MBBS in Georgia vs Russia - Which is better for Indians?
Jun 10, 2025Every year, thousands of Indian students face a tough decision: Should they pursue their MBBS degree in Georgia or Russia? These two countries have emerged as the top choices for Indian medical aspirants, each offering unique advantages and challenges. Russia attracts over 3,000 Indian students annually with its affordable tuition fees, ranging from just USD 3,000 to USD 7,000 per year, and a long-standing reputation for quality government medical universities.
On the other hand, Georgia is popular for its higher quality of education, fully English-medium instruction, and a modern international curriculum that aligns with European standards. While the cost of studying in Georgia is slightly higher, students benefit from globally recognized degrees and a safer, more student-friendly environment. In this article, you will find a detailed comparison of MBBS in Georgia vs MBBS in Russia, including fees, curriculum, recognition, and living standards to help you make the best choice for your medical career.
MBBS in Georgia Vs MBBS in Russia Highlights
Criteria |
MBBS in Georgia |
MBBS in Russia |
---|---|---|
Course Duration | 6 years (including internship) | 6 years (some programs may extend to 7 years) |
Tuition Fees/year | USD 3,000–USD 7,000 | RUB 200,000–500,000/year |
Cost of Living | USD 250–USD 400/month (approx. INR 21,000–34,000) | USD 200–USD 350/month (approx. INR 17,000–29,800) |
Medium of Instruction | Fully English-taught programs | English-medium (Russian needed for clinical years) |
University Recognition | WHO, NMC, ECFMG, FAIMER | WHO, NMC, ECFMG, FAIMER |
FMGE Pass Ratio | Generally higher | Comparatively lower |
Clinical Exposure | Decent, varies by university | Strong, large hospitals |
Admission Process | Simple, NEET required | Simple, NEET required |
Intakes | Two intakes (Sept/Oct & Feb/Mar) | Mainly one intake (Sept/Oct) |
Best For | English-medium focus, global exam pathways | Affordability, extensive clinical experience |
MBBS in Georgia Vs MBBS in Russia
Georgia is one of the top countries for Indian students for medical studies, including the MBBS course. There are many top universities in Georgia, such as Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU), Georgian National University SEU, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University, and Alte University that offer an MCI-approved MBBS program. Additionally, these universities follow the European Education System, making degrees widely recognized across Europe, the USA, and the UK.
On the other hand, MBBS in Russia is also a top destination for international students. Every year, there are around 3,000 Indian students who are enrolled in more than 50 Russian medical universities. Some top universities in Russia for MBBS are Sechenov University, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, etc. These russian universities are known for their affordable tuition, strong clinical exposure, and government backing.
Below is the key comparison of MBBS in Georgia vs MBBS in Russia:
MBBS in Georgia and Russia Accreditation and Recognition
Both MBBS in Russia and Georgia degrees are recognized by the WHO, the National Medical Commission of India, and international bodies, which makes graduates eligible for the licensing exam globally.
Country |
Degree Awarded |
Accreditation & Recognition |
---|---|---|
Georgia | MBBS (MD) | WHO, NMC (India), UNESCO, ECFMG, Ministry of Education (Georgia) |
Russia | MBBS (MD) | WHO, NMC (India), ECFMG, Ministry of Health (Russia) |
MBBS in Georgia and Russia Course Duration and Structure
Both Georgia and Russia offer a 6-year program including an internship period of 1 year. Below are some more details about MBBS in Georgia vs Russia, along with the MBBS in Georgia duration, academic system, etc.
Feature |
Georgia |
Russia |
---|---|---|
Duration | 6 years (5+1 internship) | 6 years (5+1 internship) |
Academic System | European (Bologna) | Russian |
Internship | Mandatory, included | Mandatory, included |
MBBS in Georgia and Russia Medium of Instruction
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Georgia: MBBS in Georgia is taught in English, which makes it easier for Indian students to understand and excel in the medical field.
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Russia: In Russia, most universities offer English-medium programs for the initial years. However, candidates must have proficiency in Russian, which is required for patient interaction and hospital work during clinical years.
MBBS in Georgia and Russia Admission Requirements
Requirement |
Georgia |
Russia |
---|---|---|
Educational Qualification | Pass class 12th with 50% in PCB | Complete 12th standard with 50% in PCB |
Entrance Exam | The NEET qualification is compulsory for Indian students | NEET qualification preferred, but some universities may admit without NEET for non-Indian students |
Language Proficiency | No IELTS/TOEFL required | No IELTS/TOEFL required |
Age | 17+ years | 17+ years |
MBBS in Georgia and Russia Tuition Fees and Cost of Living
Generally, MBBS in Russia is more budget-friendly and provides lower tuition fees and living expenses. Whereas an MBBS in Georgia is comparatively more expensive.
Feature |
Georgia |
Russia |
---|---|---|
Tuition Fees | USD 3,000–7,000/year (INR 2.7–6.3 lakh) | RUB 200,000–500,000/year (INR 2.5–5.5 lakh) |
Cost of Living | Higher (modern amenities, EU standards) | Lower (affordable lifestyle, subsidized hostels) |
FMGE Passing Ratio in India after MBBS in Russia vs Georgia
The Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) is a licensure exam for Indian students who study medicine abroad but want to practice in India.
Graduates from Georgian universities have a higher FMGE passing ratio compared to Russia, indicating better adaptation to the Indian medical curriculum and exam pattern. However, the FMGE passing ratio is lower in Russian universities, though many students still succeed with proper preparation.
Top MBBS Universities in Georgia VS Russia
The following are the top MBBS universities in Georgia and Russia, both recognized by global and Indian authorities with strong research and clinical training:
Georgia |
Russia |
---|---|
Tbilisi State Medical University | Lomonosov Moscow State University |
Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University | Kazan Federal University |
David Tvildiani Medical University | Saint Petersburg State University |
European University | People’s Friendship University |
Georgia VS Russia Intakes and Application Process
Georgia offers two intakes to provide flexibility for late applicants, whereas Russia has one intake, with a few exceptions.
Feature |
Georgia |
Russia |
---|---|---|
Main Intake | September/October | September/October |
Additional Intake | February/March (many universities) | February/March (some universities) |
Application Process | Online, straightforward | Online, straightforward |
Processing Time | 2 to 4 weeks | 2 to 4 weeks |
Quality of Education and Clinical Exposure
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Georgia: MBBS colleges in Georgia focus on modern medical techniques, student-centric teaching, and international partnerships. Also, they provide robust clinical training, with early exposure and English-medium instruction.
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Russia: Russian universities are renowned for their advanced research facilities, government-funded universities, and strong clinical training. However, clinical rotations often require knowledge of Russian.
Georgia VS Russia Accommodation and Food
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Georgia: In Georgia, the University hostels are modern, with good amenities. Indian mess facilities are available in most universities.
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Russia: Meanwhile, Hostel accommodation in Russia is affordable and subsidized by the government.
Career Opportunities and Post-Graduation Prospects
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Georgia: The MBBS degree provided to students in Georgia is recognized in India, Europe, the USA, and other countries. Graduates can appear for the USMLE, PLAB, and FMGE/NExT exams. Furthermore, students can pursue postgraduate studies or practice in Europe due to the Bologna-aligned curriculum.
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Russia: Russian MBBS degrees are globally recognized. Graduates can appear for FMGE/NExT, USMLE, PLAB, and other licensing exams. Also, if the candidate knows Russian, it can open more opportunities in Russia and the CIS countries.
MBBS in Georgia vs Russia
Below are the advantages and disadvantages of studying MBBS in Georgia and Russia:
Features |
Georgia |
Russia |
---|---|---|
Tuition & Living Costs | Higher | Lower |
FMGE Passing Ratio | Higher | Lower |
Medium of Instruction | Fully English | English (academics), Russian (clinics) |
Clinical Exposure | Early, English-medium | Strong, requires Russian for clinics |
Intakes | Two per year | One per year (mostly) |
Safety & Comfort | Modern, European standards | Safe, affordable, and cultural diversity |
Recognition | WHO, NMC, EU, USA, UK, etc. | WHO, NMC, USA, UK, etc. |
Cultural Adaptation | Easier for English speakers | Requires Russian language adaptation |
Postgraduate Options | Good for Europe, the US, and India | Good for Russia, CIS, India, US, UK |
MBBS in Russia good or MBBS in Georgia?
Both Georgia and Russia offer excellent opportunities for pursuing MBBS abroad. However, the final decision depends on your specific priorities:
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Choose Georgia if you want a fully English-medium program, higher FMGE passing ratios, a modern European lifestyle, and flexibility in application intakes.
-
Choose Russia if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, strong clinical training, a rich cultural experience, and are willing to learn basic Russian for clinical work.
Ultimately, both countries provide globally recognized degrees and a solid foundation for your medical career. Therefore, carefully consider your budget, language preferences, and long-term goals before making your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: What is the MBBS in Georgia duration?
Ans: The MBBS in Georgia duration is 6 years, which includes 5 years of academic study and 1 year of internship or practical training.
Ques: Is the MBBS in Russia good?
Ans: Yes, MBBS in Russia is considered a good option for many Indian students due to its modern infrastructure, competent faculty, globally recognized universities, affordable tuition fees, and a safe environment. Russian medical universities are accredited by top medical bodies such as the NMC, WHO, WFME, and ECFMG.
Ques: What are the disadvantages of studying MBBS in Georgia?
Ans: Some disadvantages of studying MBBS in Georgia include:
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Language barriers in daily life, as Georgian is commonly spoken outside the classroom.
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Limited clinical exposure compared to some other countries.
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Lifestyle adjustments for international students.
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Harsh winter conditions may be difficult for students from tropical regions.
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Limited local employment opportunities after graduation.
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Recognition issues in some countries require additional verification for licensing exams like FMGE (India), PLAB (UK), and USMLE (USA).
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Higher cost of living for accommodation, transport, and food, despite affordable tuition.
Ques: What is the fee of MBBS in Russia?
Ans: The fee of MBBS in Russia typically ranges from INR 2.5 lakh to INR 5.5 lakh per year, depending on the university. The total cost for the 6-year MBBS program, including tuition and hostel fees, is approximately INR 20 lakh to INR 40 lakh.
Ques: How does the MBBS in Georgia duration compare to the MBBS in Russia?
Ans: Both MBBS in Georgia and MBBS in Russia have a duration of 6 years, which includes academic study and clinical training or internship.
Shweta Sood
Shweta Sood is the Head MBBS Abroad Counselor. She helps students choose the best medical universities in other countries. With his support, many students have started their MBBS journey abroad. She gives clear advice and cares about every student’s future.