Learn about the preparatory year in Georgia

The preparatory year in Georgia is an academic program offered by some universities in Georgia. It is a one-year program designed to prepare international students for admission and enrollment in Georgian universities.

The program aims to improve student’s language skills, whether in English or Georgian, and also includes the study of basic subjects in the field of specialization, such as chemistry, mathematics, and physics. The preparatory year is also important in helping students adapt to the environment in Georgia, get acquainted with Georgian culture, and understand the education system.

Georgia is considered one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, with stunning natural landscapes and numerous tourist attractions. It enjoys a unique geographical location, situated in the Caucasus region between Asia and Europe. Georgia offers a high standard of education and annually attracts thousands of students from all over the world. Several universities offer programs in both Georgian and English languages.

The importance of the preparatory year in Georgia

The preparatory year in Georgia before entering higher education is of utmost importance for studying in Georgia, as some students may not meet the requirements for admission to Georgian universities. It prepares them during that year to meet the necessary conditions for studying at universities, including:

• If a student wishes to study a discipline that requires strong skills, such as medicine or engineering, they are prepared by studying some basic subjects in the field to be ready to start their studies.
• The student must have a high school diploma equivalent to the Georgian General Secondary Education Certificate, and if not, the student is prepared to obtain an equivalent certificate.
• If the student’s English language proficiency is below the minimum requirement for university admission, their level is improved until it reaches the required standard.
• Increased chances of admission to the university, as completing the preparatory year demonstrates to the university that the student is capable of joining.
• Providing full support to students during their studies, including accommodation, academic guidance, and assistance in resolving any issues they may encounter.
• Possibility of obtaining scholarships if the student demonstrates excellence.
• Allowing international students to work while studying to earn sufficient funds to cover living and study expenses.
• Possibility of staying after graduation to search for employment in the field of study.
• The preparatory year in Georgia plays a crucial role in preparing students academically, linguistically, and culturally for their higher education journey in the country.

Advantages of studying in Georgia include:

Excellent Education: Georgia offers a high standard of education for students from around the world. The quality of education is comparable to universities in Europe, but the tuition fees in Georgia are lower.

Safety: Georgia is considered a safe country with low crime rates. The people of Georgia are known for their hospitality and welcoming attitude towards foreigners.

Language Options: Many universities in Georgia offer courses in both English and Georgian languages. Additionally, some universities do not require language proficiency tests like IELTS.

Scholarships and Work Opportunities: Students can avail themselves of scholarships and have the opportunity to work part-time while studying. After graduation, they can also stay in Georgia to search for employment.

Cultural Exchange in Georgia

One of the significant benefits of the preparatory year in Georgia is the opportunity for international students to learn more about Georgian culture and explore the country’s landmarks. They can also familiarize themselves with the educational system before starting their major studies.

The cost of the preparatory year in Georgia generally ranges from $250 to $800. However, several factors should be considered when calculating the cost:

Tuition fees differ among universities offering the preparatory year in Georgia.

The duration of the preparatory year varies based on individual student requirements.
Certain fields of study, such as medicine and engineering, may have higher costs.
There are steps you can take to reduce the cost of the preparatory year in Georgia. It is advisable to choose a government university over private ones, search for programs with lower tuition fees, look for scholarships, and consider living in university-owned student housing instead of renting private accommodations.

The best universities that offer the preparatory year in Georgia

The best universities offering preparatory year programs in Georgia include:

• Tbilisi State University: It is one of the largest and oldest universities in Georgia.
• Georgian Technical University: It is a leading institution in the field of engineering and technology in Europe.
• Ilia University: It is a private university that offers excellent academic programs.
• Caucasus University: It is a private university offering diverse study programs, including a one-year preparatory year.

Most universities offer the preparatory year program for only six months, and students who complete the preparatory year can directly join the second year of their bachelor’s degree program. Many universities in Georgia also offer scholarships to students who excel during the preparatory year.

Important tips to benefit from the preparatory program:

Attend all classes.
Complete all assignments as required by the professors.
Collaborate with classmates to accomplish tasks.
Join student clubs to engage in various activities.
Familiarize yourself with Georgian culture and its important landmarks.
Utilize all university resources, such as the library and laboratories.
Source: Georgian International Academy