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Study in Russia: Admissions

Language Tests for Russia University Admissions

A comprehensive guide to language proficiency requirements, accepted tests, and preparation resources for applying to universities in Russia.

Overview of English Language Requirements for Russia Universities

Which language test you need depends on the teaching language. Russian-taught programmes ask for the Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL). English-taught programmes ask for good English.

Who Needs Language Testing?
  • Students who will study in Russian need a TORFL certificate.
  • Students on English programmes need to show good English.
  • Students who do not speak Russian yet can take a preparatory year first.

Important Considerations

English-taught master's

ITMO University asks for upper-intermediate English. Some programmes say B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

Medicine from India

India's National Medical Commission (NMC) needs the course to be taught in English.

Entrance test language

At Sechenov University, the language you study in depends on the language of your entrance test.

Preparatory year

The Russian Government quota pays for a preparatory course if you do not speak Russian.

Test Acceptance by University Type

Bachelor's taught in Russian
TORFL B1 (also called TORFL-I) to start
Bachelor's or master's degree in Russian
TORFL B2 (also called TORFL-II) to finish the degree
Language, translation or journalism degrees
TORFL C1 (also called TORFL-III)
English-taught programmes
Upper-intermediate English (B2). Ask which tests the university accepts.

Language Skills Assessed

Reading

Part of every TORFL level.

Listening

Part of every TORFL level.

Writing

Part of every TORFL level.

Speaking

A talk with an examiner.

TORFL: the Russian Language Test

TORFL has six levels, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (near native). Saint Petersburg State University runs it in person and online.

Other Alternative English Proficiency Tests

TORFL B1 (TORFL-I)
Bachelor's in Russian

Needed to join a bachelor's taught in Russian.

Cost:B1: RUB 5,300 in person, RUB 7,000 online (Russian roubles)
Official Site
TORFL B2 (TORFL-II)
Degree in Russian

Needed to finish a bachelor's or master's taught in Russian.

Official Site

Important Considerations

1

Two days: The test usually takes two days: writing, grammar and reading on day one, listening and speaking on day two.

2

Online option: You book the online test by email with Saint Petersburg State University's testing centre.

English Levels for English Programmes

ITMO University's English master's ask for upper-intermediate English, B2 on the CEFR scale. Each university decides which certificates it accepts.

Need help preparing for your language test?
Common Questions

Useful Pages

Russian test

TORFL at Saint Petersburg State University

official

Levels, sample tests and fees.

Visit Resource
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