Studying in Moscow offers a smorgasbord of options for international students. Whether you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track art institute or a major scientific research university, you’ll find it in Russia’s capital city.

Popular subjects to study. Most students who opt to spend their time abroad in Moscow pursue Russian studies, which is the obvious choice for a reason. Founded in 1147, Moscow is one of the oldest cities in Russia, making it an ideal location to study history. For aspiring performance artists and cinema enthusiasts, theater programs in Moscow are also especially strong. The city has a lively history of performance art, recognized on the world stage. Studying theatre in Moscow offers students insight into Russian theatrical traditions and the region’s best playwrights, including the likes of Gogol and Chekhov.

Short term and summer vs. long term programs. Moscow’s academic calendar looks similar to that of many Western education systems. Classes start in September and end in May, with breaks in November, late December, and March. Summer is usually off, but many universities and private education centers in Moscow continue offering courses during the summer term.

Attending universities vs. studying w/ other program types. You can opt to register directly and be admitted to a university in Moscow, or you can choose to go through your own university, through a consortium, or through a third-party provider. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to study abroad in Moscow, so we recommend that you pick the program that fits your needs, goals, and budget.