Indian students are choosing to study MBBS in Georgia more and more since the tuition is affordable, the degree is accepted around the world, the classes are in English, and there are a lot of clinical opportunities. A few of the top private universities in Tbilisi offering MBBS are Grigol Robakidze University Georgia (GRUNI) and Georgian American University (GAU).
This article GRUNI Vs Georgian American University presents a comprehensive comparison of these two leading institutions, covering academic quality, infrastructure, fees, recognition, clinical training, student life, and career opportunities to help prospective students make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Overview and History
GRUNI Vs Georgian American University: Owing to the relatively younger history of both the institutions, a brief overview of their why and hows is as under:
| Feature | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | Georgian American University (GAU) |
| Establishment | 1992 | 2001 |
| Type | private | private |
| Recognition | Georgian Ministry of Education, (WHO), (NMC) India,(ECFMG) USA | WHO, NMC (MCI), and reputed international bodies |
| Course Duration & Medium | 6-year, English | 6-year, English |
| National Rank | 26th | 24th |
| FMGE Coaching | Special FMGE-focused coaching by Indian faculty | FMGE coaching with high success rate |
Read Also: MBBS admission at Grigol Robakidze University, Georgia
Academic Curriculum and Quality
It is important to look at the academic curriculum and quality of a university as it is the heart of your MBBS journey
Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI)
- The MBBS program at GRUNI spans 6 years comprising 5 years of academic study and 1-year internship.
- Clinical exposure is initiated from the 3rd year with direct patient contact through its own hospitals and clinical partner hospital.
- GRUNI puts special emphasis on preparing Indian students for FMG and NExT with step-by-step coaching comprising mock tests by Indian faculty from the very 1st year.
- Research opportunities are moderate with more emphasis on practical student training and clinical skills.
Georgian American University (GAU)
- Georgian American University also provides a 6-year MBBS course with 5 years of study and 1 year of internship, with a harmonious blend of theoretical and clinical education.
- The course is NMC-aligned and readies students for Indian licensing exams as well as for international routes.
- Practical training and clinical rotations mostly take place in later years, helped along by hospital affiliations.
- Georgia American University focuses on learner-centric learning, global scholarly partnerships, and hands-on skill acquisition.
- The university is said to have extremely high FMGE passing percentages, up to 80.33% in 2024, showing its effective exam preparation system.
Read Also: Why MBBS in Georgia is Trending in 2025 Among Indian Students?
Total Expense
GRUNI Vs Georgian American University: Among both the institutions, which one is more pocket friendly for Indian students.
| Feature | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | Georgian American University (GAU) |
| Tuition Fee (per year) | Approximately USD 5,500 | Approximately USD 6,000 |
| Hostel Fee (per year) | Around USD 2,500 | Around USD 3,000 |
| Total Course Cost (6 years) | Approx. USD 33,000 + hostel cost | Approx. USD 36,000 + hostel cost |
| Living Expenses (monthly) | USD 300–500 (similar for both) | USD 300–500 (similar for both) |
- GRUNI is notably slightly more affordable than GAU in tuition fees, with similar hostel and living costs in Tbilisi.
- Students should also factor in expenses for food, transport, health insurance, and study material, which are roughly comparable between the two.
Recognition and Global Licensing Pathways
Lets have a look at the recognition and licensure pathways of both institutions since it shows the global recognition of the degrees they provide.
- Both GRUNI and GAU are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and National Medical Commission (NMC), India, enabling Indian students to appear for the FMGE (NMC screening test).
- GRUNI additionally has recognition from ECFMG (USA), enabling eligibility for the USMLE pathways.
- GAU is also recognized worldwide and MBBS from it is valid worldwide; it has high favorable FMGE results, favoring Indian licensing plans.
- The two universities favor licensing in the UK (PLAB) and other foreign nations.
FMGE Passing Percentage and Examination Preparation
GRUNI Vs Georgian American University: Of the two universities, which one is more favorable for FMGE training (since crucial for Indian students)
- GRUNI possesses a specialized FMGE coaching system with Indian faculty guidance, frequent mock tests, and specially designed mentoring program. Though the FMGE passing percentage at GRUNI stands at a mere 20-25%, the university aids in a significant number of students.
- GAU has reportedly recorded a spectacularly high FMGE passing percentage of 80.33% in 2024, indicative of its efficient exam-focused coaching and pupil preparation.
Indian students at both universities emphasize the importance of dedicated FMGE mentoring, and GAU appears to have a higher pass percentages.
Clinical Training and Infrastructure
Clinical and infrastructural comparison of both universities provides a distinct result after analysis as shown below
Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI)
- Early clinical training begins from the 3rd year, with students gaining exposure in affiliated multi-specialty hospitals and GRUNI’s own clinical partner hospital, PINEO, providing real-world patient care experience.
- Emphasis is on skill acquisition as per FMGE standards for clinical proficiency.
- The university boasts equipped modern labs, sim centers, and modernized medical infrastructure.
Georgia American University (GAU)
- Clinical rotations begin primarily in the latter middle to terminal years, carried out in reputable hospitals with extensive specialty services.
- Facilities comprise state-of-the-art lecture halls, cutting-edge labs, and detailed practical training facilities.
- Georgia American University also uses simulation-based learning and promotes clinical skills via practical internships.
Student Life and Indian Student Diaspora Support
GRUNI Vs Georgian American University: What is the everyday normal life of the students like and what is the support group for Indians.
- Both universities welcome diverse international student populations, most notably significant Indian student groups in excess of 2,000 at both locations.
- Indian student cells and assistance offices dedicated specifically provide relief with cultural acclimatization, academic guidance, accommodation, and social life.
- Tbilisi offers a cheap, secure place to live with ample Indian food availability, cultural activities, and student services.
Both universities organize extra-curricular and career development activities fostering a global learning atmosphere.
Admission Criteria and Process
Both universities have similar admission requirements and the further process after application is also the same standard process that is for Indian applicants to pursue MBBS in Georgia.
| Criteria | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | Georgian American University (GAU) |
| NEET Requirement | Yes, mandatory for Indian students | Yes, mandatory for Indian students |
| Academic Eligibility | 50% in PCB (40% for reserved categories) | 50% in PCB (40% for reserved categories) |
| Minimum Age | 17 years by admission year | 17 years by admission year |
| Application Window | April to September | July to September |
| Entrance Exam | No separate university entrance test | No separate university entrance test |
- Both universities admit students based on NEET qualification and academic performance.
- Admission involves application submission, document verification, fee payment, and visa processing facilitated by the universities.
Research and International Collaboration
GRUNI Vs Georgian American University: Comparison of which institution provides better research and international collaboration opportunities.
- GRUNI focuses more on practical training but participates in some research collaborations and student projects.
- Georgian American University promotes international academic cooperation, research projects, and interdisciplinary learning, encouraging greater exposure to global scientific advancements.
Conclusion: Which University to Choose?
Both universities have their perks and also places where one tops the other, lets take a final glance at a comparison between Grigol Robakidze University and Georgian American University:
| Aspect | Grigol Robakidze University (GRUNI) | Georgian American University (GAU) |
| Tuition Fees | More affordable | Slightly higher tuition fees |
| FMGE Passing Rate | Moderate, with large student intake | High pass rate (80.33% in 2024) with focused coaching |
| Clinical Exposure | Early clinical exposure from 3rd year | Clinical exposure mainly from 3rd or 4th year |
| Recognition | WHO, NMC, ECFMG, Ministry of Georgia | WHO, NMC, global recognition |
| Infrastructure | Modern labs, clinical partner hospital | Advanced labs, simulation, international collaborations |
| Student Support | Dedicated Indian faculty and student mentorship | Strong international community and student support |
| Location | Tbilisi, in central Georgia | Tbilisi, central location |
| Best For | Cost-effective education with FMGE focus | Students seeking higher FMGE pass rates and research focus |
Read Also: Top 10 NMC Approved Medical Universities in Georgia
In summary
Summarising GRUNI Vs Georgian American University: A brief look at their strengths.
- GRUNI is ideal for Indian students prioritizing affordability, early clinical exposure, and strong FMGE coaching in a welcoming environment.
- Georgian American University is recommended for students seeking a slightly more expensive but research-oriented, internationally collaborative program with a proven high FMGE success rate.
Both universities offer quality MBBS education in Georgia with globally recognized degrees and opportunities to practice medicine internationally or in India after passing licensing exams.
If a prospective student considers budget constraints more important, GRUNI may be preferred. For students focused on exam success rates, research exposure, and international collaborations, Georgian American University holds distinct advantages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at GRUNI and Georgia American University?
Both universities maintain a favorable student-to-faculty ratio to ensure personalized attention. GRUNI typically has smaller batch sizes allowing close mentor-mentee interaction, while Georgia American University also emphasizes faculty accessibility and student engagement. (GRUNI Vs Georgian American University )
Are there opportunities for extracurricular activities and sports at these universities?
Yes, both GRUNI and Georgia American University encourage extracurricular involvement. They have facilities and clubs for sports, cultural activities, and community service to promote students’ physical and social well-being. (GRUNI Vs Georgian American University )
What are the language support options for non-English speaking students?
English is the medium of instruction at both universities, but language support services like tutoring and language clubs are available to help international students, including those struggling with English proficiency. (GRUNI Vs Georgian American University )
How accessible are campus facilities for differently-abled students?
Both universities strive to make campus facilities accessible, including ramps, elevators, and supportive services, to ensure differently-abled students can pursue their studies comfortably. (GRUNI Vs Georgian American University )
What is the local transport connectivity around the campuses?
Tbilisi has a well-developed public transport system including buses, metro, and taxis. Both universities are located close to main transport hubs, making commuting convenient and affordable for students. (GRUNI Vs Georgian American University )
Can students work part-time while studying MBBS at GRUNI or Georgia American University?
Part-time work opportunities are limited due to the demanding MBBS curriculum and Georgia’s work visa regulations for international students. However, some on-campus or hospital internships may provide practical exposure and limited stipends depending on university policies. (GRUNI Vs Georgian American University )
