The accommodation fee is set by the university. It may vary from 150 to 5,000 roubles per month, depending on the university and the city, and makes it a much cheaper option compared to a rental apartment. Payments shall be done pay in advance for the whole academic year.

Students who live in a dormitory must follow certain rules. The obvious ones are not to damage the furniture, keep one’s room tidy, not make too much noise (loud music, TV, etc.), notify the hall of residence supervisor of one’s long absence. There is a zero-tolerance policy on drinking and smoking in Russian halls of residence. You will be informed about these rules upon arrival.

You are entitled to a place in the dormitory if you are:

• A full-time student, enrolled in main educational programmes (for the whole duration of the degree programme); a part-time student, enrolled in main educational programmes (during interim and final exams).


• Ask the representatives of your university whether you qualify for a place at a dormitory when you are submitting the enrolment application, or search the university's website.

Rental Apartment

If for some reasons you don’t consider University's Dormitory as an option, then it is advisable to look for a rental apartment or room. Naturally, it will be more expensive, but you will be able to find a location and level of comfort that suits you. If you plan to rent an apartment with your fellow students or stay with a host family, you will be able to choose your neighbours.

Moscow and St. Petersburg are well known for having the most expensive apartments. The smaller the city is and the farther it is from major cities, the lower the rent is. For example, as of 2015 in Moscow, depending on the location and facilities available, a bedsit will cost you around 30-35 thousand roubles a month, and a room around 15-20 thousand roubles a month. In Novosibirsk, the same options would be 50% cheaper.

Some universities help their students find lodgings, which includes finding host families. So, first ask the representatives of your university whether they provide such services. This ensures fast and secure search of lodging options. While looking for a suitable flat, you can stay at a dormitory.

Keep in mind that apart from the rent you will have to pay a deposit (a security payment of 100% of the monthly rent) and the realtor's interest 50%-100% of the monthly rent).