St. Petersburg State University is the first university in Russia and a world-leading centre of science and education

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With a history dating back to 1724, the University is the oldest institution of higher education in Russia. Today, SPbU successfully combines tradition and innovation, being one of the leading international centres of education, science and culture. Ranked 47th in the world and 2nd in Russia by MosIUR, 2nd in Russia by ARWU, top 3 BRICS universities by ARM. In the RAEX-2025 subject rankings, St. Petersburg State University secured second place overall. Furthermore, the University was ranked second among all Russian universities specifically for the quality of its education. This high standing is reinforced by the recognition of its faculty, with over 40 SPbU researchers being named in Elsevier’s annual list of the world’s most cited scientists. As a dynamic institution, it designs multidisciplinary academic programmes that combine fundamental theoretical problems with real-world, practical application.

Famous Graduates

The discoveries and achievements of the University professors and graduates have shaped the history of both international and Russian science and technology. The University is proud to be home to 9 Nobel prize winners – in Physiology, Medicine, Chemistry, Physics, Economics, Literature – as well as Fields Medal (Mathematics) and Shaw Prize winners. Moreover, two presidents of the Russian Federation and six government leaders graduated from the University.

International Students

Today there are more than 5,800 international students from 130 countries study in the University. They are offered a choice from: 11 double degree programmes; 35 master’s programmes taught in English, German, Spanish, French and Italian; as well as over 530 programmes of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels taught in Russian. According to Rossotrudnichestvo (the Federal Agency for the Commonwealth of Independent States Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad, and International Humanitarian Cooperation), in 2022 the University became the most popular university in Russia among foreign applicants.

International Cooperation

The University maintains strong partnerships with 600+ universities in 80 countries worldwide. It is an active member of international academic mobility programmes financed both by the Russian ministry of Education and academic exchange agreements with partner universities. There are 10 Representative offices functioning in China, Republic of Korea, Spain, Moldovia, Greece, Belarus, Iran, Thailand, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. Also The University opened a branch in Uzbekistan (Tashkent) and Egypt (Cairo).

Global Careers

The University’s academic programmes are relevant for the challenges and opportunities of the global labour market. University alumni are able to take on competitive positions in a multicultural work environment. The University has 1600+ long-term cooperation agreements including with leading international companies. The University partner organisations offer internships for students and take part in the development and assessment of academic programmes.

Research

University scientists conduct research in almost all fields of knowledge, provide expertise and consulting, and enjoy close ties with Russian and international partners. The research findings are published in high-impact international journals. The University has cutting-edge research facilities – the state-of-the art Research Park with 22 resource centres, where the most advanced research equipment is concentrated. Students have an opportunity to annually receive research grants, including the Russian Federation Presidential grant. They can carry out research in numerous laboratories and make use of the University’s vast scientific collections.

Student Life

University life is vibrant and diverse. Every year, the University holds over 700 student events, celebrations, conferences, and competitions. Students are invited to practice up to 21 types of sport at 39 University venues. There are also numerous opportunities to take part in creative student clubs, join the international students association, participate in University volunteering projects and much more!

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