MBBS at Akaki Tsereteli State University (ATSU), Georgia

admin 13 May 2025

Introduction

Akaki Tsereteli State University (ATSU), located in Kutaisi, Georgia, is one of the oldest and most prestigious public institutions in the country. Established in 1930, ATSU has grown into a leading center for education and research, attracting students from across the globe, particularly those aspiring to pursue a career in medicine. The MBBS program at ATSU is especially popular among international students, including many from India, due to its affordability, quality education, global recognition, and English-medium instruction.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the mbbs in abroad at Akaki Tsereteli State University, covering academic structure, admission requirements, cost, facilities, lifestyle in Georgia, and career prospects after graduation. Mbbs abroad for indian students

Historical Background of ATSU

Akaki Tsereteli State University was originally founded as a branch of the Tbilisi State University and was named after the famous Georgian poet Akaki Tsereteli. Over the decades, ATSU has established itself as a hub for medical and scientific education. It’s Faculty of Medicine and Healthcare has continually expanded in terms of academic offerings, faculty quality, and research output. Best country for MBBS for Indian students

With a mission to provide internationally competitive education, ATSU emphasizes not only classroom learning but also hands-on clinical practice, research opportunities, and interdisciplinary training. MBBS education abroad

Why Choose ATSU for MBBS?

MBBS Georgia has emerged as a popular destination for medical studies due to several key reasons:

  1. Quality Education: Georgian medical universities offer European-standard education with modern curricula and English-taught programs.
  2. Affordable Tuition: Significantly lower fees compared to private medical colleges in India or institutions in the West.
  3. Global Recognition: Most Georgian universities, including ATSU, are recognized by WHO, NMC (India), ECFMG (USA), and FAIMER.
  4. No Entrance Exams: Students are admitted based on 12th-grade performance and NEET qualification; no additional entrance tests are required.
  5. Safe and Welcoming Environment: Georgia is known for its hospitality, safety, and student-friendly culture.

Overview of the MBBS Program at ATSU

Program Structure:

Duration: 6 years

  • 5 years of academic coursework
  • 1 year of compulsory internship/clinical rotations

  • Language of Instruction: English

  • Mode of Learning:Combination of classroom lectures, lab work, hospital training, and community service

Year-wise Curriculum Breakdown

Year 1–2: Pre-Clinical Studies
  • Focus on foundational sciences: Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Histology, and Medical Ethics
  • English language enhancement (if required)
  • Introduction to Georgian culture and basic Georgian language (to aid in clinical interactions)
Year 3–5: Clinical Subjects and Practical Training
  1. Internal Medicine, Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Surgery, Pediatrics, OB-GYN, Psychiatry, ENT, Ophthalmology
  2. Clinical case discussions and exposure in teaching hospitals
  3. Regular assessments and examinations
Year 6: Internship
  • Rotational internship in affiliated hospitals
  • Practical exposure in various departments such as emergency medicine, surgery, and internal medicine
  • Internship is recognized in many countries and may be counted towards licensing requirements
Admission Process
  • Application:Application process starts online. You will have to fill an application form with the required details. You need to attach the scanned copy of mark sheets of your secondary and senior secondary certificate, including valid passport scanned copy.
  • Document Required: You need to submit the 10th and 12th mark sheet, print out the signed form and other required documents to the university.
  • Verification: Your submitted documents will be verified by the school before your MBBS admission moves. Upon acceptance or rejection, you will get a letter as per the rule of the university.
  • NEET Required: Indian student need to submit NEET score.
  • Fees: You need to pay the initial fee for MBBS admission once your application is accepted by the University. This is mandatory.
  • Permits: When the above mentioned processes are completed, you need to apply for the visa for Georgia. You will do that with the help of the documents you have and the university invitation letters.

Faculty and Teaching Methodology

ATSU boasts a team of highly qualified professors, many of whom hold PhDs and have international teaching or research experience. The medical faculty emphasizes the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills. MCI-approved medical universities abroad

Teaching methods include:

  • Interactive lectures and seminars
  • Simulation-based training using advanced mannequins and virtual models
  • Laboratory experiments
  • Case-based learning
  • Clinical rotations and patient care under supervision

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students

  • Minimum Qualification: 10+2 from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
  • Minimum Marks: 50% aggregate in PCB
  • NEET Qualification: Mandatory for Indian students as per NMC guidelines
  • Age Requirement: 17 years minimum by 31st December of the admission year

Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • 10th and 12th-grade mark sheets and certificates
  • NEET scorecard
  • Birth certificate
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Medical fitness certificate and HIV test
  • Police clearance certificate
  • Bank statement showing sufficient funds
  • Visa application form and processing documents

Hostel and Accommodation

ATSU provides safe and comfortable hostel accommodations for international students. Facilities include:

  • Separate hostels for boys and girls
  • Furnished rooms with heating, Wi-Fi, study desks, and storage
  • Common kitchens and laundry services
  • Security and CCTV surveillance
  • Access to Indian and vegetarian meals in campus mess or nearby restaurants

Clinical Training and Hospital Affiliations

ATSU emphasizes hands-on clinical experience for its medical students. From the third year onwards, students engage in clinical rotations at affiliated government hospitals in Kutaisi. These partnerships allow students to gain practical experience under the supervision of experienced Georgian and international doctors. Top medical universities for MBBS abroad

Global Recognition and Accreditation

ATSU's medical program is recognized by several international medical councils and organizations, including:

  • World Health Organization (WHO)
  • National Medical Commission (NMC) of India
  • World Federation for Medical Education (WFME)
  • Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER)
  • Education Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG
  • This global recognition ensures that graduates are eligible to pursue medical licensure and practice in various countries, including India, the USA, Canada, and the UK.

Facilities and Learning Environment

ATSU is equipped with modern laboratories, simulation centers, and multimedia-equipped classrooms. These facilities support a learning environment that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The university's commitment to providing quality education is reflected in its continuous efforts to enhance clinical training models, ensuring students spend adequate time in hospital settings to develop their competencies.

Support for International Students

ATSU offers a supportive environment for international students, particularly those from India. The medium of instruction for the MBBS program is English, eliminating language barriers. Additionally, the university provides hostel facilities and Indian food options, catering to the needs of Indian students.

Research Infrastructure and Support

  • Research in Medical Sciences: ATSU's Faculty of Medicine is particularly active in research, focusing on areas such as clinical medicine, public health, and biomedical sciences. The university's own hospital serves as a practical training ground, allowing medical students to participate in clinical research and gain firsthand experience in patient care and medical investigations.
  • Student Research Initiatives:ATSU actively encourages student participation in research projects. Students have the opportunity to engage in research activities, often collaborating with faculty members on ongoing projects. This hands-on experience is invaluable for those considering careers in academia or research-intensive fields.
  • International Collaborations:The University’s commitment to internationalization is reflected in its participation in programs like Erasmus+. These collaborations provide students with opportunities to engage in joint research projects, attend international conferences, and participate in exchange programs, thereby broadening their academic and cultural horizons.

Student Life in Kutaisi

Kutaisi is Georgia’s second-largest city, known for its historic architecture, green hills, and friendly residents. The cost of living is lower compared to Tbilisi, and students find the environment peaceful and conducive to study.

Key features of student life at ATSU:

  • Multicultural student body with peers from India, Africa, and Europe
  • Student clubs, cultural events, and sports competitions
  • Part-time job opportunities under student visa rules (with limitations)
  • Opportunities to travel within Georgia and neighboring countries

Recognition and Accreditation

Akaki Tsereteli State University is recognized by:

  • World Health Organization (WHO)
  • National Medical Commission (NMC), India
  • Education Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), USA
  • World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
  • Ministry of Education and Science of Georgia
  • Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER)

Career Opportunities after MBBS from ATSU

  • 1. Practice in India: Indian students can return home and practice medicine after clearing the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or the upcoming National Exit Test (NeXT). ATSU's MBBS degree is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), making graduates eligible for licensure in India.
  • Postgraduate Studies Abroad:ATSU's global accreditations, including recognition by WHO, FAIMER, and WFME, enable graduates to pursue postgraduate medical education (MD/MS) in countries like the USA, UK, Germany, and Canada.
  • Medical Practice in Georgia: Graduates can choose to remain in Georgia, working in hospitals, clinics, or research centers. The average starting salary for new doctors in Georgia ranges from ₾1,000 to ₾1,500 per month (approximately ₹30,000 to ₹45,000).
  • Public Health and Research: With a strong foundation in medical education, graduates can engage in public health initiatives or research roles, contributing to healthcare policy and innovation.
  • Hospital Management and Administration: The comprehensive training at ATSU equips graduates with skills applicable to hospital management and administrative roles within healthcare institutions.

Career Advancement and Support

ATSU collaborates with various foreign universities to enhance the skill levels of its students and meet international standards. The university's Career Services Office assists students with job placements, providing guidance and resources to navigate the job market effectively.

Challenges for International Students

While studying MBBS at Akaki Tsereteli State University (ATSU) offers numerous advantages, international students may face some challenges. Language barrier remains a significant hurdle, especially during clinical practice where patient interaction is key. Adapting to a new culture, food habits, and climatic conditions may require time and patience. Additionally, navigating the Vietnamese bureaucratic processes for visas, residence permits, and academic requirements can be complex. However, the university provides support services and counseling to help students adjust and succeed in their new environment.

Conclusion

Pursuing an MBBS at Akaki Tsereteli State University offers a golden opportunity for students seeking an affordable and globally recognized medical education. The combination of modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, and practical clinical exposure makes ATSU a viable option for aspiring doctors. For Indian students, the added advantage of NMC recognition and English-medium instruction makes it particularly attractive.

Choosing the right university is a life-changing decision, and Akaki Tsereteli State University stands out as a solid option for those who dream of wearing the white coat.