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Living in St. Petersburg

Students have the option of living either in a St. Petersburg State University dormitory or with a host family.

Dormitories

Living in a University dormitory helps to introduce participants to student life in Russia and may make assimilation into the Smolny student body an easier process, since the dormitory is also home to a number of four-year Smolny students.

Each suite has its own bathroom and kitchenette, with linen and cleaning services provided. In addition, laundry facilities and cafes are available in the dormitory.  Smolny's campus and the city center are easily accessible from the dormitory via public transportation.

Participants who choose to live in the dormitory are billed directly for their room, and will be responsible for all other living expenses, including food, laundry, and dorm supplies.

You can find more information, including pictures, about the University dormitories on Vasilievsky Island by clicking here.

Host Families

Living with a Russian family will also provide opportunities for immersion in a Russian cultural and linguistic environment. Home-stays often foster language acquisition and provide a support network outside of Smolny.

Most families hosting Smolny students have hosted international students before, and each semester potential host families are re-interviewed by members of Smolny staff at each apartment. The host families know that language acquisition is important to students and are often ready to spend time talking with students, answering questions, and sometimes even helping with homework.

Participants who choose to live in a host family are billed directly for their room and board with a host family. This monthly fee includes a private room, board (generally two meals a day on weekdays and full board on weekends), and access to a washing machine and telephone. The host family should also provide clean linens on a regular basis.