Why is English proficiency not mandatory to take admission in Georgia for International students?

English proficiency is typically not required for entrance to many Georgian Universities, including those offering programs in business administration, medicine (MBBS/MD), and engineering, for a number of reasons. Given that many other nations require English language exams like the TOEFL or IELTS, this may come as a surprise to some overseas students.

The following are some of the primary arguments against Georgia requiring English proficiency:

1. Wide Use of English as a Secondary Language

English is significantly spoken in educational institutions and in large cities like Tbilisi, despite Georgian being the official language. In an attempt to draw in international students, Georgia has worked hard in recent years to implement programs taught in English.

English-language programs are becoming more widespread in Georgian colleges, especially in disciplines like business and medical. Although admission may not need a high degree of English ability, it is anticipated that students would pick up the language rapidly once they start their studies.

2. English-Taught Programs and Adaptation

Georgian universities frequently provide English-taught courses especially for foreign students. As pupils learn, these programs are designed to help them become more proficient in English.

Since English is frequently used as the language of instruction for international students and since institutions typically offer language assistance to aid in adaptation, a formal language exam may not necessarily be required at the time of admission.

3. Flexibility for International Students

Since many students from nations with different primary languages opt to study in Georgia, Georgian universities may be more lenient when it comes to language competency standards in order to make education more accessible to a wider range of foreign students.

Due to Georgia's aggressive marketing as a place to study, some colleges wish to facilitate international students' admissions without imposing severe language difficulties.

4. Alternative Assessments and Adaptations

Universities may use oral exams or interviews to evaluate language proficiency as part of the admissions process rather than official English proficiency tests. This eliminates the need for a standardised English test result and enables colleges to evaluate candidates' language proficiency directly.

Additionally, many universities offer language preparation courses or programs for students who need to improve their English before they begin their academic courses. This ensures that students have the necessary language skills to succeed once they are enrolled.

5. Cultural and Academic Integration

For some students, language proficiency might not be an issue since Georgian universities often provide support to help international students integrate academically and socially, including help with language barriers.

For example, Georgian National University (SEU) and other universities may have a dedicated International Office that offers language courses or workshops designed to help students improve their English while they study.

6. Educational Quality in English

At Georgian universities, English-taught programs are frequently designed to prevent language obstacles from affecting students' comprehension of the material. Professors might modify their teaching strategies to be more inclusive by speaking in simpler terms or providing non-native English speakers with additional assistance.

7. Focus on Practical and Professional Skills

Practical knowledge and skills-based education are prioritised in several Georgian universities. As a result, they could prioritise showcasing academic potential and interest in the subject matter over formal language skills when it comes to admission. The goal is to provide room for foreign students who can excel academically in their subject despite not being native English speakers.

8. Targeting a Broad International Student Market

Georgia aims to attract students from a variety of countries, some of which may not have strong English proficiency or English-based educational backgrounds. By lowering language barriers, Georgian universities can appeal to a broader pool of students, particularly those from Eastern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, where English proficiency may vary.

9. After-Admission Language Support

After being admitted, international students often have access to language support programs to help them adapt and improve their English language skills. Some universities even offer English language preparatory courses for students who may not meet the English requirements at the time of admission, ensuring that they will be able to succeed in their courses.

Key Points to Remember:

While English proficiency may not be a strict admission requirement for many universities in Georgia, it is still highly encouraged. Students may need some level of English proficiency to succeed in their studies, especially in English-taught programs.

English language support is often available, both before and during the course of study.

Students who do not meet the required level of English proficiency can usually improve their language skills through preparatory programs or by adapting to the environment once they arrive in Georgia.