Even as Russia is going through a conflict in Ukraine, it has emerged as the first choice for Indian nationals to pursue their MBBS studies. The scenario began reaching a crescendo with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia recently. “Recently, it has more than tripled in comparison to previous years,” revealed Dr. Ashok Patel, a student representative of Indian students studying at Orenburg State Medical University. This shift therefore represents an increasing affinity towardsng Russia as a destination for medical education among Indian students.
The shift from China and Ukraine to Russia
Traditionally, China, Ukraine, and some other countries were the study destinations for Indian medical students who wanted to study medicine at a lower cost. However, the recent geopolitical issues and the pandemic have moved the focus to Russia, said Dr. Patel, adding that an estimated 15,000 Indian students are currently studying in Russia for their medical degree. The reasons are cited as a simplified process through which Russia grants its visas, English-medium teaching, and a high pass-out ratio. In addition, minimal racism adds to the factor for Russia.
Indo-Russian educational relations strengthened.
Educational ties between the two nations are an old practice, as stated by Oleg Osipov, Director of the Russian House, New Delhi. He mentioned that there are around 25,000 to 30,000 Indian students who are currently pursuing different courses in Russia. The students who have passed out of the Russian institutions have effectively contributed to the Indian economy, medicine, and the education system, besides other sectors. Besides pursuing medicine courses, these students also pursue education in the fields of physics, chemistry, psychology, philology, and aerospace technology in Russia.
Student Views on Opting for Russia
“The pandemic and other conflicts discouraged my parents from entering into look-up arrangements with China and Ukraine,” said Ritesh Dubey, a sixth-year MBBS student at Oryol State Medical University. For him, therefore, Russia was the most obvious choice with its safe atmosphere, good universities, and low cost of living. For Dubey, almost 60% of FMGs opt for Russia every year.
Likewise, Sachin Katara from Crimea State Medical University said the high competition for government seats and costly private colleges in India deterred him from pursuing studies in his homeland. He mentioned the system of NEET UG was not transparent, making him wary of the scenario, but the good relations between India and Russia comforted him. For Anubhav Arya, who transferred to Samara State Medical University from Ukraine, budget was the main reason for coming to Russia.
Cost and financial considerations
A huge factor in the decision to study medicine in Russia is finance. Admissions processes are almost always conducted through agents or consultants. One has to be very careful when selecting authentic individuals or organisations to prevent spurious fees. The genuine agents charge a nominal fee, which would be the university fee and a bit more for the admission procedure. Tuition fees range from Rs 2.5 lakhs to Rs 6 lakhs a year, depending on the institution. It will also include food and other personal expenses, which are going to cost around Rs 30–50 lakh for the entire six years.
Future Prospects of Indian MBBS Passouts in Russia
Most Indian students in Russia have the objective of returning to India to practice medicine. For that, passing the FMG exam is considered compulsory. Good career prospects exist in Russia, but the language is a problem as one must be proficient in Russian. The quality of life is wonderful in Russia, and it is possible for the graduate to stay and work in Russia since his degree is considered valid all over the territory of Russia, or apply to universities in other countries for postgraduate studies.
Conclusion
The reasons for the sudden interest of Indian MBBS students in Russia include a more simplified visa process, English-medium teaching, low tuition fees, and finally, last but not least, the historic relationship that exists between India and Russia. Irrespective of the geopolitical turmoil, it has always emerged as the preferred destination for studying abroad due to strong educational ties coupled with a secure environment.
