Studying MBBS in Russia has become a dream come true for many Indian students, but the cost often becomes a barrier. Fortunately, Russia not only offers affordable medical education compared to private colleges in India, but also provides scholarships for MBBS in Russia that can ease the financial burden for deserving candidates. These scholarships are available through various channels – from the Russian government to Indian agencies and even universities themselves. This article offers a comprehensive and practical guide on the types of scholarships available, eligibility criteria, documents required, and the application process specifically for Indian students.
Why Consider Scholarships for MBBS in Russia?
While the average tuition fees for MBBS in Russia range between ₹2.5 lakh to ₹5 lakh per year, and the cost of living is around ₹12,000 to ₹15,000 per month, studying MBBS still requires long-term financial planning. Scholarships not only reduce tuition and living costs, but also enhance academic motivation and ease the financial stress on families.
Types of Scholarships Available for Indian Students
1. Russian Government (State-Funded) Scholarships
The Russian Government allocates thousands of scholarships (also known as “quotas”) to international students every year, including Indian applicants. These scholarships are coordinated through Rossotrudnichestvo and the Russian Center for Science and Culture (RCSC) in India.
Benefits:
Full tuition fee waiver
Free hostel accommodation
Monthly stipend (approx. 1,600–2,000 rubles/month)
No entrance exams in Russia
Note: Airfare, visa fee, insurance, and food expenses are typically not covered.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
Some Russian medical universities offer merit-based scholarships to international students during the course of their study. These are usually performance-based and awarded from the second year onwards.
Examples include:
Kazan Federal University: Internal scholarships for top-performing students.
Sechenov University: Research-based funding for postgraduate MBBS candidates.
Crimean Federal University: Partial tuition waivers based on academic standing.
3. Indian Government and Private Scholarships
Though not specifically for Russia, Indian students can apply for external scholarships that support MBBS studies abroad.
Examples:
Ministry of Minority Affairs Scholarships (for eligible minority communities)
National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) for Scheduled Castes
Jindal Foundation, Tata Trusts, and other private foundations
These may cover part of the tuition fees or living expenses, but eligibility is competitive.
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS Scholarships in Russia
While each scholarship has specific requirements, some common criteria include:
Indian nationality
Completion of Class 12th with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
Minimum 60% marks in 12th, although higher percentages improve chances
NEET qualified, as per NMC requirement
Valid passport
Basic knowledge of English (and sometimes basic Russian)
For Russian government scholarships, candidates must clear a selection process managed by RCSC, including interviews and document verification.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Indian Students
A. Applying for Russian Government Scholarships (via RCSC)
Registration on the Official Portal
Visit https://education-in-russia.comCreate an account
Fill in academic background and personal details
Upload required documents
Document Upload
Required documents typically include:Passport copy (valid for at least 18 months)
Class 10th and 12th mark sheets
NEET scorecard
Passport-size photograph
Birth certificate
Medical fitness certificate (HIV test included)
Program and University Selection
Choose up to 6 preferred universities offering MBBS in English medium.RCSC Interview and Evaluation
Shortlisted students are invited to the Russian Center for Science and Culture (New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai) for an interview and counseling round.Final Selection and Admission Letter
Selected candidates are notified by Rossotrudnichestvo and sent official admission letters from the universities.Apply for Visa and Travel Arrangements
Once selected, students must apply for a student visa and arrange their travel. Scholarships do not usually cover visa or travel costs.
B. Applying for University-Specific Scholarships
Check Eligibility in 1st or 2nd Year
After enrolling and completing the first semester/year, students should inquire about scholarship availability.Maintain High Grades
These scholarships are performance-based, so maintaining a GPA above 4.5 or equivalent is essential.Submit Internal Applications
Most universities have an online portal or student affairs department where you can apply for tuition discounts or academic scholarships.
Important Deadlines to Remember
Russian Government Scholarship Application Start: Usually in November–December
Application Deadline: Typically March–April
RCSC Interviews: Conducted in May–June
University Admissions Finalized: July–August
It's important to check with the official RCSC India website or follow their Facebook page for announcements and timelines.
Tips to Increase Scholarship Chances
Aim for 75%+ marks in 12th and a strong NEET score
Apply early to avoid last-minute issues
Be clear about your choice of universities
Prepare well for RCSC interviews, including answering why you want to study MBBS in Russia
Keep all documents ready and in the required format (scan in PDF, passport size images, etc.)
Final Thoughts
Securing a scholarship for MBBS in Russia can significantly reduce the financial burden on Indian students and open doors to world-class education in Europe. Whether it’s through the Russian government quota system, university-based scholarships, or Indian external schemes, there are multiple opportunities available—provided you plan ahead and apply with the right documentation and strategy.
