One hundred and ninety-four years ago, Russia and Brazil established diplomatic relations. Despite a so long-standing history of cooperation, general policy of strategic partnership and development of business and public relations, the potential of bilateral relations has not been fulfilled enough. And it is not just about geographical distance but also about that Brazilians have concepts of Russia and Russians which are extremely far from reality. It stands to reason that effective development of bilateral dialogue needs stepping up of outreach efforts. Culture, art, student exchange, joint humanitarian projects, and social dialogue – that's what is on the operations agenda of the Russian House in Brasilia.
Andrei Prokin, Head of the Russian House in Brasilia, talks about the Russian House's activities in general and about the enrollment campaign for those applying to Russian universities.
Education in Russia is really of considerable interest to Brazilian applicants. They are willing to learn Russian and are interested in Russian culture. Getting higher education in Russia for Brazilians is inextricably linked with gaining profound knowledge in the chosen academic field. Besides, studying in Russia is a real adventure, experience of living in an interesting country, and plenty of exciting meetings and useful acquaintances. All of this as a whole promotes personal and career development.
Here, it is important to realize that Brazilian applicants planning to study in Russia are mostly people above 25 who have secondary vocational education or a Bachelor's degree. They have clear plans for the future, and they have decided on a research area they want to work in. Brazilians are aimed at a particular university or study program. They are highly motivated and resolute. After completing another degree, many, having fallen in love with Russia, continue to study in our country and embark on a PhD or residency program.
Last year, 51 people applied to Russian universities. At the moment, we continue to accept application forms. The deadline is December 15. We hope to maintain the same level of demand for education in Russia, despite the considerable increase in airfares.
This year, as part of the first stage of selection, we plan to hold a competition of secondary school certificates and portfolios as well as online interviews in particular cases.
- To participate in the competition, you must submit documents confirming your level of education, certificates confirming your successful participation in Olympiads and conferences, and letters of recommendation from colleges or universities
- Residency or PhD degree applicants must write a summary of the intended topic of their future study
Most candidates applied for medical specialties (30%) and various engineering specialties (20%). The most popular humanities are international relations (10%) and linguistics (10%). Of course, some applicants want to master creative disciplines, for example, singing and painting.
To learn Russian, all candidates are offered a one-year pre-university training course. Sixty-five percent of applicants plan to take this opportunity. Naturally, if the applicant already knows Russian, they have the right to start pursuing their degree after undergoing the selection without wasting time on the improvement of their language proficiency.
It is important to note that candidates from Brazil are not afraid of climatic characteristics of our country. These undaunted people choose the universities located throughout Russia. Candidates do not show an intense interest in educational institutions in Moscow and Saint Petersburg. Among the chosen universities are Kazan Federal University, universities in Tomsk, Omsk, and Novosibirsk. Far Eastern Federal University, which has the amazing Association of Brazilian Students, is especially popular.
14.12.2023
