Comparing MBBS in Georgia: BAU vs Other Medical Universities
Georgia has become one of the fastest-growing destinations for Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad. With its affordable tuition fees, global recognition, and English-medium programs, Georgia competes directly with countries like Russia, Ukraine, and the Philippines. Among its many universities, BAU International University Batumi (BAU Batumi) and Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU) are two popular choices. This blog explores a detailed comparison to help students and parents make informed decisions.
Tuition & Living Cost Comparison
One of the most important factors for Indian families is affordability. Both BAU Batumi and TSMU offer reasonable tuition compared to Western countries. However, the cost structure has some differences.
| Factor | BAU International University Batumi | Tbilisi State Medical University |
| Annual Tuition Fee | $5,000 – $6,000 | $7,000 – $8,000 |
| Hostel/Accommodation | $1,200 – $1,500 per year | $1,500 – $2,000 per year |
| Living Expenses (Food, etc.) | $150 – $200 per month | $200 – $250 per month |
| Total Estimated Yearly Cost | $7,000 – $8,000 | $9,000 – $10,000 |
Observation: BAU Batumi offers slightly lower tuition and living costs, making it more accessible for students from middle-income families in India.
Accreditation & Curriculum Differences
BAU International University Batumi
- Accreditations: Recognized by NMC (India), WHO, and ECFMG (USA), listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
- Curriculum: Aligned with USMLE standards, with free USMLE preparation support for enrolled students.
- Medium of Instruction: 100% English.
- Strength: Strong focus on global recognition and exam readiness for students targeting the USA, UK, or India.
Tbilisi State Medical University
- Accreditations: Also recognized by NMC, WHO, and ECFMG.
- Curriculum: Traditional European-style curriculum, structured around six years of medical training.
- Medium of Instruction: English and Georgian, though some students report mixed language exposure during clinical rotations.
- Strength: Oldest and most established medical university in Georgia with strong local reputation.
Observation: Both universities hold global recognition, but BAU Batumi provides additional benefits for students focusing on USMLE and international practice.
Clinical Exposure & Support Services
Clinical Training at BAU Batumi
BAU Batumi offers clinical rotations at affiliated hospitals in Batumi, giving students early patient exposure. Because of its smaller batch sizes, students often get more personalized interaction with faculty and patients. The university also provides support services, including Indian food availability, exam coaching, and counseling for NExT/FMGE.
Clinical Training at Tbilisi State Medical University
TSMU, being the largest medical university in Georgia, has partnerships with multiple hospitals in Tbilisi. While clinical exposure is extensive, the large student intake sometimes makes it difficult for every student to gain equal hands-on experience. Indian students also report language barriers during clinical practice, as many patients speak Georgian or Russian.
Observation: BAU Batumi provides more personalized clinical support, while TSMU offers broader hospital access but with higher competition among students.
Why Indian Students Might Prefer BAU Batumi
- Cost Advantage: BAU Batumi’s tuition and living costs are lower, making it a better option for families seeking affordable education without compromising on quality.
- USMLE and NExT Support: Free USMLE preparation and structured guidance for licensing exams like FMGE/NExT give BAU students a competitive edge.
- Smaller Batch Sizes: Unlike TSMU’s large classes, BAU Batumi ensures more faculty interaction, individualized learning, and better student monitoring.
- Location in Batumi: The coastal city of Batumi offers a calmer, student-friendly environment compared to Tbilisi’s busy urban lifestyle. For Indian students, this means less distraction and a closer-knit campus community.
- Student Services: BAU Batumi collaborates with student support agencies like THE CAREER ASSISTANCE, which makes the admission process smoother for Indian applicants.
Balanced View
While BAU Batumi shines in affordability, personalized education, and international exam focus, Tbilisi State Medical University remains a powerhouse of reputation with decades of history and a wide alumni network across the world. For students who prefer the prestige of a historic university and the hustle of a metropolitan city, TSMU is appealing. On the other hand, BAU Batumi provides a modern, forward-looking medical education model, ideal for Indian students who prioritize exam success, affordability, and close mentorship.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between BAU International University Batumi and Tbilisi State Medical University depends on each student’s career vision. If your goal is cost-effective education with strong support for exams like USMLE, FMGE, or NExT, then BAU Batumi is a strong contender. However, if you want to study in the capital city at Georgia’s oldest medical university with a wider alumni network, TSMU may be better.
In either case, Georgia offers Indian students a great platform to become globally recognized doctors. But for many, BAU Batumi stands out as the best medical college in Batumi and one of the most student-focused universities in the country.
ABOUT : BAU Batumi vision and mission
For Admission feel free to contact us on +91-8447798979 ,+91-9999768177 or check our website :www.thecareerasssistance.com