Russia has a long higher education tradition and offers international students a distinctive academic environment shaped by its position between Europe and Asia. Students interested in law can find programs at several well-known Russian universities, including institutions with long histories and established law faculties.
Law is one of the country’s prominent fields of study. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Law and Legal Studies, Lomonosov Moscow State University is listed in the 101–150 band, while HSE University is listed in the 251–300 band. Other universities on this list are included for their established law programs, international focus, or long-standing reputation in legal education.
To help you compare some of the most recognized law universities in Russia, here is a comprehensive list.
Top Law Schools in Russia
1. Moscow State University
Established in 1755, Moscow State University is considered one of the oldest and most reputable institutions of higher education in Russia. The university was founded with the support of Mikhail Lomonosov, one of Russia’s most important scientists and scholars. During its long history, the university has educated many notable alumni and has developed a large academic community with research centers, libraries, museums, and a well-known campus in Moscow.
The Faculty of Law is one of the oldest parts of the university and was included among Moscow University’s original faculties. Today, the Faculty offers legal education at the bachelor’s, master’s, and postgraduate levels. Students can study major areas of Russian law, including public law, civil law, and criminal law, and may continue their studies through graduate and postgraduate programs. The Faculty also encourages students to combine academic learning with practical experience through internships and legal practice opportunities, making Moscow State University one of the strongest options for law in Russia.
2. Saint Petersburg State University
Situated in the city of the same name, Saint Petersburg State University is one of Russia’s largest and most prestigious universities. Founded by decree of Peter the Great in 1724, the university has maintained a strong focus on research in both the natural and social sciences. It is also associated with many distinguished alumni and scholars, including Nobel Prize winners in fields such as physiology, literature, physics, chemistry, and economics.
Through its multidisciplinary programs, the university aims to offer students a well-rounded and comprehensive education. In this way, students acquire not only theoretical knowledge but also the means to use it in real-world settings.
Saint Petersburg State University offers undergraduate and graduate law programs that prepare students for careers in Russian and international legal fields. Its current law offerings include bachelor’s programs in law, including options with foreign-language and regional-law components, as well as master’s programs such as Transnational Legal Practice in English and International Private Law in English and Russian. The university also offers individual law courses in English, including International Commercial Arbitration and Judicial Review of Governments’ Actions.
3. Novosibirsk State University
Novosibirsk State University is a well-regarded public research university in Russia. Since its establishment in 1958, the university has emphasized close connections between education and research. Located in Akademgorodok, a major scientific center, NSU benefits from links with research institutes of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
In addition to its research-oriented educational programs, Novosibirsk State University is known for its location in Akademgorodok, an area with a mixed pine-birch forest and a strong scientific community. Students can also experience the cultural life of Novosibirsk, including the Novosibirsk State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, one of the largest musical theaters in Russia.
Students interested in law can study at the Institute for the Philosophy and Law. The Institute lists a bachelor’s program in Law and several master’s programs in law, including Constitutional Law, International and Russian Business Law, Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure, Financial Regulation, Private Law, and International Public Law. These programs prepare students for legal careers in public, private, business, and international law.
4. Moscow State Institute of International Relations
- Study Program
- Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Medium of Instruction: Russian, with selected English and foreign-language components
The Moscow State Institute of International Relations, or MGIMO, is widely recognized as one of Russia’s leading universities for international relations, diplomacy, political science, economics, and law. MGIMO was founded in 1944 and is especially known for its language training, with official university materials noting dozens of foreign languages offered full-time.
The International Law School was founded in 1949 and remains one of MGIMO’s most prestigious schools. Its academic structure includes departments in international law, constitutional law, administrative and financial law, criminal law, and foreign languages. The school offers bachelor’s, master’s, and postgraduate opportunities connected with international and Russian legal studies. Because of MGIMO’s international focus, students may also benefit from foreign-language training and international academic links while preparing for careers in law, diplomacy, government, and international organizations.
5. National Research University Higher School of Economics
- Study Program | Scholarships
- Degree/s Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | Medium of Instruction: Russian, with English-language coursework and international options
Among the best-known law schools in Russia, the National Research University Higher School of Economics was established in Moscow in 1992. In addition to its main campus in Moscow, HSE University has campuses in Saint Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, and Perm. The university has developed from an economics institute into a comprehensive research university and is known for combining Russian educational traditions with international teaching and research practices.
The Faculty of Law is one of HSE University’s leading academic units and offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral-level legal education. HSE University’s law offerings include Russian-language legal training, English-language coursework, and international opportunities. HSE has also developed Common Law and University of London-related law options, although applicants should confirm the current availability of these programs directly with the university before applying.
In addition to its educational standards, studying in Russia allows students to experience the country’s history, culture, and regional diversity. Because of its size and academic variety, Russia offers many opportunities for students to explore different cities, institutions, and areas of specialization.
We hope this article on the best law schools in Russia was informative and helpful. If you are interested, make sure to also check out the Study in Russia and Available Programs in Europe for International Students!
