2 Russian universities in Yerevan 2025

Key Benefits Attracting International Students:

1. Bologna Process Standards

   • Armenia is a full-fledged participant in the Bologna Process. Consequently, students in Armenian universities benefit from extensive academic mobility opportunities and high-quality academic preparation.

2. Affordable Tuition

   • On average, the cost of a bachelor's degree in Armenia ranges from $2,000 to $2,500. This makes Armenia an appealing academic destination compared to Central and Eastern European universities and is comparable to tuition fees in Georgia and Central Asia.
   • Despite its high-quality infrastructure and standard of living, Armenia offers low prices for goods and services.

3. Visa-free Entry

   • Citizens of Russia, Georgia, Ukraine, and other CIS countries can stay in Armenia for extended periods without a visa. Obtaining a student residency permit is straightforward.

Characteristics and Limitations of Armenian Universities:

1. Languages

   • Armenian is the only official and national language. While Russian doesn't have official status, six universities in Yerevan offer high-quality programs in Russian. At least half of Armenians are fluent in Russian, and the majority can understand it fairly well. However, prospective students should note that they will need to learn and be assessed in Armenian.

2. Still Evolving Prestige of the Diploma

   • Most Armenian universities have not yet established a significant reputation or notable positions in international rankings. Hence, a graduate from a Yerevan-based university might find it challenging to secure employment outside the country.

1. Languages

   • Armenian is the sole official and national language. While Russian does not have official status, six Yerevan-based universities offer high-quality programs in Russian. Notably, over half of Armenians are fluent in Russian, and the majority have a decent understanding. However, this fluency won't be an advantage for admissions: proficiency in (and learning of) Armenian is required.

2. Still Rising Academic Prestige

   • Many Armenian universities have yet to establish a strong reputation or secure prominent positions in international rankings. As a result, graduates from a Yerevan-based university might face challenges finding employment outside of Armenia.

3. Outdated Dormitories

   • The majority of university housing in Yerevan dates back to the Soviet era and is therefore outdated. If budget permits, it's advisable to opt for private dormitories or rent an apartment, especially given the affordable rental prices.

Currently, there are 59 universities in Armenia, comprising 26 state-owned institutions (of which 4 are international) and 33 private institutions.

Armenia is a full participant of the Bologna Process, meaning its education structure encompasses three levels, from bachelor's to doctoral candidates. Additionally, one can earn a specialist degree (bachelor's programs last 4 years, while specialist programs take 5). That said, most Armenian students favor a master's degree.

Instruction is primarily in Armenian. However, several universities offer programs in both Russian and English. Studying the Armenian language, national literature, and Armenian history is mandatory for at least two semesters. International students can undertake a preparatory program lasting two semesters.

Programs in ICT, healthcare and medicine, chemistry, biology, and engineering sciences are especially popular.

Admissions occur in two phases. During the first, candidates apply for specific specialties. Subsequently, universities publish lists of those with the highest scores. If vacancies remain, candidates get another opportunity to apply. One can submit up to six applications to the same or different universities.

What Documents are Required to Apply to Russian Universities in Yerevan?

The required documentation varies depending on the university. If applying to a branch of a Russian institution, applicants will need:

• A 3x4 cm photograph
• Original and copy of a certificate or diploma
• Original and copy of passport (for applicants under 18, a birth certificate and parents' passports with copies)
• A statement with Unified State Exam (EGE) results
• Personal insurance policy number
• Medical certificate
• University-specific application form

All documents should be accompanied by notarized translations into Russian.

The only higher education institution in the republic where students can earn an Armenian degree with instruction in Russian is the Russian-Armenian University. Established in 1997 based on a bilateral intergovernmental agreement between Russia and Armenia, a significant advantage of this institution is that students also receive a Russian-style diploma.

Additionally, Yerevan hosts branch campuses of six Russian universities, including:

• Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU)
• Plekhanov Russian University of Economics (PRUE)
• Russian State Agrarian University - Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy
• Synergy University
• K.I. Skryabin Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology
• Russian International Academy of Tourism (RIAT)

All these institutions, except for MSU, admit students based on the Unified State Exam (EGE) results and entrance exams (MSU conducts its own admissions tests). Graduates receive standardized diplomas, which offer significant advantages in both the national and international job market.

Moreover, 11 Armenian universities in Yerevan offer programs with full or partial instruction in Russian. Examples include Yerevan's Mkhitar Heratsi Medical University (considered the best in the Caucasus for dental training) and Yerevan State University named after V. Brusov.

Lastly, the international Armenian-Lithuanian University "Eurasia" offers courses in various languages, including Russian, and students can request interpreter services if needed. Graduates from these programs earn dual degrees from both Armenia and Lithuania.