Russia has become one of the most sought-after destinations for medical education, especially among international students. Known for its high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, and globally recognized degrees, Russia houses some of the oldest and most prestigious medical universities in the world. Many of these universities offer English-medium programs, making them accessible for non-Russian speaking students.
Here’s a list of the top medical universities in Russia based on academic reputation, global recognition, infrastructure, and international student support.
1. Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU)
Location: Moscow
Established: 1755
MSU is one of the most prestigious and oldest universities in Russia. Although it is not a specialized medical university, its Faculty of Fundamental Medicine is highly reputable. It offers state-of-the-art research opportunities and is recognized globally.
Highlights:
High QS World University Rankings
Cutting-edge research facilities
International partnerships with top global universities
2. Sechenov University (First Moscow State Medical University)
Location: Moscow
Established: 1758
Often considered the top medical university in Russia, Sechenov University is the oldest and most prominent medical school in the country. It offers MBBS programs in English and attracts thousands of international students annually.
Highlights:
Globally recognized MBBS program
Modern clinical training centers
Strong focus on research and innovation
3. Saint Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University
Location: Saint Petersburg
Established: 1925
Famous for its pediatrics program, this university is ideal for students specifically interested in child healthcare. It also offers general medicine programs and is renowned for its experienced faculty and modern infrastructure.
Highlights:
Specialized in pediatrics
English-medium MBBS available
Excellent practical training in affiliated hospitals
4. Kazan Federal University (KFU)
Location: Kazan
Established: 1804
One of the oldest universities in Russia, KFU is globally recognized for its medical institute. It offers English-language programs and is particularly known for its strong academic environment and innovative approach to education.
Highlights:
English-taught MBBS programs
Research-intensive curriculum
Member of the Russian Academic Excellence Project
5. People’s Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University)
Location: Moscow
Established: 1960
RUDN is extremely popular among international students from over 150 countries. It offers medical education in English and Russian, focusing on multicultural integration and international academic standards.
Highlights:
Diverse student population
English-medium medical programs
High international rankings
6. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University (RNRMU)
Location: Moscow
Established: 1906
A top-tier medical university that has produced thousands of medical professionals, RNRMU offers high-quality education and modern training methods, including simulation-based learning.
Highlights:
English MBBS programs
Advanced training centers
Strong alumni network
7. Siberian State Medical University
Location: Tomsk
Established: 1888
This university is one of the leading medical research centers in Russia. It offers MBBS programs in English and focuses on international collaboration and clinical training.
Highlights:
Excellent international student support
Affordable tuition and living cost.
Focus on modern research and technologies
8. Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) – School of Biomedicine
Location: Vladivostok
Established: 1899
Known for its beautiful campus and international programs, FEFU provides a world-class education in medicine, with a focus on biomedical sciences.
Highlights:
English-language courses
International research projects
Collaboration with Asian and Pacific Rim universities
Why Study Medicine in Russia?
Affordable tuition & living costs
Globally recognized degrees (WHO, ECFMG, MCI/NMC, GMC approved)
High-quality education and training
English-medium MBBS programs available
Strong international community and support systems
