Russian as a Foreign Language. General Course

Course description

The programme, developed at SPbU, allows foreigners to study Russian at any level of language proficiency — from A1 to C1.

The course is perfect for high school graduates, university students, and anyone who wants to learn Russian. You’ll be able to improve your Russian language skills, feel more confident in communication, and broaden your knowledge of Russian culture.

The course modules cover language proficiency levels from beginner to advanced, making it one of the best preparatory courses for admission to SPbU educational programmes. 

Our Advantages
  • Our experienced educators are world-renowned scientists and winners of prestigious international awards
  • We offer over 800 educational programmes, ranging from popular and introductory to niche and advanced
  • With us, you can benefit from and become a part of the 300-year tradition and history of Russia’s first university
  • SPbU boasts a unique cultural environment that has shaped many famous Russian scientists, politicians, entrepreneurs and cultural figures
  • Upon completion of the course, you will receive an official SPbU You will have access to the University’s unique resources, including its extensive research library and many museums
  • The programme is unique in that it offers the opportunity to join the teaching and learning process throughout the calendar year, you can start studying when it is convenient for you
Course structure

The programme has a modular structure and consists of 19 modules. Each module lasts 4 weeks (80 academic hours of classes and 4 hours of midterm testing). Students can choose number of modules and duration of study. 

Students are placed in study groups at appropriate language proficiency level according to the placement test results. International students, who have not studied Russian before, begin their studies at the module A1.1. 

During classes, teachers pay attention to all the aspects of learning the language: Grammar, Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. 

The student’s level of preparedness for a particular module is determined according to the results of the placement test in Russian. After determining the level of Russian language proficiency, foreign students can study Russian in the module corresponding to their level of proficiency. 

At the end of each module, student do achievement tests. Lessons are of complex type (for A1-A2) and aspect type (for B1-C2).

Learning outcomes
  • Upon completing this course, foreigners will feel confident when: communicating with native speakers of Russian; reading and listening to texts; and discussing various topics in Russian. They will also have a comprehensive knowledge of grammar, learn to write texts of various genres and, most importantly, learn a lot of interesting things about contemporary Russia and its history 
  • If students pass the final assessment tests, they are issued a certificate in the standard form established by St Petersburg University