Questions before you apply.
Use these answers to plan your next step, then check the detailed page for your topic and the official rules for your study level.
Is teaching in English?
Teaching is in Russian. These English pages help you understand study options and plan an application; they are not an offer of an English-taught degree. You will need Russian for classes, reading, written work and examinations.
Can the Academy help me learn Russian?
Yes. The Academy provides Russian-language preparation. Explain your current experience and intended programme, then ask about the format, dates, length and fees. Preparation does not automatically replace entrance examinations or guarantee degree admission. See language preparation.
Which study level should I choose?
The Academy offers bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and postgraduate research training. Your previous education and interests determine the appropriate route. Аспирантура, or aspirantura, means postgraduate research training; it should not be read as an automatic award of a PhD. Compare the study overviews.
Does the online form or an email enquiry count as an application?
No. This website’s form and email template are for enquiries, not formal admission applications. Bachelor’s, specialist and master’s rules specify formal submission in person or by representative, by a public postal operator, or through Gosuslugi. Postgraduate rules separately allow email submission with original-document conditions. Follow the instructions for your level.
Should I attach my passport to an enquiry?
No identity files are needed to ask your first questions. Send a short description of your citizenship, qualification, programme, intended intake and Russian experience. Ask for the correct document-submission process before sending personal documents.
Are legalisation and recognition the same?
No. Legalisation concerns the authenticity and legal use of a document; recognition concerns the qualification’s educational status. Requirements depend on the document and place of issue. Neither process is itself an admission decision. Confirm what applies before paying for document services.
Which country should I give if I studied abroad?
Give both your citizenship and the country or jurisdiction that issued your qualification. Add the exact awarding institution or examination body, document title and year. Citizenship matters for entry planning; the qualification’s issuer matters for document assessment.
How much should I budget?
Use the 2026/27 tuition examples as a starting point, then confirm your programme and contract. Add accommodation, food, travel, insurance and document costs. Russian preparation and other services may have separate charges. A state-funded place is not automatically a living-cost scholarship.
Does the Academy support study-visa invitations?
Yes. The Academy provides support with study-visa invitations. Ask about the procedure, timing and costs for your case. An invitation is not a visa, and the consular authority decides visa issuance. See visa and arrival planning.
Can you help with accommodation?
Yes. The Academy helps applicants find accommodation. Discuss your dates, needs, budget and the available arrangements. Assistance does not guarantee a particular room, price or Academy-owned residence. Confirm booking and payment conditions before travel.
Can I take all entrance examinations online?
Do not assume so. The bachelor’s, specialist and master’s rules allow remote examinations only by a specific admissions decision and with identification and supervision requirements. Confirm the format of each examination before arranging travel.
When am I officially a student?
An enquiry, invitation or positive admission response does not itself mean enrolment. Complete the required admission steps and confirm your formal enrolment with the Academy. Use current official deadlines for your level rather than dates from an old message.