Indian Students Prefer Georgia Over Ukraine for MBBS Studies
Indian students are increasingly choosing Georgia for MBBS studies, moving away from Ukraine due to the ongoing war. RBI data under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) shows $50.25 million sent to Georgia in 2024-25, nearly five times the $10.33 million in 2018-19.
RBI Data Highlights Shift in Student Destinations
The conflict in Ukraine has altered traditional study abroad patterns. Ukraine, previously a major hub for Indian medical students, has seen remittances fall sharply from $14.80 million in 2018-19 to just $2.40 million in 2024-25. Safety concerns and ongoing instability have prompted students to seek more secure alternatives, with Georgia emerging as a leading option.
Why Georgia is Attracting Indian Students
Georgia offers affordable MBBS courses, ranging from $4,000 to $7,500 annually. Over six years, total fees vary between $24,000 at Batumi and Akaki universities to $45,000 at David Tvildiani Medical University (DTMU). The country has long been recognised for physiotherapy and paramedical courses. Now, MBBS studies are gaining prominence due to low fees, English-medium instruction, simple visa processes, and proximity to Europe.
Many students are transferring directly from Ukraine to Georgia. Industry experts highlighted that Georgian institutions offer secure living arrangements and post-study employment opportunities. The trend indicates a wider shift in overseas education preferences among Indian students, with safety and affordability now taking priority.
Changes in Global Student Destinations
| Country | Remittance 2018-19 ($ million) | Remittance 2024-25 ($ million) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | $10.33 | $50.25 | +387% |
| Ukraine | $14.80 | $2.40 | -84% |
| Russia | $23.31 | $69.94 | +200% |
Russia continues to attract Indian students despite the ongoing conflict, with $69.94 million sent in 2024-25, a 200% increase from the previous year. Russian cities away from border regions are preferred due to safety concerns, while the affordability and accreditation of courses remain key factors.
Shift in Overseas Education Preferences
The United States remains the top destination for Indian students, though remittances decreased by 10% in 2024-25. Canada recorded a 43% drop, Australia fell by 5%, while the UK increased by 12%, and Germany surged by 70%. In medical education, however, Georgia and Russia have emerged as the new preferred destinations.
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