15 Free and Cheap Universities in Moscow for International Students

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In Moscow, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Russia without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Moscow, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 59 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Moscow, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Moscow for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Moscow ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Moscow Polytechnic University 0 RUB - 290,200 RUB 100%
Moscow International University 31,200 RUB - 264,000 RUB 86%
Moscow Region State University 73,500 RUB - 340,000 RUB 67%
Moscow City Teachers’ Training University 107,200 RUB - 164,400 RUB 52%
Russian State Social University 142,800 RUB - 301,600 RUB 36%
Moscow Information Technology University – Moscow Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering 164,000 RUB - 187,000 RUB 26%
Moscow State Pedagogical University 170,000 RUB - 400,000 RUB 24%
Russian New University 178,800 RUB 20%
N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute 179,300 RUB - 344,400 RUB 19%
Moscow University for the Humanities 202,000 RUB - 258,000 RUB 9%
National University of Science and Technology MISIS 209,500 RUB - 251,000 RUB 6%
Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University 213,900 RUB 4%
Russian State Geological Prospecting University 222,800 RUB - 290,300 RUB -0%
RUDN University 235,800 RUB - 370,300 RUB -6%
Russian State University of Physical Culture, Sport and Tourism 243,500 RUB - 317,200 RUB -10%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 221,200 RUB for universities in Moscow.

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1. Moscow Polytechnic University

Established in 1865, Moscow Polytechnic University, or Moscow Poly, is one of Russia’s educational institutions that provide technology-related programs. Currently, they deliver education to more than 16,000 local and international students. As they provide top-quality education and research in various fields, they also have various activities on campus to foster diversity.

2. Moscow International University

Moscow International University ensures that students are being taught with a combination of theory and practice. It allows students to experience modern practical approaches that give them the opportunity to be creative in their respective fields and to achieve the ultimate foundation that reflects on their professionalism. The university follows global standards and deeply connects with international organizations.

3. Moscow Region State University

The Moscow Region State University was established in 1931 in the region of Moscow, which is the official capital city of Russia. This university is very famous in the region because of its affordable prices that are established for every level of study. Some of the best directions a student can choose at this university are mathematical education, physics education, and professional education. Another attraction point for this university is the fact that they introduce innovative programs and concepts from which students can take advantage and become experts in their chosen fields.

4. Moscow City Teachers’ Training University

Moscow City Teachers’ Training University is a public university in Moscow, Russia. The Ministry of Education established it in 1995 as a pedagogical university, with only 1300 students in its first year. The university currently has over 18,000 students and offers degree programs in the humanities, natural sciences, sports technology, law, business, and language studies.

5. Russian State Social University

The Russian State Social University is a distinguished university in the country of Russia because it provides all levels of study to both domestic and international students with the opportunity to gain various financial aid through university or state-funded scholarships. This university is located in Moscow and was founded in 1991, but it is making its way slowly toward the ranking of the best universities in Russia.

6. Moscow Information Technology University – Moscow Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering

Moscow Information Technology University – Moscow Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering, or MITU-MASI, is a university that allows extramural, full-time, and part-time learning modes for students. All students may apply for Preparatory courses, Bachelor’s degrees, and Master’s degrees. Preparatory and special courses can also be undertaken by these students. The university promises quality education, multiple extracurricular opportunities, and strong international connections.

7. Moscow State Pedagogical University

Moscow State Pedagogical University is a Russian higher education institute that offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs. It was established as the Women’s Courses of Higher Education in 1872 and underwent a transformative journey to what it is now. The university is well-recognized with International Partners across the globe, such as the University College of Teacher Education Vienna in Austria, the University of Pardubice in the Czech Republic, and the CY Cergy Paris University in France. Accessibility is a forefront advocacy with dedicated institutes for it, such as the Center for Student Disability Services and Psychological Assistance Center.

8. Russian New University

Russian New University has branches in over 21 cities in the country, offering adequate educational opportunities for students regardless of their gender and race. The university is proud of its diverse learning environment, which is composed of various institutes, research facilities, and training laboratories. It follows a teaching method that enhances not just the theoretical foundation of students but also their critical and practical skills.

9. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute is a public technical university in Moscow with a prominent reputation for producing outstanding scientists and engineers for more than 90. It is also one of the most sought-after universities for aspiring engineers from around the world. The university also has numerous cooperation agreements with foreign universities and companies for its students and faculty to participate in different international programs and activities. 

10. Moscow University for the Humanities

The Moscow University for the Humanities is a private university in Moscow, Russia. It was founded in 1944 as the Central Komsomol School, but it was only in 2003 that it was designated as a university. As one of the country’s leading classical universities, the university provides affordable tuition, a cultural center for performing arts, and a sports center for a variety of sports activities.

11. National University of Science and Technology MISIS

The National University of Science and Technology MISIS started as a mining academy and then became a steel institute. Over time, it expanded its course offer and modernized its facilities, but it’s still widely known for its programs in metallurgy and mining. Nowadays, the university has six campuses, 8 academic colleges, and multiple research institutes. They also have cutting-edge specialized laboratories in fields such as nanomaterials, cryoelectronic systems, biophysics, casting technologies, and much more!

12. Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University

Established in 1930, Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University (MADI) is a specialized institute that leads in providing study programs in transportation, road and airport construction, traffic safety management, logistics and transport, and economics. It offers advanced and innovative educational courses at the undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and postgraduate levels. Graduates of the school are guaranteed to acquire fundamental knowledge and skills deemed necessary for their future careers.

13. Russian State Geological Prospecting University

One of the oldest universities in Russia, Russian State Geological Prospecting University was founded in 1918 as Sergo Ordzhonikidze Russian State University for Geological Prospecting. It was first made for Russian students only and was opened to students from abroad in 1931. All students may study programs at Bachelor, Master, or Doctoral levels. Six faculties exist in the university, covering multiple disciplines of study. All students are provided accessible services, but foreign students are advised to get a health insurance plan.

14. RUDN University

RUDN University is one of the best universities in the capital city of Russia and is known as The People’s Friendship University of Russia. This higher education institution is mostly known for the high number of international students attracted to this university’s high ranking. The university is ranked among the world’s top 500 universities, which speaks volumes about the level of study this university provides.

15. Russian State University of Physical Culture, Sport and Tourism

Russian State University of Physical Culture, Sport, and Tourism is a leading sports university in Russia. It was established in 1918 and is known for producing over 200 outstanding athletes that have made their marks in prestigious international competitions such as the Olympics. The academic and research programs at the university are conducted by highly qualified and reputable coaches, experts, and scientists to further enhance athlete training and prepare future sports champions and professionals. 

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Moscow for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Moscow ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Moscow Polytechnic University 0 RUB - 269,000 RUB 100%
I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University 21,800 RUB - 318,000 RUB 92%
Moscow International University 31,200 RUB - 264,000 RUB 89%
Moscow Region State University 90,000 RUB - 408,000 RUB 66%
Moscow City Teachers’ Training University 107,700 RUB - 165,500 RUB 59%
Russian State Social University 119,000 RUB - 336,000 RUB 55%
Moscow Information Technology University – Moscow Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering 179,000 RUB - 187,000 RUB 32%
Russian New University 193,000 RUB 26%
N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute 198,800 RUB - 374,600 RUB 24%
Moscow University for the Humanities 218,000 RUB 17%
National Research University Higher School of Economics 220,000 RUB - 450,000 RUB 16%
Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University 229,400 RUB 12%
National University of Science and Technology MISIS 230,000 RUB - 357,600 RUB 12%
Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox University 230,500 RUB 12%
Kutafin Moscow State Law University 240,000 RUB - 450,000 RUB 8%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 260,300 RUB for universities in Moscow.

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1. Moscow Polytechnic University

Established in 1865, Moscow Polytechnic University, or Moscow Poly, is one of Russia’s educational institutions that provide technology-related programs. Currently, they deliver education to more than 16,000 local and international students. As they provide top-quality education and research in various fields, they also have various activities on campus to foster diversity.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Moscow Polytechnic University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 0 RUB to 269,000 RUB annually for their master's degree.

2. I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University is 21,800 RUB to 318,000 RUB.

I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University or usually referred to as Sechenov University was founded in 1758, making it the oldest medical school in Russia. It was initially the medical faculty of the Imperial Moscow University and eventually became independent in 1930. At present, the university has more than 18,000 total enrollment and offers undergraduate to Ph.D. programs in Medicine, Sciences, and Professional Education.

3. Moscow International University

Moscow International University ensures that students are being taught with a combination of theory and practice. It allows students to experience modern practical approaches that give them the opportunity to be creative in their respective fields and to achieve the ultimate foundation that reflects on their professionalism. The university follows global standards and deeply connects with international organizations.

The tuition fee at Moscow International University for incoming international master’s students is 31,200 RUB to 264,000 RUB. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Moscow Region State University

Another affordable university to consider in Moscow is Moscow Region State University.

The Moscow Region State University was established in 1931 in the region of Moscow, which is the official capital city of Russia. This university is very famous in the region because of its affordable prices that are established for every level of study. Some of the best directions a student can choose at this university are mathematical education, physics education, and professional education. Another attraction point for this university is the fact that they introduce innovative programs and concepts from which students can take advantage and become experts in their chosen fields.

The tuition fee in Moscow Region State University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 90,000 RUB.

5. Moscow City Teachers’ Training University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Moscow City Teachers’ Training University has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 107,700 RUB yearly.

Moscow City Teachers’ Training University is a public university in Moscow, Russia. The Ministry of Education established it in 1995 as a pedagogical university, with only 1300 students in its first year. The university currently has over 18,000 students and offers degree programs in the humanities, natural sciences, sports technology, law, business, and language studies.

6. Russian State Social University

The Russian State Social University is a distinguished university in the country of Russia because it provides all levels of study to both domestic and international students with the opportunity to gain various financial aid through university or state-funded scholarships. This university is located in Moscow and was founded in 1991, but it is making its way slowly toward the ranking of the best universities in Russia.

7. Moscow Information Technology University – Moscow Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering

Moscow Information Technology University – Moscow Institute of Architecture and Civil Engineering, or MITU-MASI, is a university that allows extramural, full-time, and part-time learning modes for students. All students may apply for Preparatory courses, Bachelor’s degrees, and Master’s degrees. Preparatory and special courses can also be undertaken by these students. The university promises quality education, multiple extracurricular opportunities, and strong international connections.

8. Russian New University

Russian New University has branches in over 21 cities in the country, offering adequate educational opportunities for students regardless of their gender and race. The university is proud of its diverse learning environment, which is composed of various institutes, research facilities, and training laboratories. It follows a teaching method that enhances not just the theoretical foundation of students but also their critical and practical skills.

9. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute is a public technical university in Moscow with a prominent reputation for producing outstanding scientists and engineers for more than 90. It is also one of the most sought-after universities for aspiring engineers from around the world. The university also has numerous cooperation agreements with foreign universities and companies for its students and faculty to participate in different international programs and activities. 

10. Moscow University for the Humanities

The Moscow University for the Humanities is a private university in Moscow, Russia. It was founded in 1944 as the Central Komsomol School, but it was only in 2003 that it was designated as a university. As one of the country’s leading classical universities, the university provides affordable tuition, a cultural center for performing arts, and a sports center for a variety of sports activities.

11. National Research University Higher School of Economics

The National Research University Higher School of Economics, or otherwise known as HSE University, is one of the best universities of higher education in the capital city of Russia. This institution has one of the largest campuses in the country that houses approximately 50,000 students and can provide them with all the necessary equipment for them to have the best possible experience.

12. Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University

Established in 1930, Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University (MADI) is a specialized institute that leads in providing study programs in transportation, road and airport construction, traffic safety management, logistics and transport, and economics. It offers advanced and innovative educational courses at the undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and postgraduate levels. Graduates of the school are guaranteed to acquire fundamental knowledge and skills deemed necessary for their future careers.

13. National University of Science and Technology MISIS

The National University of Science and Technology MISIS started as a mining academy and then became a steel institute. Over time, it expanded its course offer and modernized its facilities, but it’s still widely known for its programs in metallurgy and mining. Nowadays, the university has six campuses, 8 academic colleges, and multiple research institutes. They also have cutting-edge specialized laboratories in fields such as nanomaterials, cryoelectronic systems, biophysics, casting technologies, and much more!

14. Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox University

Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox University is a private theological university in Moscow, Russia. It was founded in 1991 by Orthodox missionaries who offered evening theology classes, and it received state accreditation as a university in 1992. Degree programs are available in theology, history, education, missionary practice, religious art, and music at the university.

15. Kutafin Moscow State Law University

Kutafin Moscow State Law University is one of the prominent law schools in the country. The university has been the home of more than 150,000 lawyers since its establishment. It has become popular because of its practical-oriented academic training that allows students to have strong theoretical knowledge and sound ethical values.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Moscow?

Applying to cheap universities in Moscow requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Russia for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Moscow?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Moscow. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Moscow is the Moscow Automobile and Road Construction State Technical University, which offers Environmental Engineering, Staff Management, and Transportation Technologies to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University offers Public Health, Biotechnology, and Biology.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Moscow, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Moscow as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on free and affordable institutions in Moscow for international students was helpful!