Moscow Aviation Institute

Academic Admission & Registration Guide

To ensure a seamless enrollment process, applicants are kindly requested to fulfill the following admission requirements and prepare their documentation according to the specified standards:

I. Required Documentation for Enrollment

  • International Passport: A high-quality scanned copy of a valid international passport.
  • Academic Credentials: An authentic copy of the graduation certificate accompanied by the official academic transcript.
  • Certificate of Recognition: Provision of an equivalence certificate or recognition of academic credentials (where applicable).
  • Personal Photographs: Recent passport-sized photos (3 x 4 cm).

Note on Legalization: All aforementioned documents must be translated into Russian and officially notarized or certified by the relevant Consular Department.

II. Entrance Examination System

The University offers comprehensive flexibility regarding assessment procedures. Candidates may select one of the following modes:

  1. Digital Path (Online): Completion of examinations remotely via the University’s dedicated educational platform.
  2. Direct Path (Offline): Personal attendance at the University campus to sit for examinations in designated halls.

III. Financial Obligations & Medical Regulations

  • Tuition Payments: Adherence to the payment of prescribed tuition fees in accordance with the University’s official financial calendar.
  • Medical Clearance: Submission of an official medical report certifying that the applicant is HIV-negative, along with a general medical certificate confirming physical and mental fitness for international study.

Student Visa Procedures

Entry into the Russian Federation for educational purposes is subject to a mandatory visa system for most nationalities (including citizens of the EU and EFTA member states).

Core Requirements for Visa Application:

  • Passport Validity: The passport must remain valid for a minimum of 18 months from the visa issuance date and must contain at least two blank pages.
  • Official Invitation: The original letter of invitation issued by the University.
  • Application Forms: Accurate completion of the official visa application form.
  • Health Report: A valid HIV-negative certificate issued within the last 90 days.
  • Minors (Under 18): Applicants under the age of 18 must provide a legally notarized parental consent letter.
  • Photo Specifications: Personal photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm).

Important Notice: The information provided above outlines the general procedural framework. Applicants are strongly advised to contact the Russian Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence to stay informed about any updates or additional country-specific requirements.

 

Accreditations & Academic Standing

Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) maintains a prominent position across both global and domestic performance indicators. Its key achievements and rankings are summarized as follows:

I. International Rankings

  • Times Higher Education (THE):
    • Recognized among the Top 400 universities globally.
    • Ranked among the Top 25 Russian universities in the 2020 “Emerging Economies University Rankings.”
    • Ranked within the Top 30 in Russia for the Engineering & Technology sectors.
  • QS World University Rankings:
    • Maintains a consistent presence in the QS BRICS and QS EECA rankings.
    • Currently listed among the Top 40 universities in Russia.

II. National Rankings (Russia)

  • RAEX Rating Agency:
    • Ranked within the Top 25 in the National University Rankings.
    • Awarded a Diploma of Excellence in the “Development of International Integration” category.
    • Secured 15th place in the “Graduate Relevance to Employers” metric.
  • Forbes Magazine: Listed among the Top 10 Russian universities according to the “Elite Factor” criteria.
  • Expert Analytical Center: Ranked 3rd nationally in “Invention and Innovation Activity” indicators.

III. Employability & Career Excellence

  • Superjob Portal: MAI is ranked among the Top 10 technical universities in Russia regarding graduate employability and average salary levels within the labor market.

About MAI & International cooperation & Educational process 

 

About Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI)

Founded in 1930, Moscow Aviation Institute (MAI) is considered one of the oldest and most prestigious aviation and engineering institutes in Russia and worldwide. Today, it hosts more than 20,000 students, making it one of the largest technical institutes in Russia.

The institute is known for its strong partnerships with major technological and engineering organizations such as Roscosmos, Rostec, Sukhoi, and Irkut, giving students the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience alongside their academic studies.

MAI also features the specialized “Alferevo” training airbase, where students receive hands-on experience in aircraft piloting and aerospace engineering through intensive practical training programs.

The institute includes 11 departments equipped with advanced technologies, including 3D printing, industrial robotics, electronic systems laboratories, innovation testing centers, and technical training facilities.

Programs are available in both English and Russian across several majors, including:
• Aircraft Engineering
• Spacecraft Engineering
• Control Systems & Computer Science
• Propulsion Engineering

Annual tuition fees:
• English-taught programs: $..

  • Russian-taught programs: $..