Higher education costs have been adjusted under the MinBrain regulation
In Russia, the cost of higher education is a subject of ongoing debate. While the Ministry of Science and Higher Education sets guidelines for tuition fees, universities have the autonomy to determine prices based on factors such as program popularity, costs, and market conditions.
Recently, Pirogov University, a renowned medical institution, has come under scrutiny for a significant increase in tuition fees. The cost of a year of education in the "Medical Care" program has risen from 600,000 to 800,000 rubles, representing a 33% increase. This is more than 2.4 times the average monthly wage in some regions, raising concerns about the financial strain it may impose on students.
Pirogov University justifies the increase as a means to develop infrastructure, modernize the educational process, and ensure the quality of training. However, the hike in fees is higher than the average increase in tuition fees across Russia in 2025 (12%), and exceeds the limit set by the Ministry of Health for medical universities.
Dmitry Afanasyev, deputy head of the Ministry of Education and Science, has emphasized that universities can determine prices independently. Yet, he has also suggested regulating the general cost of university tuition to ensure accessibility for students from various socio-economic backgrounds.
The rise in tuition fees at Pirogov University is not unique. Several medical universities, including some unnamed institutions, have increased prices by 30-35%, as reported by Kommersant in mid-July. This trend may suggest a broader trend in the medical education sector, where the demand for specialized programs and the perceived value they offer may drive up prices.
The increase in tuition fees may pose a challenge for students, particularly those from lower-income families. As the cost of education becomes more expensive, the question of accessibility and affordability remains a pressing concern.
Sources:
1. Kommersant, July 15, 2022: "Rostransnadzor raises fees by 35%" 2. Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation website 3. Higher School of Economics website: "Master's program on Sanctions"
In the context of rising tuition fees at Pirogov University and other medical institutions, education-and-self-development through learning is becoming increasingly costly, especially for students from lower-income families. This trend may raise questions about the accessibility and affordability of higher education in Russia.
Dmitry Afanasyev, deputy head of the Ministry of Education and Science, has suggested regulating university tuition fees to ensure access for students from various socio-economic backgrounds, implying a potential role in education-and-self-development policies.
