Pursuing an MBSS in a foreign country is the dream of many, yet only a few are fortunate enough to make this a reality. Georgia has emerged as the newest and most favoured country for international students pursuing MBBS degrees, especially students from the South Asian region, who aim to pursue quality equality education at lower prices.
Georgia's tuition fees are reasonable, the education system is reliable, and medical degrees are accredited worldwide, making it a compelling package for students worldwide.
Like many other medical students, if you wish to Study MBBS in Georgia and are wondering what the pros and cons are, why the country stands out, how to get admission, what prerequisites are there and how to stay there while pursuing your MBBS degree? This blog here is for you.
Why Study MBBS in Georgia?
Low Tuition Fee: The annual tuition fee for MBBS in Georgia is low compared to other European countries. The tuition fees range from $3000 to $8000, which would total around 40 lakh INR. This sum is moderate in contrast to the private medical colleges in India.
Globally accredited universities: All Georgian medical universities are accredited by global medical governing bodies such as WHO, NMC, ECFMG, and FAIME. This gives students the edge to practice medicine anywhere in the world.
No Entrance Exams Required: Exams are exhausting. Fortunately, Georgian colleges do not require as many tests and examinations as the MCAT or the NEET, allowing students to enrol directly in MBBS.
High Quality of Life: Georgia is known for providing high-quality amenities at a low cost. Tbilisi, especially, is inexpensive in terms of lodging and transportation, making it easy for students to get around the city. The vibrant social life of the city also allows students to relax after stressful weeks of studying.
English-Medium Programs: Most people in Georgia do not speak English. Luckily, most universities in Georgia teach in English. This removes any communication barriers from the classroom, making it easier for international students to pursue their studies abroad.
Simple Admission Process: The admission process in Georgia for joining MBBS is relatively simple. Students do not have to sit for entrance exams, such as the MCAT or NEET. Students are enrolled in schools based only on the results of the 12th standard.
Infrastructure: Georgian medical universities have good infrastructure, well-equipped laboratories, medical facilities, and modern equipment.
The Curriculum: The curriculum is designed according to international medical standards, ensuring students stay focused when studying in Georgia.
Workplace Safety: Georgians are hospitable and friendly, welcoming foreigners with open arms. That is why people can feel safe living and studying in the country. In recent times, the country's crime rates have declined significantly.
No capitation fees: Contrary to practices in other nations, where students pay a lot of money through donations or capitation fees for medical fees, the Georgian admission process is free and fair without compromise.
Top Medical Universities
Tbilisi State Medical University, also known as Tbilisi State APIA, is Georgia’s first medical university. Founded in 1918, TSMU is one of Georgia’s oldest and most respected medical universities. The World Health Organization and other medical governing bodies worldwide accredit it. The university is known for its affordable medical program that offers general medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy.
Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University
This university is situated on the Black Sea coast in the dynamically developing seaport of Batumi. It allows students to explore the ancient tradition while enabling them to study in modern, equipped universities. The university is relatively cheap, which makes it widely preferred by international students.
University of Georgia (UG)
With a modern architectural design, UG is one of the largest private universities in Georgia. The university aims to develop students and incubate them with substantial theoretical and practical knowledge. Due to its affiliations, it is ideal for students who want to get exposure to international hospitals.
David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU)
DTMU is an exceptionally dedicated university to the study of medicine. It has reached an international standard in MBBS education. The university is affiliated with many European and American medical education networks, making it suitable for students with global medical dreams.
Caucasian International University (CIU)
CIU has a very contemporary curriculum, emphasising Practice and Medical Ethics. The university regards its collaborations and undertakings across the world, which creates opportunities for exchanging students and makes it suitable for those wishing to gain experience in other countries.
MBBS Admission Procedure in Georgia
The admission criteria for MBBS in Georgia are very clear and uncomplicated. Here’s a step-by-step guide for you so you can submit your application :
Eligibility Criteria: The candidates applying should be regular students who passed the 12th standard with an average of 50% Pass in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. One other requirement is the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for those students who want to practice medicine in India after their studies.
Application Process: Students must apply directly to the university through the institutional website or the official agents. Documents required during the application include university transcripts, copies of passports, NEET scores, and a statement of purpose.
Admission Letter: After considering the application, the university sends an admission letter to the candidate. This letter confirms the student's admission to the MBBS program.
Visa Application: After students are issued the admission letter, they must apply for a student permit at the Georgian embassy or consulate in their home country.
Travel and Accommodation: Once they have the visa, students can move to Georgia and stay in university hostels or private houses.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Georgia
One of the biggest reasons for pursuing an MBBS in Georgia is the tuition fees. The tuition fees for all the MBBS programs are moderate and range between 5000 USD and 8000 USD per year, depending on the university. Here are the estimated tuition fees for top medical universities in the country
Universities |
Tuition Fees |
East European University |
5000 (42,0379 INR approx.) |
Tbilisi Medical State University |
8000 (67,300 INR approx.) |
Batumi Shota Rustaveli University |
4000 (33,6300 INR approx.) |
Caucasian International University |
5000 (42,0379 INR approx.) |
David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) |
8000 (67,300 INR approx.) |
The University of Georgia |
4800 (40,3564 INR approx.) |
Besides tuition fees, students must consider the cost of living, which is considerably cheaper than in developed countries of the West.
Estimated Monthly Expenses:
Accommodation |
200-400 USD |
Food |
100- 150 USD |
Transportation |
20-30 USD |
Miscellaneous |
50-100 USD |
The estimated amount students should be ready to spend on miscellaneous expenses is between 400 and 600 USD a month, making Georgia cheap to study in.
Why Georgia is an Ideal Destination to Study MBBS
- MBBS in Georgia is cheaper than in other countries such as the USA, the UK, or Australia.
- Due to international accreditation, graduates of Georgian medical universities are entitled to practice medicine anywhere in the world.
- Georgian medical universities teach MBBS in English, so it is easy for international students to have a smooth study experience because of the language used in class.
- Georgian universities pay significant attention to teaching clinical practice, which involves the students exercising in hospitals starting in Curriculum year one.
- Georgia is a colourful country with a friendly environment for international students. Students can enjoy cultural life while studying.
Why Georgia is a Good Option for Indian and Pakistani Students
Indian and Pakistani students prefer Georgia over other countries because of the tuition fees, universally recognised degrees, and the fact that English is spoken there. While the situation in India and Pakistan requires the highest exam results to obtain a place in a medical university, Georgia offers more opportunities to become a doctor.
Moreover, the country's physical security, friendly people of the nation, and rising number of Indian and Pakistani students in Georgia make travelling in an environment of the South Asian subcontinent fascinating for students.
In addition, Georgian universities are recognised by MCI and PMC, so students can practice their profession after passing licensing exams upon returning home.
Pros & Cons of Studying MBBS in Georgia
Advantages
Lower Tuition Fees: The Faculty of Medicine in Georgia provides an opportunity to study education at a considerably lower price than in Western countries.
Globally Recognized Degree: Georgia's medical degrees are globally accredited, making graduates eligible to practice in several countries.
High-Quality Education: Georgian medical universities choose teaching methodologies, teaching aids, and clinical interfaces that match the requirements of the international medical curriculum.
Cultural Diversity: Georgia has many international students, which makes it even easier for them to interact with the other students in the country.
Disadvantages
Language Barrier: Although the MBBS programs are delivered in English, the clinical rotation in Georgian-speaking hospitals may interrupt the students’ communication.
Also, if a student plans to practice medicine in the country after graduation, they need to learn the language.
Licensing Exams: Before practising medicine in certain countries, graduates must pass certain licensing examinations, such as the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination(FMGE) in India and the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) in the USA.
Conclusion
MBBS in Georgia remains one of the favourable programs as it provides foreign students with quality education in the medical field at a low cost. Some of the biggest universities in the world, well-equipped facilities, and a friendly atmosphere make Georgia one of the best places to study for anyone who wants to become a doctor. The English medium education, low cost of living, and easy admission procedures have made the country favourable for students from some countries such as India and Pakistan. In short, if you’re considering becoming a doctor, Georgia must be included in the list and you should also be getting in touch with our esteemed counsellors at CounsellingX to make your dream come true.