HOME PROGRAMS: RUSSIA: MOSCOW: STUDENT LIFE
 
A KEI student with Irina, the Moscow On-Site Coordinator
Why study in Moscow?
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Students live in the University residence hall located near the main campus (approximately 10 minute bus ride). Most rooms are double-occupancy and shared with other KEI, international or Russian students.

The campus and the surrounding area have several dinning halls and restaurants. Students will also find a large assortment of Russian and international restaurants in the center of Moscow, including familiar franchises such as McDonalds, KFC and Pizza Hut. The residence hall also has kitchenettes that can be use to prepare meals. There are two markets near the west end of the campus.


Moscow is full of cultural and recreational activities - from world-class museums and theaters to energetic night clubs and Gorky (amusement) Park.

The University offers many student-centered activities. Most activities are free; some require a small fee.
  • Students Union
  • Young Researchers Council
  • MSU Students Committee
  • Environmental Protection Brigade
  • MSU Student Theater Workshop
  • Club "Under Full Sail"
  • "MSU Grace" Ballroom Dancing Club
  • Modern Dance Theater
  • MSU Organ Class
  • Vocal Class in MSU Cultural Center
  • Mountaineering Club
  • Diving Club
  • Baseball Club
  • University Women's Football Team
  • Handball Team
  • Fitness Center
The public transportation system consists of metro (subways), aftobus (buses), tramvay (trams) and trolleybus (trolleys). In general, mass transport is well developed, timely and convenient for travel within Moscow — one of the best systems in the world. Public transportation operates between the hours of 5:30 AM and 1:00 AM. Taxis are readily available any time of the day.

The Metro is one of Moscow's greatest achievements. Built during the height of the Cold War, the subway was designed to also serve as an underground city in the event of a nuclear war with the USA. The central stations have vaulted ceilings, many with murals, decorations and chandeliers.
The program includes use of a prepaid mobile phone. The phone will have a small amount of credit to get you started. KEI's On-Site Coordinator will show students how to place calls and refill the phone.

The café in the main building (where the dorms are located) offers free wifi. A large Internet Café is also available on campus. The cost is relatively inexpensive.


Irina Yakovleva has been KEI's On-Site Coordinator in Moscow since 2004. Irina has lots of experience, having earned her Bachelors and Doctoral degrees from MSU. She also worked as an administrator at the University. Irina speaks Russian and English fluently.

Irina will meet students at the airport, help with obtaining residence cards and student IDs, organize the orientation, accompany the group during excursions, and mediate any problems that may arise during the program. Irina lives on-campus, which makes her easily accessible to students.
KEI's orientation is intended to introduce students to Russian culture and Moscow State University. The orientation covers the basics of life in Moscow, academics and safety - including the following:
  • Using public transportation
  • Shopping for food
  • Academic expectations
  • Safety and security in Moscow
  • Cultural adaptation
  • Housing policies
  • A few social activities to meet your fellow students

If you have any questions, be sure to ask your On-Site Coordinator!