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Hidden Costs to Be Aware of When Studying MBBS in Russia.

May 11, 2025
  • blog

Okay, so you're packing a bag to fly to Russia and study to be a doctor – that's huge! You must have spent years doing the maths on tuition fees and rent costs, right? But here's the thing: there are those other costs hidden beneath the surface, the kinds that can very easily catch you out if you're not prepared.

 

Think about it this way: it's sort of like going on a road trip. You know gas will cost you something, but then there's that surprise toll roads, costly snack foods at the rest stops, and the unplanned flat tire. Likewise, studying abroad isn't tuition and rent only.

 

I've been there, under different circumstances, but I recognize the experience of experiencing those "oh crap, I didn't budget for that!" moments. So, let's put a spotlight on those sneaky expenses of studying MBBS in Russia so you're prepared financially and can focus on doing well in your exams.

 

1. Visa Shenanigans and Immigration Hustle:

 

You've got your initial visa, great! But then there are student visas to renew and extend, and that do not come low in cost. It's some kind of subscription service fee to stay in Russia legally. And if you do intend some backpacking across Europe on holiday, then you will need to cover those visas as well.

 

• Visa Extension Charges: These come up each year, and they can be inconvenient.

• Registration Fees: When you first get here, you gotta register your visa at your apartment or dorm.

• Health Insurance (The "Just in Case" Money): Your university may provide basic insurance, but really, it may not cover all. Get a more full-coverage plan so you don't get slammed with enormous medical bills down the road.

 

2. Talking the Talk: Language Barrier Woes

 

Your English MBBS study can be okay, but everyday Russian life requires a bit of Russian. Think about walking around the supermarket, having food, and making friends with locals. Additionally, you could need to get official papers translated, which is costly.

 

• Russian Classes: Group classes are cheaper, but one-to-one can give you personal attention (at a premium).

• Translation Fees (For All That Red Tape): Need to have your passport translated for a bank account? Be prepared to pay. The more formal the document, the higher the cost of translation.

 

3. Traveling: Travel Tribulations:

 

Russia's public transportation is relatively cheap, but it takes its toll. Think about daily commutes, weekend trips to see other cities, and maybe even flights back home for holidays.

 

• Metro/Bus Pass: You must purchase a monthly pass, but it's still an ongoing cost.

• Train Tickets (For Adventures): Riding across Russia on an adventure by train is amazing, but those tickets don't come cheap, even in the low season.

• Flights Home (The Big One): Round-trip flights home for the holidays are a major cost, especially if you're traveling far away.

 

4. Bookworm Blues: Textbooks and Study Supplies

 

Your university will probably provide online materials, but you will probably have to buy some textbooks and specialist equipment. Medical textbooks are not cheap!

 

• Textbook Costs: Expect a few thousand Rubles per term, and perhaps much higher.

• Lab Equipment (The Cool Stuff That You Have to Pay For): Some courses require you to buy your own microscope or dissection kit.

• Printing Costs (Paper Cuts and Empty Pockets): You will be printing tons of notes and articles, so add the cost of paper and ink.

 

5. Living the Culture: Social Butterfly Costs:

 

Adjusting to a new culture means dining on local food, attending cultural events, and making friends with locals. But all that socializing does not come cheap.

 

• Eating Out (A Treat, But Not Every Night!): Restaurants are pricey, particularly in large cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg.

• Entertainment (Concerts, Movies, Oh My!): Attending concerts, theater, or going to the cinema increases your monthly expenditure.

• Hanging Out with Friends: Bowling, a coffee, or just hanging out at a cafe all cost dollars.

 

6. Surviving Winter: The Cold Weather Tax

 

Russian winters aren't a joke. You'll need proper winter gear to stay warm and not fall ill.

 

• A Genuine Winter Coat: Invest in a good quality, heavy-duty winter coat. Trust me, it's worth the money!

• Waterproof Boots: Insulated, waterproof boots are a must to walk in the snow and ice.

• All the Accessories (Gloves, Hats, Scarves): Don't forget the gloves, hat, and scarf. You'll need all of them!

 

7. Doctoring Yourself: Unforeseen Medical Expenses

 

Even with insurance, you can still have unexpected medical expenses.

 

• Over-the-Counter Medications (The "Just in Case" Medicine Cabinet): Keeping some essentials like painkillers and cold medication on hand is a good idea.

• Doctor's Visits (Even with Insurance): Even with insurance, consultation fees can add up.

• Emergency Care (Hopefully Not!): In case of a serious emergency, medical treatment can be expensive.

 

8. Bank Account Basics: Fees and Charges

 

Having a bank account in Russia can simplify your life, but there are usually fees attached.

 

• Monthly Fees: A monthly fee to simply have an account is charged by some banks.

• ATM Fees: Taking money out of ATMs that are not part of your bank's network can cost you.

• International Transaction Fees: Spending or transferring money overseas can initiate fees.

 

The Takeaway: Plan Ahead and Avoid Surprises!

 

Studying MBBS in Russia is a great experience, but it's important to be ready for all the costs, not necessarily the ones right before your eyes. With budgeting these hidden costs, you'll steer clear of financial stress and be able to focus on what's really important: becoming a doctor! Study your choices, keep a realistic budget, and always keep in mind that some planning is essential. Now go rock those exams and explore Russia!

 

SIMPLE ADMISSION PROCESS

No hefty donations, no entrance exams, no hassle for documentation just your dream MBBS study and you. RUS OVERSEAS does everything for you from scratch. We make sure you don’t have to do rounds of rotation and get fed up with the process of admission. From beginning to end, we are with you.

 

THE PROCESS

Eligibility: 

  • 50% in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC) in Class 12.
  • Minimum 17 years by December 31 of the admission year.
  •   NEET Qualification: Mandatory for Indian students.

 

Invitation letter: 

After RUS OVERSEAS submits your documents in the university. The university issues you an invitation letter. 

 

Visa process: 

Once the invitation letter arrives. The company will start your visa processing and in a few days you will be on the plane to Russia. 

HOW RUS OVERSEAS HELPS YOU IN YOUR JOURNEY

RUS OVERSEAS has the experience of more than a decade. Our team is supportive and cares for the students wholeheartedly. We are available 24/7. Your one stop solution for MBBS abroad is us. We at RUS OVERSEAS will never disappoint any student or parent in their fulfilling journey with us.

 

CONTACT US

Phone: +91 9560533703

Email:  info@rusoverseas.com 


Rus Overseas provides expert assistance in choosing the right program, application processing, visa support, and settling in Russia. Contact us today to begin your abroad journey in Russia!

Sakib Hasan