Studying MBBS abroad is a dream for many, and Georgia has emerged as a top choice due to its high-quality education and affordability. However, beyond tuition fees, the most common concern for parents and aspirants is the living expenses in Georgia for students.
If you are planning your budget for 2025, this guide breaks down every expense—from rent and groceries to transport and Indian mess charges—so you can plan your finances without surprises.
Monthly Living Expenses in Georgia for Students: A Snapshot
Before we dive into the details, it is important to calculate the living expenses in Georgia for students accurately. Here is a quick estimate of what an Indian medical student typically spends per month in cities like Tbilisi or Batumi.
| Expense Category | Cost in USD (Approx.) | Cost in INR (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Shared) | $150 – $250 | ₹12,600 – ₹21,000 |
| Food (Self-cook/Mess) | $100 – $150 | ₹8,400 – ₹12,600 |
| Transport | $10 – $15 | ₹840 – ₹1,260 |
| Utilities (Gas, Elec, Net) | $50 – $80 | ₹4,200 – ₹6,700 |
| Miscellaneous | $30 – $50 | ₹2,500 – ₹4,200 |
| Total Monthly Budget | $340 – $545 | ₹28,500 – ₹45,700 |
Detailed Breakdown of Living Expenses
1. Accommodation: Hostel vs. Private Apartment
Your choice of stay will be the biggest chunk of your living expenses in Georgia for students.
- University Hostels: Most medical universities offer hostels. They are convenient but fill up fast.
- Cost: $2,000 – $3,000 per year (Includes utilities and sometimes food).
- Pros: No headache of paying separate bills; close to classes.
- Renting an Apartment: Many Indian students prefer renting flats in groups of 2 or 3.
- Cost: A 1-BHK apartment in Tbilisi costs between $300 and $500 per month. If shared by 2 students, your share is roughly $150 – $250.
- Tip: Look for apartments near metro stations (e.g., Delisi or Technical University areas) to save on commute time.
2. Food Expenses: Is Indian Food Available?
This is a major concern for Indian families. Fortunately, Georgia has a thriving Indian community.
- Indian Mess/Tiffin Services: Many private contractors run Indian messes near universities.
- Cost: $100 – $120 per month (Lunch and Dinner).
- Self-Cooking (Cheapest Option): Buying groceries and cooking is the most budget-friendly approach.
- Groceries: Milk, bread, rice, and vegetables are affordable. Potato/Onion costs approx. 1-2 GEL/kg.
- Cost: $80 – $100 per month if you cook daily.
- Eating Out: A meal at a budget restaurant costs around 15-20 GEL ($5-$7). Indian restaurants like Star of India or Taste of India are popular but can be pricier for daily dining.
3. Transport Costs
Public transport in Georgia is exceptionally cheap and efficient, helping you keep your living expenses in Georgia for students low.
- Student Travel Card: As a registered student, you get a specialized transport card.
- Cost: A ride on the Metro or Bus costs only 0.20 GEL (approx ₹6) with a student card.
- Yandex Go / Bolt: Taxis are also affordable. A 5km ride might cost 5-8 GEL (₹150-₹250), which is great for emergencies or late-night travel.
4. Utilities and Internet
If you live in a hostel, these are usually included. If you rent an apartment, you must pay them separately.
- Electricity, Gas, & Water: Approx. $40 – $60 per month (shared among flatmates). Note: Gas bills are higher in winter due to heating.
- Internet: High-speed Wi-Fi (Magti or Silknet) costs around 30-40 GEL ($10-$15) per month.
- SIM Card: Unlimited data packages are available for roughly 30 GEL ($11) per month.
Hidden Costs You Should Know About
When calculating the “Cost Of living in Georgia for indian Medical Students,” don’t forget these annual or one-time expenses:
- Residence Permit (TRC): You need to renew your temporary residence card annually. The fee is approx. 210 – 410 GEL depending on processing speed.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for all international students. Costs approx. $100 – $150 per year.
- Winter Clothing: Georgia gets cold (-2°C to 5°C). You will need to invest in a good jacket and boots in your first year ($100 – $150 one-time).
Money-Saving Tips for Indian Students
- Cook in Groups: Sharing grocery costs with 3-4 friends drastically reduces food bills.
- Use Public Transport: Avoid taxis; the Tbilisi Metro is reliable and connects to most medical universities (TSMU, SEU, DTMU).
- Buy Local: Shop for vegetables at “Dezerter Bazaar” (local market) instead of supermarkets like Carrefour for cheaper prices. By managing these, you can reduce the overall living expenses in Georgia for students significantly.
Final Verdict
Is Georgia expensive? Not at all. Compared to other European countries, the living expenses in Georgia for students are very manageable. With a monthly budget of ₹30,000 to ₹35,000, an Indian student can live comfortably, eat healthy meals, and focus on their medical studies without financial stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the average monthly living cost in Georgia for Indian students?
On average, an Indian student spends between $350 and $500 (₹30,000 – ₹42,000) per month, covering accommodation, food, and transport.
2. Is vegetarian Indian food available in Georgia?
Yes, ingredients like dal, rice, spices, and flour are easily available in supermarkets. Additionally, there are many Indian tiffin services in Tbilisi.
3. Is it cheaper to live in a hostel or an apartment?
University hostels are generally cheaper and hassle-free, but shared apartments offer more privacy and freedom. Financially, a shared apartment with 3 students costs roughly the same as a premium hostel room.
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