Study Medicine at Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University
Study Medicine in English at Georgia's oldest university
Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi 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 7,000 to 8,000 USD per year
Duration
6 years (12 semesters)
Language of instruction
English (Georgian language modules compulsory)
Admission process
Intake
September / October
Recognition
ANABIN listed, WHO recognised; 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)
6900
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?
Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University was founded in 1918 and is regarded as Georgia's oldest and most prestigious state university. It is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, which makes it a solid choice for international students.
The Medicine programme is taught entirely in English and consists of two pre-clinical years followed by four clinical years with practical training at Tbilisi teaching hospitals. The curriculum follows European standards, although the degree is not recognised automatically in the EU — depending on your target country, a licensing or equivalence procedure follows.
The university attracts students from many countries, creating a truly international campus. At the same time, life in a city with different everyday routines and a different language is a real adjustment.
- 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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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 7,000 to 8,000 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 a lively capital of around 1.1 million people, with a well-preserved old town and a growing international scene. The city blends Eastern and Western flair in a way that surprises and delights many students — while being culturally and linguistically very different from Western European cities, which can make the first weeks challenging.
Rents are low by European standards, and food, public transport and leisure activities are affordable. If you rely on Western comfort standards and a close-knit support network, be aware that some things work differently in Tbilisi.
Flight connections to Tbilisi are good but not always cheap — the distance from family is a real factor to weigh up. Those who embrace it find a vibrant city with an international student life and plenty of character.
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 Tbilisi State University last?
The Medicine programme lasts six years (twelve semesters). The first two years are pre-clinical, the remaining four clinically oriented.
What does studying at Tbilisi State University cost?
Tuition is approximately €6,000–6,900 per year (billed as USD 7,000–8,000), or roughly €36,000–41,000 over six years. Living costs in Tbilisi add around €500–750 per month.
Is the degree recognised internationally?
TSU is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. 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, the entire Medicine programme is taught in English, so good English skills are essential. Georgian or Russian are not required, but basic Georgian helps in contact with patients.
Are there student dormitories?
The university has dormitory places, though availability is limited and demand is high. Many international students choose private apartments, which are affordable in Tbilisi.
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 Tbilisi State University stand out?
Tbilisi State University is the oldest and best-known university in Georgia, with a long academic tradition and an international English-language Medicine programme that attracts students from many countries.
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500+ students placed.
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