Nowadays one can see the strengthening of Russian-Chinese bilateral relations and as a result the growing need in translation and interpreting services. Universities in both countries more often offer master’s degree programs for future translators and interpreters. Due to epidemiological situation distance higher education has recently become very popular worldwide. The article analyzes the problem of teaching online translation course for Chinese students, whether it is possible to gain professional competences in such conditions. It also marks advantages and disadvantages of distance learning.