Studying MBBS abroad has been gaining exponential popularity among aspiring Indian medical students for several years now. Among the several leading destinations for MBBS abroad, Russia has been a common preference for Indian students. An estimated 8000 students joined Russia to pursue higher education in their desired fields. A majority of these students are those who are seeking medical education abroad. 

The country is known to be among the global superpowers and world leaders. It is often a destination for not only those who seek a hustle-free or adventurous life but also for those who are enthusiastic about participating and evolving in the research practices of various disciplines. Therefore, it is no wonder that MBBS in Russia has been a choice for aspiring medical students in India for several decades now.

However, because of this evident popularity of the ‘far away land,’ there are several misconceptions and misbeliefs among the students and parents in regard to their MBBS study in Russia. As a result of these misapprehensions regarding MBBS in Russia, several students often miss the chance of fulfilling their dreams.

Below are some of the common myths and the real facts contrasting them.

1. Russian Degree is Not Valid in India

Russia is home to 25+ universities that are offering medical education. These medical universities are highly recognised and well-reputed across the world. The top government medical universities of Russia are recognised by various statutory bodies such as the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER), erstwhile Medical Council of India (MCI), now National Medical Commission (NMC) and the Medical Council of various other countries such as Canada, Australia, etc.

With this recognition, the student is eligible to appear for various medical licensing exams such as that of the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE)/ National Exit Test (NExT), the United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE), etc. Once qualifying for the medical licensing exam, the students can pursue their careers as doctors in their dream destinations. 

Therefore, it won’t be wrong to say that a medical degree from MBBS in Russia is absolutely valid, not only in India but also abroad. 

2. The Universities are Bilingual

The above belief is partially true. Since Russia is not an English-speaking country, it is not a surprise that the medium of education for most universities and other educational institutions is in Russian. 

But more recently as the number of international students aspiring to study MBBS in Russia has increased, many universities have started the international medical program, under which the medium of education and classroom transaction is in English. 

Therefore, many universities offering MBBS in Russia to International students offer a complete education in the English medium. Apart from that, international students are also required to learn the basic Russian language in the very first year to help them communicate better with their Russian friends and locals in their final years. 

Hence, the medium of language in top government medical universities of Russia is in English medium. 

3. Russia is an Expensive Destination

Certainly not. Russia is popular for being an affordable European destination. This also stands true for its education. Russian medical universities are popular for their pocket-friendliness. With the federal government subsidising a major amount of fees, the cost of MBBS in Russia is significantly reduced. 

Moreover, the overall cost of staying in Russia is very low compared to other European nations. Having said that, the quality of living is high and at par with the standard of European living standards. International students often can also enjoy the benefits of student discounts at public transportation, restaurants, etc.

Therefore, Russia is an affordable choice not only in regards to tuition fees but also the affordable stay.

4. The Admission Process is Complicated & Difficult 

This is a completely false belief. The admission process for studying MBBS in Russia is very easy and generally does not demand much of a hassle. The student is not required to submit any form of donation or sit through the entrance exam or interview. 

The admission process is extremely straightforward and getting a student visa is also incredibly easy. However, at times, these processes may require some formalities including various documents in original as well as translated form, which might make things a little difficult for the students. Arranging the paperwork for visa, admissions, as well as education, can be quite a strenuous task for many.

At Rus Education, the team not only guides you in choosing the most suited government medical university of Russia as per your need but also takes care of all these arrangements to make the admission process easier for you.

5. FMGE/NExT is ‘Too’ Tough To Qualify

The medical licensing exam of India, i.e. FMGE/NExT is often labelled as one of the most difficult exams for the medical students of India. Obviously, it would not be a cake walk for what it’s worth but it is actually not that formidable. 

The Foreign Medical Graduate Exam (FMGE) is usually conducted for all the students who have completed their graduation from medical universities abroad. The exam is generally conducted twice a year. The exam would soon be replaced by the National Exit Test (NExT) which would be mandatory for all medical graduates of India and abroad. 

To ace the exam, students studying abroad are required to continuously stay on track with their studies. Studying MBBS in top government medical universities of Russia gives the students a chance to get the needed coaching for FMGE/NExT as well as other medical licensing exams such as USMLE, etc. 

As a result of this, the graduates of MBBS in Russia have had a high passing percentage in the FMGE exam over the years.

6. The Salary as a Practitioner is Very Low for a Foreign Medical Graduate

Unlike the popular misconception, the salary of an FMGE-qualified doctor is at par with the doctors who have graduated from Indian medical universities. This myth is the result of close-mindedness and lack of awareness among foreign medical graduates.

There are plenty of examples of success and achievements by foreign medical graduates. After all, in real life, it all comes down to the skills learned and experiences gained. 

7. Lack of Career Opportunities 

This belief could not be further far away from the truth. Studying MBBS abroad opens up a pandora of opportunities in terms of career. In regards to more elucidate choices with the diverse experience that too at a global level, MBBS in Russia, in particular, offers the gateway of not only various traditional roles of doctors but also several non-conventional opportunities such as that of medical tourism, hospital management, etc.

Conclusion

MBBS in Russia has been a continuously growing preference among Indian students for their MBBS abroad. The study and the country have unlimited things to offer to the students seeking quality medical education at an affordable cost. 

However, the decision is certainly not an easy one. It is often surrounded by lots of myths that often deviate the students from their path to success and opportunities. Therefore, it becomes important to get the right information before making a choice. 

The team of Rus Education has been helping the students achieve their dream of becoming a doctor for 30 years. More than 50,000 students in these past 3 decades have achieved their dream with us and are currently working as renowned professionals in leading hospitals of India. If you have any kind of doubts or concerns about MBBS in Russia, we can help in finding all the right answers. 

Contact us via the student helpline number 1800-833-3338 or simply visit us to start on your journey to study MBBS in Russia.