The goal of this program is to prepare international students for admission to Saint Petersburg State University’s main degree programs taught in Russian. During the course, participants study the Russian language as the primary tool for дальнейшего academic learning, as well as gain an introduction to профильные disciplines required for their chosen field of study.

The program helps international students adapt to the Russian university education system, develop language and academic skills, and prepare for successful entrance examinations. Upon completion, participants acquire the necessary knowledge and a level of Russian language proficiency that allows them to continue their studies at the university in their chosen specialization.
Preparatory Department (for International Students) | SPbU
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
General Information
The program is designed to prepare international students for admission to Saint Petersburg State University across all fields of degree programs taught in Russian.

Participants are prepared to pass the Russian as a Foreign Language exam (TORFL-1) as well as entrance exams in subjects depending on the chosen track:
• Natural sciences — mathematics, physics, chemistry
• Engineering — mathematics, physics, computer science
• Humanities — social studies, history, literature
• Economics — social studies, history, mathematics
• Biomedical — physics, chemistry, biology

The first semester is fully dedicated to studying the Russian language (24 hours per week). In the second semester, students continue with 15 hours of Russian per week, along with a course titled "Introduction to the Language of the Specialty."
During the program, students study key terminology and grammatical structures of academic language across three disciplines within their field of specialization.

  • Practical classes are held at the Peterhof Academic Campus of SPbU, allowing students to experience the educational system and research laboratories firsthand. Accommodation is also provided there in a modern student campus.

  • The program is led by Natalia Anatolyevna Bure, Candidate of Philological Sciences and Associate Professor of the Faculty of Philology at SPbU. The teaching staff includes associate professors from SPbU faculties.

  • SPbU provides full visa support for international students.
FOR ADMISSION
Required Documents
Copy of passport
valid for more than 18 months
from the planned date of entry into the Russian Federation
High school diploma
certificate of secondary education
ADVANTAGES
SPbU Benefits
  • Faculty
    Our faculty includes world-renowned scholars, experienced educators, and лауреаты prestigious international awards.
  • Educational programs
    We offer more than 800 additional educational programs — from the most popular to rare and unique ones.
  • 300 years of tradition
    Here you can experience the 300-year tradition of Russia’s first classical university and become part of it.
  • Unique cultural environment
    SPbU is a distinctive cultural environment that has shaped many prominent Russian scientists, politicians, entrepreneurs, and cultural figures.
  • Official certificate
    Upon completion, you will receive an official SPbU certificate confirming a high level of acquired knowledge.
  • Access to unique resources
    Studying with us gives you access to the university’s unique resources — from an extensive scientific library to numerous museums.
Apply for the Preparatory Department (for international students) | SPbU
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The project is implemented with the support of the Innovation Promotion Fund under the "Student Startup" program as part of the "University Technology Entrepreneurship Platform" initiative of the federal project "Technologies".