- Grigol Robakidze University
Overview, Fees, Life in institution & the place, Syllabus, Course Details & Student Experiences
About Grigol Robakidze University
Academic Overview: The Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) is a highly esteemed private institution in Georgia, recognized for its commitment to modern, Western-style education. Its School of Medicine offers a premier MD (Medical Doctor) program—equivalent to MBBS—that is fully taught in English. The program is designed to meet European Union standards and follows the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), ensuring global compatibility and high academic rigor.
Key Information:
Established: 1992.
Medium of Instruction: 100% English.
University Type: Private.
Accreditations: Recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), and accredited by WHO, ECFMG (USA), FAIMER, and AMSE.
Total Credits: 360 ECTS credits over 6 years.
History & Background: Founded in 1992, Grigol Robakidze University was one of the first private higher education institutions in Georgia. It was named after the prominent Georgian writer and public figure Grigol Robakidze. Over the decades, it has evolved into a leading research-based university, gaining particular fame for its medical and dental faculties which utilize American and European clinical standards.
Current Statistics & Numbers:
Global Ranking: Often ranked among the top 5 private universities in Georgia.
International Student Body: Thousands of international students, with a significant and growing community from India.
Faculty: Comprises over 200+ experienced academic staff, including practicing surgeons and clinical researchers.
Campus Gallery
Hostel Gallery
Hospital Gallery
Fee Structure of Grigol Robakidze University
| 1st Year package | Amount (USD) | 2nd to 6th year (annual) | Amount (USD) |
| Tution Fees | 5,500 | Tution Fees | 5,500 |
| Hostel and Mess | 3,000 | Hostel and Mess | 3,000 |
| Medical, Visa, govt | 550 | Medical, Visa, govt | 550 |
| Administrative Fees (OTC) | 1,500 | ||
| Total | 10,550 | Total | 9,050 |
| Six year total | 55,800 |
Life in Tbilisi: An Indian MBBS Student’s Perspective
Culture:
Language: While Georgian is the official language, English is widely spoken among the younger population and professionals in Tbilisi.
Religion & Hospitality: Georgia is an Orthodox Christian nation known for its legendary hospitality. Locals are exceptionally welcoming to “guests” (students), making the integration process smooth.
Arts & Entertainment: Tbilisi is a vibrant capital with a mix of historic architecture and modern European cafes, theaters, and parks.
Food:
Indian Options: Tbilisi has a booming scene of Indian restaurants and dedicated Indian Mess facilities for students. Essential Indian spices and groceries are easily available in local markets like the “Green Bazaar.”
Local & International: Famous dishes like Khachapuri (cheese bread) and Khinkali (dumplings) are student favorites. Global chains like McDonald’s, KFC, and Subway are also abundant.
Lifestyle & Relevant Information:
Climate: Four distinct seasons. Mild, pleasant summers and moderately cold winters with occasional snow.
Transportation: Extremely affordable. Students get a “Student Card” for heavy discounts on the Tbilisi Metro and city buses.
Cost of Living: Budget-friendly. Monthly expenses range from $300 to $500 (approx. ₹25,000–₹42,000) including rent and food.
Safety: Consistently ranked among the Top 10 Safest Countries in the world.
Why Study MBBS at Grigol Robakidze University?
Clinical Integration: Students start clinical rotations and hospital exposure early in their third year, providing high patient interaction.
State-of-the-Art Labs: GRUNI is praised for its Simulation Center, which uses high-fidelity mannequins and VR technology for surgical training.
No Entrance Exam: Admission is based on NEET qualification and 12th-grade PCB marks; no IELTS or TOEFL is mandatory for Indian students.
Licensing Exam Support: The university provides specific coaching for the FMGE/NExT (India) and USMLE (USA).
Course Duration at Grigol Robakidze University
The MD program at GRUNI spans a total of 6 Years.
Academics: 5 years of integrated theoretical and para-clinical study.
Internship: 1 year of mandatory clinical clerkship in university-affiliated multi-specialty hospitals.
Life in Georgia from the students' perspective
Georgia is a “bridge” between Europe and Asia.
Indian Community: A vibrant community organizes massive Diwali and Holi celebrations.
Education System: Based on the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), ensuring the degree is valid across the EU.
Career Opportunities: Georgia allows international students to do part-time jobs, which is unique among MBBS-abroad destinations.
Nature: Students often travel to the Caucasus Mountains or the Black Sea beaches during vacations.
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Georgia
Indian students applying for MBBS admissions in Georgia must fulfil the following eligibility criteria:
- Minimum 50% score in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in Class 12 and passing marks in English.
- Attained the age of 17 as of 31st December in the admission year.
- Cleared NEET exam (in order to practice medicine in India) (50th percentile for general/EWS category and 40th percentile for SC/ST/OBC category)
Benefits of MBBS in Georgia
NMC Compliance: The 6-year course structure (including 12 months of internship) fully complies with the NMC FMGL Regulations 2021.
Affordability: Tuition fees are approximately $4,500 to $5,500 per year, which is much lower than private medical colleges in India.
Global Recognition: WHO and ECFMG recognition means the degree is valid in almost every country.
High FMGE Success: Georgia historically maintains one of the highest passing percentages for the Indian licensing exam among all foreign destinations.
MBBS Syllabus in Grigol Robakidze University
| Year | Phase | Focus Subjects |
| Year 1 | Pre-Clinical | Cell Biology, Body Systems, Molecular Biology, Medical Genetics, Biophysics, Bioethics. |
| Year 2 | Pre-Clinical | Biochemistry, Human Anatomy, Histology, Physiology, Immunology, Neuroscience. |
| Year 3 | Para-Clinical | Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, General Surgery, Radiology, Physical Diagnosis. |
| Year 4 | Clinical | Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Dermatology, Infectious Diseases, Cardiology. |
| Year 5 | Clinical | Neurology, Psychiatry, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Forensic Medicine, Oncology. |
| Year 6 | Internship | Intensive clinical rotations in Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, and specialized Surgery. |
FAQ
MBBS abroad is a better options then private medical in India, especially in terms of cost, private medical in India costs a fortune more then that of many countries abroad.
Comparing FMG exam with NEET, we can safely say it is not at all a tough exam. Although there are no specific matrix to judge how tough an exam is, but considering the passing ratio of FMG exam which is roughly 20-25% to that of the percentage of candidates who get selected for government medical college through NEET which is roughly 0.02%, FMG exam is definitely a tough exam in the field of medical studies.