Georgia has emerged as one of the leading hotspots for international students desiring to study a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery. Its strong educational base, affordable school fees, and medical education of high quality have made it a darling of many students from all walks of life. This paper discusses the top ten Georgia universities where prospective doctors can start their MBBS journey.
WHY GEORGIA FOR MBBS?
Before reviewing the universities, it is worth to mention why Georgia is a good country for MBBS:
OVERVIEW: TBILISI STATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY (TSMU)
Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU), founded in 1918 and based in Tbilisi, Georgia, is a distinguished school known for its commitment to medical education and research. With over 7,000 undergraduates and 3,000 postgraduates, including 26% international students, TSMU has received accreditation from major global organisations such as the WHO, UN, ECFMG, and FAIMER. In 2022, EduRank ranked TSMU 5044 in the globe, 1748 in Asia, and fourth in Georgia and Tbilisi. The university has international recognition, as evidenced by affiliations in the World Association of Universities as well as the European Universities Association, in addition to degrees validated by the Medical Council of India. TSMU has strong academic standards, a 75% acceptance rate, and courses in Georgian, Russian, English, and French, making it a popular choice for medical students worldwide due to its low tuition and living costs.
PROGRAMS AND COURSE OFFERED
The university’s programmes are primarily focused on MBBS and medical studies, but it also provides bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Nursing, and research is an important component of its academic offerings. TSMU’s faculties include medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, and physical medicine and rehabilitation. Although TSMU does not offer on-campus housing, it does ensure that students have access to reasonable living options in Tbilisi, a city noted for its vibrant and culturally diverse atmosphere.
CAMPUS AND ACCOMODATION
Tbilisi, or Tiflis, is Georgia’s capital and largest city. Tbilisi State Medical University’s (TSMU) dormitories are well-equipped with meal facilities, creating a vibrant environment that brings staff and students together, fostering a community rich in varied religions, beliefs, and cultures. Although TSMU does not provide on-campus housing, the city provides a wide range of economical living options for students. Detailed information on living and food costs is provided below.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
For overseas students, the Gyanberry Application Service streamlines the application process, with no application fee and a 75% acceptance rate. Eligibility requirements include being under 25 years old, having finished 10+2 education from a recognised institute, and, for Indian students, passing the NEET exam. English proficiency must be proved using IELTS or TOEFL results. Admission materials include a verified acceptance letter, tuition price payment receipt, passport-sized pictures, visa application form, lodging information, health insurance, evidence of sufficient cash, and travel documents. The MBBS programme at TSMU lasts six years, with five years devoted to academic and theoretical instruction and one year to an internship.
The admission process for 2024 consists of completing an online application, obtaining an offer letter, and going through an enrollment procedure that includes translation, notarization, and recognition, which normally takes 2-4 weeks. Once their documentation is ready, students can apply for a visa. The application process for the MBBS programme starts in January and June, with programme admissions in September or February.
