Indian students are increasingly choosing Georgia for MBBS studies, shifting away from Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict. Data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) reveals a substantial increase, with $50.25 million sent to Georgia for education in 2024-25. This represents nearly a five-fold jump from $10.33 million in 2018-19.
The war in Ukraine has significantly altered traditional study abroad patterns for Indian students. Ukraine, once a popular destination for medical degrees, has seen remittances plummet from $14.80 million in 2018-19 to a mere $2.40 million in 2024-25. Safety concerns and the persistent instability have compelled students to seek safer alternatives, with Georgia emerging as a top choice.
RBI Data Highlights Significant Shift in Student Destinations
The number of Indian students enrolled in Georgian universities has surged from 4,148 in 2019 to 10,470 in 2023. Georgia attracts students with its affordable MBBS programs, which typically cost between $4,000 and $7,500 per year. Over a six-year course, the total tuition fees can range from $24,000 at institutions like Batumi and Akaki universities to $45,000 at David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU).
Remittance Data by Country (2018-19 vs. 2024-25)
| Country | Remittance 2018-19 ($ million) | Remittance 2024-25 ($ million) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $10.33 | $50.25 | +387% |
| Ukraine | $14.80 | $2.40 | -84% |
| Russia | $23.31 | $69.94 | +200% |
Despite ongoing international complexities, Russia continues to attract Indian students, with $69.94 million remitted in 2024-25, marking a 200% increase from the previous year. Russian cities located away from border conflict zones are favored, with affordability and accredited courses remaining significant drawcards.
Why Georgia is Becoming a Preferred Destination for Indian Students
While Georgia has traditionally been known for its physiotherapy and paramedical programs, MBBS studies are now rapidly gaining popularity. Key factors contributing to this surge include lower tuition fees, English-medium instruction, straightforward visa procedures, and its strategic proximity to Europe. Many students are also directly transferring their studies from Ukrainian universities to institutions in Georgia.
Industry specialists note that Georgian educational institutions offer secure living environments and promising post-study employment prospects. This trend underscores a broader shift in the overseas education preferences of Indian students, where safety, affordability, and quality education are increasingly prioritized.
Shifting Landscape of Global Student Destinations
Globally, the United States remains a primary destination for Indian students, though remittances there saw a 10% decrease in 2024-25. Canada experienced a significant 43% drop, and Australia’s figures fell by 5%. Conversely, the UK saw a 12% increase, and Germany witnessed a substantial 70% surge in remittances. However, when it comes to medical education specifically, Georgia and Russia have clearly emerged as the leading new preferred destinations for Indian aspirants.
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