The role of student scientific associations 
in the system of professional training for scientific activity

The article is devoted to the issues of professional preparation of students of educational organisations of higher education for research activity. The historical aspect related to the organisation and functioning of student scientific communities and circles is analysed. The normative-legal documents of a number of educational organisations of higher education are studied, allowing to reveal weak and strong sides of the organisation. The aspect of motivation of students to research activity and choice of professional scientific sphere is considered. The practices of student scientific associations organisation by Russian universities are described. An attempt to identify the conduct of scientific research activities by members of student scientific associations is made. The results of research of some scientists concerning the issues of organisation and functioning of student scientific associations in the system of professional training are summarised.