Georgian American University (GAU) is a private university located in Tbilisi, Georgia, that was established in 2005. It is a popular option for international students, including those from India, due to its English-medium Medical Doctor (MD) program, which is equivalent to an MBBS.
Programs for international students
GAU offers a 6-year Medical Doctor (MD) program entirely in English for international students. The program includes five years of academic study and a one-year clinical internship.
Recognition and reputation
- International recognition: GAU is recognized by major international medical bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME). It is also approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, allowing Indian graduates to practice in India after passing the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE).
- Affiliations: The university has exchange programs with partners in Europe, the USA, Canada, and Australia. It also partners with various organizations and universities to facilitate research projects.
- Rankings: Rankings for GAU vary depending on the source.
- FMGE pass rate: According to 2024 data, the university had a Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) pass rate of approximately 80.3% among its Indian graduates.
Admission requirements for Indian students
To be eligible for admission, Indian students typically need to meet the following criteria:
- Age: Be at least 17 years old by December 31 of the admission year.
- Academics: Completed 10+2 with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (40% for reserved categories).
- NEET: Hold a qualifying score on the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET).
- English proficiency: An English proficiency test is not explicitly required if the student’s previous education was in English.
Campus and facilities
- Location: The main campus is in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia.
- Infrastructure: GAU features a modern campus with lecture halls, well-equipped laboratories (including GeoLab), a library, a gymnasium, an auditorium, and a cafeteria.
- Clinical experience: Students gain practical experience through affiliations with various hospitals and clinics, and through a simulation medicine clinic.
- Hostel facilities: Some sources indicate that GAU provides on-campus hostel facilities for international students, with amenities such as Indian food options, heating, and Wi-Fi. However, other sources mention that the university does not provide hostel facilities and assists students in finding private apartments or shared accommodations. Students should verify the availability of hostel facilities directly with the university.
- Student life: The university has a multicultural environment with various clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities.
Fees and accommodation
- Tuition fees: Annual tuition fees for the MBBS/MD program are typically around $5,500–6,000 USD.
- Accommodation costs: Hostel and food costs are estimated at approximately $2,500–3,000 USD per year.
- Affordability: GAU is considered an affordable option for medical studies compared to many private medical colleges in India.