
From Uzbekistan to Russia: Exchange Student on His Transformative Experience
Bekzod Karimov, a student from Tashkent State University of Law, Uzbekistan, joined an exchange programme at HSE University in St Petersburg in 2024. In this interview, Bekzod shares his exciting experiences: from studying law to exploring the beautiful city. Read on to find out how the programme helped him grow, inspired his career goals, and changed his view of the world.
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‘In My Life, There is Before and After HSE University–St Petersburg’
HSE University–St Petersburg is proud of its graduates. Our alumni pursue careers in a wide variety of fields—from academia and public policy to creative industries and international development. Each story is unique, filled with ambition, perseverance, and meaningful change. Today, we are excited to share the story of Giovanny Simon Machado—a graduate of the Master’s programme 'Applied and Interdisciplinary History "Usable Pasts"'. Now, he is a professor at the Department of Social Work at the Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil. This May, Prof. Machado came back to Russia as a participant of the HSE University–St Petersburg International Partners’ Week 2025. Read on to learn more about his experience of studying and living in Russia and how it has changed his life.

Showcasing the Diversity of African Heritage at HSE University–St Petersburg
On April 26, HSE University–St Petersburg held the African Festival. Currently, there are more than 100 students from 20 African countries at the university, most of whom showed up for the first festival of its kind this April. HSE's African students proudly presented their traditions, cultural values, vibrant dances, and unique landmarks of their countries. It was an unforgettable journey into the colourful culture and multifaceted heritage of Africa.
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Surviving as a Korean International Student in Russia: Cultural Differences to Watch Out For
Studying abroad in Russia can be an exciting adventure, especially at HSE University–St Petersburg. As an international student, you might already expect challenges like language barriers and the freezing winter. However, cultural differences often require the biggest adjustments. Navigating through everyday Russian customs and social norms can be overwhelming at first. The good news is that understanding these differences will not only help you adapt more smoothly but also make your experience more rewarding. In this article, we’ll explore specific cultural contrasts between Korea and Russia—from communication style to classroom etiquette—and share friendly tips on how to cope.
Participants of ‘Cultural Cafe’ at HSE University-St Petersburg Share Their Experience of Academic Mobility in South Korea
The building at Griboyedova Canal Embankment hosted a meeting with international students from the South Korean universities of Chung Ang and Kyung Hee, as well as HSE students who went to South Korea on an academic mobility programme.
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HSE University-St Petersburg Launches Centre for Russian Language and Culture
In 2025, HSE University-St Petersburg opened the Centre for Russian Language and Culture at the School of Arts and Humanities. The centre offers various courses for international applicants, the largest of which is the 'Pre-University Programme', a Russian preparatory course for those intending to enrol in full-time bachelor's and master's programmes. Read on to find out more about the centre's activities, courses, and study conditions.
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Becoming an Ambassador of HSE University-St Petersburg
‘HSE — Saint Petersburg International Ambassadors’ is a project where HSE University students work with the International Office to promote the university amongst prospective applicants. This competitive selective project is aimed at improving students' communication, leadership ability, and creative skills.

‘I See Numerous Opportunities That HSE University Can Leverage in Indonesia’
In November 2023, a representative office of HSE University opened in Indonesia. This new educational hub is designed to help students from the Asia-Pacific (APAC) who are planning to study in Russia. The representative office is based at Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS) in the city of Surabaya. The office is headed by Bima Yatna Anugerah Ramadhani, HSE University-St Petersburg graduate of the Master’s programme ‘Management and Analytics for Business’. In the interview, Bima Ramadhani reflects on his studies at HSE campus in St Petersburg, talks about his work at the State University of Surabaya and elaborates on the further activities of the HSE University representative office.

Maslenitsa: Experiencing Pancake Week with HSE University-St Petersburg
On March 15, international students from more than ten countries visited an authentic Russian village to celebrate Maslenitsa. This week-long ancient holiday is impossible not to love: delicious pancakes with dozens of sweet and sour toppings, lots of games and activities, and the epic burning of the Maslenitsa doll will not leave anyone indifferent. Let’s recall that day!
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International Admissions at HSE University-St Petersburg
There is a common belief that top-ranked universities have complex and confusing admission processes, making it difficult for applicants to navigate their websites, complete various forms, and submit required documents. However, HSE University-St Petersburg bucks this trend by offering a straightforward and easy-to-understand admission process. In this article, Daniel Akabueze, a second-year student of the Bachelor’s programme ‘Political Science and World Politics’ and an International Ambassador of HSE University-St Petersburg, will guide you through the international admission process at the university, ensuring that you have all the necessary information to become a member of the HSE family.