RUSSIA · KAZAN
Kazan Federal University
public · Founded 1804 · Languages: en, ru, tt
In short
Kazan Federal University, founded in 1804, is a leading Russian research university with QS rankings in the top 500. It offers a broad range of programs in a historic and affordable city, with tuition and living costs significantly lower than in major European capitals.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1804
- Students
- 44,992
- International students
- 8,000
- Acceptance rate
- 55%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–6k/yr
- Languages
- EN, RU, TT
- Location
- Kazan, Russia
Kazan Federal University (KFU), founded in 1804, is one of Russia's oldest and most distinguished research universities. Home to Nobel Prize laureates' intellectual lineage — Lobachevsky's geometry was developed here — KFU now enrolls about 45,000 students across 18 institutes in science, engineering, medicine, law, education, and the arts. It holds QS rank 450 globally and is a participant in Russia's Project 5-100 internationalisation programme. Kazan, its host city, is a UNESCO-recognised heritage site and affordable gateway to Russia.
Why study here
- Over 220 years of academic tradition and home to Lobachevsky's non-Euclidean geometry legacy.
- QS-ranked top 500 globally with strong programs in chemistry, physics, geology, and IT.
- Affordable tuition and living costs compared to Moscow or European capitals.
- Large international community from 100+ countries with dedicated support services.
- Russian Government Scholarships available, covering full tuition and a monthly stipend.
Student life
KFU offers an active student life in Kazan's Universiade Village, which provides modern dormitories, an Olympic-size swimming pool, and numerous sports facilities. Student organisations, cultural events, and the vibrant mix of Russian and Tatar culture make the city a unique environment. International students receive migration registration support, dedicated orientation, and can access the broad library and research infrastructure.
Fees
InternationalInternational student tuition ranges from approximately RUB 100,000–250,000 per year (approx. EUR 1,000–2,500) depending on the program. Medicine and IT programs tend to be at the higher end.
HomeRussian domestic students eligible for state-funded places pay no tuition; fee-based domestic places cost RUB 60,000–150,000/year.
LivingKazan is affordable: dormitory accommodation from RUB 2,000–4,000/month; total living costs approximately EUR 300–550/month including food, transport, and personal expenses.
Mandatory migration registration fees apply (approx. RUB 1,500). Medical insurance is required. Tuition must be prepaid for the first year before a student visa invitation is issued.
Admissions
Bachelor'sSecondary education certificate with notarised Russian translation; age typically under 25
Master'sBachelor's degree with notarised Russian translation; online entrance exam; under 35 years old
PhDMaster's degree; under 40 years old; research proposal required
IELTS Academic6.0 (for English-taught programs)
TOEFL iBT75
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2024450
Times Higher Education World University Rankings601–800
RUR World University RankingsTop 500
University scholarships
Russian Government Scholarship (Rossotrudnichestvo)Full tuition + monthly stipend approx. RUB 7,000–12,000
Open Doors Olympiad ScholarshipFull tuition waiver for Master's and PhD winners
Chinese Government Scholarship (Type A) — reciprocalFull tuition + CNY 800–1,000 housing + CNY 2,500–3,500 monthly stipend
Accreditation
KFU is accredited by the Federal Service for Supervision in Education and Science (Rosobrnadzor) of the Russian Federation. It holds federal university status granted by Presidential Decree in 2010.
Programs
a selectionKazan Federal University · Russia
Anatomy
The study of Anatomy delves into the macrostructure of the human body, tracing its origins from the Ancient Greek term for dissection. This field is intricately linked with numerous biological disciplines, including developmental biology, embryology, histology, and physiology. Kazan Federal University boasts a rich history of anatomical study, proud of its scientific heritage and contributions from esteemed anatomists throughout the ages. The Department of Morphology and General Pathology within the Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology offers this program, emphasizing a deep understanding of the human body's structure.
Bachelor's
Level
€4k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Kazan Federal University · Russia
Cybersecurity Fundamentals
This course, 'Fundamentals of Cybersecurity,' is designed as your initial step towards a professional career in information protection. You will engage in practical learning of the most relevant and in-demand skills within the field of information security. Upon successful completion, you will receive a state-recognized Certificate of Advanced Training from Kazan Federal University, serving as official documentation of your professional level and opening doors to new career prospects. Start building your future in cybersecurity today.
Certificate
Level
€4k
Tuition
—
Duration
Kazan Federal University · Russia
General Medicine in English
Kazan Federal University (KFU) offers a Specialist degree program in General Medicine taught entirely in English. This program is designed for international students seeking a comprehensive medical education. The curriculum covers fundamental medical sciences and prepares graduates for clinical practice. The program is offered by the Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology and is delivered in a full-time, on-campus format. Graduates can pursue careers as physicians, surgeons, clinical analysts, healthcare managers, or medical researchers.
Bachelor's
Level
€5k
Tuition
72 mo
Duration
Kazan Federal University · Russia
Histology, Cytology, and Embryology
This program focuses on Histology, Cytology, and Embryology, fundamental biological sciences. Histology, a branch of biology, studies the microscopic structure of tissues in living organisms, offering a detailed view beyond general anatomy. Cytology deals with cells, their structure, and function, while embryology explores the development of an organism from fertilization to birth. This interdisciplinary approach provides a comprehensive understanding of biological structures at various levels, from cells to tissues and developmental stages.
Bachelor's
Level
€4k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Kazan Federal University · Russia
Kazan Federal University - Teacher Education Programs
Kazan Federal University offers several Bachelor's degree programs focused on teacher education, preparing students to become qualified educators in various subjects. These programs emphasize modern pedagogical technologies, innovative teaching methods, and the ability to design effective educational processes. Graduates will be equipped to teach in general education institutions, supplementary education centers, and other educational or social organizations. The programs cover a range of specializations, including Geography and Ecology, Elementary Education with English Language, Biology and English Language, Social Sciences and English Language, Additional Education and English Language, Elementary Education, and Physical Education. The curriculum integrates subject-specific knowledge with pedagogical skills, psychology, and modern educational approaches. These full-time, on-campus programs are designed to foster professional mobility, scientific thinking, and adaptability in graduates, ensuring they are competitive and well-prepared for their teaching careers.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
Kazan Federal University · Russia
Neuroanatomy
Neuroanatomy is a specialized field within anatomy that focuses on the study of the structure and form of the nervous system. This program offers a detailed exploration of the nervous system's intricate organization, from its developmental stages to complex pathways and cranial nerve functions. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of both the central and peripheral nervous systems, including the vegetative (autonomic) nervous system and the innervation of organs.
Master's
Level
€4k
Tuition
24 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
-25d 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 Kazan Federal University?
+
International student tuition at Kazan Federal University typically ranges from approximately RUB 100,000 to RUB 250,000 per year. Programs in Medicine and IT are generally at the higher end of this range.
How affordable is living in Kazan for students?
+
Kazan is an affordable city for students, with dormitory accommodation costing around RUB 2,000–4,000 per month. Total monthly living expenses, including food and transport, are estimated to be EUR 300–550.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
For English-taught programs at Kazan Federal University, international students generally need a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 75.
Are there scholarships available for international students at KFU?
+
Yes, Kazan Federal University offers various scholarships, including the Russian Government Scholarship which covers full tuition and a monthly stipend, and the Open Doors Olympiad Scholarship for Master's and PhD winners.
What academic programs are offered at Kazan Federal University?
+
Kazan Federal University offers a wide range of programs across 18 institutes, including science, engineering, medicine, law, education, and the arts.
Last updated