Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy (TMA) stands as one of Georgia’s most respected and long-standing medical institutions, renowned for its academic excellence, global recognition, and innovative approach to healthcare education. Established in 1992 by the visionary Georgian physician Petre Shotadze, the academy has been dedicated to fostering professional competence, critical thinking, and compassion in its students.
Over the years, TMA has become a preferred destination for both local and international students seeking a high-quality medical education aligned with European standards. The university combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for successful medical careers worldwide.
Its modern infrastructure, experienced faculty, and international collaborations contribute to an exceptional learning environment where future medical professionals are shaped with integrity, empathy, and scientific rigor.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy was established shortly after Georgia gained independence, during a period when the country’s education system was undergoing significant transformation. Professor Petre Shotadze, a distinguished clinician and educator, envisioned an institution that would uphold high ethical and educational standards while integrating modern European medical education methodologies.
Initially, the academy started with a small faculty of dedicated professionals who shared Dr. Shotadze’s passion for education and medicine. Their mission was clear—to produce competent and compassionate doctors capable of addressing both local and global healthcare challenges.
Over the decades, the academy expanded its academic programs, research activities, and partnerships. The introduction of English-taught programs opened doors to international students from across Asia, Africa, and Europe. The curriculum evolved to reflect modern educational practices, including problem-based learning, simulation-based training, and early clinical exposure.
TMA’s continued commitment to innovation, internationalization, and quality improvement positioned it as one of the top medical universities in Georgia recognized by global organizations such as WHO and FAIMER.
The flagship program of TMA is the Medical Doctor (MD) Program, a six-year course designed according to international medical education standards. It is offered in both Georgian and English, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to pursue medical studies seamlessly.
The curriculum integrates basic sciences, clinical sciences, and public health, ensuring a balanced development of knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes. Students begin clinical exposure early in their education, which helps them bridge the gap between theory and practice effectively.
Duration: 6 years (12 semesters)
Language of Instruction: English and Georgian
Credit System: ECTS (European Credit Transfer System)
Emphasis on evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care
Early clinical training and hospital internships
Apart from the MD program, TMA provides postgraduate training opportunities for graduates who wish to specialize in various medical disciplines. These residency programs are structured in accordance with Georgian and European healthcare standards, ensuring that graduates acquire in-depth expertise in their chosen fields.
The academy also offers continuing medical education (CME) and professional development courses for healthcare practitioners, emphasizing lifelong learning and adaptation to new medical technologies and research findings.
TMA has established strong academic ties with international universities and research institutions across Europe and Asia. Through Erasmus+ exchange programs, joint research projects, and visiting faculty collaborations, students gain valuable exposure to diverse healthcare systems and educational models.
Collaborations with institutions from countries like Germany, Italy, Poland, and Lithuania enable students to participate in exchange programs, internships, and international conferences.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy is recognized by several major international organizations and directories, including:
World Health Organization (WHO)
World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
National Medical Commission (NMC), India
Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research (FAIMER)
These recognitions ensure that graduates from TMA are eligible to take medical licensing exams and practice medicine in many countries worldwide, including the US, UK, India, and across the European Union.
TMA’s campus, located in the heart of Tbilisi, provides an inspiring and technologically advanced environment conducive to learning and innovation. The infrastructure includes state-of-the-art lecture halls, simulation centers, anatomy labs, and research facilities.
Students have access to multimedia-equipped classrooms, online learning resources, and clinical training facilities integrated with local hospitals. The simulation labs allow learners to practice diagnostic and procedural skills in a safe, controlled environment before transitioning to real patient care.
The university library is stocked with medical textbooks, digital resources, journals, and online databases. Students and faculty members use these resources for both academic learning and research activities.
In addition, TMA encourages student participation in scientific conferences, publications, and projects that contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and healthcare practices in Georgia and beyond.
TMA also organizes public health awareness campaigns, medical outreach programs, and student-led research competitions that reinforce the social responsibility aspect of medical education.
The admission process at Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy is transparent and student-friendly, particularly for international applicants. Students must fulfill basic academic and language requirements to ensure readiness for the rigorous medical curriculum.
Completion of 10+2 or equivalent education with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
Minimum aggregate marks as required by the respective education authority (typically 50% or above)
English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL preferred but not always mandatory)
Valid passport and supporting academic documents
Application Submission – Students submit their application forms along with scanned copies of academic transcripts, passport, and photographs.
Offer Letter – Upon eligibility verification, the university issues a conditional offer letter.
Visa Processing – After receiving the admission letter, students apply for a Georgian student visa.
Enrollment – Upon arrival in Georgia, students complete the registration process at the academy.
The entire process is designed to be straightforward, and TMA provides guidance through its international office to assist students at every step.
TMA offers one of the most affordable yet high-quality medical education options in Europe. The tuition fees for international students typically range between USD 5,000 – 6,000 per year, depending on the program and year of study.
Compared to universities in Western Europe or North America, TMA provides an excellent value-for-money education while maintaining global academic standards.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy also offers limited scholarships and merit-based financial aid to deserving students based on academic performance and extracurricular achievements. International students can apply for various scholarships provided by Georgian education authorities or through bilateral agreements between countries.
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Its welcoming atmosphere, cultural diversity, and affordable lifestyle make it an attractive destination for students from all over the world.
The city provides easy access to accommodation, public transport, healthcare, and entertainment options. Moreover, Georgia’s friendly visa policies and safe environment contribute to a comfortable student experience.
Students can choose from university-hosted dormitories or private apartments near the campus. The average monthly living cost for international students ranges from USD 300 to 500, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials.
Georgia’s moderate climate, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultural life further enhance the experience of studying at TMA.
Clinical training forms a cornerstone of TMA’s medical education. Students gain early exposure to real-world clinical settings, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to patient care under the supervision of experienced doctors.
The academy is affiliated with leading hospitals and healthcare institutions in Tbilisi, such as:
Tbilisi Central Hospital
Tbilisi State Hospital
Gudushauri National Medical Center
Jo Ann Medical Center
Through these collaborations, students participate in rotations across various departments like internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, and emergency medicine.
TMA places strong emphasis on evidence-based medicine, research participation, and clinical ethics. Students are encouraged to engage in projects that improve diagnostic accuracy, patient safety, and treatment outcomes.
Graduates from Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy are eligible to appear for international medical licensing examinations such as:
USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination)
FMGE/NExT (India)
PLAB (UK)
MCCQE (Canada)
AMC (Australia)
This global eligibility ensures that TMA alumni can pursue medical careers or postgraduate training in multiple countries.
TMA graduates find opportunities in:
Clinical practice in Georgia or abroad
Postgraduate specialization programs
Research and academia
Public health and international healthcare organizations Many alumni are now practicing as successful doctors, researchers, and healthcare leaders worldwide, contributing to global health advancement.
Globally recognized degree (listed in WDOMS and recognized by WHO and NMC)
English-medium instruction ensuring accessibility for foreign students
Affordable tuition fees and living costs compared to Western countries
Safe and multicultural environment in Tbilisi
Strong clinical exposure through affiliated hospitals
Modern facilities and technology-integrated education
Beyond academics, TMA nurtures leadership, empathy, and a lifelong passion for learning among its students. The emphasis on ethics and professionalism prepares graduates not just to be good doctors but also compassionate healers.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy continues to advance its mission of excellence by integrating innovation into all aspects of its operations. Its future goals include expanding research capacity, introducing new medical specializations, and deepening partnerships with top international universities.
By fostering a strong academic and research culture, TMA aspires to be among the most globally competitive medical universities, producing doctors who make meaningful contributions to healthcare worldwide.
Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy stands as a testament to Georgia’s growing prominence in global medical education. With a rich legacy, a modern curriculum, and a commitment to quality, TMA continues to attract aspiring medical professionals from across the world.
Its affordable fees, international recognition, and strong clinical foundation make it an ideal choice for students seeking to build a rewarding career in medicine. At TMA, education goes beyond textbooks—it shapes the minds and hearts of those destined to heal humanity.