Founded in 1992, Saint Tikhon's Orthodox University is a non-profit private higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the large metropolis of Moscow (population range of over 5,000,000 inhabitants). Officially recognized by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Saint Tikhon's Orthodox University (STOU) is a small coeducational Russian higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Orthodox religion. Saint Tikhon's Orthodox University (STOU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 30 years old Russian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. STOU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.