Tbilisi State University

About

Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University (TSU) is Georgia's oldest and largest university, renowned as a pioneer of higher education in the South Caucasus region. Academically, it is best known for its comprehensive research-oriented approach across a wide array of disciplines, with particularly strong programs in Law, Medicine, Humanities, and Social Sciences. For international students, TSU offers a vibrant academic environment with numerous English-taught programs, supported by a dedicated International Relations Office that facilitates exchange opportunities, summer schools, and provides essential student services. The university actively promotes international collaboration and cultural integration, making it a welcoming hub for global learners. Its distinctive characteristic is its historical role as the first national university in Georgia, establishing a foundation for modern higher education in the country.

Background

Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, also known as Tbilisi State University or TSU, is a public research university established on 8 February 1918 in Tbilisi, Georgia. Excluding academies and theological seminaries, which have intermittently functioned in Georgia for centuries, TSU is the oldest university in Georgia and the Caucasus region. The total enrollment is over 23,500 students, and there are 5,000 faculty and staff members (collaborators) overall. The main founder of the university was a Georgian historian and academician, Ivane Javakhishvili. Among the co-founders were also several scientists, including Giorgi Akhvlediani, Shalva Nutsubidze, Dimitri Uznadze, Grigol Tsereteli, Akaki Shanidze, Andrea Razmadze, Korneli Kekelidze, Ioseb Kipshidze, Petre Melikishvili and Ekvtime Takaishvili. Professor Petre Melikishvili, a Georgian chemist, became the first rector of TSU. Elizabeth Orbeliani, who was also among the co-founders, became the first woman to teach in the university's history.

Location

Quick facts

Nearby universities