Dual Citizens / Heritage Speakers

What is a "heritage speaker?"
A heritage speaker is someone who has grown up speaking a second language in an informal environment. Very often this refers to the children of immigrants who speak, for example, English on the street and Russian at home. Heritage speakers often have the ability to speak fluently on a conversational level but lack specialized vocabulary, formal training in grammar, and are often weak in reading skills in Russian.

Can I enroll in a short-term study abroad program with my Russian passport?
Heritage speakers with dual-citizenship should be aware that, while their Russian passport is valid for travel to Russia, it does not allow for enrolment in most non-degree programs in most Russian universities. There are a few exceptions to this, however, and a few universities will now enrol a Russian citizen for a short-term program if that citizen can show that he/she is a full time student of a foreign university. Contact SRAS to find out what your options are.

Can I enroll in a degree program on the basis of my Russian passport?
Yes. However, you will be expected to complete the same rigorous screening and application process (usually involves an interview and written tests) that other Russian students must complete. SRAS is not authorized to work with students applying for degree programs as Russian citizens.

What special safety issues should I be aware of?
If you enter Russia on a Russian passport both the Russian government and the American Embassy will consider you a Russian citizen while you are inside Russia. Students who find themselves in trouble with the authorities for whatever reason cannot expect the American Embassy to assist them. This can be of especial importance to males between the ages of 18-27, which is the draft age for males in Russia.