Russian Education for Students from the Islamic Republic of Iran

Today, when Iran-Russia relations are rapidly developing, we can witness an explosion of interest in Russia, Russian education, and studying Russian in Iran. The HED editorial staff addressed the Rossotrudnichestvo representative in the Islamic Republic of Iran, Lilia Votinova, asking her to comment on the enrollment campaign process and give recommendations for applicants.

To date, around 6,000 students from Iran are studying in Russia, and this number is increasing and will increase in the foreseeable future. Strengthening of bilateral relations and development of interaction in science and technology and culture boost a mutual interest in culture, language, and educational opportunities. The Russian Government allocated 300 quota places for citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This allows 300 Iranian citizens to apply to Russian universities on a state-funded basis (for free). This year, the competition was around seven applicants per place, and this result indicates a strong interest.

Medical specialties are in special demand among Iranian students. Physics and mathematics are traditionally in second place. Humanities such as Russian language and literature, journalism, international relations, Russian studies, and tourism are in third place. For the second academic year in a row, we have been observing creative majors such as art history and choreography getting more and more attractive for talented young people from Iran.

For participation in competitive selection to get a quota place and the right to free education, candidates must submit their documents via the special electronic form of the State Information System “Education in the Russian Federation for Foreigners” education-in-russia.com.

Everyone interested can participate. The main thing is to properly prepare documents and apply.

It is important that you are not afraid to make yourself known. Your achievements deserve to be noticed!

You can find the registration rules and portfolio building recommendations in Persian on our social media platforms:

Telegram – t.me/rs_tehran
Instagram* – @rs_tehran

*Recognized as an extremist organization in the Russian Federation

Rossotrudnichestvo in Iran, Telegram

Increasing your Admission Chances

There is a host of additional opportunities for you to win a competitive race to get an education quota.

For Bachelor’s/Specialist’s degrees:

• victory and prize-winning places at international and national Olympiads (in your major subjects)
• victory and prize-winning places at international and national sports competitions
• motivation letter
• participation in international conferences and symposia (in your field of study)
• published articles and books (in your field of study)

For Master’s and PhD degrees, the following can also be taken into consideration:

• letters of recommendation, guarantee, security from the Russian university on the official letterhead signed by the Vice-Rector or Rector

For creative majors, we recommend that you upload your portfolio:

• links to your dance and musical performances, paintings, drawings