Located in: Georgia
Tbilisi Medical Academy (ТМА) was founded in 1992 by notable Georgian physician and paediatric surgeon Petre Shotadze. Since then, the academy has had more than 1700 graduates who work successfully in leading Georgian and international hospitals, as well as in universities and scientific centres worldwide. TMA has grown into a leading medical school in Georgia, which attracts students from all over the world. Currently, the university has students from over 30 different countries.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy is a student-centred university that aims to teach and develop national and international healthcare specialists. The primary goal of the academy is to enhance students' autonomous and critical thinking, scientific reasoning abilities, and reasonable judgements to promote their development into highly competent doctors.
International students who wish to study medicine in Europe English choose this medical university because of the proven, evidence-based teaching methods that directly prepare them to deal with a variety of clinical situations. At TMA, students are given the opportunity to build a strong theoretical foundation while developing the practical skills needed to become successful doctors.
TMA is one of the first private medical universities in Georgia. Over the last 3 decades, it has evolved significantly, thanks to substantial financial investments that have resulted in the modernisation of the campus. Tbilisi Medical Academy uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) education system, in accordance with international criteria, to ensure easy transfer of credits and students between European universities.
Since 2012, Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy has successfully implemented a one-step educational programme of Medicine in English. While studying in Georgia, students can complete an accredited 6-year degree programme, fulfil all GMC criteria, and meet international quality assurance requirements. The programme is led by a modern curriculum that meets international medical regulations, similar to those used in European and American universities.
The teaching at TMA is guided by experienced faculty and professors based on the latest and most up-to-date international textbooks and educational material. TMA's assessment and examination systems comply with international standards defined by the Bologna Process. It prepares students for international qualification examinations (USMLE, PLAB, MCI, etc.) from the earliest steps of their learning and enables them to have successful careers as doctors around the world. A stand-out feature for students who want to continue their studies or work in the US is that TMA provides USMLE prep courses at no additional cost and that the university can organise clinical rotations there.
During the learning process, students can deepen their theoretical knowledge at the Academy's laboratory and clinical skills centre, as well as practise clinical medicine at the University Clinic of TMA and other top medical facilities in Tbilisi.
Today, TMA operates as an independent university with a continuously growing number of local and international students. The state-of-the-art teaching and research methodologies, paired with expanding partnerships in the education and research fields, make the Tbilisi Medical Academy an attractive option for a comprehensive medical education.
Tbilisi Medical Academy does offer a graduate entry path into medicine. For additional information please contact us now. The university also accepts student transfers. However, please keep in mind when transferring, you will need to have gone through specific subjects in order to get into the year you want. TMA also gives students the opportunity to sign up for extra credits, if they need to catch up on missed coursework.
TMA offers a comprehensive medicine course in English that aims to prepare students to meet modern standards on an international level.
Phase 1 | Basic subjects | 1st-3 years |
Phase 2 | Clinical subjects | 3rd-5 years |
Phase 3 | Clinical rotation | 6th year |
Annual fee | ≈ Per Year |
Total amount of course credits | ECTS Credits |
Cost of living | ≈ per month |
Graduate entry program programme | No |
MD programme duration | 6 years |
Medium of teaching | English |
TMA uses a combination of theoretical and practical teaching methods to ensure a comprehensive understanding and application of medical knowledge. This approach includes lectures, seminars, laboratory work, active learning, clerkships and clinical rotations, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare setting.
The teachers and staff at TMA University are all accomplished professionals, who are dedicated to educating the next generation of healthcare professionals. They are known for going above and beyond to make sure that every student feels at home by being supportive of international students.
In the beginning, students will participate in interactive lectures that are conducted in intentionally small groups of about 30 to 40 students. This ensures that each student gets individualised attention from their professors and that every question gets answered.
The first two years of the medical programme at TMA University focus on the foundational science courses that apply to medicine, such as anatomy where students use real preserved organs, bones and models, histology where students study microscopic anatomy, genetics, and biochemistry. The professors at TMA also incorporate real patient cases into their lessons and students get to observe patient interactions and learn through observation.
Students will also participate in case studies, discussions, debates, histology, and role play sessions for a deeper understanding of the theoretical aspects of medicine. They will take part in laboratory sessions and VR (virtual reality) teaching that uses modern technology to help students build in confidence in their clinical skills, before moving on to cadaver dissections and beginning their clinical rotations.
TMA is equipped with the latest technological advancements in teaching, including an Anatomage table, a high-tech 3D dissection table that simulates realistic medical scenarios and visualises them.
As part of their practical training, students will participate in bedside teaching in the presence of a patient and assist doctors during patient examination and procedures in a safe and controlled environment. For their final year of education, students will carry out clinical rotations at one of the 40 affiliated hospitals and clinics.
The clinical experience at the TMA university takes an active approach, focusing on the essential practical skills a doctor needs. Students gain experience by performing a variety of tasks and observing advanced procedures. During this time, the doctors are happy to provide guidance and support in any way possible, such as answering questions, demonstrating procedures, advising on how to communicate in a clinical setting and more.
Additionally, the university works with the AMOpportunities programme that allows students to get medical training through online telehealth clinical experiences.
Students at TMA are also able to participate in research, which will give them the opportunity to start contributing to the advancement of the medical field from very early on in their careers.
By studying at TMA Georgia, students will learn to rely on the principles of evidence-based medicine to become knowledgeable and skilled doctors. After completing the course, graduates will be able to:
Graduating from this medical academy gives students a globally recognised diploma and the right to continue their studies or practice in many countries around the world. The awarded medical degrees are recognised by the General Medical Council (GMC), and TMA’s graduates have gone on to have successful careers as registered doctors practising in the UK's NHS.
Tbilisi Medical Academy Petre Shotadze is actively involved in a wide range of research projects and activities aimed at advancing medical science and education. Some notable research initiatives and contributions include:
TMA Tbilisi hosts significant scientific conferences that bring together a wide variety of experts, professors, and students. Not only are such events a great way to learn about interesting topics, but they also give students the opportunity to start building their personal network from early on in their careers.
One such event is the "Medicine: Innovations and Challenges 2023 (MEDIC 2023)" conference, where innovative and interdisciplinary research outcomes are presented.
Such events focus on current issues in medicine and healthcare, offering a platform for developing research skills among young scientists and students. Topics discussed include doctoral education, research evaluation, academic integrity in the era of AI, stem cells, molecular oncology, neurosciences, antibiotic resistance, personalised medicine, patient safety, medical data analysis, and much more.
TMA Georgia actively engages in collaborative projects both on the national and international levels. The university publishes the findings of innovative research initiatives such as:
This research projects present a fantastic way for students to start developing their teamwork and communication, while personally contributing to the advancement of the medical field.
TMA students actively participate in research congresses and projects such as:
Currently, there are close to 40 clinics that are affiliated with the Tbilisi Medical Academy, where students can carry out their clinical rotations:
(While the list is the most up-to-date one we've received from TMA, please keep in mind that it might not be the most comprehensive one as new affiliates keep joining it on a regular basis.)
TMA is dedicated to training outstanding medical professionals who can achieve success on a global scale. As such, the medical school is partnered with universities and international associations across the world.
Tbilisi Medical Academy aims to provide high-quality education through internalisation while establishing an international reputation. The Academy achieves this by engaging in educational and research activities with strategic partners while retaining its core values of equality and equity.
Being part of EU-funded ERASMUS+ and other international programmes, Tbilisi Medical Academy is proud of its existing connections with some of the leading European Universities and aspires to further expand its network.
TMA has bilateral cooperation agreements with the following universities:
Students at TMA have the exciting opportunity to sign up for exchange programmes and extracurricular activities with university funding.
For example, during the summer, 20 students were sent to Erzurum University in Turkey for summer exchanges and summer school, with all expenses, including accommodation and flights, fully covered by TMA. Out of these 20 students, 8 were international. Another 10 students, including 4 international students, were sent to a different city in Turkey for medical education.
Additionally, TMA sponsored 30 students to attend a cardiology training programme at a ski resort.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy’s students are well-prepared, allowing them to participate constantly in medical championships and competitions. Aspiring doctors here can compete for cash prizes, though travelling worldwide to acquire new medical skills and knowledge is a sufficient reward.
Through internationalisation and participation in international learning and research activities, Tbilisi Medical Academy seeks to provide students with an education that meets the criteria of international quality assurance.
The TMA works towards western integration, which reinforces the Academy's standing in the eyes of academics around the world.
The Tbilisi Medical Academy places a high priority on the scientific growth of its students. Students can participate in international symposiums and conferences, actively participate in research projects, and get priceless experience in scientific research from an early learning stage.
Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA) charges international students in USD. The annual fee for the 6-year MD programme is .
Additionally, TMA offers a merit-based discount on tuition. Students with good academic performance can contact the university before each semester to submit their results and potentially receive a discount; the greater your academic achievement, the larger the potential discount. A-students can expect to receive a tuition fee reduction of per semester.
To apply for this academy, students need to have the following documents:
It is mandatory to attend an online interview via Zoom. The applicant must demonstrate motivation and good English language (B2) knowledge to the University admissions committee. It is mandatory to attend an online interview via Zoom. Applicants who provide proof of proficiency in English will be prioritised. Additionally, having a good understanding of the basic sciences of physics, chemistry, and biology is recommended for entering the programme.
Navigating through the strict regulations set by medical universities for international students can be an overwhelming task. Tbilisi Medical Academy, for instance, follows a strict list of regulations involving document translations, legalisation procedures, notarisation specifics, and so on. Medlink Students simplifies this process by handling your application in its entirety. Our expertise lies in handling these complexities, ensuring a smooth journey to getting admitted to this prestigious medical university. We maintain close ties with TMA and have a deep understanding of their application process, as well as what they're looking for in a perfect candidate. We can provide you with the interview questions beforehand and offer support in answering them, which will give you a major advantage over the competition. With us, you can bypass the exhausting and confusing aspects of applying to a medical school abroad, allowing you to focus on your goal - preparing for exams and pursuing your medical career.
With us by your side, we can guarantee that you get accepted to one of the top universities in Europe or the Caribbean. Sign up for a free consultation with one of our academic advisors to receive expert guidance on how to kickstart your journey toward becoming a successful doctor.
In addition, our service includes:
Professor Avaliani from Tbilisi Medical Academy praised the strong partnership with Medlink Students in a recent webinar. She highlighted the university's supportive and innovative environment. Watch the full interview in the webinar here to learn more.
TMA not only focuses on providing a comprehensive medical education but also emphasises the importance of a well-rounded university experience that includes extracurricular activities, international exposure, and active participation in the community.
By studying medicine at TMA, you will be able to:
Participate in community projects and volunteer work with initiatives like the "Good Care" project organised by the TMA Student Club, focusing on social responsibility and community support.
Тhere are several student accommodation options with a housing capacity of over 1000 students altogether. The modern buildings offer VIP rooms, single or double rooms, common facilities, and leisure spaces. The rooms are fully furnished with beds, desks, chairs, air conditioning, and/or central heating. The fees for accommodation include wifi, utility bills, cleaning, and laundry services. Transport to and from the university and meal-included options are also available, depending on students' preferences.
In the high-standard building , the monthly dorm rent is affordable and starts from around , and it depends on the selected accommodation package. The medical academy partners with hostels and hotels that want students to feel as comfortable as they are at home without throwing too much money away. Some of those dorms you can see photos of.
The cost of living in Georgia is very affordable, especially compared to Western European countries. A single-bedroom apartment costs around per month, depending on the location. Your total monthly living costs will be around just per month in Tbilisi.
Here, you can see photos of the dorms of Tbilisi Medical Academy:
Tbilisi is a historic and fascinating city that was established 1,300 years ago as the new capital by an Iberian king seeking an easily defensible location. The city is located between the Caucasus mountains and the Mtkvari River, so it was chosen for its defensive advantages, yet today, it offers a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere.
The city is an interesting mix of natural architectural beauty, from the charismatic Old Town, with its Orthodox cathedrals, libraries, theatres, and the magnificent Parliament building, to the national botanical gardens, pristine lakes, and Mount Mtatsminda.
With a student population of around 35,000, including 5,000 international students, Tbilisi is home to a diverse academic community with an exciting and busy nightlife. The city is full of places to socialise, including pubs, clubs and restaurants. In fact, the nightlife is so well-established in Tbilisi that international DJs regularly come to the city to change the pace.
Students also have access to a wide variety of recreational activities during their stay in Tbilisi. This includes go-karting, mini-golf, kayaking, and escape rooms, with local ski resorts offering winter sports during the colder months. Language barriers are minimal, as many of the locals speak English, and even if you have trouble communicating with someone, the people around you will be more than happy to help out and translate.
This inclusivity extends to clinical rotations, where doctors are readily available to assist with translations if needed, making Tbilisi not just a place of study but a vibrant, welcoming community.
The vibrant city of Tbilisi stands as a testament to the beauty of diversity and inclusion, drawing students from all corners of the globe. The Tbilisi Medical Academy also welcomes students from all ethnicities, religions, and cultures, and it remains committed to understanding and addressing the needs of its diverse student community.
You can find mosques, churches, and synagogues across the city's landscape, creating an inclusive environment where students can feel included and understood. Additionally, the city is home to a wide range of restaurants that cater to a variety of dietary needs and tastes, including vegetarian, kosher, and halal options.
The local culture thrives on creating a safe and respectful haven for all students, including hijabi women, ensuring their well-being is protected. TMA wholeheartedly promotes an atmosphere that celebrates diversity and openly welcomes all cultural backgrounds.
You can now view the Tbilisi Medical Academy. Simply click the link below and follow the instructions there:
After the events of the Ukraine, we had to return home and contact the agency to find another university. TMA was very quick in getting me my interviews, which I had within a week. Fortunately, I was able to get a response and immediately transferred to the clinical years because I had completed the first three years in Ukraine. Comparing TMA to Ukraine, it's amazing. I really enjoy it. The doctors' English is very good, and they are very advanced technology-wise. For example, we can set our exams through computers, and we get our results immediately after leaving the exam hall. I'm very happy about that. In TMA, the support has been excellent throughout my fourth year. We have an office on campus where we can speak to the dean and ask any concerns or queries. They are very helpful in pointing us in the right direction. In the hospital, the hands-on experience is my favorite. We have a ground floor dedicated to clinical practice for the theoretical years, where we can refresh on skills like suturing or emergency life support.
I spent a year unsure of where to go, searching for many universities. Eventually, I chose TMA. The transition was significant; the level of education here is completely different, and I am enjoying and advancing in my studies thanks to the support from teachers and Medlink Students. Initially, I was very nervous and anxious because I didn't know what to expect. However, everything was sorted out for me by Medlink Students. The educational system here uses semesters rather than years. I am currently in the 10th semester, soon to be in my sixth year. The teachers here are amazing, always ready to help, and the clinical experience is hands-on. For example, in internal medicine classes, we see patients and interact with them, with teachers happy to translate and provide additional resources. This approach has significantly helped my learning process. TMA provides excellent resources for students. We have access to platforms like Amboss for studying and ClinicalKey in later years.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA) is accredited by the Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER). In addition, the university is accredited by the Authorization Council for Higher Education Institutions in Georgia.
No, it doesn't. For additional information on graduate entry pathways, please contact one of our expert advisors.
Yes. For more information, don't hesitate to get in touch with one of our expert advisors.
The university is located in Tbilisi, Georgia. The city straddles the Mtkvari River and lies in the South Caucasus mountain range. The university’s address is 51/2 Ketevan Dedofali Ave, Tbilisi, Georgia.
The tuition fees for medicine are around per year (6 years).
Yes. You can study general medicine in English.
Yes, the Academy is recognized by the Medical Council of India, WHO, and the Georgian Education Ministry, and its degrees are recognised by GMC.
Yes, the university has graduates registered with the UK.
Yes, the Medical Academy in Tbilisi is approved by MCI and it has secured its place among the leading medical institutes in Georgia.
No, there is no entry exam.
Students need a secondary school diploma and an English-proficiency certificate for non-native speakers.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA) in Georgia offers expert instructors, modern facilities, and international degree recognition. The teaching is led by experienced faculty and professors based on the latest and up-to-date foreign textbooks and educational material. The assessment and examination systems applied by TMA are compliant with international standards defined by the Bologna process. The latter prepares students for international qualification examinations (USMLE, PLAB, MCI etc.) from the earliest steps of their learning and promotes the internationalisation of the students.
Yes, TMA offers scholarships based on academic performance and international engagement, with discounts from $1,000 per semester for high-achieving students.