Living Expenses Guidance for MBBS Students

April 13, 2023

Russia has increasingly become one of the popular destinations for Indian students seeking to study MBBS Abroad. The high-quality MBBS Degree, affordable tuition fees, and excellent infrastructure attract students from different corners worldwide. Although there are several options and benefits for moving abroad for Indian students, it’s also worth noting that the cost of living in Russia can vary depending on the student’s lifestyle. For example, students who cook their meals at home and use public transportation can save a lot of money compared to those who eat out frequently and take public transport.  

It’s essential to research and compare the living expenses of different cities in Russia before deciding where to study. Some primary expenditures that students should consider include accommodation, food, transportation, and healthcare.

In general, the cost of living in Moscow and St. Petersburg is higher than in other cities in Russia. However, these cities also offer more opportunities for part-time work, internships, and cultural activities, which can offset some of the higher living expenses.

On the other hand, smaller cities like Kazan, etc., offer a lower cost of living. 

Overall, it’s essential for Indian students planning to study MBBS in Russia to research and plan their finances carefully to ensure that they can afford their living expenses throughout their studies. In this Blog, we will discuss about the different living expenses that students should expect while studying MBBS in Russia.

Accommodation

One of the most significant expenses is the accommodation expense either in India, Russia, or anywhere else in the world. The cost of accommodation can vary significantly depending on the city or the country you choose to live in. In Russia, the accommodation expenses differ according to the city. However, there are also cheaper options available for Indian students in Russia. Shared accommodation costs between 10,000 – 25,000 per month. Furthermore, for hassle-free accommodation, medical universities in Russia provide accommodations with access to all the basic necessities to students.

Food and Groceries

Another main expenditure everyone makes is on food and groceries. The cost of food and groceries in Russia is comparatively affordable with the least amount of 500 to 800. However, it entirely depends on the city you choose to live in and the individual’s standard of living. 

Transportation

The mode of transport in Russia are through subways, buses, trolleys, and trams. The cost of transportation in the country is relatively affordable. While transportation may be easily accessible and affordable to all there are also chances that even transportation costs more depending on the lifestyle of the people. 

Healthcare

Both public and private hospitals provide healthcare in Russia. All citizens in Russia are required to have health insurance. Indian students who are studying MBBS in Russia are also recommended to have health insurance in case of any health emergency and check-ups. Medical treatment in private hospitals can vary significantly from that of public hospitals and the cost also differ greatly.

Entertainment

Russia has a rich cultural heritage and offers a wide range of entertainment options for students. The cost of entertainment can vary depending on the activity and the city you’re in. Although there are entertainment activities that cost more money like movie tickets, theater tickets, etc., there are also options for free entertainment such as museums, parks, and cultural festivals.

The Average cost of living in Russia depends on the standard of living of the students as well. As an MBBS student in Russia, managing your finances can be a challenging task, especially if you’re living away from your family. However, with proper planning and budgeting, you can make your financial situation more manageable. Here are some tips to help you budget effectively:

  1. Create a Budget: The first step in effective budgeting is to create a budget. You need to identify your monthly income, including any allowances or scholarships you receive, and then estimate your monthly expenses. Make a list of all your monthly expenses, such as rent, groceries, transportation, and entertainment.
  1. Prioritize your Expenses: Once you have a clear picture of your monthly expenses, prioritize them based on their importance. For example, rent and groceries should be at the top of your list, while entertainment expenses should be lower.
  1. Ways to Save Money: There are many ways you can save money while studying in Russia. For example, you can cook your meals at home instead of eating out, use public transportation instead of taxis, and buy used textbooks instead of new ones.
  1. Use Student Discounts: As an MBBS student, you may be eligible for student discounts on various products and services. Make sure to take advantage of these discounts to save money.
  1. Track your Expenses: It’s important to keep track of your expenses to ensure that you stick to your monthly budget. Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to monitor your spending.
  1. Avoid Unnecessary Expenses: To avoid overspending, avoid unnecessary expenses such as buying expensive clothes or gadgets, keep a record of your expenses handy.
  1. Plan for Emergencies: Unexpected expenses can arise at any time, so it’s essential to plan for emergencies. Set aside a small amount of money each month to build an emergency fund.

Manage your finances effectively as an MBBS student in Russia by following these tips. Remember that budgeting is all about planning and making smart choices. With some effort and discipline, you can make your finances work for you.