Sechenov Leaders Program Requirements: Chemistry and Russian Tests

Entrance testing is the part of the application that applicants can influence most directly through preparation. Among the Sechenov Leaders program requirements, the central one is passing two entrance examinations, both in test format: chemistry and the Russian language. They do not carry equal weight, and understanding the difference helps you plan your study time.

Two tests with different roles

Chemistry is the priority examination. Russian is listed as the additional one. The priority label signals which subject the university regards as most relevant to the program, so chemistry deserves the larger share of your preparation. That said, both tests are part of the admission procedure, and neither should be treated as a formality. Because the admissions office sets the exact rules for how results are used, ask them directly how the two scores are combined when applicants are compared.

Why chemistry comes first

Medicine rests on chemistry. Biochemistry, pharmacology and much of physiology depend on understanding how molecules react, bind and break down. A student who arrives with a firm grasp of chemical principles finds the fundamental disciplines of the first years far easier to absorb. The emphasis on this subject therefore reflects what the course itself demands rather than an arbitrary choice.

Why Russian is tested in an English-taught program

The program is taught in English, so the Russian test may seem surprising. Its presence is consistent with study in Moscow, where clinical practice takes place in leading medical institutions and students live in a Russian-speaking environment. A basic command of the language can make daily life and contact with patients smoother. For applicants from Vietnam who have not studied Russian before, it is sensible to start early and ask the university what level the test expects.

Where the tests sit in the process

Admission follows three steps:

• Submit your documents, in person in Moscow, by post or online through the Gosuslugi portal.
• Take the two entrance tests.
• Sign the education contract and pay the tuition, after which you are enrolled.

Exam dates and other timing details are published by the university for each admission campaign. Check the 2026 campaign information at https://www.sechenov.ru/admissions/priemnaya-kampaniya-2026/ rather than relying on unofficial sources.

Getting reliable answers

The admissions page gathers the official steps, and the program page explains what you will study once enrolled. For questions about test content or format, use the numbers on the contacts page.

You can also visit https://healthleaders.sechenov.ru/ or email healthleaders@staff.sechenov.ru to clarify any requirement before you apply.