The current unbelievable events in Ukraine have exacted a heavy price on everyone in the country. Sadly, international students are not an exception. Many of you had to relocate from the country, and while online classes have become the norm, we can only hope for a better future.
Medlink Students have anticipated multiple scenarios in the past few months, and we have prepared a resolution to help you move forward. We’ve been working on a student transfer solution, and this article addresses all the relevant questions.
Where Can I Transfer to a Medical School Out of Ukraine?
Due to the current situation, there is a high demand for medical university transfers. We have researched and assessed many universities to find the best potential destinations for those who want to transfer. European University in Tbilisi, Georgia, has stepped up to the call. They have promised to give special consideration to our students transferring out of Ukraine.
European University accepts transfers in Medicine, Dentistry, and Graduate Entry Medicine. The school is a top choice in Europe in terms of educational value, and Tbilisi is a favourite destination for international students.
How Much Does It Cost to Transfer?
The prices for transfer to this university in Tbilisi are one of the lowest for medical and dental studies in English in Europe. Tuition fees for transfer students remain the same as those for regular students.
Tuition fees:
• MEDICINE - USD $5,500 (approximately €5,200 or £4,500) per year
• DENTISTRY - USD $4,500 (approximately €3,800 or £3,500) per year
When Can I Transfer to European University in Georgia?
Transfers are usually made around December.
The good news is that we are negotiating another supplemental intake around May. As soon as a sufficient transfer group is gathered, you will be able to take advantage of this transfer window. This is done by the European University, exclusively for Medlink Students, with dedicated seats for our students. Still, there are limited seats remaining, and applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
By applying for a transfer now, you can increase your chance to transfer earlier and be back to continuing your studies as soon as possible.
Will I Have to Repeat Any Semesters After the Transfer?
Each university has a list of subjects that are taught in each year, from year 1 to the final year. The subjects are taught in a different order and at different hours in each country.
In order for a student to transfer, the destination university will compare its curriculum with the previous university's curriculum. They will tick off the subjects that you studied and exempt you from studying them again. The remaining subjects that you did not study or have enough hours for will have to be studied.
All universities require students to match the educational programmes of their curriculums. There is always some discrepancy in the curriculums of different countries. Therefore, students will have to cover the missing courses. Usually, an additional semester or two is sufficient to balance the differences in curriculums.
There is no way around this compromise at any university in any country. If you hear someone claiming otherwise, please consider it a red flag.
How Credible is the University?
European University's Medical Doctor curriculum meets the international medical education standards, including minimum required hours and criteria, as it has undergone rigorous evaluations in numerous areas. The university is:
• accredited in Georgia according to the international requirements of the World Federation of Medical Education (WFME)
• listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools
• Recognised by the ECFMG
The European University in Tbilisi has carefully reviewed the General Medical Council's (GMC) requirements. It has ensured its programme meets all the GMC's and GDC's requirements, including all the hours necessary to meet the international and GMC's standards, upon graduation.
The university offers plenty of practical, clinical and hands-on experience in its hospitals. This has benefited students who needed more hospital placements due to the COVID restrictions for the last 2 years.
In Georgia, the system does not oblige students to do state exams like the Ukrainian KROK. The exams are multiple-choice questions, written, oral, practical exams, and OSCEs.
Is Georgia Safe?
Georgia is considered a World Top 10 location in terms of safety from crimes. Tbilisi, in particular, is a picturesque city, and the local population is friendly and supportive towards students. In addition, the vibrant international student communities in Tbilisi organise various fun events and get-togethers.
How Can I Apply for a University Transfer?
Schedule a free WhatsApp discussion with an expert student advisor on your options.
You can ask any questions and plan the best course for your future.
You can read more about the European University here, and you can watch this webinar by UK students at European University talking about their experience.
