– Author of this Blog
I know the fear of the unknown — and the thrill of a new beginning. As a 2025 Russian Government Scholar and BAPO special intern, I share what I’ve learned to help you move forward.
One of the biggest dilemmas for international students is choosing the right country and making the right decision for their education and future. With so many options around the world, it’s no surprise that countries like Russia and Cyprus are becoming increasingly popular among Bangladeshi students.
But which one is truly the better choice for you?
In this blog, we dive deep into a comparison between Russia and Cyprus, focusing on the key areas that matter most:
Education system
Cost of living
Lifestyle
Language
Post-graduation opportunities
Quality of Institution:
Russia’s education system is highly structured, emphasizing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and vocational training. Russian universities tend to rank higher globally, with several in the top 500.
Cyprus' top universities, such as the University of Cyprus and Cyprus University of Technology, are generally ranked between 600 and 1000 globally, reflecting strong regional but less pronounced global impact.
Tuition fees : Tuition fees are generally low due to government subsidies, ranging from approximately RUB 36,500 to RUB 434,250 per year (about €400–€4,800), depending on the program and university. In Russia most of the university is public university so the tuition fee is relatively low.
Tuition fees are competitive, especially at public universities, but can be higher at private institutions. Cyprus West University, for example, emphasizes affordability for international students also there are many university based partial scholarship opportunities at various universities.
Russia offers highly affordable, university-managed accommodation with a variety of dormitory types, often located conveniently on or near campus. While some dorms may be basic, ongoing improvements and new developments are raising living standards. This makes Russia a better option for students prioritizing cost and guaranteed university housing.
Cyprus provides generally more comfortable and modern living conditions, often with private rooms and better amenities, but at a higher cost. The student housing market is more reliant on private rentals, offering greater independence but less guaranteed university accommodation.
Overall, Russia’s student accommodation is better suited for budget-conscious students seeking affordable and university-supported housing, while Cyprus offers a more comfortable, independent lifestyle at a higher price point.
In Russia Food is relatively cheap. A student can spend about RUB 9,000–10,000 ($120–130) monthly on groceries. Meals at inexpensive restaurants cost around $3–$5. Local staples like potatoes, milk, and bread are inexpensive.
Food costs are higher in Cyprus due to the Mediterranean location and import reliance. Monthly groceries can cost between €250 and €350 ($275–$385). Eating out at inexpensive restaurants typically costs €10–€15 ($11–$17).
In Russia Public transport is affordable, with monthly student passes costing about $5–$10. The metro in Moscow costs around $65 for a monthly card, but student discounts are available, lowering this cost significantly.
In Cyprus Public transport is less extensive; monthly bus passes cost around €40–€50 ($44–$55). Many students rely on bicycles or scooters, or share rides due to limited public transport options.
In Russia utilities for a studio apartment average around $150 per month. Internet packages cost $10–$15 monthly.
Utilities tend to be higher, averaging €100–€150 ($110–$165) monthly. Internet costs are similar, about €25–€35 ($27–$38) per month.
International students, especially from diverse ethnic backgrounds, may occasionally face discrimination or social exclusion, though this is less common in large cosmopolitan cities. LGBTQ+ individuals face significant societal and legal challenges, with hate crimes and limited protections
Cyprus is generally tolerant and welcoming to international students from various backgrounds .The presence of a large expatriate and student community fosters inclusivity and cultural exchange.
experiences a much colder climate with long, harsh winters and shorter, milder summers. The temperature difference between winter and summer is very pronounced.
offers a warm, sunny Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers, making it ideal for those who prefer consistent warmth and less severe seasonal changes.
For students or residents who prefer mild winters and hot summers with plenty of sunshine, Cyprus provides a much more comfortable and temperate climate year-round. Russia’s climate is suitable for those who do not mind cold winters and enjoy distinct seasonal changes, but it requires preparation for freezing temperatures and snow during winter months.
provides international students with legal opportunities to work during and after their studies, but the process involves strict regulations, location and job restrictions, and bureaucratic hurdles. The large economy offers diverse job prospects, but visa and work permit renewal can be challenging.
offers a more straightforward and flexible post-study work environment, with dedicated post-graduation permits allowing graduates to seek employment for up to a year. While the job market is smaller, Cyprus’ EU membership enhances mobility and employment opportunities across Europe.
the initial work permit after graduation is valid for only one year and must be renewed if they wish to stay longer. Transitioning from student status to a work visa requires compliance with immigration rules and employer sponsorship.
graduates can apply for a temporary residence permit to seek employment or start a business after completing their studies. The government provides a "Job Search Visa" or a "Post-Study Work Permit" allowing graduates to stay and work for up to 12 months after graduation.
Visa Ratio:
Both Russia and Cyprus offer exceptionally high student visa approval rates for Bangladeshi students, with both countries effectively granting visas to nearly all qualified applicants who submit complete and accurate documentation.
Both Countries visa ration is nearly 100% till now .
Embassy Location:
Russia: Russian Embassy in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Cyprus: Cyprus High Commission in New Delhi, India
requires international students to have proficiency in Russian for most undergraduate programs, with increasing availability of English-taught graduate courses. Mastery of Russian is important for living, socializing, and working outside campus. Preparatory Russian courses are often necessary.
offers a predominantly English-speaking academic environment, making it easier for international students without knowledge of the local language. English suffixes for study and daily life, though learning Greek can enhance cultural integration.
offers degrees from historically prestigious and research-intensive universities with strong global recognition, particularly in medicine and STEM fields. Russian degrees are respected worldwide, but graduates may need to pass local licensing exams depending on the country.
provides degrees fully aligned with European standards, ensuring smooth recognition across the EU and associated countries. While global rankings are generally lower than Russia’s top universities, Cyprus degrees benefit from EU membership, facilitating academic and professional mobility within Europe.
offers more extensive and fully-funded scholarship opportunities for international students, including tuition, living stipends, accommodation, and preparatory courses. The Russian Government Scholarship program is large-scale, competitive, and covers a broad range of disciplines and degree levels.
provides more limited but still valuable scholarships, mainly partial tuition waivers based on academic merit, particularly at public and private universities. Scholarships in Cyprus tend to be smaller in scale and often require maintaining high academic performance.
For international students seeking fully-funded, comprehensive financial aid, Russia’s scholarship programs are more generous and numerous. For those looking for partial tuition support in a Mediterranean environment with English-taught programs, Cyprus offers competitive merit-based scholarships but fewer fully-funded options.
both Russia and Cyprus offer unique advantages for international students. Russia stands out with its prestigious universities, extensive scholarship opportunities, and affordable living costs, while Cyprus attracts with its welcoming Mediterranean climate, English-taught programs, and seamless integration within the European education system. Ultimately, your choice should align with your academic goals, language preferences, and lifestyle desires. Studying abroad is more than just earning a degree-it’s about embracing new cultures, building resilience, and expanding your horizons. So take that step, explore your options, and start writing your own international story today!
Below is a list of websites referenced during the preparation of this article: