The official language of Georgia is Georgian. It is written using Mkhedruli script. It is the most widely spoken Kartvelian language. The Kartvelian language family is unrelated to any other. As such, Georgian is a language that is richly steeped in history and cultural significance.
Most Georgians also speak Russian. Georgia was a part of the Soviet Union, only becoming an independent state in 1991. Russian was the lingua franca of all fifteen Soviet republics. Russian is so common that it is a de facto second official language. Outside of government settings, most signage will be written in Mkhedruli script, followed by Cyrillic and then a transcription in Latin script underneath that.
Once in Georgia, you will probably be actively encouraged to learn Georgian. Most universities offer lessons to students and there are also plenty of private schools and tutors across the country who will be all too happy to teach you.
The quirks of the language aside, Georgia is also renowned for its hospitality, its remarkably versatile vineyards and the Middle Eastern elements infused into its traditional dances, songs and dress.
Although Georgia is a modern, internationalist country, it is also a deeply religious one. The Georgian Orthodox Church holds a lot of sway and, as most Georgians are fairly religious, influences a lot of social attitudes. Georgia is a socially conservative country. That being said, attitudes on some issues are changing - the country’s first LGBT Pride parade even took place in 2019.
Georgia is a safe country. In fact, it is one of the safest countries in the region. Corruption is far less prevalent than in many other ex-Soviet states and the crime rate is low. However, Georgia does have two breakaway regions: Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
Even though the situation in both regions is relatively stable, the Georgian government takes a very dim view of those who try to venture into either place. No matter how piqued your interest might be, it is recommended not to leave Georgian territory. Entry into both regions from Georgia is tightly controlled. Even the most minor of missteps is illegal under Georgian law as it’s classed as crossing an illegal border imposed by another country: Russia. If you’re caught, there are heavy penalties, including jail sentences.
Studying in Georgia
Want an overview of Georgia? This section gives a brief insight into the country, the culture, some of the customs and some of norms. Did you know that Georgia is one of the world's original wine producers? If the answer was no, then you need to take a look at this section.
Education in Georgia
Want to know more about how the higher education system in Georgia works? Want to know which Georgian universities are best for international students? We've put together information on this in this section.
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to enter Georgia to study? Learn more about the unorthodox student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship. You will also be required to bring certain documents with you to register in Georgia, which we cover as well.
Housing & Living Costs
No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Georgia.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Georgia are fairly similar. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Georgia. We've put together information on how this works in this section.
Application Process
All schools have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in Georgia, and what you need to apply.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Georgia? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Georgia today!
