The inclination of Indian students towards pursuing MBBS abroad is changing. An RBI report indicates that the focus is shifting from Ukraine, with Georgia now emerging as a primary choice. The amount of educational remittances sent to Georgia has increased fivefold in recent years, while it has sharply declined for Ukraine. Low fees, a safe environment, and easy visa processes are making Georgia an attractive destination for students.
MBBS Abroad Trend: The trend of Indian students pursuing medical studies abroad is changing. According to the RBI's Liberalized Remittance Scheme report, Georgia has emerged as a new preferred destination for Indian students. The report indicates that in 2024-25, the amount remitted to Georgia for MBBS studies was $50.25 million, compared to just $10.33 million in 2018-19. This shift is attributed to the increasing threat of war and insecurity in Ukraine, leading to a sharp decrease in remittances for studies there, from $14.18 million to just $2.40 million. Low fees, English-medium education, and easy visa processes are attracting students to Georgia.
Why Georgia is Becoming the New Preferred Destination for MBBS
Georgia is becoming an attractive option for Indian students due to its lower fees, safe environment, and straightforward visa process. Medical studies here are conducted in English, with annual fees ranging between $4,000 and $7,500. The total cost for a six-year MBBS course is generally more affordable compared to Ukraine.
According to the RBI, while there were 4,148 Indian students in Georgia in 2019, this number surged to 10,470 by 2023. Following the Ukraine war, many students transferred and continued their studies in Georgian medical colleges. The admission process in Georgia's medical universities is also considered quick and simple.
Decreasing Investment in Ukraine and Major Countries
Ukraine was once a primary choice for Indian students, but the trend is now rapidly declining due to the war. In 2024-25, remittances sent to Ukraine amounted to only $2.40 million. In contrast, the amount sent to Russia was $69.94 million, which is 200 percent higher than in previous years.
A decline is also observed in major educational hubs like the USA and Canada. Remittances sent to the USA decreased by 10 percent, while in Canada, this decline reached 43 percent. Australia recorded a 5 percent decrease. Conversely, there was a 12 percent increase in the UK and a 70 percent increase in Germany.
The preference of Indian students for MBBS abroad is changing, with Georgia emerging as a prominent alternative. Due to the war in Ukraine and rising costs in other major countries, students are opting for safe, affordable, and English-medium education options. This trend is likely to strengthen further in the future, potentially leading to an increased number of Indian students in countries like Georgia.
