Introduction. Modern scientific research highlights the problems of physical education of foreign students and their adaptation during their studies at Russian universities, but research on badminton as a means of physical education and adaptation of foreign students studying at Russian universities is insufficient. Purpose. To explore the possibilities of badminton classes as a means of physical education and adaptation of foreign students to the conditions of study at a Russian university. Materials and methods. The research materials are based on the analysis of theoretical sources on the relevant topic, and empirical research of an international sample using SWOT analysis methods, pedagogical observations, questionnaires and test tests. The results of the study and discussion. The use of a wide range of theoretical and empirical methods demonstrated a relatively low level of physical fitness of foreign students and the availability of sufficient conditions at the university for the physical education of foreign students using badminton. At the same time, as a result of regular badminton classes, foreign students have achieved a statistically significant increase in a number of indicators of physical fitness, reaching the level of Russian students. The survey indicated the positive impact of badminton lessons on the adaptation of foreign students to the conditions of a Russian university. The data of pedagogical observations made it possible to identify and specify the factors contributing to the growth of physical fitness and adaptation of foreign students to the conditions of a Russian university during badminton classes. Conclusion. The great positive potential of badminton classes as a means of physical education and adaptation of foreign students to the conditions of study at a Russian university has been empirically proven.