If there is one thing that remains constant in Russia, it is rapid change. The mental snapshots that students take home from Russia are very different from those they bring with them. Language learning happens in the classroom. Cultural insight happens in places like the home, theater, recital hall, cafeteria, and supermarket.

Moscow is the center of Russian cultural and political life. Whether spotting Lenin's ghost in Red Square, exploring neighborhood boutiques, or sampling authentic Georgian cuisine, Moscow offers all the excitement of a cosmopolitan city. Students should know, however, that studying in Moscow, with its nine million residents, imper­sonal attitude, and huge crowds in the metro, is not the typical "Russian" experience they might be expecting. As the ease of transitioning into such a large city can be overestimated, Moscow is best suited for students with strong language skills and prior experience in Russia.

Students primarily take their courses at the Middlebury center in Russian language, literature, and culture, with content seminars, "spetskursy", focusing on economics, politics, history, and regional studies. Middlebury's host institution, the Russian State University for the Humanities (RGGU), offers a full range of courses in the humanities and social sciences.

How do I choose among programs?

• See the Office of Global Learning’s “Selecting a Program” page for information on program types and considerations
• Use the search features on the Experience Cornell  Opportunities page to filter for programs approved by your college, and by particular subject areas
• Go to the “Get Advice” page for information on drop-in advising hours, scheduling an advising appointment, returned student contacts, and college advisors for study abroad
• Find out about upcoming events, check out FAQs, and read stories from returned study abroad students

How do I apply?

Applying to study abroad is a two-step process. You may complete both steps simultaneously, but the Cornell approval process must be complete before your program advisor in the Office of Global Learning can submit any approval or nomination to the program.

1. For Cornell Approval, click on the "Apply" button on this webpage. Applications are approved by the Office of Global Learning on a rolling basis until the application deadline listed on this page.
2. For Program Admission, complete an external application directly on the program’s webpage, using the link in the “Snapshot” section. (Note: This deadline may be in advance of the general Cornell deadline for approval. Many programs fill by rolling admission.)