Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO)
The Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) was established on October 14, 1944, by Lomonosov Moscow State University. Initially led by Ivan Udaltsov, a renowned Soviet economist and former Rector of Moscow State University, this new university embodied an exceptional model of higher education right from its inception. Despite its proximity to political elites, MGIMO has consistently upheld a spirit of intellectual freedom.
In 1991, the institute launched its Faculty of International Business, followed by the establishment of the Faculty of Political Science in 1998. Since 1994, as per a decision by the Russian government, specialized training has been provided to individuals working in state institutions, aiming to cultivate expertise in government and municipal administration. These educational programs are administered by the newly formed International Governance Institute, a structural unit of the university.
In 2006, MGIMO’s Board of Trustees was established with Sergey Lavrov, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, as its Chairman. The Board comprises prominent Russian officials, well-known figures from the public, 
as well as business icons such as Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of IKEA, and Frederik Paulsen, Chairman of the Board of “Ferring Pharmaceuticals,” alongside charitable figures from Russia and abroad, including honorary consuls of the Russian Federation in Lausanne. A year later, the MGIMO Board of Trustees established Russia’s first university endowment aimed at securing the university’s long-term financial stability.
In July 2013, the Moscow State Institute of International Relations obtained international accreditation for all its educational programs across three levels, becoming the first and only university in Russia to implement such a large-scale project. By 2017, following a directive from the Russian Government, 
the Moscow State Institute of International Relations acquired the authority to confer doctoral degrees, establish thesis advisors, and develop the framework for granting scientific degrees. Since its establishment, the Moscow State Institute of International Relations has had leading scholars working across its departments, contributing significantly to its academic excellence.
As per the words of our esteemed professor İlber Ortaylı, MGIMO, referred to as Russia’s Harvard, hosts a multitude of foreign students. MGIMO, the Moscow International University of International Relations, is a founding member of the Russian Association for International Studies.
It actively contributes to a range of organizations such as the Russian Political Science Association, the Russia-United Nations Association, various Russian foundations, and civil society groups, paving the way for global intellectual contributions.
Student Dormitories
The Moscow State University of International Relations, like other Russian state universities, provides accommodation opportunities in dedicated student dormitories for its enrolled international students. These dormitories are situated within the campus premises and offer single or 2-3 person occupancy rooms equipped with security cameras, internet access, and on-site security personnel. The cost of university accommodation ranges between $100 to $150, varying based on the quality of the dorm rooms and the number of occupants. Fees for student housing are paid on a semester basis.
Section and Prices
| Monthly Dormitory Fee | Health insurance | Monthly Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| 125$ | 220$ (1Year ) | 400$ |