Check out the HSE International Academic Mobility Department page (in English) for Arrival Information, Informal Student Guide & some feedback from international students at HSE
Climate and clothes
When you are thinking about what clothes to pack, you need to consider the weather in Moscow.The climate has four seasons:
• Summer (June, July, August): 14–25 degrees Celsius with sometimes high temperatures of 28-32 degrees. It is from 10 to 20 degrees at night.
• Autumn (September, October and November): 10–15 degrees in September; 05 – 10 in October; - 04 to + 07 in November. Can be rainy sometimes.
• Winter (December, January, February): - 20 - 0 degrees Celsius, at certain times temperature can go below -30, but it does not happen frequently. Heating in the dorms and in the University works fine.
• Spring (March, April, May): 05 – 20. Generally the temperature is still below zero in March, but it gets warmer and warmer in April and May. Spring is usually the wettest season, so remember to bring proper clothes and shoes.
Remember that in Russia imported clothes and shoes (most famous brands) are considerably more expensive than in Europe and the USA.
Budgeting
Before leaving to Russia. It is a good idea to put together a budget for your stay at HSE. This will help you to determine:
• How much money you need to bring with you
• Where you can afford to live
• What you can buy
You will need to take into consideration all of your expenses when setting your budget.
After you have arrived you may need to review your initial budget once you have settled in. You can then make a more informed judgment about how much you need and how you can best manage your finances.
TIP
• You can save money by shopping sensibly
• You should beware of overspending on credit cards
• Be aware of how much you spend on your mobile, especially on calls outside the country! (It is a good idea to use Skype or IP telephone cards for that purposes)
Download recent brochure on living expences
Cost of Living
You should allow about 600-800 USD a month to cover living expenses (excluding rent).
Living costs will vary according to your lifestyle, the type of accommodation you choose
To help you to decide on how much money you will need to cover your living expenses, you may find the following ‘Cost of Living’ estimates useful in budgeting for your stay at HSE.
Note: The information provided is based on a single student’s cost of living (all prices are estimated in prices for 2008–2009).
University accommodation (per month)
• Standard room (room is for 2-4 persons): approximately 100 USD per person per month;
Rental accommodation
(approximate cost per month)
Rent only
• One-bedroom flat: around 1000 USD;
• Shared flat (2 bedrooms with one other person): 600-800 USD per person;
Weekly costs (other than rent)
• Food – 70-100 USD
• Food – Take away: 40-100 USD
• Mobile phone – (excluding international calls) – 10-20 USD
• Travel – Public transport: 15-20 USD
Semester personal costs (other than rent)
• Textbooks, stationery, photocopying: 200 USD
• Bars & Clubs – anywhere from 15 to 100 USD per night
TIP
• When considering your budget, you will also need to allow for Internet usage, computer equipment, clothes, personal healthcare costs and entertainment.
Currency
Russian currency is decimal, with the ruble as the basic unit. There are 100 kopecs in one ruble (RUR 1). Notes come in 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000. Coins come in 1c, 5c, 10c, 50c, RUR 1, RUR 2, RUR 5, RUR 10. The exchange rate for January 2010 is around 30 rubles per 1 USD and 42.5 rubles per 1 EUR.
All major credit cards and traveller’s cheques are widely accepted in Moscow and other big Russian cities.
Other questions
How do I get a student visa?
For most students, applying for a student visa can be a lengthy and complex process. Plan ahead to make sure you have plenty of time, do not leave visa matters to the last minute. Please read carefully the information in the "Visas" section
I arrive into Moscow about 4am on a Saturday/Sunday. Can I still arrange airport reception?
Airport pick-up service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week, including public holidays. Please ensure that you follow the correct procedures set out in - Airport pick-up service - and provide a minimum of 48 hours prior notice with us sending you back a confirmation of airport reception booking.
My flight arrival details have changed what should I do?
If your flight arrival details change or you miss your flight, contact us as soon as possible with your new details. If you are unable to contact us before departing, call us on arrival at the airport and we'll make alternative arrangements.
I'm travelling with someone else who is not a University student. Can I arrange airport reception for both of us?
The airport reception service is for SU HSE International Students students only. Contact us if you are travelling with someone we can advise you on how best to get to your destination.
Do I have to attend orientation?
Yes, orientation is compulsory for international students.
Which orientation program should I attend?
The dates for your orientation are written on your offer letter, which will be consistent with the dates listed on the Orientation pages.
I couldn't get an earlier flight and will miss my orientation what should I do?
Visit the International Offic and get details of the any late orientation sessions.
