Research is growing inside Georgia's academic world. On 2 November 2026 the National Statistics Office of Georgia (Geostat) published its annual survey of research and development (R&D) in higher education institutions and scientific institutions, covering the year 2025.
The key figures
The survey covered 69 institutions. Together they spent 282.2 million GEL on research and development in 2025, which is 16.2% more than in 2024.
- People in R&D: 16,552 people worked in research and development, 2.2% more than a year earlier.
- Researchers: 14,390 of them were researchers.
- Women in research: 55.1% of researchers were women and 44.9% men.
- Qualifications: 67.5% of researchers held a doctoral degree or equivalent, 29.8% a master's and 2.7% a bachelor's.
What it means for students
Higher research spending matters most to students who want more than lectures: laboratory work, research projects and supervision by active scientists. A research workforce in which two thirds hold a doctorate also says something about the people who teach and supervise at master's and PhD level.
The survey does not rank individual universities, so the figures describe the sector as a whole rather than any one campus.
Part of a wider picture
The growth comes as Georgia reshapes its higher education system and aligns it with European frameworks. For international students choosing a medicine, engineering, IT or science programme, a university's research activity is one of the factors worth weighing alongside fees, language of teaching and recognition of the degree.
Key points
- Geostat published the 2025 R&D survey on 2 November 2026.
- 69 higher education and scientific institutions spent 282.2 million GEL, up 16.2% on 2024.
- 16,552 people worked in R&D, including 14,390 researchers.
- 55.1% of researchers are women; 67.5% hold a doctorate.
Looking for a research-active programme in Georgia? Book a consultation with Study and Work Abroad and we will match you with the right university and handle your application.
Sources
- Survey of Research and Development in Higher Education Institutions and in Scientific Institutions (2025)National Statistics Office of Georgia (Geostat) · Nov 2, 2026
- Geostat: R&D Spending at Georgian Universities and Research Institutions Reached 282.2 Million GEL in 2025Madloba · Nov 2, 2026
Written by the Study and Work Abroad team in our own words from the sources above. Rules change often: before you apply, ask us to check the current rules for your case.
Explore on our site
Let us take care of your application
Admission, documents, visa, insurance and housing in one account, with a personal consultant and a real company behind it. You focus on your studies, we handle the rest.
