FAQ
What is the application deadline?
There are no strict deadlines, as CIU admits international students on a rolling basis. However, we recommend applying at least 3 months before the semester start date to allow time for recognition, visa, and relocation.
What are the required documents for application?
-
Copy of Passport
โ Must be valid and clear. -
Educational Documents:
โ Undergraduate applicants: Copy of high school diploma / Higher Secondary Certificate (HSSC) or equivalent.
โ Postgraduate applicants: Bachelor's degree diploma and academic transcript. -
Photograph
โ 3/4 size (passport-style photo, recent). -
English Language Proficiency Proof:
โ International certificate (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, etc.), or
โ Self-introduction video (2โ3 minutes long, clear audio, student speaking in English in a quiet environment).
If the applicant is under 18:
- Copy of birth certificate
- Copies of parentsโ passports
- Parental consent letter (Power of Attorney) for study and residence abroad
What is the language of instruction?
The language of instruction on the programs offered for international students is English.
What is the duration of the programs?
Undergraduate program duration is 3 or 4 years;
Graduate program duration โ 2 years;
One-cycle program duration - 5 years (Dental); 6 years (Medical).
What is the annual fees structure for academic programs?
Faculty of Medicine:
Educational Program in Medicine โ 6000 USD;
Educational Program in Dentistry โ 5000 USD;
Faculty of Business and Technology:
Undergraduate Educational Program in Information Technologies โ 3500 USD;
Undergraduate Educational Program in Business Administration โ 3500 USD;
Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities:
Masterโs Program in Global Politics and Security Studies โ 3000 USD;
How long does the admission procedure take?
The admission procedure at Caucasus International University (CIU) typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly the applicant submits complete documents and the steps chosen.
Hereโs a breakdown of the timeline:
Step-by-Step Timeline
1. Initial Document Review & Provisional Offer Letter
โ Timeframe: 2โ5 business days
โ After you send the required documents to admission@ciu.edu.ge, CIU will issue a Provisional Offer Letter if everything is in order.
2. Education Recognition Process (NCEQE)
โ Timeframe: 2โ4 weeks
โ The applicant must apply to the National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (NCEQE) for recognition of prior education.
โ CIU can assist with this step (processing fee: $250 USD).
โ All documents must be translated into Georgian and notarized in two copies before submission.
3. Enrollment Order Issued by CIU
โ Timeframe: 2โ3 business days after recognition is approved
โ After the NCEQE issues a recognition letter and the student pays at least 50% of the tuition fee (or full fee depending on the program), the official enrollment order is issued.
4. Visa Documents Issued
โ Timeframe: 2โ3 business days
โ CIU provides the invitation letter and confirmation of enrollment needed for the student visa application.
Total Estimated Duration:
2 to 6 weeks, depending on how promptly:
- The applicant provides required documents
- Translations and notarization are completed
- The NCEQE processes the recognition
What are foreign language requirements for University admission?
Applicants must prove English language proficiency at a minimum B1 level for undergraduate and B2 level for postgraduate programs.
You can meet this requirement by submitting one of the following:
- An International English Language Certificate
โ Examples: IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, Duolingo, etc. - A Self-Introduction Video (if no certificate is available)
โ 2โ3 minutes long
โ Recorded in a quiet environment, with clear audio and video
โ The applicant must speak in English about themselves (background, motivation, goals, etc.)
๐นNote: Native English speakers do not need to submit proof or take an exam.
How much is the application fee?
Application fee is defined by 250 USD.
The fee includes:
- Translation of a documents into Georgian language;
- Notarization of documents;
- Fees for submitting document at National Centre for Education Quality Enhancement.
Note: An application fee (250 USD) cannot be refunded in case an applicant withdraws his/her application or the Ministry rejects enrolment.
What are the average living expenses in Georgia, monthly food cost, monthly residence cost and also any other fees?
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses:
Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
---|---|
Accommodation | $150โ$400 |
Food | $120โ$180 |
Transport | $8โ$20 |
Phone/Internet | $10โ$20 |
Personal Expenses | $30โ$70 |
Monthly Total | $320โ$690 |
๐ธ Average student budget: $400โ$600/month is usually sufficient for a comfortable lifestyle in Tbilisi.
How can I check my application status?
You can inquire about your application status by emailing admission@ciu.edu.ge
When contacting the Admissions Office, make sure to include the following details:
- Full Name (as written in your application)
- Passport Number
- Program you applied for
- Date of application or submission of documents
- Any reference number or Provisional Offer Letter (if already received)
Processing Time Reminder
- The Admissions Team typically takes up to 2 business days to respond to updates or send documents.
- If your documents are still under review or recognition by the National Center for Educational Quality Enhancement (NCEQE), that step may take 2โ4 weeks.
If you submitted your documents through an authorized agent, you may also follow up with them for updates.
What is the process for obtaining a student visa and Temporary Residence Card (TRC) in Georgia, and how are they different?
International students accepted to Caucasus International University (CIU) typically need to obtain a D3 category student visa to enter Georgia for long-term studies. Once in Georgia, students are also required to apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) to legally reside and stay for the full duration of their academic program.
Student Visa (Type D3)
- Students from countries that require a visa to enter Georgia must apply for a D3 (student) visa at the nearest Georgian Embassy or Consulate.
- You can check if your country is visa-exempt by visiting the official government portal:
https://geoconsul.gov.ge/en/entering-georgia-visa
CIU provides the following documents to support your visa application:
- Official Enrollment Letter
- Invitation Letter
- Proof of Tuition Fee Payment
โ ๏ธ Important: Visa processing times and additional document requirements vary by country. Students should consult their local Georgian embassy or consulate for specific requirements and timelines.
Temporary Residence Card (TRC)
After arriving in Georgia, students planning to stay longer than 90 days must apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) through the Public Service Hall.
Required documents generally include:
- Valid passport with entry stamp
- Relevant CIU Reference
- Proof of accommodation in Georgia
- Visa (if applicable)
The TRC is usually issued for one year and can be renewed annually for the duration of the study program.
Key Reminders:
- Students from visa-free countries can enter Georgia directly and apply for the TRC once in the country.
- Holding a TRC allows legal long-term stay, and access to services like opening a bank account, signing a lease, and more.
- It is strongly advised to apply for the TRC before your 90-day stay or visa period expires.