MGIMO University—formally known as the Moscow State Institute of International Relations—is one of Russia’s most prestigious public research universities. Established in 1944, MGIMO operates under the patronage of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is globally renowned for its focus on international relations, law, economics, and diplomacy.
History of MGIMO University
MGIMO was founded on October 14, 1944, originally formed from the International Faculty of Lomonosov Moscow State University. It started with three core faculties:
- International Relations
- International Economic Relations
- International Law
Over the decades, MGIMO has expanded its academic influence, establishing campuses in Moscow, Odintsovo (Moscow Region), Tashkent (Uzbekistan), and a center in Geneva, Switzerland. Today, it remains the flagship institution for training Russia’s diplomats and international experts.
Academic Programs at MGIMO University
MGIMO offers a diverse and globally relevant curriculum across multiple disciplines. The university emphasizes multilingualism, global politics, and interdisciplinary education.
🔹 Undergraduate & Graduate Programs
Students can pursue degrees in:
- International Relations
- World Economy
- International Law
- Political Science
- Journalism
- Energy Policy
- Management
- Environmental Studies
- Linguistics
- Foreign Trade
🔹 Dual & Triple Degree Programs
MGIMO partners with 170+ foreign universities, offering 30+ dual and triple degree programs in collaboration with institutions across Europe and North America.
🌍 Language Programs
MGIMO holds the Guinness World Record for the most languages taught at a university—a staggering 54 languages. These include:
- Major global languages: English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, Russian
- Regional languages: Urdu, Vietnamese, Hebrew, Turkish, Swahili, Uzbek, Pashto, Dari, and many more
This emphasis on multilingual education prepares students for global careers in diplomacy and international business.
Postgraduate and PhD Research
MGIMO offers doctoral degrees (PhD) across all its academic fields. Research spans political science, law, economics, international development, and global energy studies.
Global Rankings and Recognition
MGIMO continues to gain international recognition for its excellence in teaching, research, and thought leadership:
- QS World University Rankings 2025: #567 globally
- Top Subject Rankings:
- Politics: #34
- Modern Languages & Linguistics: Top 101
- Law & Legal Studies: Top 151
- Economics & Econometrics: Top 251
- Sociology: Top 301
- Think Tank Rankings:
- #8 globally for University-Affiliated Think Tanks
- #73 globally for Best Managed Think Tanks
These rankings reflect MGIMO’s impact on global policy, academia, and research innovation.
Scholarships for International Students
MGIMO offers several funding opportunities for eligible international applicants:
🔹 Russian Government Scholarships
- Covers full tuition and in some cases living expenses
- Applicants must apply through the
🔹 MGIMO University Scholarships
- Offers full or partial tuition waivers for top-performing international undergraduate and graduate students
🔍 Check the official scholarship page for application requirements based on country of origin.
Contact Information
For questions about programs, application deadlines, or scholarships, you can reach MGIMO University through:
- 📍 Address: 76, Prospect Vernadskogo, Moscow, Russia, 119454
- ☎️ Phone: +7 (495) 434-94-94
- 📧 Email: info@mgimo.ru
- 🌐 Website: https://english.mgimo.ru
Conclusion
MGIMO University stands at the forefront of international education and diplomatic studies in Russia. With its elite academic programs, multilingual offerings, and vast global network, it offers international students an unmatched platform to thrive in global governance, foreign policy, international law, and economics.
