How many grades do Georgian schools have, and at what age do children start?
School stages, starting age and Russian-language schools.
Short answer
Georgian schools have 12 grades: primary from grade 1 to 6, basic from 7 to 9 and secondary from 10 to 12. Children start first grade at 6, and after grade 12 graduates take the Unified National Exams to enter university. Tbilisi and Batumi have public schools with Russian-language sections and private schools teaching in Russian and English.
Why
- The school structure is set by the Law of Georgia on General Education.
- Education in public schools is free.
- Children of foreigners living in Georgia are admitted to schools with the required documents.
Details
Places in Russian sections of public schools are limited, so register early. To enrol a child from abroad, their education documents go through recognition.
Tip
If your child doesn't speak Georgian, consider schools teaching in Russian or English.
What may differ
Private and international schools differ from state schools in curriculum, language and cost.
Common misconception
What actually happens
People also ask
- How many years is school in Georgia?
Sources
Information checked on October 3, 2026.
Georgian Schools: Grades, School Year and Interesting FactsRelated questions
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How do you get into a university or college in Georgia?
Graduates of Georgian schools enter university based on the Unified National Exams run by the National Assessment and Examinations Center.
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When does the school and university year start in Georgia?
In Georgian schools the year usually starts in mid-September, most often on 15 September, with the exact date approved each year by the Ministry of Education.