On June 30, 2026, the Promotion Center of the Russian Language (РCRL) hosted a celebratory certificate award ceremony. Forty-two international students from 17 different countries received their official certificates of completion for the pre-university program.
In 2026, graduates of Samara University’s Preparatory Faculty were among the first to take the State Certification Test in Russian as a Foreign Language, administered by Tomsk State University, as their final exam. Following the assessment, the vast majority of students successfully earned the TORFL-I (B1) certificate, confirming their proficiency at the first certification level.
Beyond their academic studies, the students actively engaged in university life and proudly represented Samara University at various prestigious events. Participants from the university competed in the Open Olympiad in Russian for Foreign Students hosted by the National Research University "MPEI"; the XII International Olympiad in Russian as a Foreign Language "We Speak Russian," organized by Tambov State Technical University; and the VI International Olympiad for international students of preparatory faculties, hosted by Kazan Federal University. Remarkably, Samara University’s representatives secured top prizes in all of these competitions.
РCRL students also made a vibrant mark on campus life. They claimed victory in the "Miss International" and "Mister International" contests, shared their rich cultural heritage with peers at the Ethnic Festival, and actively explored the city’s museums and theaters.
In a festive atmosphere, the graduates were warmly congratulated by faculty members and Anna Berezina, Head of the Promotion Center of the Russian Language. The students were also celebrated by the dedicated teachers who guided them through this challenging first year of mastering the Russian language: Tatyana Kuznetsova, Anna Makarova, Natalia Dormidontova, and Alexandra Ruda. The educators praised not only the students' strong academic achievements but also their remarkable personal growth, their ability to adapt to a new environment, and, most importantly, their capacity to build friendships and find common ground despite cultural differences.
Words of encouragement were also delivered by Sergey Tits, Head of the International Activities Department, and Victoria Bolgova, Vice-Rector of the University.
"You have acquired a unique tool that grants you access to a vast knowledge base in its original language, and you now hold the key to Russian-language scientific literature. This gives you a competitive advantage both in your academic journey and in your future professional career," noted Sergey Tits.
"Meeting each of you gives us the opportunity to look at ourselves from the outside and to see our country through your eyes. It makes us fall in love with Russia all over again and reminds us of how vast the world truly is. I hope that in a few years, we will be gathered here in the same room to award you your higher education diplomas. Welcome to the Samara University family!" welcomed Victoria Bolgova.
The graduates themselves eagerly shared their reflections on a year of living and studying in Russia.
Theodore Djerakoula from Chad shared: "I was highly impressed by the work of the Center’s teachers—they do an excellent job. They taught us the fundamentals of the Russian language and helped us master the complex Russian case system. Thank you so much for this experience and for your fantastic work!" In the future, he plans to take the TORFL-II (B2) exam.
Yan Xin from China noted: "When I first arrived in Russia, I was deeply impressed by the beautiful nature of this country. There are so many birds and the sky is incredibly beautiful. The people here are very kind and hospitable. I absolutely loved traditional Russian shchi (cabbage soup). Before coming to Russia, I only knew about borscht from history textbooks, and I had only seen shchi on the pages of books. Now, I have even learned how to cook it myself. I also really enjoy studying in Russia. We have many different events, and we frequently visit museums. Thanks to this, I have gained a deep understanding of Russian history, culture, and my chosen field of study. My studies here have left only the best impressions. The teachers are very smart, kind, and respectful people. I will definitely never forget this time."
Ahead of the graduates lie new achievements, studies in their chosen degree programs, and professional development. However, the most crucial foundation for their future path has already been firmly laid.
