Purchase a Russian guide book and map before leaving. In short, be prepared for adventures. Those loans divide into Federal loans and Private loans. Private loans have several advantages. There is less paperwork.
Private loans take less processing time, so the check is more likely to arrive on time.
Federal loans also have advantages. However, the interest rate advantage of federal loans does not exist for most applicants because they will, during the year, take the full amount of Federal loans allowed and also take a private loan. Under these circumstances, it is better to arrange the private loan for summer study and use the Federal loan for the academic year. Students seeking loans should start the paperwork rolling early. If your school is willing, your loan can be processed there.