Study Medicine in Tbilisi – Ilia State University
Study Medicine in English — right in the heart of the Georgian capital
Ilia State University in Tbilisi (Georgia): English-taught Medicine programme.
At a glance
The key facts about this university at a glance.
Programmes
Medicine
Tuition fees
around 5,000 to 7,000 USD per year
Duration
6 years (12 semesters)
Language of instruction
English (Georgian language modules compulsory)
Admission process
Intake
September / October
Recognition
ANABIN listed; knowledge test required
Living costs
approx. 500 to 750 EUR per month
Total students
How Safe Is This Study Location?
Based on assessments from residents and visitors collected by Numbeo over the past five years.
6 years (12 semesters)
5500
Climate
Average daytime highs by month.
✓ Placement without a grade cut-off — we place you regardless of your school-leaving grades. We go through the specific requirements together.
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Why study medicine abroad at this university?
Ilia State University in Tbilisi trains international students in Medicine. Teaching is in English, the standard duration of study is 6 years (12 semesters). There is no numerus clausus (grade-based admission cap). Admission is decided not by your school-leaving average, but by the university's own procedure.
- Requirement: General higher-education entrance qualification. Check in a free study consultation whether you meet the requirements for a placement at this or another university through Medschool Experts.
Study medicine or dentistry: programmes and language of instruction
Structure, duration, language of instruction and degree — for every programme at this university.
Study conditions and campus life abroad
The programme lasts 6 years (12 semesters). The pre-clinical phase covers the fundamental scientific and theoretical foundations; this is followed by the clinical phase with examination courses and clinical placements at affiliated hospitals. The final year of study is primarily practical in focus.
Admission: how to get a place to study medicine abroad
The basic requirement for placement at this location is a general higher-education entrance qualification. When placed through Medschool Experts, there is no separate entrance test. Get in touch to find out whether we can place you at this university, and book a free study consultation.
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- The right university and a secure placement
- A study place abroad with an internationally recognised degree
- Support with your start, preparation and finding accommodation
- Help with transferring to another university
- Guidance all the way to your first job
Preparing properly with Medschool Experts
We handle the complete application, including all formalities, and submit it on time. We guide you through the study visa, enrolment, and administrative requirements on the ground. Because Georgia is outside the EU, we plan the route to recognition in your target country from the outset — and tell you openly where the risks lie. We remain your point of contact after your studies begin.
Tuition fees and living costs to study medicine abroad
The tuition fee is around 5,000 to 7,000 USD per year. Before making any decision, ask the International Office to confirm the amount in writing, specifying whether accommodation, insurance, and registration fees are included.
Additional one-off costs include the application fee, visa, health insurance, travel, and usually a deposit for accommodation. Budget approx. 500 to 750 EUR per month for living costs.
Alumni now practising internationally
Former students of this university who, according to publicly available sources, now work as doctors or dentists internationally. Anonymised overview — not an indication of any cooperation with Medschool Experts.
The city as a place to study medicine
Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia, with around 1.2 million inhabitants, and combines modern infrastructure with a rich cultural heritage. In recent years the city has become a popular destination for international students, with a growing food and culture scene that has a lot to offer.
Living costs are much lower than in Western European cities: around €500–750 per month is enough for a good, comfortable life. Housing, groceries and public transport are all inexpensive, which makes studying here financially attractive.
Tbilisi has good flight connections to Europe and the Middle East, though depending on where you come from, trips home take more planning than within Europe.
About the author
Marcel Kloos
Federally recognised dentist, founder and owner of Medschool Experts
Marcel Kloos founded the company while still studying abroad himself; since then more than 500 study places have been arranged. Originally from Stuttgart, he studied dentistry in Sofia from 2015 to 2021 and is a federally recognised dentist.
He now lives in Bern and runs the company full-time as its owner. He visits the partner universities in person on a regular basis.
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Student story
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FAQ: studying medicine abroad at this university
How long does the programme at Ilia State University last?
The Medicine programme lasts six years (twelve semesters), with a pre-clinical and a clinical phase. Graduates receive the MD degree.
What does studying at Ilia State University cost?
Tuition is approximately €4,300–6,000 per year (billed as USD 5,000–7,000), or roughly €26,000–36,000 over six years. Living costs in Tbilisi add around €500–750 per month. As fees are billed in US dollars, the actual cost also depends on the exchange rate.
Is the degree recognised internationally?
Because Georgia is not an EU member state, the degree is not recognised automatically in the EU; depending on your target country, you complete a licensing or equivalence procedure after graduation. We plan this pathway with you from day one.
How does the application work?
The application is handled entirely online through Medschool Experts. Get in touch and we will explain the next steps.
Do I need English skills?
Yes, all teaching is in English, so solid English skills (at least B2) are essential. Georgian or Russian are not required for the programme.
Are there student dormitories?
Yes, Tbilisi offers both university-affiliated dormitories and plenty of private accommodation. Rents are low, so you can live comfortably on a modest budget. We help you get your bearings for a good start.
When does the programme begin?
The programme usually starts in September or October. Exact dates can shift slightly from year to year — once you contact us, we keep you up to date.
How safe is Tbilisi for students?
Tbilisi is considered a safe city with a low crime rate, and locals are open and helpful towards international students.
Do I need a visa for Georgia?
Citizens of many countries, including all EU member states, can enter Georgia visa-free; for the full degree a residence permit is usually required. Requirements depend on your nationality — we explain the steps once you have been admitted.
Can I transfer to another university later?
A transfer is possible in principle but never guaranteed: the receiving university decides individually how much of your coursework it credits. If you are considering a transfer, talk to us early.
What makes Ilia State University stand out?
Ilia State University is one of Georgia's most prestigious universities, combining an international environment with comparatively low tuition fees. Academic rigour, manageable costs and the energy of a capital city make it a serious option for aspiring doctors.
Ahmad
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500+ students placed.
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