Frequently Asked Questions

HSE stands for Higher School of Economics.

We jokely say that HSE is Higher School of Everything which means that today our university offers programmes in various fields like Computer Science and Engineering, Law, Arts and Design, Physics, Psychology, World Economy and International Affairs, Integrated Communications and Media, Political Science and Area Studies, Humanities, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Urban Studies.

There is no application fee charged for prospective HSE students.

HSE University does provide both full and partial coverage scholarships. There is no separate application procedure for obtaining a scholarship.

The cost of attendance includes only the tuition fee for the studies. Accommodation is paid by students separately.

There is one intake a year for both undergraduate and graduate degree programmes. Studies usually start in September. However, there are two intakes for Preparatory Year: in February and October.

Students admitted to state-funded places, i.e. with a 100% scholarship from the Russian government are offered the HSE dormitories spots. 

Fee-paying students will be able to participate in the new student housing programme or need to look for an alternative housing option in the city. More about the new accommodation system at the Student Housing Office website.

English proficiency tests are not required for undergraduate programmes. However, if an applicant has an international certificate in English, Mathematics, Russian, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, the results of these tests can be recognized by HSE and used instead of HSE entrance exams. Besides, the English proficiency tests are usually required for English-taught graduate programmes. The minimum score: IELTS - 6.0; TOEFL IBT – 80.

Yes, students are allowed to work part-time (20 hours per week).

Despite the fact that HSE University doesn't offer MBA programmes, we can offer our international applicants the English-taught master’s degree programme in International Business (MIB) which is a unique hybrid of a business degree and an international affairs degree. The MIB aims to equip students with both traditional business skills and knowledge in the political, economic and socio-cultural aspects of the global marketplace. Unlike a typical MBA which is insufficiently international or globalizes functionally oriented curricula, this programme ensures that graduates not only understand how companies operate, but also the complex context in which they operate.

All information regarding admission procedures and requirements for prospective international students can be found at our official webpage - admissions.hse.ru