A behemoth nation spanning two continents and bordering over a dozen different countries throughout Europe and Asia, you will undeniably have your hands full deciding where to earn your degree abroad in Russia. Yet despite its size, Russia is actually very sparsely populated, and there are a small handful of cities which rank preeminently as the most popular destinations for international students to pursue their degrees.

First is Moscow. The nation’s capital, largest city, and home to some 16 million citizens, Moscow also hosts a number of the most prestigious universities where you can earn your degree abroad in Russia. For centuries Moscow has been one of the most influential global cities in the world, and today you will discover nothing short of greatness while living abroad there.

Saint Petersburg, Russia’s second largest and most “European” city, is another especially popular destination where to earn your degree abroad in Russia. Saint Petersburg was the imperial capital of Russia for a long time before the Russian Revolution took over in 1918, and continues to serve as a major cultural hub in wake of Moscow’s burgeoning political and economic influence.

Other cities where you might look into earning your degree abroad in Russia include Perm, Syktyvkar, and Nizhny Novgorod. There are hundreds of universities located throughout Russia, so research your potential locations thoroughly before deciding where to pursue a degree.