Northern State Medical University

Country: Russia
University Type: Public
Establishment Year: 1932
World Ranking: 5300
Course Duration: 6 years (with internship)
Teaching Medium: English

Northern State Medical University in Arkhangelsk was founded in 1932 to serve the healthcare needs of Russia’s northern regions. Today it stands as the principal medical education center across six northern territories. NSMU offers a comprehensive medical curriculum with clinical training from early in the program.

The university is organized into 16 faculties and 55 departments, including 27 clinical departments attached to major city hospitals. It serves around 9,000 students from approximately 17 countries, guided by a team of 980 staff, including about 394 academics with 80 professors and 250 PhDs.

NSMU provides a fully English-medium 6-year MBBS program, with no additional entrance exam beyond NEET qualification for Indian students. It is recognized by WHO, NMC (India), ECFMG, FAIMER, and WDOMS. The university also features modern facilities such as simulation centers, well‑equipped hospitals, a library with electronic access, and an Indian mess run by invested staff familiar with Indian cuisine.

  1. Must be 17 years old by 31 December of admission year
  2. Completed 10+2 / equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English
  3. Minimum 50% aggregate in PCB
  4. NEET qualification required for Indian applicants
  5. Documents needed: valid passport, academic transcripts, NEET scorecard, medical fitness certificate (including HIV test), passport-size photos

Documents Required For Admission

At the time of MBBS admissions at Far Eastern Federal University, the Indian students are required to procure the following documents.

1. Class 10th pass certificate and mark sheet
2. Class 12th pass certificate and mark sheet
3. NEET score card
4. Valid passport
5. Passport-size photographs
6. Medical test report including HIV negative report.

Student Life at the University

  • Hostels with furnished rooms, shared kitchens, heating, laundry, Wi-Fi, and 24/7 security
  • Dedicated Indian mess serving both North and South Indian food, managed by Indian cooks
  • Vibrant international student community, celebrating Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Eid
  • Comprehensive sports facilities, student clubs, cultural events, and volunteer programs
  • Early clinical exposure through 27 departments in affiliated city hospitals
  • Support systems including an International Student Office, visa and legal guidance, and career counseling
  • Campus amenities include a cafeteria, bookstore, bank, medical store, psychological services, and recreation areas

Overview of Arkhangelsk City

Arkhangelsk is a coastal city on the Northern Dvina River, near the White Sea, with around 350,000 residents. It has a rich cultural history as a major port, featuring museums, cathedrals, and maritime heritage. The city is also home to other institutions like the Northern (Arctic) Federal University.

Arkhangelsk has a subarctic climate with long, snowy winters (average January -9 to -14 °C) and short, mild summers (around +17 °C). Winters are humid, windy, and dark with limited daylight. Public transport is reliable, and living costs are relatively low. The city has adapted well to foreign students, with many amenities catering to international communities, though seasonal adjustment (especially for lack of sunlight) may be needed.

Reddit insights highlight the cold, humid climate and mention that the region is accustomed to foreign students, though vitamin D supplements and warm clothing are advised. Regular cultural events and institutional support help newcomers feel welcome.

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