Georgia is becoming a prime destination for Indian medical aspirants willing to pursue medicine abroad. Two of the best-ranked universities providing MBBS programs in Georgia are Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) and David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU). Both the universities provide globally recognized medical education, English as the medium of teaching, and the opportunity to give licensure exams like FMGE and USMLE. They are light years away from each other in their approach towards education, tuition fees, campus life, and students’ facilities.
This article GRUNI Vs David Tvildiani Medical University is a comprehensive comparison between both the universities so that the students can make an appropriate decision in their medical studies path.
Read Also: Why MBBS in Georgia is Trending in 2025 Among Indian Students?
Table of Contents
Overview
Before making a deep analysis, lets take a look at the overview on both Institutions and some basic information regarding them.
| Feature | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) |
| Location | Tbilisi | Tbilisi |
| Founded | 1992 | 1989 |
| Tuition Fee (Per Year) | USD 5,500 | USD 7,500 |
| Duration | 6 years (5+1 internship) | 6 years (5+1 internship) |
| Language | English | English |
| FMGE Pass Rate | Around 20–22% (2024) | 48.50% (2024) |
| Clinical Exposure Start | 3rd year | 3rd Year |
| Research Focus | High | High |
| Type of Campus | Urban, traditional(combined with modern infrastructure) | Urban, modern |
| Student Body | Large, majority Indian student population | Moderate, growing diversity |
| International Accreditations and Recognition | WHO, NMC, ECFMG, FAIMER, WFMG, Ministry of Georgia | WHO, NMC, AMSE, AMEE, ECFMG, FAIMER, WFMG |
University Background and Location
Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI)
Grigol Robakidze University Georgia (GRUNI) was founded in 1992 in the capital city, Tbilisi, and is among the best Georgian private medical universities. With affordable fees and quality education, it is the most sought after university by Indian students. GRUNI offers early clinical exposure with its 6-year MBBS program and a robust FMGE coaching system for highest Indian licensure exam pass rates. The university itself is WHO, NMC, ECFMG, and other international agencies accredited.
David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU)
David Tvildiani Medical University, established in 1989 and also located in Tbilisi, is a leading private medical school of Georgia. Established by Academicians Dmitri and David Tvildiani, it insists on an innovative, research-driven curriculum as per US standards of medical education. One of the highest pass rates in Georgia on the USMLE is achieved by internationally certified David Tvildiani Medical University. The campus is best in creativity and innovative clinical training based on international affiliations.
Academic Curriculum and Teaching Methodology
Grigol Robakidze University and David Tvildiani Medical University both have similar academic specifications with a few key differences which are as follows.
| Feature | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) |
| Program Duration | 6 years (5 years academic + 1-year clinical internship). | 6 years (5 years academic + 1-year internship) |
| Medium of Instruction | 100% English | 100% English |
| Curriculum | NMC-aligned with integration of theory and early clinical practice. Emphasis on problem-based learning. | NMC-aligned with American touch medical education program with focus on active learning and evidence-based practice. |
| Clinical Training | Begins from the 3rd year in affiliated multi-specialty hospitals including GRUNI’s PINEO hospital partner. | Started right from the third year with extensive hospital affiliations across the entire Georgia state, including state-of-art simulation centers |
| Assessment | Includes regular case-based tests, mock FMGE exams, and continuous academic mentoring | Continuous multimodal evaluation, computerized tests, oral and practical exams |
| Research | Significant emphasis on biomedical studies, mainly on student projects and clinical practice | Emphasis on research with room for student contribution to journals and conferences |
Tuition Fees and Living Expenses
Grigol Robakidze University GRUNI Vs David Tvildiani Medical University: Here is a breakdown of the tuition and accommodation expenses of both universities.
| Category | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) |
| Tuition Fee (Per Year) | Approx. USD $5,500 | Approx. USD $7,500 |
| Hostel and Accommodation | Approx. USD $2,500/year | Approx. USD $3,000/year |
| Total Estimated Cost (6 Years) | $46,000 approx | $63,000 approx |
| Location Cost Advantage | Central Tbilisi, low cost of living | Central Tbilisi, slightly high cost of living but latest facilities |
GRUNI has an economical low fee structure, whereas David Tvildiani Medical University is relatively more expensive due to better infrastructure and USMLE training. The atmosphere in both the cities is student-friendly, yet facility and campus life at David Tvildiani Medical University are class apart.
Recognition and Licensing Opportunities
- Both the colleges are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), National Medical Commission (NMC), India, and the Medical Council of Georgia.
- GRUNI is also ECFMG certified and offers FMGE/NExT tuition to Indian medical students.
- David Tvildiani Medical University takes its place at one of Georgia’s highest USMLE Step 1 and Step 2 pass rates, with students preparing to practice in the USA as confident as they can be.
- All the students of these two colleges are entitled to appear for licensing examinations across the globe, i.e., FMGE (India), PLAB (UK), USMLE (USA), and other European licensing examinations.
FMGE Performance and Indian Student Support
FMGE performance of an institute is a key factor that aspirants consider while making their preference for a medical university. Support from fellow Indian students is another factor that needs consideration. Here’s a comparison.
| Feature | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) |
| FMGE passing rate | Globally scores 20–22% with a good number of students. | Scores high rates of up to 48.50% (2024) with a minimal number of students |
| FMGE support system | Facilitates systematic FMGE training since year one by providing Indian teaching staff and fixed time table mock tests. | Offers FMGE and USMLE modules of tutoring combined. |
| Indian student support | Has an active Indian Students Cell that conducts cultural support, mentorship, and events. | Large Indian student population and active participation in cultural activities for smooth transition of foreign students. |
Read Also: Inside GRUNI FMGE Support System
Hospital Affiliations and Clinical Training
Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI)
- Early clinical exposure from the 3rd year onwards in various multi-specialty hospitals of Tbilisi and its own private clinical branch PINEO hospital.
- The training of patient care and procedural skills is on a hands-on basis.
- There are simulation laboratories that provide simulated real clinical scenarios for better skill acquisition in a risk-free environment.
David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU)
- Clinical exposure begins from the 3rd year, with intense rotations in high-tech affiliated hospitals of Georgia.
- Anatomy labs and a sophisticated simulation center utilize the most advanced technologies like virtual reality simulations.
- Case presentations and research supplement research, like in an American pedagogic model.
Research, Innovation & Extra-Curriculars
- GRUNI has a modest research culture with student participation in local conferences and papers; university allows extracurricular activities like sports and cultural clubs.
- David Tvildiani Medical University is an internationally collaborating, research-intensive university with scientific seminars, student journals, and multicultural extracurricular activities like student exchange programs abroad.
Read Also: Grigol Robakidze University Research and Collaborations
Campus Life and Student Experience
- The two universities offer the students of Tbilisi a multicultural, diverse, and secure atmosphere.
- GRUNI has an older but clean campus, and it is centrally located with a very traditional university atmosphere.
- David Tvildiani Medical University offers a world-class, vibrant campus with advanced facilities, dedicated research spaces, and access to Tbilisi medical facilities.
- Indian food and cultural celebrations are well supplemented by vibrant student groups on both campuses.
Admission Process and Eligibility
| Criteria | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU) |
| NEET Requirement | Yes (for Indian students) | Yes (for Indian students) |
| Academic Eligibility | 50% in PCBE (40% for reserved) | 50% in PCBE (40% for reserved) |
| Age Limit | Minimum 17 years | Minimum 17 years |
| Application Timeline | April to September | June to September |
| Entrance Exam | No internal entrance exam | No internal entrance exam |
The admission process of both is straightforward and simple. Both the universities offer visa and travel documents to international students.
Conclusion: Which University to Choose?
- Choose Grigol Robakidze University if: You prefer affordability, organized FMGE preparation, early beginning of clinical exposure, and substantial Indian student base in Tbilisi at affordable prices
- Choose David Tvildiani Medical University if: You prefer research-oriented, American-model education, early and extensive clinical training, and intensive USMLE preparation with better campus facilities.
Both the colleges offer internationally certified MBBS degrees licensable in India. The choice depends on your career goals, financial resources, and learning style.
Read Also: 10 Advantages of studying MBBS at GRUNI, Georgia for Indian Students
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the faculty-to-student ratio at both universities?
Both universities maintain a favorable faculty-to-student ratio to ensure individual attention and effective learning, typically ranging from 1:10 to 1:15, depending on the year of study and department.
Is there provision for scholarships or financial aid for students?
Yes, both universities offer merit-based scholarships and financial aid options for outstanding students. Additionally, some government and private scholarships may be available for international students on a competitive basis.
What is the accreditation status of each university’s MBBS program?
Both universities are accredited by Georgian authorities and recognized internationally, with programs meeting quality standards set by global medical education bodies, ensuring the degree’s validity worldwide.
Can students work part-time during their studies?
While Georgian immigration laws generally restrict full-time work for international students, part-time work options may be available with special permission, though many students choose to focus full-time on their studies due to the demanding curriculum.
How experienced are the teaching staff in clinical training?
The clinical faculty at both universities comprises experienced medical doctors and specialists who actively practice in teaching hospitals, providing students with practical insights and hands-on training during their clinical rotations.
Are there modern facilities and technology available for medical training?
Both universities invest in modern teaching facilities including simulation labs, well-equipped libraries, digital resources, and updated laboratories to support comprehensive medical education and student research activities.
