News

On May 23, 2026, the V International Scientific and Practical Conference ‘Discovering the World of Science’ took place in Kazan at the Preparatory Faculty for International Students of Kazan Federal University. Four students of the HSE International Preparatory Year took part in the event: two delivered their presentations in person, while two participated online. Their work was supervised by Acting Director of the International Prep Year Irina Isaeva and lecturer Ekaterina Kozhemyakova.

On April 19–24 April 2026, Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU) hosted the VI International Scientific and Practical Conference ‘Scientific Initiative of International Students and Postgraduates.’ Seven students from the HSE International Preparatory Year took part in the event: four attended in person, and three joined online. The delegation was accompanied by two lecturers—Zoya Maslennikova and Maria Grabovskaya.

Victoria Ramos Gonzales, from Bolivia, fell in love with Moscow after visiting the city in 2022. Now, as a student of the ‘Master in International Management’ programme at the HSE Graduate School of Business, she researches management systems with a focus on Latin America. In this interview with the HSE News Service, Victoria talks about choosing to study at HSE University–Moscow, presenting her research to experts at a seminar, and finding the confidence to use Russian in daily life.

In October 2025, more than 200 international students began their studies on HSE University’s International Preparatory Year. After a month of rigorous in-class learning, they gathered for a more informal event—the Russian Speaking Club—where they met classmates from other groups. The HSE University News Service spoke with students, teachers, and administrators about the programme’s progress and expansion.

On October 10, 2025, the central atrium of HSE University’s Pokrovka campus hosted the Day of Russian Culture. Students of HSE International Prep Year programme had the opportunity to explore Russia’s traditions, art, and customs, as well as sample national delicacies. As always, the event was organised by HSE University’s Support and Career Centre for International Students and Alumni.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of HSE University's International Prep Year Programme. Over the past 10 years, approximately 2,000 international students have taken courses offered through the programme. At the core of their educational experience is the study of the Russian language, combined with subjects related to their future specialties, such as mathematics, computer science, literature, and history. In addition, students take part in interactive events organised by the programme. Vice Rector Victoria Panova discusses the origins and development of the HSE International Prep Year, as well as its main purpose.