Printable checklists

The checklists from our guides, on one page. Print them or save them as a PDF.

Your program checklist

Decide on your field and the level of study you need.
Check the language of teaching for each program on your list.
Plan a preparatory year if your program is in Russian and your level is below B1.
Compare cities for climate, living costs and people you know.
Check that the university is licensed and the program is state-accredited.
Find the current fees on the university's official website.
Note the application deadline for every program on your shortlist.

Check that your passport will be valid for at least 18 months.
Collect your school certificate or diploma and your transcript.
Find out whether your documents need an apostille or consular legalisation.
Have every document translated into Russian and certified by a Russian notary.
Ask your university how your foreign education will be recognised.
Apply for the state quota on education-in-russia.com before your country's deadline.
Apply for paid places only on university websites or the Study in Russia portal.
Prepare photos and an HIV-negative certificate for your visa.

Choose the track that matches your future degree.
Ask your university for its start date and whether it accepts late arrivals.
Check whether your scholarship covers the preparatory year.
Find out which Russian level your degree program requires.
Learn the Cyrillic alphabet before you leave.
Start a Russian course and practise speaking every week.
Plan your budget knowing that you can work only in the holidays or at your university.

Check whether your country is visa-free or can use the e-visa.
Choose the visa that matches the purpose of your trip.
Ask your tour operator, hotel or Russian partner for the confirmation or invitation you need.
Check how long your passport must still be valid, and ask the consulate if unsure.
Buy medical insurance valid in Russia for the whole trip if it is required.
Fill in the visa form on the Consular Department website and book an appointment.
Bring enough US dollars or euros in cash for the whole trip.
Keep your migration card and proof of registration with your passport.
Print business cards with one side in Russian if you travel for work meetings.

Bring enough US dollars or euros in cash for your first weeks.
Plan how you will reach your university when you land, for example over airport Wi-Fi.
Keep your home SIM card active so you can receive text messages.
Download offline maps and a translation app before you leave.
Pack warm layers, and plan to buy a real winter coat and boots.
Pack an adapter for European two-pin sockets if your devices need one.
Save 112 and your address in Russia, written in Russian, on your phone.
Learn the Cyrillic alphabet so you can read signs and metro maps.

Check that your university is a state university or state research institute
Ask your international office how your family can apply for study visas
Start Russian lessons with your children before you move
Ask the school what your child needs for the Russian test and for admission
Arrange voluntary medical insurance for each family member
Find family housing where the landlord will register everyone within 7 working days
Book the medical examination for each family member within 30 days of arrival
Check visa options early for relatives who want to visit

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