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.


Marina Rozina is the KEI On-Site Director in Moscow. Prior to joining KEI, Marina served as the Onsite Director for the University of Albany, State University of New York (SUNY Albany) for more than 15 years. She has a deep understanding of USA and Russian cultures and educational systems. Her experience with and dedication to students will ease the transition to life in Moscow.

Marina will organize the airport welcome, help with obtaining residence cards and student IDs, oversee the orientation, accompany the group during excursions, and mediate any problems that may arise during the program. Marina is often on campus and accessible 24/7 by mobile in case of an emergency.
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!