Studying Medicine (MBBS/MD) in Georgia 2026: The Complete Guide
Why students consider medicine in Georgia
Medicine in Georgia is popular with international students because many programs are taught in English, follow EU-compatible curricula, and cost less than medical education in many Western destinations. Universities here hold WHO recognition, NMC (India) and ECFMG (USA) listing. 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
How to compare medical programs
Before applying, compare tuition, duration, recognition, clinical training, licensing exam pathway, English-language support, and the student services available at each university.