Do you dream of a semester abroad that’s truly different—far off the beaten path, in the heart of a city that breathes history yet is bursting with energy? Then Tbilisi could be your next chapter. At Caucasus University in Georgia’s vibrant capital, you’ll find a modern, internationally oriented program that combines academic excellence with real-world relevance. Since its founding in 2004, CU has developed into one of the most prestigious universities in the South Caucasus—with a strong network of partner universities worldwide and a campus that blends tradition and modernity. Add to that a city that’s winning over more and more international students: affordable, welcoming, rich in culture, and surprisingly well-connected. Who knows—maybe you’ll soon be sitting in a Tbilisi café, helping to make history?
Caucasus University (CU) in Tbilisi is one of the youngest and, at the same time, most dynamic universities in the South Caucasus. Founded in 2004 as the successor to the Caucasus School of Business (CSB)—which itself was established in 1998 in cooperation with Georgia State University in Atlanta—CU has developed into an institution of international stature in a relatively short period of time. What set CU apart from the very beginning was its explicitly Western-oriented educational model. At a time when Georgia was making the transition to a market economy, a university emerged here that focused on business thinking, entrepreneurial action, and international networking. This DNA remains evident to this day—in teaching, in partnerships, and in the way students are prepared for their professional futures.
Today, Caucasus University comprises eleven academic departments: ranging from the School of Business and the School of Law to Media, Technology, Architecture & Design, and Governance, as well as Humanities and Social Sciences, Tourism, Medicine and Healthcare Management, Economics, and Education. As a result, CU covers a remarkable breadth of academic fields—and attracts students with a wide variety of interests. Of particular relevance to MBS students is the Caucasus School of Business (CSB): It is considered the university’s flagship and offers programs in Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, and International Business. Instruction is consistently practice-oriented, conducted in English, and aligned with international standards. Faculty members with both academic and entrepreneurial experience, small class sizes, and close interaction between instructors and students characterize daily life on campus.
CU’s international orientation is also evident in its extensive network: 162 partner universities in 54 countries facilitate exchange programs, dual-degree programs, and a student body that comes from all over the world. Since 2007, CU has also been a member of AACSB, the leading international accreditation organization for business schools, and is actively engaged in the accreditation process. Another milestone: The Caucasus School of Business was the first institution in the entire South Caucasus to receive the coveted international quality accreditation from CEEMAN (Central and Eastern European Management Development Association).
The Caucasus University campus is located in the heart of Tbilisi and impressively combines historic architecture with modern learning infrastructure. The university’s main building is housed in a carefully restored structure dating from 1909—featuring historic architecture on the outside and a contemporary learning environment on the inside. Modern seminar rooms, well-equipped laboratories, a library, cafeterias, and common areas create an atmosphere that invites students to work and relax.
The campus’s urban location is a real plus: Anyone who takes a walk through the historic district between classes immediately finds themselves in the midst of Tbilisi’s cultural life. Restaurants, cafés, galleries, and the famous Rustaveli Boulevard are within walking distance—making the transition between studying and city life seamless.
In addition to its main campus, CU is developing another campus in Batumi on the Black Sea, underscoring the university’s growing ambitions. For international students, the urban campus in Tbilisi means one thing above all: a college experience that isn’t isolated from the city, but is an active part of it.
Tbilisi is a city you have to get to know—and then you’ll never forget it. Georgia’s capital, with about one million residents, is a fascinating blend of centuries-old history, Eastern influences, post-Soviet energy, and a vibrant, modern scene that attracts creatives, digital nomads, and international students from all over the world. The cityscape is characterized by picturesque alleys in the Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi), the curved wooden balconies of traditional houses, the Metekhi Church towering high above the Mtkvari River, and the colorful hustle and bustle on Rustaveli Boulevard. At the same time, modern cafés, restaurants, galleries, and coworking spaces are springing up in the neighborhoods of Vera, Vake, and Saburtalo—Tbilisi is reinventing itself without losing its soul.
The most important thing for many students: Tbilisi is very affordable by European standards. Eating out, going out, public transportation—everything is affordable. A good dinner at a restaurant rarely costs more than ten euros, and a taxi ride across town costs barely more than three. This makes it easy to truly experience the city rather than just observe it. Living in Tbilisi is straightforward and affordable compared to Western European cities. Caucasus University offers international students support in finding housing. Many opt for a furnished apartment in central neighborhoods such as Vake, Vera, or the historic center.Monthly rent for a single room in a shared apartment usually ranges from 200 to 400 euros, while a private studio can be found for around 350 to 600 euros per month—a significant difference compared to Munich or other Western European college towns.
Those who want to use Tbilisi as a base for travel are also making a good choice: the Caucasus Mountains are just a few hours away, the wine town of Sighnaghi with its picturesque views is only an hour and a half away, and affordable flights connect Tbilisi with Istanbul, Vienna, Paris, and many other European cities. A semester abroad in Tbilisi is therefore always an invitation to discover one of the most fascinating regions in the world.
Munich Business School (MBS) offers you the opportunity to combine your studies in Munich with a semester abroad at Caucasus University in Georgia—all within a single program! You can complete your semester abroad at Caucasus University as part of the Bachelor’s program in International Business as well as the Master’s programs in Finance and International Business at MBS. Learn more about our academic offerings now!
Note: Despite careful maintenance of our content, individual details regarding the semester abroad may occasionally change. For binding and up-to-date information, we recommend checking our partner university database.
Have you found a degree program that interests you? If so, you can easily apply through the MBS application portal. Provided you meet the necessary academic and language requirements, you will then be invited to a selection interview. It’s best to apply early to give yourself the best chance of being accepted to both Munich Business School and Caucasus University!
Once your application to Munich Business School has been accepted and you have successfully enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s program, your time as a student in Munich begins. During your first semesters at Munich Business School, you’ll learn important business fundamentals, choose your areas of concentration and electives based on your degree program and interests, and collaborate with your fellow students on exciting projects.
The first few semesters at Munich Business School are also the ideal time to plan your semester abroad at Caucasus University. When you’ll study abroad at CU depends on your degree program and when you started your studies. If you’re pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Munich Business School and began your studies in the fall, your semester abroad will take place during your fourth semester. However, if you started your bachelor’s program in February, you’ll go abroad in the sixth semester. For master’s students, the semester abroad is scheduled for the third semester. The MBS International Center is here to provide you with advice and support as you plan your semester abroad at Caucasus University and will answer all your questions about course selection, housing, and student life.
Now that you’ve successfully completed your first semesters at Munich Business School and finalized your plans for your semester abroad at Caucasus University, it’s finally time to get started. Your semester abroad in Tbilisi is about to begin! Immerse yourself in the new university culture, make new friends, soak up everything around you, try new things, and create memories that will last a lifetime. One thing is certain: the experience of studying abroad in Georgia will stay with you forever—and you’ll return a different person. After your semester abroad, you’ll either return to Munich Business School for one to three additional semesters (Bachelor’s program) or complete your degree with your thesis (Master’s program).
To qualify for a business degree program at Munich Business School—and thus also at Caucasus University—you must meet certain academic and language requirements. MBS offers several application rounds. We recommend applying early, as the number of available spots is limited.
For many students, a semester abroad at Caucasus University in Tbilisi is a real eye-opener—and for good reason. At the same time, studying in the South Caucasus raises many questions: How good is the university really? What’s life like in Tbilisi? How much does it all cost? Here, we provide concise and honest answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Caucasus University is considered one of the most prestigious private universities in Georgia and the entire South Caucasus. The Caucasus School of Business (CSB), in particular, has earned a strong reputation for its English-language, practice-oriented degree programs and its international partnerships. The university is a member of AACSB—the world’s leading accreditation organization for business schools—and is actively engaged in the accreditation process, demonstrating its clear commitment to international quality standards. In addition, the CSB holds CEEMAN quality accreditation, making it the first institution in the South Caucasus ever to receive this seal of quality. For exchange students from the MBS program, CU offers a high-quality academic environment with a strong practical focus and a truly international atmosphere.
Tbilisi is one of the most affordable capitals in Europe and the Caucasus. The cost of living is significantly lower than in Germany or Austria—this applies equally to rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities. A room in a shared apartment is often available for as little as 200 to 350 euros per month, and a meal at a good restaurant rarely costs more than 8 to 12 euros. Public transportation is practically free. Especially when compared to a semester abroad in Western European cities like Amsterdam, Oslo, or Paris, Tbilisi offers more experiences for less money—which makes a real difference, especially on a tight budget.
No—knowledge of Georgian is not a requirement for the semester abroad at Caucasus University. The Caucasus School of Business explicitly offers its programs in English and is geared toward international students. In everyday life in Tbilisi, you can get by just fine with English, especially in the central neighborhoods, in cafés and restaurants, and among younger people. Of course, anyone who wants to can take the opportunity to learn a few basics of Georgian—the locals appreciate any effort. So, from a language perspective, a semester abroad in Georgia isn’t a hurdle, but simply a new and exciting experience.
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