Orel State University named after I.S. Turgenev, commonly known as Orel State University (OSU), is a prestigious government university located in Oryol (Orel), Russia.
Established in 1931, it is one of the few classical universities in Russia offering MBBS in English medium, and is recognized for its high-quality education, experienced faculty, and global recognition.
OSU is under the supervision of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, and its Faculty of Medicine is popular among Indian and international students due to its affordable tuition fees, modern infrastructure, and NMC + WHO recognition.
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: 1931
- Location: Oryol (Orel), Russia
- Language of Teaching: English (for MBBS)
- Recognitions: NMC (India), WHO, ECFMG, WDOMS, FAIMER
- Student Strength: 18,000+ students (including 1,000+ international students)
- Course Duration: 6 Years (Including 1-Year Internship)
- Medium of Instruction: Fully English for MBBS
- Government University: Yes
University Rankings
- Country Rank: Within top 100 in Russia
- Global Rank: ~5000+ (varies by source)
- Recognized by all major medical bodies globally
- Eligible for FMGE (India), USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK)
Location & Connectivity
- City: Oryol (also spelled Orel), a peaceful educational city in Western Russia
- Distance from Moscow: ~360 km
- Flight Time from Delhi: ~7–9 hours (with stopover)
- Nearest International Airport: Moscow Sheremetyevo or Domodedovo Airport
- Transport: Regular trains and buses from Moscow to Orel (4–5 hours)
Currency & Cost of Living
- Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB)
- 1 RUB ≈ ₹1.2 INR (approx.)
- Average Monthly Living Cost: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000
- Budget-friendly accommodations, transport, and meals for students
Eligibility Criteria
- Age Requirement: Minimum 17 years as on 31st December of the admission year
- Academics:
- 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology & English
- 50% aggregate in PCB (General), 40% for Reserved Category
- NEET Qualified: Mandatory for Indian students
- Medical Fitness Certificate: Including HIV test
Admission Process
- Submit Application & Documents to authorized representative
- Receive Admission Letter from Orel State University
- Pay Application & Initial University Fee
- Get Invitation Letter for Visa
- Apply for Student Visa through Russian Embassy
- Travel to Russia & Join the University
- Registration, Hostel Allocation & Start of Classes
Documents Required
- 10th & 12th Mark Sheets
- NEET Scorecard
- Valid Passport (18+ months validity)
- Passport-size Photographs
- Birth Certificate (in English or Russian)
- Medical Certificate (including HIV test)
- Admission Letter & Visa Copy
- Health & Travel Insurance
Why Choose Orel State University?
- Government University with 90+ years of legacy
- Recognized by NMC, WHO, FAIMER, ECFMG
- Affordable tuition fee and low cost of living
- English-medium MBBS with no entrance exam required
- Indian Mess & Hostel Facility with modern amenities
- Experienced Faculty & Clinical Exposure from 3rd year
- Student-friendly city and safe campus environment
- Support for FMGE/NEXT & international licensing exams
Hostel & Mess Facilities
- On-campus hostels with 24×7 security, Wi-Fi, laundry
- Separate hostels for boys and girls
- Indian food options available in mess
- Rooms with beds, study desks, heating, and shared kitchens
- Common areas for study, sports, and relaxation
Clinical Exposure & Hospital Tie-Ups
- Practical training starts from 3rd year onwards
- University has tie-ups with multiple city hospitals in Orel
- Students learn under the supervision of senior Russian doctors
- Emphasis on clinical diagnostics, patient handling & surgery basics
- Hands-on training with modern equipment and simulators
Student Life at OSU
- Active Indian student community
- Celebrations of festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas
- Student clubs, debates, medical conferences, and cultural nights
- University-organized trips to Moscow, Saint Petersburg & nearby regions
- Student support cell for counseling and academic help
Oryol City Overview
- Peaceful and affordable city, great for focused study
- Rich in history, architecture, and Russian culture
- Winter temperature: -10°C to -20°C; Summer: 20–25°C
- Well-connected to major Russian cities by train and road
- Multiple supermarkets, Indian grocery stores, and restaurants available
Career Scope & Licensing Support
- Coaching support for FMGE/NEXT, USMLE, PLAB
- Postgraduate study opportunities in Russia, India, UK, Germany, USA
- Globally accepted degree to practice in over 150+ countries
- University guidance for internships, licensing, and PG admissions
- Successful alumni working in India, UAE, UK, and other countries
Conclusion
Orel State University is one of the most sought-after medical universities in Russia for Indian students. It combines academic excellence, cost-efficiency, and international exposure, making it an ideal destination to pursue MBBS abroad. With a 100% English-medium program and Indian support services, OSU offers the perfect launchpad for a successful medical career.