Moving to Russia for an MBBS degree is exciting. It is a stunning country that has a lot to offer in terms of both quality of life and career opportunities. However, it is important to know real monthly expenses to help you plan and avoid surprises. So, this blog will dive deep into the cost of living in Russia for Indian students.
Whether it’s grocery prices or transport expenses, you will get a comprehensive understanding of how to budget effectively in the country. It must be noted that the MBBS in Russia fees for Indian students are not the only determinant of the overall living expenses in the country. We must also consider other crucial factors, as shown below.
Quick Summary: How Much to Budget
A single student living in a regional university city can expect monthly living costs of roughly INR 38,184 to INR 65,458. Living in larger cities such as Moscow or Saint Petersburg pushes that to INR 54,548 to INR 87,277 per month, depending on housing and lifestyle. These ranges exclude tuition.
Housing
Moving forward in this guide for the cost of living in Russia for Indian students, let’s talk about one of the most important factors in your living expenses: housing.
University Hostels and Private Flats
Most Indian students choose university hostels for affordability and support. University dorm rooms commonly cost INR 16,363 to 21,818 per month in many cities. However, private one-bedroom apartments near campus vary widely. In Moscow, expect much higher rents; in smaller cities, a private flat can be affordable.
Tips
Choose a university hostel for the first semester to save money and time. If you rent privately, always insist on a written contract and check who pays utilities.
➨ Also Read: Cost of MBBS in Russia: Facts Indian Students Should Know
Food: Groceries and Campus Canteens
A typical student can manage on INR 8,727 to INR 16,363 per month for groceries when cooking at home. Most universities have subsidized canteens where a meal can cost the equivalent of a few hundred rupees, making daily campus meals a cheap option. Budget more if you eat out frequently.
Transport and Daily Expenses
Public transport is reliable, as monthly transport passes in big cities are affordable compared with those in many Western cities. Expect to spend INR 1,675 to INR 1,700 monthly. Please note that this depends on the city and travel frequency. Mobile phone plans and basic internet are low-cost; a typical mobile plan with data can be a few hundred rupees a month.
Utilities and Internet
If you live in a private apartment, basic utilities (heating, electricity, water, garbage) can add INR 5,454 to INR 13,089 per month, which depends on apartment size and season. Internet plans (60 Mbps and up) are inexpensive and usually under a thousand rupees per month.
Health Insurance and Medical Costs
Foreign students must have a valid medical policy for their visa and registration. Universities normally require insurance that covers the whole stay. Costs vary by provider and coverage, but basic student policies often start at under INR 3,000 to INR 6,000 per month. Emergency care is available in hospitals, but having the right insurance avoids extra charges and speeds up registration processes.
City Choice Changes Your Budget Dramatically
Moscow and Saint Petersburg are the most expensive hubs. Regional medical university cities such as Orenburg, Pskov, and Elista are much cheaper while offering strong medical programs. Many students report better value and quieter study conditions in regional centers.
Practical Saving Tips
Check out the practical saving tips for monthly expenses in Russia for Indian students:
- Use university canteens and cook at home.
- Share a flat with other students to split rent and utilities.
- Buy a monthly transport pass rather than single tickets.
- Keep a small emergency fund in rubles for quick local expenses.
Final Word
Depending on the city and lifestyle, you should plan a realistic monthly budget between INR 38,184 and INR 65,458. Expect higher setup costs in month one and lower recurring costs later if you live frugally. Check exchange rates and insurance rules before departure, and choose housing carefully. We hope this guide on the cost of living in Russia for Indian students gave you a comprehensive understanding of the expenses you can incur.
Do you want to study MBBS in Russia and become a successful doctor? If so, contact Rus Education for complete assistance and guidance.
FAQs
Q.1 Is Russia costly for Indians?
Answer: The living expenses in Russia are easily manageable. You can expect to pay around INR 38,184 to INR 65,458 monthly.
Q.2 Can Indians settle in Russia?
Answer: Yes, an Indian can settle in Russia. Most people begin by getting the right visa and a temporary residence permit, usually through work, study, or investment. They can apply for permanent residency after living in the country legally for a few years.
Q.3 Is wifi free in Russia?
Answer: You’ll find free Wi-Fi in most cafés, restaurants, hotels, museums, and popular tourist spots. Moreover, many cities also have public Wi-Fi zones. You can easily locate nearby hotspots using a Wi-Fi map.
Q.4 How much cash is allowed in Russia?
Answer: You can bring any amount of cash into or out of Russia, but anything over $10,000 (INR 8,86,239) must be declared at customs.
Q.5 Is Russia safe for Indian students now?
Answer: Russia is safe for Indian students with a strong focus on campus security and a thriving Indian community. Moreover, universities are reportedly secure with 24/7 monitoring, and many Indian students are successfully pursuing their studies.
