How Many Medical Universities Are in Russia? Complete Guide for Indian Students

Russia has become one of the most preferred destinations for Indian students aspiring to pursue MBBS abroad. Over the past decade, the number of Indian students choosing Russia for medical education has increased significantly due to affordable fees, globally recognized universities, and strong clinical exposure. Many students specifically search for the top medical universities in Russia to ensure they choose an institution that offers quality education, proper NMC recognition, and excellent clinical training.

Every year, thousands of students and parents search for one common and very important question:

How many medical universities are in Russia?

This question is not just about numbers. It reflects deeper concerns such as:

Are there enough seats available for Indian students?

How many universities are approved by NMC?

Which universities are government-funded?

Are all medical universities safe and recognized?

How to choose the best one among so many options?

Russia, being the largest country in the world, has built an extensive network of medical institutions across different federal regions. From historic cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg to student-friendly cities like Kazan, Crimea, Orenburg, and Bashkortostan, medical universities are spread across the country. Because of this wide distribution, students get access to some of the top medical universities in Russia, known for their academic excellence, modern infrastructure, and advanced clinical training facilities.

Unlike many other countries that have a limited number of government medical colleges, Russia offers a wide range of options. This gives Indian students flexibility in terms of budget, climate preference, university ranking, and academic exposure. Students can compare various universities and shortlist the top medical universities in Russia based on NMC approval, English medium availability, FMGE performance, and overall reputation.

However, while the large number of medical universities in Russia creates opportunities, it can also create confusion. Not all universities have the same ranking, facilities, or international recognition. That is why understanding the exact number of medical universities, their approval status, and their quality standards is extremely important before making an admission decision, especially when selecting from the list of top medical universities in Russia.

In this complete guide by Doctorbano, we will provide:

The exact number of medical universities in Russia

How many are NMC-approved for Indian students

Government vs private medical universities

Regional distribution of universities

How to select the best university

Fees, eligibility, and career scope

If you are planning to study MBBS in Russia, this detailed guide will help you make a safe, informed, and career-oriented decision.

How many medical universities are in Russia?

This question is important because the number of universities reflects the availability of seats, competition level, quality of education, and overall opportunities for international students.

In this detailed guide by Doctorbano, we will explain:

• Total number of medical universities in Russia
• How many are government universities
• How many are approved by NMC
• Which universities are best for Indian students
• How to choose the right university
• Fees structure and recognition
• Career scope after graduation
• Let’s begin with the direct answer.

Direct Answer: How Many Medical Universities Are in Russia?

As of recent data, Russia has approximately:

75–80 medical universities offering MBBS or equivalent medical degrees

Out of these, around 55–60 universities are approved by NMC (National Medical Commission of India)

More than 60 universities are recognized by WHO

Many are also listed with FAIMER and ECFMG

These universities are spread across various regions of Russia including Moscow, Kazan, St. Petersburg, Crimea, Orenburg, Bashkortostan, and other federal districts.

Why Does Russia Have So Many Medical Universities?

Russia has a long and strong tradition of medical education. The country has been producing doctors for over 200 years. Several factors contribute to the large number of medical universities:

1. Strong Healthcare Infrastructure

Russia has a vast healthcare system serving millions of people across urban and rural areas.

2. Government Support

Most Russian medical universities are government-funded institutions under the Ministry of Health or Ministry of Education.

3. Research-Based Education Model

Russia focuses heavily on scientific research, clinical training, and practical exposure.

4. International Student Demand

Russia is among the top 5 countries preferred by Indian students for MBBS abroad.

Because of these reasons, Russia has built a wide network of medical universities across different cities.

Types of Medical Universities in Russia

When we say Russia has 75–80 medical universities, they are divided into categories:

1. Government Medical Universities

• Funded by Russian government
• Highly reputed
• Preferred by Indian students
• Affordable tuition fees

Examples:

• Kazan State Medical University
• Bashkir State Medical University
• Sevastopol State Medical University
• Tver State Medical University
• North Ossetian State Medical University
• Kazan Federal University

2. Federal Medical Universities

Higher academic status

Often ranked among top institutions

Large research programs

3. Research Medical Institutes

Strong focus on clinical research

Advanced laboratories

Associated with major hospitals

4. Private Medical Universities

Fewer in number

Less preferred by Indian students

May have higher fees

Indian students are generally advised to choose government medical universities for better recognition and transparency.

How Many Medical Universities in Russia Are Approved by NMC?

This is one of the most important concerns for Indian students.

Out of approximately 75–80 medical universities:

 Around 55+ universities are approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC).

However, students must always:

Verify the latest NMC approved university list

Check compliance with new NMC guidelines

Ensure English medium eligibility

Confirm internship requirements

At Doctorbano, we guide students only toward universities that meet NMC guidelines.

Regional Distribution of Medical Universities in Russia

Russia is the largest country in the world. Medical universities are spread across multiple regions:

Moscow Region

First Moscow State Medical University

Russian National Research Medical University

Kazan Region

Kazan State Medical University

Bashkortostan

Bashkir State Medical University

Orenburg Region

Orenburg State Medical University

Perm Region

Perm State Medical University

Each region has climate, lifestyle, and cost differences.

Ranking of Russian Medical Universities

Although Russia does not officially rank medical universities separately, global rankings consider:

• Research output
• Faculty strength
• International student enrollment
• Infrastructure
• Top reputed universities include:
• First Moscow State Medical University
• Kazan State Medical University
• Bashkir State Medical University
• Crimea Federal University
• Orenburg State Medical University

MBBS Seats Availability in Russia

Each medical university in Russia typically offers:

300 – 1000 seats annually

Separate quota for international students

Dedicated English medium batches

Because there are around 75–80 medical universities, Russia offers thousands of MBBS seats every year.

This reduces competition compared to India.

Duration of MBBS in Russia

6 Years total

5 Years academic study

1 Year internship

Internship is compulsory as per NMC guidelines.

Medium of Instruction in Russian Medical Universities

Most popular universities offer:

Fully English medium program

Bilingual program (English + Russian)

Russian medium program

Indian students generally choose English medium.

Fee Structure of Medical Universities in Russia

The average tuition fee ranges between:

₹3 Lakhs – ₹6 Lakhs per year

Hostel: ₹60,000 – ₹1,00,000 per year

Total 6-year cost: ₹20 Lakhs – ₹40 Lakhs

Compared to Indian private medical colleges charging ₹70 Lakhs – ₹1.5 Crore, Russia is much more affordable.

How to Choose the Best Medical University in Russia?

Even though Russia has 75–80 medical universities, choosing the right one is critical.

Students should check:

✔ NMC Approval

✔ English Medium Availability

✔ Clinical Exposure

✔ Infrastructure

✔ Indian Student Ratio

✔ FMGE Passing Rate

✔ Hostel Facilities

✔ Safety

Doctorbano provides personalized counseling to help students select the best university.

Is Russia Safe for Indian Students?

Yes, Russia is considered safe for international students.

Low crime rate in university cities

Indian student communities

University hostel security

Indian food availability

Comparison: Russia vs Other Countries

Russia offers the largest number of medical universities compared to many countries.

Career Opportunities After MBBS in Russia

After graduating from Russian medical universities, students can:

Appear for FMGE/NExT in India

Practice in India

Apply for USMLE

Pursue PG in Russia

Work in Europe

Appear for PLAB (UK)

Why Indian Students Prefer Russia?

Even though Russia has 75–80 medical universities, Indian students prefer it because:

Affordable cost

Large seat availability

Government universities

No donation

Strong academic system

Role of Doctorbano in MBBS Admission

Choosing among 75–80 universities can be confusing.

Doctorbano helps students with:

• University comparison
• Documentation support
• Admission letter processing
• Visa assistance
• Pre-departure briefing
• Support in Russia

We ensure transparent admission without hidden charges.

FAQs – How Many Medical Universities Are in Russia?

Q1. How many medical universities are there in Russia?

Russia has approximately 75–80 medical universities offering MBBS programs.

Q2. How many are NMC approved?

Around 55+ universities are approved by NMC.

Q3. Are all medical universities government?

No. Most are government, but some are private institutions.

Q4. What is the duration of MBBS?

6 years including internship.

Q5. What is the average cost?

₹15–₹40 Lakhs total.

Q6. Is NEET mandatory?

Yes, NEET qualification is required for Indian students.

Q7. Is English medium available?

Yes, many universities offer English medium MBBS.

Q8. Which city is best for MBBS in Russia?

Kazan, Moscow, Crimea, and Bashkortostan are popular choices.

Conclusion

So, how many medical universities are in Russia?

Russia has approximately 75–80 medical universities, with over 55+ NMC-approved institutions suitable for Indian students. This wide availability of universities makes Russia one of the most accessible and affordable destinations for MBBS abroad.

However, choosing the right university is crucial for career success. That is why expert guidance from Doctorbano ensures students make informed decisions and secure admission in reputed institutions.

If you are planning to pursue MBBS in Russia, connect with Doctorbano today for transparent and trusted guidance.