International education in Russia reached a new milestone as the Final Round of the national “StudRussia” competition concluded in Moscow on 10-11 December 2025. Hosted at MISIS University, the event gathered 112 top-performing international students from 76 universities across the country, creating a powerful platform for cultural exchange, leadership, and innovation.
Designed to spotlight the achievements of international students studying in Russia, “StudRussia” goes beyond academic performance. The competition evaluates participants on leadership, community involvement, creativity, and contributions to university life, offering a real-world stage for students to demonstrate the value of their education abroad.
Among the finalists, Manish Landage, a 6th-year medical student at Mari State University, emerged as one of the strongest representatives of international student success in Russia. Serving as the Chairman of the Foreign Students Council, he has been actively involved in student leadership, mentorship, and cross-cultural initiatives on campus.
His performance at the national final earned him the Diploma of Laureate in the category:
Grand Prix - Best International Student (English Track)
This recognition places him among the most accomplished international students currently studying in Russia and reflects the academic rigor and student support available at Mari State University.
Competitions like “StudRussia” highlight how international students in Russia are not just studying; they are leading, innovating, and shaping university communities. Moreover, students are encouraged to develop skills beyond the classroom, including public speaking, project management, teamwork, and intercultural communication.
Mari State University stands out for integrating international students into meaningful leadership roles, offering them opportunities to initiate projects, represent student voices, and gain national-level exposure during their studies.
The final ceremony was attended by Olga Petrova, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, who personally congratulated the finalists. Her participation emphasized Russia’s growing focus on supporting international students and recognizing their role in strengthening the country’s higher education system.
For students exploring MBBS abroad options, this achievement demonstrates how studying in Russia can open doors to national recognition, professional development, and leadership growth. With strong academic programs, competitive tuition fees, and expanding opportunities for international engagement, Russian universities continue to attract students from around the world.
As the “StudRussia” competition returns next year, Mari State University aims to support even more international students ready to turn their education abroad experience into a platform for success - both during their studies and beyond.
