12 Must-Have Apps for International Students in Russia

Navigating life as an international student in Russia can be overwhelming, but having the right apps on your phone can make it much easier. From managing transportation to learning the language, these 12 apps are essential for a seamless student experience.

1. Yandex.Maps & Yandex.Metro

• Why You Need It: Navigate Russian cities effortlessly with Yandex.Maps, which offers detailed navigation, and Yandex.Metro for subway routes.
• Features:
  • Real-time traffic updates.
  • Public transport schedules.
  • Offline maps for when you’re on the go.

2. Duolingo

• Why You Need It: Master basic Russian phrases or any other language to make communication easier.
• Features:
  • Interactive lessons for vocabulary and grammar.
  • Progress tracking to keep you motivated.

3. Google Translate

• Why You Need It: Communicate effectively, even if your Russian is limited.
• Features:
  • Instant text translation.
  • Camera translation for menus and signs.
  • Offline translation for when you’re without internet.

4. VK (VKontakte)

• Why You Need It: Stay connected with your classmates and discover local events.
• Features:
  • Messaging, social networking, and event discovery.
  • A hub for university groups and activities.

5. Yandex.Taxi

• Why You Need It: Affordable and reliable rides across Russian cities.
• Features:
  • Cash and card payment options.
  • Multiple ride categories, from economy to premium.

6. Yandex.Food

• Why You Need It: Order food from local restaurants and chains.
• Features:
  • Wide variety of cuisines.
  • Quick delivery and user-friendly interface.

7. Russian Post (Почта России)

• Why You Need It: Track packages and manage mail deliveries.
• Features:
  • Real-time parcel tracking.
  • Notifications for package arrivals.

8. Sberbank Online

• Why You Need It: Manage your finances with Russia’s largest bank.
• Features:
  • Easy transfers and payments.
  • Mobile banking in English for international users.

9. Wise

• Why You Need It: Transfer money internationally at low fees.
• Features:
  • Real exchange rates without hidden charges.
  • Quick transfers to family or your home country.

10. CISCO Webex or Zoom

• Why You Need It: Stay on top of your online classes or virtual meetings.
• Features:
  • High-quality video conferencing.
  • Record lectures for later review.

11. 2GIS

• Why You Need It: Discover businesses, landmarks, and public services in your area.
• Features:
  • Offline maps and navigation.
  • Detailed business information and reviews.

12. Headspace or Calm

• Why You Need It: Maintain mental well-being during stressful study periods.
• Features:
  • Guided meditations and relaxation exercises.
  • Sleep stories to help you rest better.

How These Apps Help

• Navigating Russia: Apps like Yandex.Metro and 2GIS ensure you don’t get lost.
• Language Barriers: Duolingo and Google Translate bridge the communication gap.
• Everyday Life: Yandex.Food and Sberbank Online simplify daily chores.
• Personal Growth: Headspace and Calm support mental well-being.

By downloading these apps, you’ll make your stay in Russia more convenient, enjoyable, and productive. Let me know if you need help setting them up or discovering additional resources! For tips on making the most of student life in Russia, check out my article on kundeson.com.