HSE Continues Admission for International Applicants
The number of applications has nearly doubled: as of today, more than 2,600 applications have been submitted for undergraduate programmes, and more than 2,400 for master's programmes. This increased interest from international applicants in studying at HSE confirms the university's status as one of the most sought-after Russian universities abroad.
Who Chooses HSE?
Among the leading countries in undergraduate applications are Pakistan, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, Ghana, and Moldova. For master's programmes, most applications come from Ghana, India, Nigeria, Gambia, Pakistan, Ethiopia, China, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Cameroon.
Victoria Panova
‘HSE sees one of its key missions as actively promoting Russian education on the international stage. The growing interest from applicants in Asia, Africa, and CIS countries reaffirms HSE’s reputation as a leading research university with future-ready competencies, not only in Russia but beyond. Moreover, this applies to both in-person and online formats,’ said Victoria Panova, Vice Rector of HSE University. ‘Despite challenging times, HSE has ranked among the top global universities for distance education, according to the THE Online Learning Rankings 2024. With a wide range of programmes in socio-economic, humanities, and creative fields, outstanding teachers from nearly 50 countries, high levels of support for international students, and modern infrastructure, HSE meets global standards—often at a lower tuition cost than Western universities. Applicants and their parents recognise the advantages and opportunities that HSE offers both during and after their studies, and they choose us.’
Opportunities for International Applicants
One of the key benefits for international students applying to HSE is the flexibility in admission formats. The university offers two options: competing for state-funded (quota) places under the Russian Government Scholarship, which covers up to 100% of tuition costs, or applying on a fee-paying basis.
International applicants can qualify for the Russian Government Scholarship (quota) either through international academic competitions (for undergraduate applicants) or by meeting the minimum score requirements in selection rounds (for both undergraduate and master's programmes).
Additionally, undergraduate applicants can transfer results from international and national exams, making the admission process even more flexible.
Preparing for Studies: What If You Don’t Speak Russian?
HSE offers Russian language training through its International Prep Year Programme, which provides a one-year preparatory course. Undergraduate applicants can take specialised entrance exams and compete for a state-funded place with an additional year of language and academic preparation. Master's applicants can also qualify for a state-funded spot if they successfully pass the portfolio competition, with an extra year of study.
HSE – Accessible, Convenient, and Clear
The university's website for international applicants is available in seven languages, including Chinese, Spanish, Arabic, and Hindi, allowing candidates to easily find information and navigate the admission process. Additionally, international applicants receive support via social media and webinars, where they can ask about studies, visas, life in Russia, and even whether halal dining options are available.
Alexander Deev
‘We aim to attract only the best. Our work with talented students and applicants is ongoing,’ said Alexander Deev, Director of International Talent Development. ‘HSE ensures a simple and accessible process—from online application submission to the start of studies. We understand that applying to a university, especially abroad, is a major step for foreign students that can come with many challenges. That is why every year, we do everything possible to make the application and document preparation process as clear as possible. Online consultations, personalised support at every stage of admission, and preparation for arrival in Russia—all of this helps our applicants feel confident and reassured, knowing that they will always have support in solving any issues that arise.’
The application period for undergraduate and master's programmes is ongoing. The deadline for state-funded applications is March 1, while fee-paying applications remain open until August 11 for undergraduate programmes and August 3 for master’s programmes.
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