Shifting Educational Landscape: What Makes Georgia’s Universities the New Regional Magnet

The 2024–25 academic year marks a pivotal turning point for Georgia’s higher education sector. With official data showing enrollment of 187,800 students across the country’s universities, Georgia is not only scaling up its educational infrastructure but also shaping new trends—both domestically and internationally.

The majority of students—67%—are enrolled in bachelor’s programs, while one in three continues into graduate-level education. This reflects a well-established structural balance in the country’s approach to preparing skilled professionals. Notably, private universities now hold a 42% share of the student population—a figure that is steadily rising. This signals a shift away from the traditionally state-dominated higher education system and toward a more competitive, diversified academic environment.

One of the most significant developments is Georgia’s growing appeal to international students. In the 2024–25 academic year, 37,100 non-resident students were studying in Georgian universities, 85% of whom were enrolled in private institutions. A particularly striking fact is that 55% of these students are from India. This surge reflects Georgia’s emergence as a regional educational hub, driven by programs tailored for global markets and tuition fees that remain relatively affordable—making education not just a service but also a budding economic driver.

Tuition pricing plays a clear role in enhancing the sector’s competitiveness. The average annual fee for a bachelor’s program in a private university is 4,909 GEL (approximately $1,800). The market presents a bipolar pricing model: 56% of programs cost less than 4,000 GEL, 22% fall between 4,001 and 6,000 GEL, and over 22% exceed 6,000 GEL. This tiered structure offers students both financial and academic choice, while fostering a flexible market that further enhances the sector’s appeal.

Taken together, these indicators show a higher education system undergoing dynamic transformation. The growing strength of private institutions, rising foreign student enrollment, and a pricing strategy aligned with international demand are positioning Georgia as a real educational hub for the region—one that is beginning to shape new economic realities within the country as well.