International Schools
Several private international schools operate in Tbilisi with British, American, and German curricula. Instruction is in English or German, and graduates receive an internationally recognized certificate (IB, A-Level, or equivalent). Check tuition fees directly with each school: prices are reviewed regularly and vary considerably.
For admission, the typical requirements are: the child's foreign passport, a birth certificate with apostille and a notarized translation into English or Georgian, a record or transcript showing the previous level of education, and in some schools, an entrance interview or test.
State and Private Georgian Schools
State schools are free and teach in Georgian. A child without Georgian language skills will need time to adapt. Some schools have retained classes taught in Russian; check with the specific institution.
Private Georgian schools follow the state curriculum but offer instruction in Russian or English and have smaller class sizes. Tuition is lower than at international schools.
For enrollment in a state or private Georgian school, the required documents are: the child's passport, birth certificate, and education records (with translations). Applications are coordinated through the local Education Resource Center or directly with the school.
Higher Education
Georgian universities admit foreign students. Some programs are taught in English. Among the institutions popular with international applicants are the Free University of Tbilisi, the International Black Sea University (IBSU), and the Tbilisi State Medical University.
Recognition of foreign school-leaving certificates and diplomas is handled by the National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (naec.ge). Without recognized credentials, admission to a Georgian university is not possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are needed to enroll a child in school?
The child's foreign passport, a birth certificate with apostille and translation, and a document confirming the previous education level (report card or certificate). For state schools, an application through the local Education Resource Center is also required.
Are there Russian-language schools in Tbilisi?
Fully Russian-language schools are limited, but some state schools have classes taught in Russian. Some private schools also offer Russian as the language of instruction. The list of available options changes, so check with the Georgian Ministry of Education or with parents in expat communities.
Can a child enroll in a Georgian university with a Russian or Ukrainian certificate?
Yes, after completing the recognition procedure at the National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (naec.ge). The procedure has a fee and takes several weeks.
Is Georgian language required for university admission?
For Georgian-language programs, yes. For English-language programs, an English proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or the university's own test) is sufficient.
How do I evaluate an international school before enrolling?
Request information on program accreditation (IB, Cambridge, Council of International Schools), graduate outcomes, and the language of instruction for supplementary subjects. Talking to parents from the same expat community gives more current information than any ranking.