Peoples' Friendship University — RUDN
Peoples' Friendship University — The Most Diverse University in Russia
Peoples' Friendship University (RUDN University) is not just an ordinary university — it is one of the most famous Russian universities in the Arab world, having welcomed tens of thousands of Arab students over decades who are now prominent doctors, engineers, and lawyers in their countries. It was founded in 1960 with the explicit goal of serving international students from Asia, Africa, and Latin America, which led it to build from the outset an infrastructure and academic system entirely oriented towards the international student.
RUDN welcomes students from over 160 countries worldwide, with the total number of international students exceeding 10,000 annually — a figure rarely achieved by European universities. This immense cultural diversity creates a unique environment where Arab students find themselves in a familiar community, while gaining genuine international experience that enriches their personality and broadens their horizons.
The university is located in Moscow, the Russian capital, which combines cultural vibrancy, economic opportunities, and rich history. RUDN students have an additional advantage: the ability to benefit from Moscow's huge job market during and after their studies. The university has teaching hospitals, veterinary medicine, and advanced laboratories, and offers programs in Russian and English in most of its specializations.
Most Demanded Specializations and Their Annual Fees
The mentioned fees are university fees. NorthPath's $1,500 fee is a one-time payment covering all services.
| Specialization | Annual Fees | Duration of Study | Language |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Human Medicine | From $3,500 / year | 6 years | Russian / English |
| Engineering (Multidisciplinary) | From $2,800 / year | 4–5 years | Russian / English |
| Economics and Business Administration | From $2,500 / year | 4 years | Russian / English |
| Law and Legal Sciences | From $2,500 / year | 4 years | Russian / English |
| Humanities and Social Sciences | From $2,400 / year | 4 years | Russian / English |
* Accommodation in Moscow ranges from $400 to $700 per month. University dormitories are available at reduced prices for international students.
What Makes RUDN the First Choice for Arab Students in Russia
Large and Supportive Arab Community
Tens of thousands of Arab graduates from RUDN are spread across the Arab world, meaning a ready-made network of connections from day one. Active Arab student associations organize events and help new students adapt quickly.
Moscow — Capital of Opportunities
Studying in Moscow means exposure to the largest economy in Eastern Europe, with part-time job opportunities and professional training in major international companies. Moscow's cultural, entertainment, and social life is unparalleled.
Integrated English Language Programs
RUDN has one of the widest offerings of English programs in Russian universities, allowing Arab students to study without prior proficiency in Russian in most specializations.
World-class academic infrastructure
Modern teaching hospitals, advanced science laboratories, international research centers, and one of the largest academic libraries in Russia — all under one roof in the heart of Moscow.
We handle admission and all procedures completely
From admission to settling in Moscow — everything is in our hands
Our Arab team follows your file from the moment of contact until you sit in the lecture hall.
Admission Requirements & Documents at RUDN
Admission to Peoples' Friendship University — RUDN is based on submitting the required documents and a high-school certificate with a good average — there is no difficult entrance exam. Below are the core requirements for international students:
High-school certificate
With a good average, officially translated and legalized (apostille or ministry attestation per your country).
Valid passport
Valid for at least 18 months, with a clear copy of the first page.
Medical check & HIV test
A certificate of freedom from infectious diseases and an HIV test — required for the study residence permit.
Photos & application form
Passport-size photos on a white background with the completed application form.
* NorthPath handles the translation, attestation and preparation of all your documents and checks them before sending them to the university.
Is the RUDN degree internationally recognized?
Yes. The RUDN degree is internationally recognized and accredited by the Ministry of Education in Russia, and can be legalized via apostille or consular attestation for use in your home country.
The degree is accepted in most Arab countries after an equivalency review at the Ministry of Higher Education. The NorthPath team helps you understand the exact equivalency requirements in your country before you start, so you are fully aware of the degree’s value and career path.
Life in Moscow: housing & costs
Moscow is a global capital where thousands of international students study, with a large Arab community, halal restaurants and mosques, and one of the best metro networks in the world. The university provides dormitories close to the faculties at a reasonable cost. Here is an initial estimate of a student’s monthly living costs:
NorthPath helps you book housing, picks you up from the airport, sets up your accommodation and handles your local registration in your first days, so you can start your studies stress-free.
Student Questions about RUDN
They usually fall within $350–600 per month, covering housing, food and transport — the dormitory being one of the most affordable options.
The academic year usually starts in September; it is best to begin the application process at least three to four months earlier to finalize admission and the visa on time.
Studies come first, and the student visa allows limited work under local regulations; we recommend focusing on studying, especially in the first years.
Yes, RUDN is one of the most recognized and respected Russian universities in the Arab world due to its long history with Arab students. Its degree is recognized in Gulf countries, Egypt, Morocco, Libya, and others, with the necessity of degree equivalency according to each country's requirements.
Moscow is a large, developed city with significant Arab communities, halal restaurants, and mosques. Living costs are slightly higher than Minsk but remain much lower than any Western European capital. The extensive metro network makes getting around easy and safe.
Belarus is quieter and cheaper, making it better for students who want to focus on studying with a smaller budget. Russia (especially Moscow) is more vibrant and offers broader opportunities, but with a higher cost of living. For more, read our comprehensive comparison.