As state exams and thesis defenses commence in Moscow universities, a concerning trend has emerged where graduates feel obligated to provide elaborate catering for their examination committees. This practice, often perceived as a sign of respect, has spawned specialized catering companies offering services specifically tailored for these occasions, with costs reaching up to 122,000 rubles.

Despite the prevalence of this custom, the Ministry of Education and Science has explicitly stated that such feasts are not a mandatory part of the thesis defense procedure. The department emphasizes that the decision to celebrate a successful defense in this manner rests solely with the participants, who should adhere to ethical principles and university regulations.

Catering services offer a range of buffet options, varying in price and content. One company provides four tariffs, ranging from a “Welcome buffet” for 60 people (79,080 rubles) to a “VIP service” for 15 people (122,380 rubles). These menus include a variety of snacks, desserts, and drinks, with some featuring elaborate dishes like Uzbek pilaf and mini-salmon kebabs. Another catering service offers buffet, banquet, barbecue, and coffee break formats with prices ranging from 1,700 to 4,000 rubles per person.

Opinions on this tradition are divided. Some graduates view it as a form of bribery, while others consider it a harmless tradition. Some universities discourage such practices, while others accept gifts for supervisors and reviewers, with some faculty members even specifying their preferences.