Why Indian Students Prefer MBBS Education in Russia

The pursuit of MBBS education in Russia has become increasingly popular among Indian students due to several compelling factors. With over 31,000 Indian students currently studying in Russia, the country offers accredited universities, English-medium instruction, and significantly lower tuition costs compared to Indian private medical colleges. The Russian government is also supporting this trend by providing scholarships to Indian students. This article delves into the reasons behind this growing phenomenon and what makes Russia an attractive destination for aspiring medical professionals.

By Ambika Singh Dec 3, 2025, 12:07 IST

The Appeal of MBBS in Russia

MBBS in Russia: The demand for medical education in India is exceptionally high, as evidenced by the fact that over 2 million students attempt the NEET exam each year for approximately 120,000 MBBS seats. The competition for these limited spots is fierce, leaving many NEET qualifiers without admission to medical colleges.

Consequently, thousands of students choose to study abroad for their MBBS degrees. Among the various destinations, Russia stands out as a favored choice, with a long history of Indian students pursuing medical education there. In 2024, more than 31,000 Indian students were enrolled in Russian universities, with over 21,000 specifically pursuing MBBS. This raises the question: what makes Russia such an attractive option for Indian students seeking medical degrees?

Reasons for Choosing Russia for MBBS:
1. **Accredited Institutions**: Russia is home to many accredited universities, including Lomonosov Moscow State University, St. Petersburg University, and Kazan State Medical University, all recognized by the WHO and NMC. Graduates are eligible to take the FMGE exam.

2. **English Medium Instruction**: Language barriers can be a significant hurdle for students studying abroad. Fortunately, many Russian medical universities offer courses in English, facilitating better comprehension and enhancing the quality of education.

3. **Affordable Tuition Fees**: The cost of studying MBBS in private Indian medical colleges can reach up to ₹1 crore (around $10 million). In contrast, pursuing a medical degree in Russia costs between ₹270,000 and ₹400,000 annually, with lower living and food expenses as well.

These factors contribute to the rising trend of Indian students opting for medical studies in Russia. In light of the increasing Indian student population, the Russian government has introduced scholarships, with the Russian Embassy planning to offer 200 scholarships to Indian students. More details can be found on the embassy's official website.