Northern State Medical University (NSMU) was established in 1932 and is located in Arkhangelsk, a city in the northwestern part of Russia.
It is a premier government medical university and a leading center of medical education and research in northern Russia. The university functions under the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation and is recognized globally for its well-structured MBBS curriculum and modern teaching methodologies.
NSMU has produced thousands of healthcare professionals who now serve in various parts of the world. The university offers a fully English-medium MBBS course and is particularly popular among Indian students due to its NMC recognition, FMGE preparation support, and affordable fee structure.
MESS FACILITY
Food is the most important and basic necessity of life. Keeping this necessity in mind, ISM has a special provision for food and catering to student needs through its mess/canteen. This mess is run by Dr. Phani Bhushan Potu and Dr. Nazir Imran, the ISM Representatives for India, The university’s hostel has a canteen where Indian cooks work. Students have opportunities to enjoy traditional Indian cuisine.
Two cooks from India work in the Indian mess. The cook from India is a South Indian food specialist while the cook from Nepal excels in North Indian food. The Indian ISM mess has a variety of menu that includes chapatti, rice, sweets, etc. The ISM Mess serves Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian dishes. Meals are served three times a day.
Key Highlights
- Established: 1932
- Location: Arkhangelsk, Russia
- Language of Teaching: English (for MBBS)
- Recognitions: NMC (India), WHO, ECFMG, FAIMER, WDOMS
- Student Strength: Over 6,500 students (including 500+ Indian students)
- Course Duration: 6 Years (including 1-year internship)
- Medium of Instruction: Full English for international students
- Affiliated Hospitals: Over 10 hospitals and clinical centers in Arkhangelsk
University Ranking
- World Rank: ~5500
- Country Rank (Russia): Top 100 Medical Institutions
- Recognized by global medical councils, eligible for FMGE, USMLE, PLAB, etc.
Location & Connectivity
- City: Arkhangelsk, Northwestern Russia
- Distance from Delhi: Approx. 5,000 km
- Flight Time: 10–12 hours with layover (via Moscow)
- Nearest International Airport: Talagi Airport (Arkhangelsk)
- Connectivity: Well-connected by air, road, and rail; Moscow is 1.5 hours away by flight
Currency & Cost of Living
- Currency Used: Russian Ruble (RUB)
- Exchange Rate: 1 RUB ≈ ₹1.2 INR
- Living Expenses: ₹15,000 – ₹20,000/month (food, transport, hostel included)
- Affordable transport passes and food options for students
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Must be 17+ by December 31st of the admission year
- Academic Qualification:
- 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology & English
- Minimum 50% aggregate in PCB (General Category)
- 40% for Reserved Category
- NEET Qualified: Mandatory for Indian applicants
- Medical Fitness Certificate: Including HIV test report required
Admission Process
- Submit Application Form via official representative or university portal
- Upload Required Documents for initial evaluation
- Receive Admission Letter from NSMU
- Pay Initial Fees and apply for Invitation Letter
- Apply for Student Visa through Russian Embassy
- Book Air Tickets & Travel to Russia
- Arrival & Registration at NSMU, hostel allocation, orientation
Documents Required
- 10th & 12th Mark Sheets
- NEET Scorecard
- Valid Passport (minimum 18 months validity)
- Passport-size Photographs (white background)
- Birth Certificate (translated in Russian)
- Medical Certificate (including HIV test)
- Admission Letter & Visa Invitation
- Health & Travel Insurance
Why Choose MBBS at Northern State Medical University?
- Government Medical University with over 90 years of legacy
- Globally recognized degree by NMC, WHO, FAIMER
- Low tuition fee and cost-effective living for Indian students
- FMGE/NEXT preparation support and high pass ratio
- Fully English-medium MBBS with no language barrier
- Indian Food & Hostel Facility with Indian mess available
- Modern Labs & Simulation Centers for real-time learning
- Hands-on clinical practice from 3rd year onwards
- Safe and peaceful city, ideal for focused study
Hostel & Mess Facilities
- On-campus separate hostels for boys and girls
- Indian mess with North & South Indian food options
- Central heating, laundry, Wi-Fi, study halls, 24×7 security
- Fully furnished rooms with shared kitchen facilities
- Recreational areas, gyms, reading rooms within the hostel complex
Clinical Rotations & Hospital Tie-ups
NSMU is associated with over 10 healthcare institutions across Arkhangelsk:
- Arkhangelsk Regional Clinical Hospital
- Children’s City Hospital
- Northern State Medical Center
- Regional Oncological Dispensary
- Emergency & Infectious Disease Hospitals
Students get early exposure to practical training from 3rd year onwards under the guidance of experienced medical professionals.
Student Life at NSMU
- Vibrant Indian student community
- Celebration of Indian festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid
- Sports activities, student clubs, medical conferences
- Student exchange programs and international medical seminars
- Active student support centers and career counseling
- Weekend trips, cultural tours, and university fests
City at a Glance – Arkhangelsk
- One of Russia’s northernmost cities, rich in culture and history
- Climate: Cold winters (up to -25°C), pleasant summers (~20°C)
- Affordable lifestyle for international students
- Famous for Arctic heritage, cathedrals, museums, and the Severnaya Dvina River
- Excellent public transport system and student discounts
- Multiple Indian stores and restaurants for comfortable living
Career Opportunities & Licensing Support
- Dedicated support for FMGE/NEXT, USMLE, PLAB & other exams
- Postgraduate options in Russia, Europe, USA, UK, and India
- Internship & residency opportunities in university-affiliated hospitals
- Guidance on licensing, documentation, and placement
- Alumni network worldwide supporting graduates
Conclusion
Northern State Medical University is a trusted destination for Indian students seeking a quality MBBS education at a reasonable cost. Its international reputation, advanced academic facilities, experienced faculty, and student-friendly environment make it one of the top medical universities in Russia for aspiring doctors.