Why Should you Study in Belarus?
Find all the study programs in Belarus
About- Belarus
Belarus is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia to the east and northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest. Its capital and largest city is Minsk.
Belarus has a population of approximately 9.4 million people and its official languages are Belarusian and Russian. The majority of the population practices Eastern Orthodoxy, with small populations of Catholics and Protestants.
Belarus has a long and complex history, having been ruled by various empires and states throughout the centuries. It became an independent country in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
The country is governed by a presidential republic, with the President serving as both the head of state and head of government. Human rights and freedom of the press are often restricted in Belarus, and the government has been criticized for its treatment of political dissidents and opposition figures.
The economy of Belarus is heavily reliant on its industrial sector, particularly in the areas of heavy machinery, agricultural equipment, and electronics. The country is also known for its rich cultural heritage, including its traditional music and art.
Religion
The majority of the population in Belarus practices Eastern Orthodoxy, specifically the Belarusian Orthodox Church which is an autonomous branch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Catholic Church is also present in Belarus, particularly among the Polish minority, and there are smaller populations of Protestants, Jews, and Muslims.
In addition, Belarus has a long history of religious diversity, including the presence of pagan religions prior to the spread of Christianity and the influence of Jewish communities throughout its history. However, during the Soviet era, religion was heavily discouraged and many religious institutions were suppressed or closed down. In recent years, there has been a revival of religious activity in Belarus, but there are still concerns about government restrictions on religious freedom and the harassment of religious minorities.
Tourist Attractions
Belarus has a rich cultural and natural heritage, with a range of tourist attractions that offer visitors an opportunity to explore the country’s history, traditions, and natural beauty. Some popular tourist attractions in Belarus include:
Mir Castle – a 16th-century castle that is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Brest Fortress – a military fortification built in the 19th century, which played a significant role in World War II.
Nesvizh Palace – a 16th-century palace and UNESCO World Heritage site, which features beautiful gardens and a museum.
Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park – a large forested area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including European bison.
Minsk Old Town – a historic district of Minsk with a variety of traditional architecture, including churches, cathedrals, and museums.
Braslav Lakes National Park – a beautiful region with over 30 lakes and numerous hiking trails.
Dudutki Museum Complex – an open-air museum that showcases Belarusian folk traditions and crafts.
Khatyn Memorial Complex – a memorial dedicated to the victims of Nazi atrocities during World War II.
Vitebsk – a picturesque city known for its artistic heritage and cultural events, including the annual Slavianski Bazaar festival.
The National Museum of History and Culture of Belarus – a museum that showcases the history and culture of Belarus from prehistoric times to the present day.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Belarus has to offer. Visitors to Belarus can also enjoy traditional Belarusian cuisine, folk music, and art, as well as the country’s beautiful countryside and outdoor recreational activities.
Food
Belarusian cuisine has been influenced by neighboring countries such as Russia, Poland, Lithuania, and Ukraine. Some popular dishes in Belarus include:
Draniki – Belarusian potato pancakes made with grated potatoes, eggs, flour, and onions.
Machanka – A thick and hearty pork stew made with sour cream, onions, and spices.
Kholodnik – A cold summer soup made with beets, cucumbers, radishes, and sour cream.
Babka – A traditional Belarusian bread made with rye flour and served with butter and cheese.
Kletski – Small dumplings made with potatoes and served with bacon or sour cream.
Kolduny – Belarusian meat dumplings filled with beef or pork and onions.
Kasha – A porridge made from various grains such as buckwheat, barley, or oats.
Smetana – A type of sour cream that is used as a condiment in many Belarusian dishes.
Sausage – Belarusian sausages are made with pork, beef, or game meats and seasoned with garlic, pepper, and other spices.
Bliny – Thin pancakes made from wheat or buckwheat flour and served with jam, honey, or sour cream.
Language
The official language of Belarus is Belarusian, which is a Slavic language closely related to Russian and Ukrainian. However, Russian is also widely spoken in Belarus, particularly in urban areas and among older generations. In addition, there are also smaller linguistic communities in Belarus who speak Polish, Yiddish, and other languages. The country has a bilingual education system, with both Belarusian and Russian being used as the medium of instruction in schools, depending on the preference of the students and their families.
Politics
Belarus is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe that has been ruled by President Alexander Lukashenko since 1994. The political atmosphere in Belarus has been characterized by authoritarianism and lack of political freedom.
Lukashenko’s government has been accused of suppressing political opposition, censoring the media, and limiting freedom of expression. The government controls the judiciary, and opposition leaders and activists have been imprisoned or exiled. In addition, there have been reports of police brutality and human rights abuses.
The political situation in Belarus has been particularly tense since the 2020 presidential election, which saw Lukashenko claim victory in a widely disputed vote. The opposition candidate, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, challenged the results and claimed victory herself, sparking protests throughout the country. The government responded with a crackdown on protesters, resulting in numerous arrests and incidents of violence.
The international community has been critical of the Lukashenko government’s handling of the election and subsequent protests. Many Western countries have imposed sanctions on Belarusian officials and entities in response to the human rights violations and political repression. The situation in Belarus remains fluid, with ongoing protests and international pressure on the government to reform.
Currency
The currency of Belarus is the Belarusian ruble (BYN), which replaced the Belarusian ruble of 2000 in 2016. The ruble is issued by the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus, which is the country’s central bank.
The exchange rate of the Belarusian ruble has been relatively stable in recent years, but it is subject to fluctuations based on various economic and political factors. The Belarusian government has historically maintained strict control over the country’s currency and foreign exchange transactions, but in recent years it has taken steps to liberalize the foreign exchange market and reduce restrictions on currency transactions.
Although the Belarusian ruble is the official currency of Belarus, other currencies such as the US dollar and the euro are also widely accepted in the country. However, it is advisable to check with individual merchants or banks regarding their exchange rates and policies before engaging in currency exchange transactions.
Geography
Belarus is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia to the east and northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest. It has an area of approximately 207,600 square kilometers (80,155 square miles) and a population of around 9.5 million people.
The landscape of Belarus is largely flat, with the highest point in the country reaching only 345 meters (1,132 feet) above sea level. The country is dominated by large forested areas, with one-third of the land covered by forests, and several large rivers, including the Dnieper, the Western Bug, and the Pripyat. Belarus also has more than 11,000 lakes, including Lake Narach, the largest lake in the country.
Belarus has a temperate continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is around -6°C (21°F), while the average temperature in July, the warmest month, is around 18°C (64°F).
The capital and largest city of Belarus is Minsk, which is located in the center of the country. Other major cities include Gomel, Mogilev, Vitebsk, and Brest.
Studying in Belarus
Belarus has a number of universities and educational institutions that offer a range of degree programs for international students. Some of the top universities in Belarus include the Belarusian State University, the Belarusian National Technical University, and the Brest State Technical University.
To study in Belarus as an international student, you will need to obtain a student visa and meet the admission requirements of your chosen university or educational institution. In general, admission to universities in Belarus is based on academic qualifications, language proficiency, and other criteria such as entrance examinations or interviews.
Most universities in Belarus offer courses in Russian or Belarusian, but many also offer programs in English. The academic year typically runs from September to June, with two semesters and a summer break.
The cost of studying in Belarus varies depending on the institution and the degree program. Tuition fees for international students can range from several thousand to several tens of thousands of dollars per year. However, the cost of living in Belarus is generally lower than in many other European countries.
In addition to academic programs, Belarus also offers a range of cultural and extracurricular activities for students, including sports clubs, student organizations, and cultural events.
Why Belarus?
There are several reasons why students may choose to study in Belarus:
Quality Education: Belarusian universities are known for offering quality education with a wide range of study options. Many of the universities in Belarus are internationally recognized and offer courses in different fields such as engineering, medicine, economics, and humanities.
Affordable tuition fees: Compared to many other European countries, tuition fees in Belarus are relatively affordable. Many universities in Belarus also offer scholarships and financial aid to international students.
Low cost of living: The cost of living in Belarus is lower than in many other European countries. Students can expect to spend less on accommodation, food, and other expenses.
Multicultural environment: Belarus is a multicultural country that attracts students from different parts of the world. Studying in Belarus can provide an opportunity for international students to learn about different cultures and make new friends.
Safe and stable country: Belarus is a safe and stable country with a low crime rate. The country is known for its friendly people and welcoming atmosphere.
Job opportunities: Belarus has a growing economy, and there are many job opportunities available for graduates in various fields. Students who graduate from Belarusian universities may also be eligible for a one-year post-study work permit, which can help them gain work experience in the country.
Cost of Studying in Belarus
The cost of studying in Belarus varies depending on the institution and the degree program. Here is a breakdown of some of the main costs to consider:
Tuition Fees: The tuition fees for international students in Belarus range from several thousand to several tens of thousands of dollars per year, depending on the program and institution. Some universities also offer scholarships and financial aid to international students.
Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Belarus varies depending on the city and the type of accommodation. On-campus accommodation is usually cheaper than off-campus accommodation. A room in a shared apartment can cost around $100 to $300 per month, while a single room in a dormitory can cost around $50 to $150 per month.
Food and other expenses: The cost of food and other expenses in Belarus is generally lower than in many other European countries. International students can expect to spend around $200 to $300 per month on food and other daily expenses.
Health insurance: International students are required to have health insurance while studying in Belarus. The cost of health insurance varies depending on the policy and the insurance provider.
Visa and travel expenses: International students are required to obtain a student visa to study in Belarus. The cost of a student visa varies depending on the country of origin. Students should also consider the cost of travel to and from Belarus.
Overall, the cost of studying in Belarus is generally lower than in many other European countries. However, students should carefully consider their expenses and budget accordingly to ensure that they can cover the cost of living and other expenses while studying in Belarus.
Life in Belarus
Belarus is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. Here are some things to know about life in Belarus:
People: Belarusians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. They are proud of their country and culture and are happy to share it with visitors and newcomers.
Language: The official languages of Belarus are Belarusian and Russian. While Russian is widely spoken, Belarusian is the language of instruction in schools and universities.
Food: Belarusian cuisine is diverse and reflects the country’s cultural and historical influences. Popular dishes include draniki (potato pancakes), borscht (beetroot soup), and kholodets (meat jelly).
Nature: Belarus is known for its beautiful nature, with over a third of the country covered by forests. The country is also home to several national parks and nature reserves.
Culture: Belarus has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of museums, galleries, and cultural events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Minsk International Film Festival, the International Festival of Arts “Slavianski Bazaar,” and the International Festival of Classical Music “Minsk Spring.”
Transportation: The public transportation system in Belarus is well developed, with a network of buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro system in Minsk. Taxis are also widely available.
Safety: Belarus is considered a safe country, with a low crime rate. However, like in any other country, visitors and newcomers should take common-sense precautions to ensure their safety.
Overall, life in Belarus is comfortable and welcoming, with a diverse cultural and historical heritage and beautiful natural surroundings.
Accommodation Available
Belarus offers several accommodation options for students, including:
Student dormitories: Most universities in Belarus offer student dormitories on campus or near campus. These dormitories are affordable and convenient, providing students with a place to stay while they study.
Private apartments: Students can also rent private apartments in Belarus. This option is usually more expensive than staying in a dormitory, but it offers more privacy and independence.
Homestays: Another option for students is to live with a host family. This option provides students with the opportunity to experience Belarusian culture and improve their language skills.
When it comes to finding accommodation in Belarus, it’s important to do your research in advance and start looking for options as soon as possible. Most universities have a department or office that can help students find suitable accommodation, so be sure to contact them for assistance. Additionally, there are several online resources available for finding accommodation in Belarus, such as websites like Domovita.by and Kvartirant.by.
Other Living Expenses
In addition to accommodation, there are several other living expenses to consider as a student in Belarus. Some of these expenses include:
Food: The cost of food in Belarus can vary depending on your location and eating habits. However, in general, it is relatively affordable, especially if you shop at local markets and cook your meals at home. On average, a student can expect to spend between $150 to $250 per month on food.
Transportation: Public transportation is widely available in Belarus, with buses, trams, and metro systems in major cities. The cost of a single ticket is around $0.30, and monthly passes are also available. Alternatively, you can also choose to walk or bike around the city, which is free.
Utilities: If you are renting an apartment, you will need to pay for utilities such as electricity, water, and gas. These costs will depend on your usage, but on average, expect to pay around $30-$40 per month.
Entertainment: There are plenty of opportunities for entertainment in Belarus, such as going to the cinema, visiting museums, and attending concerts. The cost of these activities can vary, but there are often student discounts available.
Health insurance: All international students in Belarus are required to have health insurance. The cost of health insurance can vary, but on average, it is around $30-$50 per month.
Overall, the cost of living in Belarus as a student can vary depending on your lifestyle and location. However, with careful budgeting and planning, it is possible to live comfortably on a student budget.
Top Universities
Belarus is home to several top universities, offering a range of programs across different disciplines. Here are some of the top universities in Belarus:
Belarusian State University (BSU): Founded in 1921, BSU is the oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in Belarus. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including economics, law, natural sciences, and humanities.
Belarusian National Technical University (BNTU): BNTU is the largest and the leading technical university in Belarus, offering programs in engineering, information technology, economics, and management.
Belarusian State Medical University (BSMU): BSMU is the leading medical university in Belarus, offering programs in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy.
Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radioelectronics (BSUIR): BSUIR is a leading university in the field of computer science and technology, offering programs in computer science, software engineering, and electronics.
Belarusian State Pedagogical University (BSPU): BSPU is a leading university in the field of education and offers programs in education, psychology, and social work.
These universities have a long history of providing quality education to students from Belarus and around the world. They offer a wide range of programs, excellent facilities, and experienced faculty members. International students interested in studying in Belarus should consider these universities and explore their program offerings.
Degrees Available
Belarusian universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various fields of study. Some of the most popular degree programs offered by universities in Belarus include:
Engineering: This field is popular among international students in Belarus, with several universities offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs in areas such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer engineering.
Medicine and Health Sciences: Medical universities in Belarus offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy.
Economics and Business: Several universities in Belarus offer degree programs in economics, business administration, and management.
Natural Sciences: Students interested in pursuing a degree in natural sciences can choose from programs in fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics.
Humanities and Social Sciences: Belarusian universities also offer degree programs in areas such as languages and literature, history, law, and social sciences.
In addition to these popular fields of study, Belarusian universities offer programs in other areas, such as art, music, and architecture. International students interested in studying in Belarus should explore the program offerings of different universities to find the degree program that best fits their interests and career goals.
Study Visa
International students who want to study in Belarus need to obtain a study visa before they can enter the country. Here are the steps involved in obtaining a study visa for Belarus:
Apply to a University: The first step is to apply and get accepted into a recognized university or institution in Belarus. You will need to submit an application form along with your academic transcripts and other supporting documents.
Receive Invitation: Once you have been accepted, the university will issue an official invitation letter that you will need to apply for a student visa. This letter will be sent to you by post or email, and it will contain the details you will need to apply for your visa.
Apply for the Visa: With your invitation letter in hand, you will need to apply for a student visa at the Belarusian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. You will need to submit a completed visa application form, your invitation letter, a passport valid for at least six months, and other supporting documents.
Pay the Visa Fee: You will be required to pay a non-refundable fee for your visa application. The fee amount may vary depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay.
Attend an Interview: You may be required to attend an interview with the embassy or consulate as part of the visa application process.
Wait for Your Visa: The processing time for a student visa application can vary depending on the embassy or consulate. Once your visa has been approved, it will be stamped in your passport, and you will be able to enter Belarus.
It’s important to note that visa requirements and application procedures can vary depending on your home country and the university you plan to attend. Be sure to check with the embassy or consulate in your country to confirm the requirements and procedures for obtaining a study visa for Belarus.
Requirements
The requirements for obtaining a study visa for Belarus can vary depending on your home country and the university you plan to attend. However, here are some general requirements that are typically needed:
Acceptance Letter: You will need an acceptance letter from a recognized university or educational institution in Belarus. This letter should include details such as your course of study, the duration of your program, and the estimated cost of your studies.
Passport: You will need a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond the date of your planned departure from Belarus.
Visa Application Form: You will need to complete a visa application form, which can typically be downloaded from the website of the Belarusian embassy or consulate in your home country.
Passport-Sized Photograph: You will need to provide one or two passport-sized photographs that meet the specifications outlined by the embassy or consulate.
Medical Certificate: You will need to provide a medical certificate that shows you are free from infectious diseases and in good health. The certificate should be issued by a recognized medical institution.
Proof of Financial Support: You will need to provide evidence that you have enough financial resources to cover your tuition fees and living expenses in Belarus. This can be in the form of bank statements, scholarship letters, or other documentation.
Visa Fee: You will need to pay a non-refundable visa fee when you submit your application. The fee amount can vary depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay.
In addition to these requirements, you may also be asked to provide other documentation, such as a criminal background check or proof of language proficiency. Be sure to check with the embassy or consulate in your home country for a complete list of requirements and procedures for obtaining a study visa for Belarus.
Applying in University
To apply to a university in Belarus, you will need to follow the admission procedures set by the institution of your choice. Here are the general steps involved in applying to a university in Belarus:
Choose a University and Program: The first step is to research and identify the universities in Belarus that offer the program you are interested in studying.
Review Admission Requirements: Each university sets its own admission requirements, so you should review the requirements carefully before you apply. You may be required to provide academic transcripts, language proficiency test results, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
Submit Your Application: Once you have identified the program and university you wish to apply to, you can submit your application online or by post. You may be required to pay an application fee when you submit your application.
Await Notification of Acceptance: The university will review your application and notify you if you have been accepted. If you are accepted, you will be issued an acceptance letter, which you will need to submit when you apply for a student visa.
Accept the Offer: If you are accepted, you will need to confirm your acceptance by paying a deposit or confirming your intention to enroll.
Apply for a Study Visa: Once you have accepted your offer, you can apply for a student visa at the Belarusian embassy or consulate in your home country.
The admission procedures and requirements can vary depending on the university and program you are applying to. Be sure to check with the university you are interested in to confirm the specific admission requirements and procedures for the program you want to study.
Choosing University
Choosing a university in Belarus can be an important decision that can greatly impact your academic and career goals. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a university in Belarus:
Academic Programs: The first thing to consider is the academic programs offered by the university. You should choose a university that offers the program or major you are interested in studying. You should also consider the quality and reputation of the program, the faculty, and the research opportunities available.
University Rankings: You can check the university rankings to get an idea of the top universities in Belarus. These rankings can be based on factors such as research output, academic reputation, student satisfaction, and employer reputation.
Location: The location of the university is also an important factor to consider. You should consider the accessibility of the university, the cost of living in the area, and the cultural and social opportunities available.
Facilities and Resources: The facilities and resources available at the university can greatly impact your academic experience. You should consider factors such as the library, laboratory facilities, sports facilities, student services, and accommodation options.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid: You should consider the tuition fees and available financial aid options when choosing a university. You should also research scholarships and grant opportunities that may be available to international students.
Language of Instruction: You should consider the language of instruction used at the university. Most universities in Belarus use Russian or Belarusian as the language of instruction. If you are not fluent in these languages, you may need to take language courses or choose a university that offers programs in English.
It’s important to carefully research and consider all of these factors before making a decision on which university to attend in Belarus. You can also reach out to the university directly or speak with alumni to get more information and insights into the university’s programs and culture.
Requirements
The specific requirements for admission to a university in Belarus can vary depending on the institution and the program you are applying for. However, here are some general requirements that are commonly asked for:
Academic Records: You will need to provide your academic records, which may include transcripts, diplomas, and other records of your academic achievements. These records should be in the language of the institution or translated into Russian or Belarusian.
Language Proficiency: You may be required to demonstrate your proficiency in the language of instruction for your program. Many universities in Belarus use Russian or Belarusian as the language of instruction, although some programs are offered in English. You may be required to take language proficiency tests, such as the Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL).
Entrance Exams: Some universities and programs require entrance exams, which may cover subjects such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, and other subjects related to your program of study.
Personal Statement: You may be required to provide a personal statement or essay that outlines your academic goals, interests, and reasons for applying to the program.
Letters of Recommendation: You may be required to provide one or more letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or other professionals who can attest to your academic achievements and potential.
Application Fee: You may be required to pay an application fee when you submit your application. The fee amount can vary depending on the institution and program you are applying for.
These are some of the general requirements for admission to a university in Belarus, but you should check with the specific institution and program you are applying to for a complete list of requirements and procedures. It is also important to carefully review the deadlines for application and submission of required documents to ensure your application is considered for admission.
Documents Needed
- Completed Application Form
- Secondary School Certificate or Diploma
- Academic Transcripts
- Passport Copy
- Language Proficiency Test Scores (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) – if applicable
- Health Certificate
- Recommendation Letters
- Personal Statement or Essay
- Proof of Financial Support or Scholarship
- Application Fee Payment Receipt
Belarus- Scholarships
There are several scholarships available for students who want to study in Belarus. Some of the scholarships available are:
Belarusian Government Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded by the Ministry of Education of Belarus to international students who want to pursue higher education in Belarus. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.
Erasmus+ Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students from the European Union who want to study in Belarus. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and travel expenses.
Visegrad Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students from the Visegrad Group countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia) who want to study in Belarus. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.
International Visegrad Fund Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students from countries outside the Visegrad Group who want to study in Belarus. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.
Bologna Process Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to students from non-EU countries who want to study in Belarus. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.
To apply for these scholarships, students can visit the websites of the scholarship providers and follow the application process. It’s also recommended to check with the international office of the university or college they are interested in attending for any additional scholarship opportunities.
Institutional Scholarships
Institutional scholarships are scholarships that are provided by colleges, universities, or other educational institutions. These scholarships are awarded based on various criteria such as academic achievement, financial need, talent, or other factors.
Institutional scholarships can be divided into two main categories: merit-based and need-based scholarships.
Merit-based scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students based on their academic achievements, such as high GPA, standardized test scores, or outstanding performance in extracurricular activities. Merit-based scholarships are often highly competitive and may require additional application materials such as essays, interviews, or letters of recommendation.
Need-based scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. To apply for need-based scholarships, students usually need to submit financial information, such as tax returns or a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Need-based scholarships may cover a range of costs, such as tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.
In addition to these categories, institutional scholarships can also be awarded based on other criteria, such as specific majors, demographic characteristics, or participation in certain programs or activities.
To find institutional scholarships, students should check with the financial aid office of the college or university they plan to attend. The financial aid office can provide information about the scholarships available and the application process. Students can also search for institutional scholarships online or through scholarship databases, such as Fastweb or Scholarships.com.
