Founded in 1959, Novosibirsk State University is one of the best-known universities in the country. It is located 20 km from Novosibirsk, a cultural and industrial centre of Siberia. The university and other scientific institutes form a separate district, known as Akademgorodok, where all student life is concentrated. As part of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the training of talented specialists is one of the declared aims of Novosibirsk State University. The university's 38 research institutes and 124 seminars cover a wide variety of subject areas. The degree programmes include subjects in the natural sciences, humanities, languages, psychology, economics, medicine and law. Almost 8,000 students are taught by over 1,000 lecturers. The main language of instruction is Russian. However, individual courses are also offered in English.

Students and teaching staff can also develop in many different ways outside of their subject areas. There is a university choir, a dance studio, a theatre group, various university groups and associations and a wide range of sports. In keeping with its motto, Novosibirsk State University invites you to broaden your horizons in every way: "We do not make you smarter, we teach you to think."

Many students associate Siberia with a very harsh climate. However, the weather in Novosibirsk is not as extreme as is usually expected. The city itself is located in Western Siberia, which is characterised by a mild climate. The Altai Mountains to the south protect the Novosibirsk region, creating a microclimate: winter is therefore not as severe as in neighbouring regions and the air is not too dry. Novosibirsk is sunny all year round and there are a few rainy days.

As far as the cost of living is concerned, experience has shown that a sum of 200-800 euros per month should be assumed.
Table on the estimated cost of living in Novosibirsk

Students have three options for accommodation during their study visit:

1. Halls of residence at Novosibirsk State University
   The halls of residence are offered by the university and are located in front of the entrance to the laboratory building, which is only a 3-minute walk from the university. International students usually live in double rooms in block dormitories. A block consists of one or two rooms, including a bathroom equipped with a shower and toilet. There is a kitchen and a recreation room on each floor. The cost of accommodation is 1,050 roubles per month and must be paid by the student.
2. Host family.
   The university can help you to find a family who would be happy to accommodate you. However, the accommodation fee must be agreed individually.
3. Rental flat
   The university can help you find a rental flat. However, it is recommended that you first book a dormitory for the first two weeks after your arrival.