status in Russia