Study Dentistry in Georgia 2026: Universities, Costs & Recognition
Why Study Dentistry in Georgia?
Georgia has become a leading destination for dental education in Eurasia. Accredited dental schools offer WHO-recognized DMD degrees, English-medium instruction, modern simulation labs, and real clinical exposure — at $5,000–$6,500/year versus $25,000–$50,000 in Western Europe. Over the full 5-year program, total costs including living expenses average $55,000–$70,000.
⭐ Recommended Dental Schools
University of Georgia (UG) — Top Pick for Dentistry
Degree: DMD | Duration: 5 years | Tuition: $6,000/year | Language: English
UG's dental faculty is one of the most modern in Georgia. Equipped with digital X-ray systems, dental simulators, and two fully operational clinics open to the public. International students consistently rate the clinical training and administrative support highly. The university is WHO-recognized and its graduates are eligible to sit for GCC licensing exams (DHA, HAAD, MOH) and the UK ORE exam.
- Digital simulation labs with Frasaco phantom heads
- Clinical contact from Year 3 in university dental clinics
- WHO-recognized — eligible for GCC, UK (ORE), and Indian (DCI) licensing
- Dedicated international admissions office
- Strong alumni network in the Middle East
Caucasus International University (CIU) — Top Pick for Dentistry
Degree: DMD | Duration: 5 years | Tuition: $5,000/year | Language: English
CIU offers the most affordable top-tier dentistry program in Tbilisi. The program covers 300 ECTS with case-based learning, group clinical discussions, and two dedicated dental simulation centers. CIU has partnerships with major dental clinics in Georgia for third- and fourth-year placements, and its DMD graduates are recognized across the GCC.
- Most affordable DMD program at a WHO-recognized university
- Two dedicated dental clinics on campus
- Case-based and problem-based learning curriculum
- WHO-recognized — eligible for DHA, MOH, HAAD, and DCI exams
- Excellent support for Arab and Middle Eastern students
All Accredited Dental Universities (2026 Fees)
| University | City | Annual Tuition | Duration | 5-Year Total (Tuition) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caucasus International University (CIU) ⭐ | Tbilisi | $5,000 | 5 years | $25,000 |
| University of Georgia (UG) ⭐ | Tbilisi | $6,000 | 5 years | $30,000 |
| Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU) | Tbilisi | $7,500 | 5 years | $37,500 |
| European University Georgia | Tbilisi | $6,500 | 5 years | $32,500 |
| New Vision University | Tbilisi | $5,500 | 5 years | $27,500 |
| Akaki Tsereteli State University (ATSU) | Kutaisi | $4,500 | 5 years | $22,500 |
Curriculum Structure (5 Years)
- Years 1–2: Pre-clinical sciences — Anatomy, Histology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Physiology, Pathology, Pharmacology
- Year 3: Dental materials science, simulation labs, introduction to clinical dentistry, first supervised patient contact
- Years 4–5: Full clinical rotations — Restorative Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Orthodontics, Endodontics, Periodontics, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry
Full 5-Year Cost Estimate
| Expense | 5-Year Total (USD) — CIU | 5-Year Total (USD) — UG |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $25,000 | $30,000 |
| Accommodation (shared) | $16,800–$21,000 | $16,800–$21,000 |
| Food & Living | $12,000–$16,800 | $12,000–$16,800 |
| Visa, Residence Renewals | $300–$500 | $300–$500 |
| Books & Dental Equipment | $2,000–$3,000 | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Grand Total (5 years) | $56,100–$66,300 | $61,100–$71,300 |
Residence Permit: What Every Student Needs to Know
After arriving in Georgia on your D3 student visa, register at the nearest Public Service Hall (PSH) and apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (B1):
- Duration: Issued for 1 year, renewable every year throughout your 5-year program
- Renewal cost: ~50–100 GEL (~$18–$36) per year at any PSH branch
- Renewal requirement: A new enrollment confirmation letter from your university
- Processing time: 1–10 working days (express: 1 day for ~200 GEL)
- Post-graduation: Within 45 days of program completion, apply for a work permit or long-term Type D residence permit
- Permanent residency: Available after 6 continuous years of legal residence in Georgia
International Recognition & Licensing
| Country / Region | Licensing Exam Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UAE (Dubai) | DHA Exam | CIU & UG graduates eligible |
| UAE (Abu Dhabi) | HAAD / DoH Exam | CIU & UG graduates eligible |
| Saudi Arabia | MOH / SDS Exam | WHO-recognized degrees accepted |
| Kuwait / Qatar / Bahrain | National licensing test | Case by case |
| India | NDEB / DCI screening | NMC-listed universities eligible |
| UK | ORE (Overseas Registration Exam) | GDC registration after passing |
| EU / Germany | Language test + aptitude assessment | 2–3 year recognition process typical |
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma with strong Biology and Chemistry grades
- English proficiency — IELTS 5.5+ or pass internal university English test (most universities offer free internal testing)
- Valid passport
- Completed online application
- No entrance exam required at most universities
- Application is free through Admission.ge
Application Deadlines (2026 Intake)
| University | Last Application Date | Program Start |
|---|---|---|
| Caucasus International University (CIU) | August 25, 2026 | September 2026 |
| University of Georgia (UG) | August 20, 2026 | September 2026 |
| TSMU | August 1, 2026 | September 2026 |
| European University | August 15, 2026 | September 2026 |
| ATSU (Kutaisi) | August 20, 2026 | September 2026 |