Studying in Georgia for international students: How to apply and obtain a residence permit (using Caucasus University as an example)

Georgia remains one of the most accessible countries for international students to pursue higher education — both in terms of cost and the admission process.

At the same time, studying there offers a significant advantage: a legal basis for obtaining a residence permit, which is approved in most cases.

Let’s take a look at one of the most popular universities — Caucasus University.

Why choose to study in Georgia

Key advantages:

• a simple admission process,
• instruction in English,
• relatively low cost,
• the opportunity to obtain a residence permit,
• a high likelihood of approval.

For example, Caucasus University reports a graduate employment rate of up to 98 %.

Caucasus University: an overview

The university comprises 10 schools:

• Business,
• Law,
• Media,
• Technology,
• Architecture and design,
• Public administration,
• Humanities and social sciences,
• Tourism,
• Medicine,
• Economics and education.

Additionally:

• more than 260 partner universities worldwide,
• exchange programs,
• English‐language instruction,
• the opportunity to earn a dual degree.

What documents are required for admission

Basic application package (bachelor’s program)

• International passport;
• high school diploma;
• 3×4 photo;
• CV in English;
• English proficiency certificate (B2: IELTS / TOEFL).

For a master’s program

• Bachelor’s degree;
• transcript;
• statement of purpose.

For a doctoral program

• Master’s degree;
• research publications / experience;
• 2 letters of recommendation;
• CV (EN + GE).

Important step: diploma recognition (EQE)

Prior to final enrollment, documents undergo recognition by the National Center for Educational Quality Improvement (EQE).

Cost:

• 40 GEL — up to 1 month,
• 80 GEL — 15 days,
• 120 GEL — 5 days,
• 250 GEL — 1 day.

This is a mandatory step for international students.

Step‐by‐step application process

1. Contact the university.
2. Fill out the application form.
3. Submit your documents.
4. Wait for your application to be reviewed (3—5 days).
5. Attend an interview (if required).
6. Pay the application fee (approx. $300).
7. Receive confirmation of admission.
8. Pay tuition.

Tuition fees

Fees vary by program, but:

• Payment is due annually;
• currency: USD or EUR;
• additional costs may apply (retakes, etc.).

Language of instruction

• Instruction is in English;
• exams are in English;
• Georgian is also taught.

Student residence permit: a key advantage

Once enrolled, students are eligible to apply for a student residence permit.

Required documents

• Passport + translation;
• certificate from the university;
• bank statement (showing at least ≈ 3,800 GEL) or proof of sponsorship;
• photo;
• application form.

Processing time and cost

• Standard: 30 days (≈ 300 GEL);
• expedited processing — for an additional fee.

Important details

• The residence permit is issued for 6–12 months and is renewable,
• you can apply only after enrollment,
• requirements may vary slightly.

Why this is one of the best options for a residence permit

Residence permit for education:

• easier than other grounds,
• requires a minimal set of documents,
• has a high approval rate,
• does not require investment or a business.

That is why this is one of the most popular options for legalizing your status in Georgia.

Want to apply and obtain a residence permit without any issues?

ESPERO can help you:

• choose a university and program;
• prepare your application documents;
• complete the diploma recognition process (EQE);
• obtain a student residence permit through a turnkey service;
• guide you through the entire process.

A student residence permit is one of the simplest and most reliable ways to legalize your status in Georgia.

Contact us — and we’ll make the process fast and predictable.