Studying Medicine (MBBS/MD) in Georgia 2026: The Complete Guide
Why Georgia for Medicine in 2026?
Georgia has become one of the most trusted destinations for international medical students. Universities here hold WHO recognition, NMC (India) and ECFMG (USA) listing, EU-compatible curricula, and English-medium instruction — all at a fraction of Western tuition. The average total cost for a 6-year MD program, including living expenses, ranges from $65,000–$90,000 — compared to $250,000+ in the UK or USA.
⭐ Recommended Universities for International Students
University of Georgia (UG) — Top Pick
Program: MD (Medical Doctor) | Duration: 6 years | Tuition: $6,500/year | Language: English
One of Georgia's most modern private universities with a dedicated international student office, strong alumni network across the GCC and South Asia, and excellent clinical affiliations. UG's MD program is NMC-listed and WHO-recognized. The campus infrastructure, simulation labs, and student support services are among the best in Tbilisi.
- NMC-listed & WHO-recognized
- English-medium from Year 1
- Clinical rotations at UG University Hospital
- Strong USMLE preparation support
- Active international student community
Caucasus International University (CIU) — Top Pick
Program: MD | Duration: 6 years | Tuition: $6,000/year | Language: English
CIU is a WHO-recognized, NMC-listed medical university known for its affordable fees and high-quality clinical training. With two university-affiliated hospitals in Tbilisi, students get hands-on patient exposure starting in Year 3. CIU has a particularly strong track record with students from the Middle East and Africa.
- WHO-recognized & NMC-listed
- Two affiliated teaching hospitals
- Dedicated support for Arab and African students
- USMLE, PLAB, and NExT preparation programs
- Affordable fees — lowest among top-tier programs
All Accredited Medical Universities (2026 Fees)
| University | City | Annual Tuition | Duration | Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Georgia (UG) ⭐ | Tbilisi | $6,500 | 6 years | WHO, NMC, WDOMS |
| Caucasus International University (CIU) ⭐ | Tbilisi | $6,000 | 6 years | WHO, NMC, WDOMS |
| Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU) | Tbilisi | $8,000 | 6 years | WHO, NMC, USMLE-eligible |
| David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) | Tbilisi | $7,500 | 6 years | WHO, AMTA, NMC |
| European University Georgia | Tbilisi | $6,500 | 6 years | WHO, NMC |
| Akaki Tsereteli State University (ATSU) | Kutaisi | $5,500 | 6 years | WHO, NMC |
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma (Biology & Chemistry grades are key)
- English proficiency — IELTS 5.5+ or pass the university's internal English test
- Valid passport (scanned copy for online application)
- Completed online application form
- Motivation letter (required by some universities)
- 2 passport-size photos
No entrance exam is required by most Georgian medical universities. Admission is purely based on academic record and English proficiency.
Full Cost Breakdown (2026)
| Expense | Monthly (USD) | Annual (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (UG/CIU range) | $500–$542 | $6,000–$6,500 |
| Accommodation (shared flat) | $280–$350 | $3,360–$4,200 |
| Food | $200–$280 | $2,400–$3,360 |
| Transport (Metro pass) | $14–$50 | $168–$600 |
| Utilities & Internet | $50–$90 | $600–$1,080 |
| Books & Supplies | $30–$60 | $360–$720 |
| Total | $1,074–$1,372 | $12,888–$16,460 |
Recognition & Licensing Exams
Graduates from accredited Georgian medical universities are eligible to sit for:
- USMLE — United States Medical Licensing Examination (all steps)
- PLAB — UK Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board
- FMGE / NExT — India Foreign Medical Graduate Examination
- AMC — Australian Medical Council exam
- DHA / HAAD / MOH — UAE, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia licensing
- EU member state licensing exams (language test + aptitude assessment required)
Student Visa & Residence Permit
Non-CIS international students require a D3 student visa before arrival. After arriving in Georgia:
- Register your address at a Public Service Hall (PSH) within 5 days of arrival
- Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (B1) tied to your enrollment
- Renew annually — bring your updated enrollment confirmation from the university each year. Renewal costs approximately 50–100 GEL (~$18–$36) at any PSH branch and takes 1–10 working days
- Your permit lapses if you suspend or terminate studies — always inform your university's international office before any interruption
- After graduation, you can apply for a work permit or Type D long-term residence permit within 45 days of your student permit expiry
Clinical Training
Years 1–3 cover pre-clinical sciences (Anatomy, Histology, Biochemistry, Physiology, Pathology, Pharmacology). Years 4–6 are full clinical rotations at affiliated teaching hospitals. At UG and CIU, clinical exposure begins from Year 3 with supervised patient contact. International electives at EU partner clinics are available in Years 5–6.
Career Pathways After Graduation
- Return home & license: Sit for your home country's licensing exam (NExT, PLAB, USMLE, DHA, etc.)
- Residency in Georgia: Apply for Georgian state-funded or fee-based residency programs
- EU residency: Via EU recognition + language test for countries like Germany, Poland, Romania
- GCC practice: DHA (Dubai), HAAD (Abu Dhabi), and MOH (Saudi) licensing after passing national exams