Preparatory Course for International Students

St Petersburg University has been offering preparatory courses for international applicants since 2018, helping them gain the necessary skills to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees entirely in Russian. Students enrolled in the programme benefit from a structured curriculum, experienced faculty, and access to modern facilities, including well-equipped classrooms and an extensive library. Additionally, participants receive a voucher for the Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL) and opportunities to engage in student life at the University.

© SPbU
© SPbU

The SPbU Preparatory Course for international students offers a structured programme to develop the language and academic skills required for undergraduate or graduate studies at any university in Russia.

  • Course duration: 10 months
  • Study hours: 1,080 hours
  • Format: Full-time or online
  • Schedule: 1 September to 30 June (2 semesters)
  • Application period: 3 February to 25 August
  • Tuition fee: 272,000 roubles

St Petersburg University offers the following specialisation tracks:

  • Natural Sciences
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Humanities
  • Economics
  • Medicine and Biology

The first semester is dedicated entirely to the study of the Russian language, with regular assessment tests to track progress. Starting from the second semester, students take the Introduction to the Language of the Specialisation course, which covers the basic terminology and grammatical structures of the academic language in their chosen field.

At the end of the course, students are required to take a final exam in Russian, as well as tests in their specialisation subjects. Additionally, they can opt to take the Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL-I) free of charge. Achieving a TORFL-I certificate awards the maximum number of points for admission to St Petersburg University. Upon successful completion of the preparatory course, students will receive a certificate from St Petersburg University, confirming their participation and achievement.

Application process:

  • Register a personal account at the SPbU Preparatory Course website
  • Fill in, print and sign the application form
  • Upload the required documents together with your application

Documents required:

  • A copy of the applicant’s identity document, valid for at least 18 months from the visa application date
  • Proof of previous education with transcripts
  • One 3×4 cm photograph
  • Medical certificate from a medical institution in the applicant’s country of residence confirming the absence of health conditions that could interfere with studies. This must include certificates from a psychiatrist and aт addiction specialist

APPLY

Regulations for Admission to the non-degree programme "Preparatory Department (for International Applicants)" at St Petersburg University in 2025 can be found here.

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