logo
Contact us
zoom image
Home Blog TOEFL iBT

TOEFL Score Requirement for Russian Medical Colleges

TOEFL Score Requirement for Russian Medical Colleges

alt image

"Learn how TOEFL can support your admission to Russian medical colleges, where it’s required, and how English-medium programs assess language skills."

Russia attracts thousands of international students every year for its affordable and globally recognised MBBS programs. For TOEFL test-takers aiming to study medicine in Russia, the big question is: Is the TOEFL required for admission to Russian medical universities?

Let’s explore the key points about TOEFL requirements, where it’s necessary, and how your TOEFL score can strengthen your MBBS application to Russian institutions.

When TOEFL Is Required for Russian Medical Colleges

While many Russian medical colleges do not make TOEFL scores mandatory, several universities do accept or require them, particularly if:

  • You are applying through official international admission pathways

  • You are applying for scholarships or government-funded programs

  • You do not have proof of English-medium schooling

  • You want to show strong academic English ability, especially for English-taught MBBS programs

TOEFL helps in validating your ability to study in an academic English environment—particularly useful in English-medium MBBS tracks.

Universities That Accept or Prefer TOEFL Scores

Here are some Russian medical colleges where TOEFL is accepted, recommended, or required depending on your background:

University TOEFL Accepted/Required? Minimum Score Notes
Sechenov University (First Moscow State Medical University) Accepted 60–80 (varies) TOEFL score is preferred for English-medium MBBS programs.
RUDN University (People’s Friendship University of Russia) Recommended 70+ TOEFL strengthens your application for English programs.
Kazan Federal University Accepted 65–80 Required if you cannot provide a Medium of Instruction certificate.
Volgograd State Medical University Accepted 60+ Students may be asked for TOEFL or an English assessment.
Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) Required for certain programs 72–80 English-medium applicants are required to submit TOEFL or IELTS.
Novosibirsk State University (NSU) – Faculty of Medicine Accepted 70+ Especially for international admissions under government scholarship.

Note: Scores and requirements may vary based on nationality, application method (direct or via agent), and whether you're applying for scholarship-funded seats.

When TOEFL May Not Be Mandatory

For many state medical universities offering MBBS in English, TOEFL may not be officially mandatory, especially if:

  • You studied in an English-medium school (and can provide a Medium of Instruction certificate)

  • The university conducts its own English screening (via video interview or online test)

  • You apply via licensed education consultants familiar with local admission norms

That said, submitting a valid TOEFL score is always beneficial, especially when competing for limited international seats or applying from countries where English is not the official language.

Types of MBBS Language Tracks in Russia

Understanding how language is used in MBBS programs can help you decide when TOEFL is relevant:

1. English-Medium MBBS

These programs are taught fully in English during pre-clinical years.
TOEFL is often accepted or required, especially for students from non-English-speaking countries.

Why TOEFL matters:

  • Proves academic-level English ability

  • Reduces the need for internal interviews

  • Enhances your scholarship and visa chances

2. Bilingual MBBS

Courses start in English and transition to Russian in clinical years.
TOEFL is sometimes accepted, but not always mandatory. You must still learn Russian for later years.

3. Russian-Medium MBBS

These are entirely in Russian.
TOEFL is not accepted—instead, you’ll need to pass TORFL or complete a Russian language preparatory course.

Benefits of Including TOEFL in Your Application

ven if not strictly required, your TOEFL score can still:

  • Improve admission chances, especially in competitive universities

  • Serve as a backup if Medium of Instruction proof is not accepted

  • Show your readiness for English-based lectures and exams

  • Support your visa application by proving language ability

  • Help you apply for English-medium scholarships or exchange programs

Additional Admission Requirements for Indian Students

If you're applying from India, here’s what most Russian medical colleges expect alongside (or instead of) TOEFL:

Requirement Description
NEET Qualification Mandatory for Indian students applying for MBBS abroad
10+2 with PCB At least 50% in Physics, Chemistry, Biology (some universities may require higher)
Passport Must be valid for at least 2 years
Medical Certificate Required to confirm fitness to study medicine
TOEFL Score Recommended for English-medium courses, especially where school instruction was not in English
Medium of Instruction Letter Can replace TOEFL in some universities

Final Tips: TOEFL and Studying MBBS in Russia

Tip Why It Matters
Take TOEFL Early If required, you’ll need time for test prep, registration, and score reporting.
Use TOEFL to Stand Out Even if optional, a TOEFL score shows initiative and academic readiness.
Focus on Speaking and Listening These skills are vital in medical programs, especially during clinical years.
Learn Russian Simultaneously Even English programs shift to Russian in practical years. Early prep helps.

I hope this blog on TOEFL requirements for Russian medical colleges helped you understand where your TOEFL score fits in. While not all universities make it mandatory, having a good TOEFL score can boost your profile, especially for English-medium MBBS programs and scholarship applications. Plan early, aim for clarity in communication, and strengthen your profile with TOEFL—it could make a real difference.

Featured Articles

article
TOEFL Format Undergoing Significant Changes in January 2026

The TOEFL iBT format is changing in January 2026 with a smarter structure and easier scoring. Here’s everything you need to know to stay ahead.

August 06, 2025
article
TOEFL Requirements for Yonsei University

Check out TOEFL requirements and admission details for Yonsei University, including section-wise breakdowns and preparation tips for international students.

August 06, 2025
article
TOEFL Score Requirement for Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)

Learn about TOEFL requirements, admissions, and visa guidelines for studying at SKKU in South Korea. Explore eligibility, application timelines, and documents needed for international students.

August 21, 2025
article
Best Subreddits and Forums to Discuss TOEFL in 2025

Discover the most active and helpful TOEFL subreddits and forums in 2025 to boost your preparation with real advice, shared experiences, and peer support.

July 31, 2025