Study in Georgia: Language & Culture

The official language of Georgia is Georgian. It is written using Mkhedruli script. It is the most widely spoken Kartvelian language. The Kartvelian language family is unrelated to any other. As such, Georgian is a language that is richly steeped in history and cultural significance.

Most Georgians also speak Russian. Georgia was a part of the Soviet Union, only becoming an independent state in 1991. Russian was the lingua franca of all fifteen Soviet republics. Russian is so common that it is a de facto second official language. Outside of government settings, most signage will be written in Mkhedruli script, followed by Cyrillic and then a transcription in Latin script underneath that.

Once in Georgia, you will probably be actively encouraged to learn Georgian. Most universities offer lessons to students and there are also plenty of private schools and tutors across the country who will be all too happy to teach you. 

The quirks of the language aside, Georgia is also renowned for its hospitality, its remarkably versatile vineyards and the Middle Eastern elements infused into its traditional dances, songs and dress. 

Although Georgia is a modern, internationalist country, it is also a deeply religious one. The Georgian Orthodox Church holds a lot of sway and, as most Georgians are fairly religious, influences a lot of social attitudes. Georgia is a socially conservative country. That being said, attitudes on some issues are changing - the country’s first LGBT Pride parade even took place in 2019.

Georgia is a safe country. In fact, it is one of the safest countries in the region. Corruption is far less prevalent than in many other ex-Soviet states and the crime rate is low. However, Georgia does have two breakaway regions: Abkhazia and South Ossetia. 

Even though the situation in both regions is relatively stable, the Georgian government takes a very dim view of those who try to venture into either place. No matter how piqued your interest might be, it is recommended not to leave Georgian territory. Entry into both regions from Georgia is tightly controlled. Even the most minor of missteps is illegal under Georgian law as it’s classed as crossing an illegal border imposed by another country: Russia. If you’re caught, there are heavy penalties, including jail sentences.