- Pskov State University
Overview, Fees, Life in institution & the place, Syllabus, Course Details & Student Experiences
About Pskov State University
The university implements innovative teaching approaches, particularly in its medical programs, which are designed to meet global standards while fostering a strong research basis.
Established: 2010 (Medical Faculty founded in 2010; component institutions date back to 1932).
Type: Public/Government University.
Medium of Instruction: English (for the General Medicine/MBBS program).
Accreditations: NMC (erstwhile MCI), WHO, ECFMG, FAIMER, and WDOMS.
Pskov State Pedagogical University named after S.M. Kirov (est. 1932)
Pskov Polytechnic Institute (est. 1960)
Pskov Civil Engineering and Economics College
Pskov Industrial College
Velikiye Luki Building College
This merger combined decades of academic tradition with modern infrastructure to create a multidisciplinary educational hub.
Total Students: Over 10,000.
International Students: 1,300+ from over 40 countries (including a significant Indian community).
Teaching Staff: 500+ members, with over 70% holding D.Sc. or Ph.D. (Candidate of Science) degrees.
Infrastructure: 20+ training buildings, 12 student dormitories, 8 gyms, and a library with over 1 million books.
Campus Gallery
Hostel Gallery
Hospital Gallery
Fee Structure of Pskov State University
Life in Sovetskaya Ulitsa: An Indian MBBS Student’s Perspective
Sovetskaya Ulitsa (Soviet Street) is a central artery in Pskov, where much of the university’s academic and social life is concentrated.
Language: While the course is in English, daily life requires basic Russian. Locals are patient, and students often pick up “survival Russian” quickly.
Religion & Hospitality: Pskov is an ancient city with deep Orthodox Christian roots (home to the Pskov Kremlin). Residents are generally hospitable and respectful toward the diverse religious practices of Indian students.
Arts & Entertainment: The area features the Pskov Art Museum-Reserve and the “Aquapolis” water park. Cultural exchange events at the university allow Indian students to showcase traditional dances and festivals.
Traditional Cuisine: Students can enjoy local staples like Blini (pancakes) and Borscht.
International Options: Pskov has various cafes and pizzerias.
Street Food: Local kiosks offer quick snacks like Shawarma and pastries.
Indian Food: Most Indian students prefer self-cooking. Local supermarkets (like Magnit or Pyaterochka) stock essentials like rice, lentils, and spices. Some hostels have dedicated Indian messes.
Climate: Continental climate. Winters are cold and snowy (averaging $-10$°C to $-15$°C), while summers are mild ($20$°C to $25$°C). Central heating is excellent in all university buildings.
Transportation: Pskov is a walkable city, but buses are cheap and efficient. A student monthly pass is very affordable.
Cost of Living: One of the most budget-friendly cities in Russia. Monthly expenses (excluding rent/fees) typically range from $150 to $250 (₹12,000 – ₹20,000).
Safety: Pskov is considered a safe, quiet city with a low crime rate. University hostels have 24/7 security.
Why Study MBBS at Pskov State University?
Based on student reviews and consultant reports, PskovSU is a top choice due to:
NMC/FMGE Success: The curriculum is aligned with the requirements of the National Medical Commission (India), aiding students in passing the screening tests.
Direct Admission: No donation or entrance exams like SAT/IELTS are required; admission is based on NEET qualification and 12th-grade marks.
Clinical Exposure: The university is building a new campus for the Institute of Medicine and Experimental Biology, providing students with access to modern hospital facilities for internships.
High Ranking: It is recognized as one of the 33 “flagship” universities of Russia.
Course Duration at Pskov State University
The MBBS (General Medicine) program duration is:
Total Duration: 6 Years.
Structure: 5 years of academic and theoretical study + 1 year of clinical internship (rotational) in affiliated hospitals.
Life in Russia from the students' perspective
Life in Russia offers a unique blend of rigorous education and vibrant cultural immersion.
Indian Community: Large clusters of Indian students celebrate festivals like Diwali and Holi on campus, ensuring you never feel too far from home.
Safety: Universities operate under strict security protocols. Students are advised to carry their “Student Card” and passport copies at all times.
Education System: Focuses heavily on practical skills from the 4th year onwards. The teacher-to-student ratio is often as low as $1:15$.
Nature & Tourism: Beyond Pskov, students often visit St. Petersburg (only 4 hours away) for weekend tourism, exploring world-class architecture and history.
Local Impression: Russians generally have a positive view of Indians, rooted in long-standing diplomatic ties. Indian cinema and tea are historically popular in Russia.
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Russia
Indian students applying for MBBS admissions in Russia must fulfil the following eligibility criteria:
- Minimum 50% score in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in Class 12 and passing marks in English.
- Attained the age of 17 as of 31st December in the admission year.
- Cleared NEET exam (in order to practice medicine in India) (50th percentile for general/EWS category and 40th percentile for SC/ST/OBC category)
Benefits of MBBS in Russia
Affordability: Tuition fees are significantly lower than private medical colleges in India (total 6-year cost often under ₹25 Lakhs).
Global Recognition: Degrees are valid for licensing exams in the USA (USMLE), UK (PLAB), and India (NEXT/FMGE).
Subsidized Education: Many seats are government-funded or subsidized for international students.
Infrastructure: Modern laboratories, 3D anatomical models, and extensive clinical bases in state hospitals.
MBBS Syllabus in Pskov State University
| Year | Primary Focus & Subjects |
| 1st Year | Anatomy, Histology, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Russian Language (for communication). |
| 2nd Year | Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Philosophy, Psychology. |
| 3rd Year | Pathology, Pharmacology, Pathophysiology, General Surgery, Internal Medicine basics. |
| 4th – 5th Year | Clinical rotations: Pediatrics, Oncology, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Neurology, Psychiatry. |
| 6th Year | Internship: Practical rotation in Surgery, Therapy, Emergency Medicine, and Forensic Medicine. |
FAQ
MBBS abroad is a better options then private medical in India, especially in terms of cost, private medical in India costs a fortune more then that of many countries abroad.
Comparing FMG exam with NEET, we can safely say it is not at all a tough exam. Although there are no specific matrix to judge how tough an exam is, but considering the passing ratio of FMG exam which is roughly 20-25% to that of the percentage of candidates who get selected for government medical college through NEET which is roughly 0.02%, FMG exam is definitely a tough exam in the field of medical studies.