List of Universities Approved by the Ministry of Science in Georgia 2025

One of the most important concerns for students wishing to study abroad is choosing a university that is recognized by the Ministry of Science. This ensures that after graduation, they can return to their home country without concerns and pursue work or further education. Each year, the list of universities approved by the Ministry of Science in Georgia is updated and made available to prospective students, so it is essential to verify this before taking any steps.
In Georgia, applicants are not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores but must have a reasonable proficiency in English. Currently, there are about 20 public universities and 30 private universities in Georgia, offering a variety of programs at different academic levels in both Georgian and English. The combination of high-quality universities, low tuition fees, and favorable living conditions has led to a significant increase in student migration to Georgia. Elm Vira Immigration Institute, with its long and successful experience in the field of immigration, will assist you in fulfilling your aspirations and studying at the best universities in the world.

Studying in Georgia

Georgia, located between Europe and Asia, is striving to join the European Union. As a result, its educational standards and system are evolving and closely aligned with European practices.

For students who wish to avoid crowded international study destinations, Georgia offers a great alternative. The official language is Georgian, and mastering the language is incredibly helpful for those intending to live, work, or study in the country.

Higher education in Georgia is structured similarly to other countries with three main cycles: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate, which typically take 4, 2, and 3 to 5 years, respectively. It is recommended to choose universities recognized by the Ministry of Science for the best academic experience. Some of the advantages of studying in Georgia include its proximity to Iran, easy enrollment and visa process, and affordable tuition fees.

Tuition fees for undergraduate programs range from $1,500 to $3,000, while postgraduate programs can cost up to $4,500 annually. The cost of education per semester is around €1,000, with monthly rent for apartments averaging €150-500. Monthly food expenses are approximately €100, and utilities cost around €55.

Ministry of Science Approved Universities in Georgia

The list of Ministry of Science-approved universities in Georgia is updated annually and categorized into four groups: top-tier (A), good (B), average (C), and weak (D). While most Georgian universities do not fall into the top tier, the following institutions are categorized as “good” (B) by the Ministry of Science:

• Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University (only for Georgian language and literature programs)

The “average” (C) group includes:

• Georgian Technical University
• Ilia State University

The “weak” (D) universities include:

• Apolon Kutateladze State Academy of Arts
• Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University (excluding Georgian language and literature programs)
• Sarajishvili Tbilisi State Conservatoire (for music and arts)
• University of Georgia

Degrees from D-group institutions in Master’s and Doctorate programs are not recognized for evaluation by the Ministry of Science of Iran. The highest level of degree approved for these institutions is a Bachelor’s degree, and Doctorate degrees are not acknowledged by the Ministry.

1. Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University
2. Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University (TSU) is a public research university established on February 8, 1918. It is the first higher education institution in the entire Caucasus region. TSU ranks 776 in the US News & World Report rankings and holds a position of 1501+ in the Times Higher Education rankings. TSU offers a wide range of programs across six faculties, including Law, Economics and Business, Humanities, Medicine, Social and Political Sciences, Life Sciences, and International Economics. The university boasts over 18,000 students and around 5,000 faculty and staff members. Additionally, TSU operates five branches throughout Georgia, 60 laboratories and research centers, and a scientific library housing 3.7 million books and publications.
3. Ilia State University
4. Established in 2006 through the merger of six educational and research institutions, Ilia State University is located in Tbilisi, Georgia. It was the first Georgian university to introduce liberal education principles. The university is home to four faculties: the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Iliauni Business School, the Faculty of Law, and the Faculty of Life Sciences and Engineering. Ilia State University offers about 50 undergraduate and 50 graduate programs and manages 25 research and laboratory institutions across Georgia. It maintains international collaborations with institutions such as Columbia University, Kansas State University, and the University of Vienna.
5. Sarajishvili Tbilisi State Conservatoire
6. Founded in 1917, the Tbilisi State Conservatoire (named after Vano Sarajishvili) was historically the only higher music education institution in the Caucasus region. Famous Georgian musicians and composers like Balanchivadze, Takhtakishvili, and Nino Surguladze are alumni of the Conservatoire. Since 2006, it has been a member of the European Conservatoires Association and joined the Bologna Process in 2005 with an international credit transfer system. The conservatoire offers courses for about 400 students with a staff of 200. It also features a library, museum, archives, and two concert halls, and is recognized by the Ministry of Science of Georgia.

These universities are part of the list of institutions recognized by the Ministry of Science in Georgia, making them excellent choices for students looking to pursue higher education in the country.

1. Apolon Kutateladze State Academy of Arts (Tbilisi State Academy of Arts)
2. Founded in 1922, the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts is the first higher education institution for painting in Georgia and the Caucasus region. Initially, the academy had four faculties: Painting, Sculpture, Graphics, and Architecture. Later, a Ceramics Department was added. Currently, the academy enrolls 1,380 students and employs 327 professors. It boasts a museum, library, gallery, and research centers. The academy is well-regarded in the region for its focus on artistic education and has a significant role in the arts community in Georgia.

Required Documents for Student Visa and Immigration to Georgia

To study at a university in Georgia approved by the Ministry of Science and to obtain a student visa, the following documents are required after receiving admission:

1. Admission letter from the university
2. Officially translated identity and identification documents
3. Officially translated most recent academic certificates and transcripts
4. Six passport-sized color photographs
5. Medical certificate of health
6. Proof of financial ability
7. Valid passport
8. Certificate of no criminal record

Make sure all documents are prepared according to the embassy’s requirements before applying for a student visa.

Summary

Studying in Georgia is an attractive option for those seeking an affordable education with a good quality of life, especially for students from Iran due to the proximity and low living and tuition costs. Before pursuing studies in Georgia, applicants should check the list of universities approved by the Ministry of Science, as this list is updated annually. Universities in Georgia follow a European-style education system, which has improved significantly in recent years.

The benefits of studying abroad in Georgia include obtaining a valid degree, safety, social freedom, low costs, and no requirement for language proficiency certificates. Elm Vira Immigration Institute, with its years of experience in educational migration, can help students get admitted to top universities and secure places in the best programs. For further guidance, free consultation services are available to help with any questions and concerns related to studying in Georgia.

Feel free to reach out for additional assistance or questions!