In short
HSE University is a leading Russian research university offering a wide range of interdisciplinary programs, including many taught in English. International students can access affordable tuition, scholarships, and a vibrant student life across its multiple campuses.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1992
- Students
- 31,900
- International students
- 5,000
- Acceptance rate
- 30%
- Tuition (intl)
- €7–12k/yr
- Languages
- RU, EN
- Location
- Russia
HSE University (Higher School of Economics) is Russia's leading social-science and research university, founded in Moscow in 1992. With over 31,000 students across four campuses, it offers interdisciplinary programs in economics, law, computing, engineering, and the humanities. HSE ranks among Russia's top universities globally (QS top 300) and provides numerous English-taught master's programs attractive to international students.
Why study here
- Ranked among the top 3 universities in Russia and QS top 300 globally, with strong employer recognition
- Wide choice of English-taught master's and bachelor's programs in economics, data science, and social sciences
- Active research environment with ties to government and leading Russian and international companies
- Russian government scholarships available for international students covering tuition and a monthly stipend
- Campuses in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, and Perm offer diverse city experiences across Russia
Student life
HSE student life is vibrant and intellectually stimulating. Students can access career development centres with connections to major Russian employers, participate in academic mobility programmes, join numerous student clubs, and engage with extracurricular research projects. Moscow and St. Petersburg offer world-class museums, theatres, and cultural events at student-friendly prices. On-campus and nearby dormitories are available at affordable rates.
Fees
InternationalPaid international programme tuition ranges from approximately RUB 400,000 to RUB 1,030,000 per year (approx. EUR 4,000–10,000) depending on programme. Many international students receive Russian government scholarships covering full tuition.
HomeRussian domestic students admitted through competitive examinations pay no tuition (state-funded places). Paid domestic places exist at similar rates to international paid programmes.
LivingMoscow living costs for students: approximately EUR 500–900 per month for accommodation, food, and transport. St. Petersburg and regional campuses are somewhat cheaper.
Russian Presidential and Government Scholarships are available annually for international applicants and cover full tuition plus a monthly stipend. Applications typically open in spring.
Admissions
UndergraduateRussian Unified State Examination (EGE) scores for Russian citizens; international applicants take HSE entrance examinations or submit SAT/international qualifications
Master'sRecognised bachelor's degree; competitive entrance examination or portfolio review; minimum scores vary by programme
PhDRecognised master's degree; research proposal; supervisor agreement
IELTS6.5 for English-taught programmes
TOEFL iBT90 for English-taught programmes
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025290
QS EECA Rankings 20243
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025401
University scholarships
Russian Federation Government ScholarshipFull tuition + monthly stipend (~RUB 15,000/month)
Russian Presidential ScholarshipFull tuition + enhanced monthly stipend
HSE Academic Merit ScholarshipPartial tuition reduction for high-achieving enrolled students
Accreditation
HSE University holds state accreditation from the Russian Ministry of Education and Science and is designated a National Research University. The ABET-accredited Software Engineering bachelor's programme held accreditation 2018–2022; APKIT accreditation is ongoing.
Programs
a selectionHigher School of Economics · Russia
3D Post-Production (Online)
The Master's program in "3D Post-Production" is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their professional skills and advance to a directorial level in 3D content creation. This program offers a path to mastering new professions, including managing creative project teams, all within a convenient online format. The curriculum is built on two core principles: research and exploration of new technological and visual solutions for complex problems, and their practical application from the outset of studies. Each student's personal learning trajectory, including their master's thesis, is shaped by their individual starting point, skills, work experience, and areas of professional interest. The program is developed and delivered in collaboration with leading Russian post-production studios such as CGF and Agama Film. Students work in project teams, utilizing real studio materials and tackling current project challenges. They receive feedback from studio CG supervisors, art directors, and producers, honing their skills in CG Direction and building their professional portfolios. Graduates can pursue careers in film, animation, gaming, advertising, and digital art.
Master's
Level
€7k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Higher School of Economics · Russia
Advertising and Public Relations
This Bachelor's program focuses on the creation and management of personal brands, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to develop a strong public image. It covers fundamental elements of personal branding and advanced tools for reputation management, applicable to various individuals and professionals. The curriculum explores how personal branding contributes to professional development and facilitates strong partnerships.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Higher School of Economics · Russia
Analytics in Economics, Bachelor's Program
The Bachelor's program in Analytics in Economics at HSE University – St Petersburg is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in economic theory and advanced analytical skills. This program focuses on applying mathematical and statistical methods to solve complex economic problems, preparing graduates for careers in data analysis, economic forecasting, and research. Students will engage with core economic principles alongside rigorous training in quantitative methods, including econometrics, data science, and mathematical modeling. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, enabling students to develop sophisticated analytical tools and interpret economic data effectively. The program aims to foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for success in the evolving field of economics.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Higher School of Economics · Russia
Application of Criminal Law
This mandatory course, offered within the Bachelor's program in Law, focuses on the application of criminal law in the Russian Federation. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the purpose and objectives of criminal law, and how it aligns with legal reforms aimed at ensuring justice according to international standards. The course is designed to foster an active civic stance, develop creative potential, and cultivate respect for human rights and legal interests.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Higher School of Economics · Russia
Bachelor of Arts in Economic Data Analysis
The Bachelor of Arts in Economic Data Analysis program at HSE University - St. Petersburg provides a strong foundation in mathematics and economics, equipping students with the analytical skills needed to interpret and work with economic data. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep understanding of economic principles and their practical application through quantitative methods. Graduates will be prepared for further study or careers in fields that require data analysis and economic expertise.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Higher School of Economics · Russia
Bachelor’s Programme 'Business Administration'
The Bachelor's Programme in Business Administration at HSE University - St Petersburg is designed to train students in professional activities related to business management. The curriculum focuses on developing skills in areas such as project management, HR management, strategic development, customer service, marketing, and overall company management. Students will also gain expertise in designing and developing business projects.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Russia
full fundingSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)
Skoltech University Scholarships
Open to international students of all nationalities applying to a full-time Master's (2 years, 120 ECTS) or PhD (3 to 4 years, 240 ECTS) programme at Skoltech in Moscow. Applicants need a strong academic record with research potential, must enrol full-time, and Master's applicants are required to pass an online subject test as part of selection. Scholarship renewal is subject to an annual academic performance review.
full
Funding
€20k
Max
Apr 28, 2027
Deadline
full fundingSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)
Skoltech Graduate Scholarships
Open to international and domestic students for fully funded Master's (MSc) and PhD study at Skoltech in Russia. Master's applicants need a relevant Bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited institution and a strong academic record; PhD applicants need a relevant Master's degree or equivalent and a strong research proposal aligned with Skoltech's objectives. All applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 72 or equivalent. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
full
Funding
€8k
Max
-26d left
Deadline
tuition only fundingAssociation of Global Universities of Russia
Open Doors: Russian Scholarship Project
For prospective international master's and doctoral students who win the Open Doors olympiad. Winners gain the right to enrol at a participating Russian university without entrance examinations and to study tuition-free (on a state-funded basis). Applicants register online and compete in subject tracks.
tuition only
Funding
€6k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.
full
Funding
€100k
Max
Sep 10, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at HSE University?
+
Tuition fees for international students at HSE University range from approximately EUR 4,000 to EUR 10,000 per year, depending on the program. Many international students can benefit from Russian government scholarships that cover full tuition.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
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Yes, HSE University offers several scholarships for international students, including the Russian Government Scholarship and the Russian Presidential Scholarship, which cover full tuition and often include a monthly stipend. An HSE Academic Merit Scholarship is also available for enrolled students.
What are the admission requirements for international students at HSE University?
+
For undergraduate programs, international applicants typically need to take HSE entrance examinations or submit SAT/international qualifications. For Master's programs, a recognized bachelor's degree and a competitive entrance examination or portfolio review are required. PhD candidates need a master's degree, research proposal, and supervisor agreement.
What is the estimated cost of living for students in Moscow?
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Living costs for students in Moscow are estimated to be around EUR 500–900 per month, covering accommodation, food, and transport. Campuses in St. Petersburg and other regions may have slightly lower living costs.
Does HSE University offer programs taught in English?
+
Yes, HSE University offers numerous English-taught Master's programs and some Bachelor's programs, making it attractive to international students. Language proficiency typically requires an IELTS score of 6.5 or a TOEFL iBT score of 90.
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