Naturally your going to have many questions about this fantastic opportunity, so allow us to answer some of the more frequently asked ones…

Q. I speak absolutely no Russian will this be a problem?

A. Absolutely not, you will be taught at Vladimir University whilst you are there so there is no need for prior knowledge. The learning process is fun, I’ve been there so I know the exact experience. I’ve found myself flapping my arms at the counter, trying desperately to demonstrate that I need to buy I chicken!!
The good thing is that lots of people speak English, but you should
always make an attempt to speak Russian. It will be appreciated. By the way, Russians don’t hold open doors for you even if you are
standing right behind them, I always try to hold the door for the
following person, but sometimes you can become a door handler!!!
Nobody will take the task from you! And, you will rarely receive a
thank you. Don’t take it personal, it’s just the way it is. I always
make an effort to say something nice to everyone I see. How nice
the shop assistants hair looks or what a beautiful smile she has. This
is totally unexpected.

Q. What kind of accommodation can I expect?
A.  Good quality accommodation will be provided
that’s is clean, functional and comfortable.  We prefer to offer home
stay. This basically means staying with a host family. It allows you
to immerse yourself into Russian culture quickly, made new friends
and understand Russian life. Your hosts will want to show your off to
their friends and offer to show you around. Just a simple trip to the
supermarket, or a invitation to a birthday party. It all makes you feel
welcome, more relaxed and comfortable. Hosts will also provide you
with meals. It maybe that your hosts speak some English, but don’t
rely upon it. At first this may seem daunting, but it helps for quicker
learning.

Q. I don’t have a TEFL qualification but don’t
want to miss this opportunity. Where do I go to do the course?
A Just send us your details on the contact form and we will point you in the right direction. Courses are short and
reasonably priced…get qualified and let’s go!

Q. What about insurance? What happens if I fall
ill out there?

A. Russia has good quality health care which
your insurance will cover. We take care of insuring you and we
are on call 24/7 whilst you are there to provide support and
reassurance.

Q. Do I need a Visa
A. Yes. You will receive Full visa support. The cost of the visa is £50.00 and you will need to pay for this and associated costs of sending to Russia. Upon applying for your gap year with us, we will request you fill in an application form. This is to make your visa invitation. The invitation will be sent to you and you will need to pay a visit to the Russian embassy in London in order for your visa to be processed. Initially the embassy will issue a 90 day visa which is fixed into your passport. Upon arrival in Russia, your visa will be updated to a one year multiple entry visa.

Q. Will I get paid for my work?
A. We will pay for your living costs (host family) and food. Morning and evening meals will be provided by your host family and your daytime meal will be served at the main office after your morning Russian classes. Russia is a country with a low cost of living. But this depends of course on the life style that you live. You are not coming here for the money. If you are looking to get rich, then this program is not for you. Your year in Russia will give you a fantastic teaching experience and great knowledge of an unknown country, a new language and lots of new friends.

Q. Who will pay for my University Course?

A. Initially you will pay for your University Course at Vladimir University. Depending on your choice of Course the cost will vary so when you get in touch we can discuss your options and find the best course for you. However, on successful completion of the course we will reimburse you with this amount.

 

We recommend that you save a little money for your time here. £100 per month should more than cover any expenses.

In trying to predict on what you are likely to spend your money, I have compiled a list:

Bottle of vodka £2
Bus ride 20p
Taxi ride £2-3

So I guess now you are thinking that Russia is only about drinking! Sorry, this list is a bit short, just as you won’t be paying for food, gas, electric, petrol and other immunities. If you have any questions about costs, please contact us and we will be happy to answer

A meal at a restaurant can range from £2-10, depending on your budget. Russian don’t tend to go to bars at the weekend, in fact,
there are no bars, only cafes. Usually friends get together at home
first, have a few drinks and some food, then go out to a club.

Traditional Russian activities include going to the Banya, a sauna, only hotter. In winter it’s nice to come out of the Banya and then jump into the snow. Russians also love to go for shashlik. It’s a BBQ, except they cook with usual meat. No hot dogs or beef burgers!!! There are many Russian traditions, some wild, some strange, but all interesting and make the Russian experience unique. As you will be making new friends very quickly, with your host family and we encourage friendship between students. You will be invited as guests everywhere, make great friends, possibly fall in love, gain great experience and most of all, have lots of fun!!!!!