Russian as a Foreign Language (RFL)
This section is relevant only for students admitted from 2024 onwards.
Learning Russian is an integral part of education at HSE University. Proficiency in Russian significantly enhances your academic and work prospects in Russia.
Why is it important for international students to learn Russian?
The development of the Russian language communicative competence in order to achieve the level necessary for successful academic and professional activity—specifically from the TROFL-II (B2) to the TROFL-III (C1) proficiency levels[1]—is integral to HSE University's educational standards and is required for all international students enrolled in programmes that are not offered entirely in English.
A limited proficiency in Russian will hinder students’ ability to engage with academic content effectively, as a significant portion of coursework is delivered in this language. Consequently, insufficient language skills may impede the successful completion of their educational programme.
[1] The Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TROFL) is based on a standardised assessment measuring Russian language proficiency across reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
Who is exempt from mandatory Russian language study at HSE University?
International students who can demonstrate their proficiency in Russian are not required to develop additional language skills. To be exempt, students must submit an electronic application to the Student Service Centre. Approved applicants will be exempt from the placement test and the mandatory Russian language courses.
If a student meets the required proficiency level but is unable to provide documentation, they may apply to take the Independent Russian Exam at HSE or an equivalent assessment. Successful candidates may then be excused from the mandatory language courses.
What documents can verify Russian language proficiency?
The following documents may be submitted through the electronic application to the Student Service Centre to verify Russian language proficiency:
- Results of a national Russian language exam.
- A certificate proving proficiency at TROFL-II level (or TROFL-III, if required by the programme).
- Documentation of prior education conducted in Russian.
-
Results from the HSE University entrance exam in Russian, achieving a score of at least 70%.
How can students learn Russian while studying at HSE University?
HSE University provides a range of mandatory and optional Russian language courses for undergraduate and master's students during their first and second years.
Mandatory courses
All international students who have not demonstrated proficiency at the TROFL-II level or above are required to complete mandatory courses, which account for 6 credits and last for one year. These courses are part of the general education cycle for bachelor's and specialist programs, or included in the "Core Seminars" module for master's students. Course levels are determined by placement test results.
Optional courses
Students who wish to study beyond the standard curriculum can choose optional courses during the course selection period. Each optional course is worth 6 credits and can be taken in the second year or alongside mandatory courses in the first year. Master's students may also enroll in additional courses within their credit limits for MagoLego.
Optional courses enable students to focus on specific facets of the Russian language—such as speaking, writing, and grammar—essential for their academic and professional objectives or to prepare for the TROFL-II and TROFL-III exams. These courses may be funded by the university, faculty, or the students themselves.
5) How and when does HSE assess Russian language proficiency?
For bachelor's and specialist students, Russian language proficiency is assessed in three stages, while master's students are assessed in two stages:
- Placement Test: This mandatory test for students requiring language preparation is conducted online during the first week of Module 1 (for students enrolling in 2024, it will occur in November 2024). The results are used solely for group placement. For inquiries about the test structure or content, contact: ceat_sofl@hse.ru.
- Mandatory Courses: Each course includes midterm assessments that contribute to academic ratings. Unsatisfactory performance may result in academic failure.
- Independent Russian Exam: For bachelor's and specialist students, this exam must be taken by the end of Module 2 in the second year. For students enrolling in 2024, it will take place in the second half of the 2025-2026 academic year. Unsatisfactory results will lead to academic failure. For inquiries about the exam structure or content, contact: ciele@hse.ru.
What is the procedure for the Independent Russian Exam?
- Students enrolled in 2024 will take the exam during the second half of the 2025-2026 academic year (Modules 3–4).
- Students enrolling in 2025 and thereafter must take the exam by the end of Module 2 in their second year.
Exam schedules will be published on the website. Students are required to register for time slots which will be published at least 10 days before the academic year begins.
Can one prove Russian language proficiency without taking courses or the Independent Russian Exam?
Yes. Russian language proficiency can be proved by submitting valid documents through the electronic application to the Student Service Centre. Students may also enroll in a TROFL preparation program or independently pass the TROFL exam and provide the certificate.
Can midterm assessment results for mandatory courses be changed?
Yes. HSE has a grade transfer system that allows higher scores to replace previously satisfactory grades. The highest possible transferred grade for prerequisite courses is 8.
How are the course grade and Independent Russian Exam grade recorded in the transcript?
For bachelor's and specialist graduates, the transcript will indicate a "pass" mark for the Independent Russian Exam. Master's graduates who pass the exam may receive a TROFL certificate from HSE.
Do students admitted before 2024 need to study Russian and take the Independent Russian Exam?
No, students admitted before 2024 are not required to study Russian or take the Independent Russian Exam; however, they may choose to take the Independent Russian Exam and receive a TROFL certificate from HSE.
Documents
Regulations for Interim and Ongoing Assessments of Students at HSE University
HSE University educational standards (available only in Russian)
Have you spotted a typo?
Highlight it, click Ctrl+Enter and send us a message. Thank you for your help!
To be used only for spelling or punctuation mistakes.