Indian students wanting to study abroad is at an all-time high and all for the right reasons. Today study parameters have shifted from choosing the right college, to opting for studies that yield maximum return on investments (ROI), global recognition and opportunities and above all a curriculum that is all-encompassing. Low cost of living and affordable tuition fees are add-ons to what makes Russia a hotbed for MBBS study among international students.
Every year, Russia welcomes over 200,000 foreign students from across 160 countries to study in the top colleges in Russia. These include students who have opportunities to study in premium destinations like the United States and the United Kingdom but opt for Russia because of its state-of-the-art infrastructure and in-depth research expertise in the medical field. Elucidated below are reasons that make Russia a top destination for MBBS study.
Top Medical Universities in Russia
Russia is home to top medical colleges (universities) that are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Medical Council of India (MCI). The universities are also listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) and this is especially advantageous for Indian students studying MBBS in Russia as they would be eligible to appear for the Medical Council of India Screening Test which is otherwise referred to as the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination.
English as the medium of instructions
Relief for most Indians, international students opting to study medicine in Russia are not required to know the Russian language. A lot of the top medical universities teach in the English medium. However, a lot of times the use of the Russian language should not be ruled out. Hence, it is important that candidates should check the medium of education before starting their application process. Note: it always helps, if the student knows the fundamentals of the Russian language as this would prove a benefit in the long run while staying in the country.
Better Quality of Education:
Russia is known the world over for its excellence in teaching and research. It is known for providing high-quality education at a low cost, which is why it is one of the most sought after destinations for international students wanting to study MBBS in Russia. Medical colleges in Russia also focus on practical practice which is an important aspect for students wanting to study MBBS. The degree provided by the universities in Russian is recognized worldwide/ hence graduating from a medical college in Russia would allow the student to practice anywhere across the globe. A lot of times candidates end up enquiring whether an MBBS degree from Russia is valid in India? The simple answer, yes.
Cost to Study MBBS in Russia:
As mentioned earlier the tuition cost of studying in the universities in Russia is low as compared to top destinations such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Similarly, living costs are lower in comparison to other sought after study abroad destinations such as Canada and Australia.
Tailor-made programs for the Benefit of Medical Students:
Medical universities in Russia also provide customized programs for the benefit of the students. Students can opt for short programs such as summer university, a semester in Russia, summer schools, preparatory programs (undergraduate, specialist, and master’s degree), professional training, and also opt to learn the Russian foreign language learning program.
Scholarships and Financial Aid:
To encourage the uniform flow of international students to the country, top MBBS universities in Russia provide international students a chance to study for free. Every year, a percentage of seats at these universities are reserved for students with exceptional academic records to study for free by the Russian Government. In the year 2018, 15,000 such seats were allocated to international students.
Paramount safety and security for students:
Safety and security are a top priority for both students and parents alike. Families can be at peace knowing that top medical universities of Russia offer safe and comfortable boarding options which are under CCTV surveillance with the availability of hostel wardens in the premises. Students visiting Russian medical universities feel at home as the universities because of the high percentage of international student composition celebrate Indian holidays with much fanfare and gusto. Students also get a chance to enjoy Indian food at the self-cooking facility available in the university premises.
What is the eligibility for studying MBBS in Russia?
All universities are Government Universities of Russia and the admission procedure is relatively simpler. Candidates are not required to appear for any entrance exam. Candidates looking to pursue MBBS in Russia can check out the eligibility guidelines for pursuing their medical studies in Russia.
The student is required to complete 17 years of age on or before 31st December of the year of admission.
The candidate is required to secure 50% marks in their 12th standard from the Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) in CBSE / ISC or any other Equivalent Board of Examination.
The candidate would also be required to produce an Eligibility Certificate issued by the Medical Council of India at the time of admission to Foreign Medical Universities.
Indian students are required to qualify the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
To conclude, Indian students wanting to study MBBS in Russia would have a plethora of opportunities awaiting them on the successful completion of their course.