Study MBBS in Italy
Currently, approximately 13 public medical institutions, including the universities of Bari, Bologna, Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Messina, Milan, Milan-Bicocca, Naples Federico II, Padua, Pavia, Parma, Rome La Sapienza, Rome Tor Vergata, and Turin, offer English-taught MBBS degrees. While a few universities admit non-EU students to English-taught programs, these medical schools are globally recognized for their academic excellence and affordability. Moreover, they provide exceptional residency, research, and clinical work opportunities in Europe and beyond, making MBBS in Italy a highly sought-after option for Indian students.
Quick facts:
| No. of Medical Colleges | 44 |
| College Type | Govt and Private both |
| Medium of Instruction | English ( 15 Universities) |
| Degree Awarded | MD Equivalent to MBBS |
| Duration | 6 Years |
| Total Seats for Non EU Students | 135 |
| Eligibility Criteria | GPA more than 3.5 |
| English profiecieny | IELTS 6.5, Min 6 in each section |
| Admission Process | Thru Common IMAT Exam |
| Indian Students | 300 ( Across All years) |
| Total Budget for MBBS | Govt 15-20 Lacs Private 75-90 Lacs |
| Meeting NMC Criteria | Yes |
| Total Subjects in MBBS | 36 |
| Medical college Recognition | NMC/ECFMG/WHO/AMC/GMC UK |
| Study Pattern | 1st Year -Pre Clinical 2-3 Year -Para Clinical 4-6 Year -Clinical |
| Session Starts | Sept |
Advantages of Studying MBBS in Italy
- Oldest Universities in the World, and are as old as 1000 Years.
- World Ranked University with all Global recognition.
- Top-quality education at an affordable price.
- Opportunity to settle in Europe as a practicing doctor
- Availability of Medicine & Surgery course in the English language.
- Since MBBS in Italy meets the new NMC norms, Indian students can practice in India after studying medicine in Italy.
Disadvantages of Studying MBBS in Italy
At first sight, there is no such disadvantage to studying in Italy. The first setback may be caused by appearing in the IMAT Examination, as there is only one IMAT Test Centre in India, and all the slots get filled in minutes. You will be required to fly to another suitable country for the exam.
Secondly, few seats are available for the IMAT exam, and hardly anyone makes it successfully.
Important: Those looking for Italy as their dream destination need to keep a backup option apart from the first preference of their University in preferably another country. When IMAT results are presented, admission to other countries might be closed. Certainly, it may lead to the loss of an academic year for the students.
Medical Universities in Italy
A major consideration is for Indian Students to find the best MBBS University in Italy. There are 15 MBBS Universities in Italy that offer MBBS courses in the English language. The List of MBBS Colleges in Italy can be found in the table below.
| University of Bologna | Bologna | 2017 | Public |
| University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’ | Rome | 1982 | Public |
| University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’ | Rome | 2005 | Public |
| University of Pavia | Pavia | 2009 | Public |
| University of Milan | Milan | 2010 | Public |
| Vita-Salute San Raffaele Univ | Milan | 2010 | Public |
| University of Bari Aldo Moro | Bari | 2012 | Public |
| University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli | Naples | 2012 | Public |
| Catholic University of the Sacred Heart | Rome | 2013 | Private |
| Humanitas University | Milan | 2014 | Public |
| Saint Camillus International Univ | Rome | 2018 | Public |
| University of Padua | Padua | 2019 | Public |
| Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome | Rome | 2019 | Private |
| University of Turin | Torino | 2019 | Public |
| University of Parma | Parma | 2021 | Public |
MBBS Seats in Italy for International Students
Now the query arises, “How many Italian Medical Colleges offer medical seats to international students in English-taught programs?” The answer is, There are just 7 medical universities. However, the English-taught MBBS program is available in 15 Medical universities, and the rest offer seats to only EU students. Nearly 135 Seats are available where non-EU students can apply for admission to the MBBS Program. Take a look at the Italy MBBS Universities in the table below to see the reserved seats for Non-EU Students-
| Medical School | Seats | Non-EU Seats |
|---|---|---|
| University of Pavia | 140 | 40 |
| Humanitas University | 70 | 25 |
| University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’ | 50 | 10 |
| University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’ | 35 | 10 |
| University of Bari Aldo Moro | 50 | 9 |
| University of Bologna | 90 | 20 |
| University of Padua | 75 | 20 |
Cost of studying MBBS in Italy
| Expenses | Cost in EUR | Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Private Universities | Private Universities |
| 6000 – 20000 per year | Rs. 5,40,246 to Rs. 18,00,820 per year | |
| Public Universities | Public Universities | |
| 900 – 4000 per year | Rs. 81,036 to Rs. 3,60,164 per year | |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | 30-40 per week | Rs 2701 to Rs 3601 |
| Accommodation Expenses | 300-700 per month | Cost in INR Rs. 27012 to Rs. 63028 per month |
| Food Costs | 150 per month | INR 13,506 per month |
Fee Structure of MBBS in Italy
MBBS in Italy for Indian students stands out as an economical choice in Europe, with reasonable tuition fees compared to other MBBS Abroad options. Many times, Qus arise. Is there any chance for MBBS in Italy on scholarships for Indian students?
Italy’s MBBS fee structure for Indian students ranges between 2-4 Lacs INR for a year, which is very competitive, attracting many aspiring doctors from India. Italy offers a cost-effective and high-quality option for Indian students looking for an MBBS course in Italy. There is no specific scholarship for the MBBS course in Italy.
Pl refer to the below table for Italy MBBS fees in INR
| Medical School Name | Tuition Fee in Euro | Tuition Fee in Rupees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Padua | € 4656 | RS 4.19 Lacs |
| Humanitas University | € 1456 | RS 1.31 Lacs |
| University of Rome La Sapienza | € 1156 | RS 1.04 Lacs |
| University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’ | € 5250 | RS 4.73 Lacs |
| University of Bari Aldo Moro | € 1580 | RS 1.42 Lacs |
| University of Pavia | € 4805 | RS 4.32 Lacs |
| University of Bologna | € 3407 | RS 3.07 Lacs |
Accommodation costs in Italy
Getting on-campus accommodations for international students may not always be possible. You can look for private Apartments near the University; such shared apartments may cost you approx. 30-35 thousand INR every month. Costing depends upon the of sharing and its distance from the city center.
Indian Food in Italy
You can find many Indian restaurants in Italy, But they are quite expensive and can’t be considered an option for your daily meal needs. The only option is self-cooking. All apartments have a kitchen with all facilities like Induction cooktops, Microwave ovens, Fridges, etc. You can buy the groceries, which usually cost 12-15K INR monthly.
Travel Cost
Rome and Milan in Italy have direct flights from Indian cities Delhi and Mumbai. The time and cost of the flight depend upon your chosen airline. Direct Flight can cost you approx. 30-35K for one way and take around 8-9 hours.
Top Medical Universities in Italy
Medical Universities in Italy are among the oldest universities in the world. The world ranking of most Italian Medical Universities is under the Top 1000 Universities in the world. Here are some of the best Top Ranked Medical Universities in Italy-
University of Bologna – This is the oldest university in Europe. It was founded in 1088 and is consistently ranked among the top medical schools in the world. In the QS World University Rankings 2023, it was ranked 165th in the world and 6th in Italy.
University of Milano – This University is located in Milan and is known for its excellence in medical research. In the QS World University Rankings 2023, it was ranked 149th worldwide and 5th in Italy.
University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’– This is the largest university in Rome and one of Europe’s oldest Universities. In the QS World University Rankings 2023, it was ranked 177th worldwide and 7th in Italy.
University of Padua – The University is located in Padua and is one of the oldest in Italy. It was founded in 1222. In the QS World University Rankings 2023, it was ranked 242nd in the world and 10th in Italy.
University of Torino – This University is located in Turin and is known for its strong focus on medical research. In the QS World University Rankings 2023, it was ranked 357th worldwide and 15th in Italy.
These are just a few examples of the top medical schools in Italy, and many more institutions provide excellent medical education and research opportunities.
Climate in Italy
Italy’s average daily temperature is quite moderate compared to other European countries. You can refer to the climate graph below
Eligibility for MBBS Admission in Italy
MBBS in Italy for Indian students eligibility typically requires the below conditions to be fulfilled
- 12th Grade GPA Should be 3.5 or Above
- Age should be more than 17 Years
- NEET Qualified (NMC Requirement, if you want to practice in India)
- Proficiency in English, like IELTS 6.5, Min 6 in each section
Meeting these MBBS in Italy requirements is essential for admission to medical universities in the country.
Admission Timelines for MBBS in Italy 2024
| Stages | Timelines |
|---|---|
| Pre-enrollment for Indian Students | Apr – Aug |
| Online enrollment for IMAT Admission test | July |
| Admission Test (IMAT) 2024 Exam | Sept |
| Preliminary anonymous ranking | End of Sept |
| Enrollment Process post receiving an Acceptance Letter | Mid-Oct |
| Commencement of Classes | End of Oct |
Admission process for MBBS in Italy
Each year, the Italian Ministry of Education releases updates for the admission process with precise dates. Those are usually announced around May or June. Before enrolling in your desired Medical school in Italy, you must follow the steps below for MBBS Admission in Italy.
STEP 1: Pre-enrollment:
Pre-enrolment refers to the documentation process verifying your academic qualifications for studying at an Italian medical school. Note that this is separate from the IMAT exam enrollment procedure. Contact your nearest Italian consulate or embassy for necessary paperwork related to studying medicine in Italy. Pre-enrollment remains open until the end of June.
STEP 2: IMAT Exam Registration
Online applications for IMAT begin in the first week of July and are open for the first 3 weeks of July. Ensure that you register for the IMAT Exam ‘online’. Also, there is a dedicated website for registering named University.
Declare your first preference for the Medical School Abroad and your IMAT test centre. Furthermore, you must pay a teeny-weeny subscription fee of around 130 Euros for the test. It is important to note that, no university will admit an MBBS in Italy without an IMAT Score.
STEP 3: IMAT Exam
IMAT stands for “International Medical Admissions Test”, the only official exam you need to qualify for studying medicine in Italy.
IMAT Exam Format: The IMAT test is in English and consists of 60 multiple-choice questions (five options each). The answer keys might initially seem possible, but the students need to choose the answer key based on their subject knowledge and logical reasoning skills functional to various subjects. The candidates have a limited time frame of 100 minutes to complete the test.
The questions are segmented into the following sections:
| Div | Subject | Ques. |
|---|---|---|
| Sec-1 | Logical Reasoning | 20 |
| General Knowledge | 2 | |
| Sec-2 | Biology | 18 |
| Sec-3 | Chemistry | 12 |
| Sec-4 | Physics and Math | 8 |
Please note– The order in which the questions in the test will not be as exact as presented above. Accordingly, the exam will have a different order of questions and answers.
Breakdown of scoring in the IMAT: For evaluation of the test, a candidate’s total score is calculated using the following formula:1.5 points are awarded for every correct answer.0.4 points will be deducted for every wrong answer.0 points will be assigned for every blank answer.
However, the maximum score will be 90, and the minimum score for the ranks is 20 points.
Short-stay visas may be issued to students (especially for non-EU students) who choose to take the IMAT exam in Italy; this is optional.
Kindly note: This is not a student visa, so the Indian student must enrol in the University after passing the exam.
The IMAT exam will be conducted only at an authorized centre. Globally, in 2023, there were 17 test centres, excluding Italy.
IMAT EXAM Centers
You can find the list of international IMAT exam centres in 2023. Please note that the list of IMAT exam centres for 2024 has not been officially released yet, and it is best to check the official IMAT website.
| Abu Dhabi (UAE) | Beirut (Lebanon) | Athens (Greece) |
| Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) | Berlin (Germany) | London (UK) |
| Amman (Jordan) | Santiago (Chile) | Madrid (Spain) |
| Ankara (Turkey) | Cairo (Egypt) | Paris (France) |
| Istanbul (Turkey) | Casablanca (Morocco) | Barcelona (Spain) |
| Dublin (Ireland) | New Delhi, Gurgaon (India) |
STEP 4: IMAT rankings and University enrollment
The preliminary IMAT 2024 results will be declared just days after the test ends, generally in the last week of September.
Preliminary refers to the fact that at the end of September, you’ll only get the test score you have obtained as an individual. No such IMAT ranking position will be mentioned, nor will the confirmation of being admitted to an Italian medical school be stated, as these results are anonymous.
At the beginning of October, your IMAT score will be published in the university portal, with a scan of your answer sheet. You still won’t identify if you are accepted, but you will know your accurate score. At this stage, complete all the required documents to apply for a student visa.
Italy MBBS Course Syllabus
The MBBS course in Italy is known as “Laurea Magistrale in Medicina e Chirurgia”. Various universities across the country offer this program. The course generally lasts for six years and is taught in English and Italian.
Here is a general overview of the syllabus for the MBBS course in Italy:
| Year | Subject | Teaching-Hrs |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Basic Science | 80 hrs |
| Structure of Body | 172hrs | |
| Living Molecules | 156hrs | |
| Scientific Foundations | 52hrs | |
| 2nd | Biology Of Disease | 124hrs |
| Ethics And Society | 56hrs | |
| Functions Of Body | 164hrs | |
| Laboratory Medicine | 52hrs | |
| Microbiology | 64hrs | |
| 3rd | Blood Diseases | 40 hrs |
| Clinical Foundations | 128 hrs | |
| Clinical Foundations Practicals | 120 hrs | |
| Disease Control and Eradication | 88 hrs | |
| Endocrine System and Metabolism | 40 hrs | |
| Drug Discovery and Actions | 48 hrs | |
| Systemic Pathology | 52 hrs | |
| 4th | Cardiovascular Disease | 48 hrs |
| Clinical Cases | 320 hrs | |
| GI and Urinary Tracts | 80 hrs | |
| Lung Disease | 40 hrs | |
| Neurological and Psychiatric Diseases | 88 hrs | |
| Sensory System Diseases | 64 hrs | |
| Soft Tissue Diseases | 48 hrs | |
| 5th | Childhood and Woman Health | 96 hrs |
| Clinical Cases | 120 hrs | |
| Clinical Pharmacology, Genetics, Pathology | 80 hrs | |
| General Surgery I | 88 hrs | |
| General Surgery II | 96 hrs | |
| Internship in Medical Area | 100 hrs | |
| Internship in Surgical Area | 100 hrs | |
| 6th | Clinical Cases | 160 hrs |
| Clinical Medicine | 112 hrs | |
| Degree Thesis | 144 hrs | |
| Internship in General Practice | 100 hrs | |
| Practical In Degree Thesis Subject | 180 hrs | |
| Public Health | 40 hrs |
During the clinical practice year, students work in hospitals and clinics, where they gain practical experience in various medical fields under the supervision of experienced doctors. They also have the opportunity to choose electives in specialized areas of interest.
Is there an age limit to apply for medicine in Italy?
No, there is no age restriction on applying to medical school. Students of all ages are eligible to study medicine in Italy.
Is it mandatory to learn Italian language to study in Italy?
No, it is not mandatory to learn the Italian language to study in Italy.
The courses and examinations are carried out entirely in English during the course (6 years). In the first two years (preclinical years) the Italian language is not needed as the practical training does not really start before the 3rd year. During the clinical years, however, Italian will be necessary for communication with patients and doctors, during hospital hours apart from the professors.
Do I require an English certificate for studying medicine in Italy (IELTS, TOEFL, CEFR, etc.)?
Passing the IMAT exam for English-taught medical courses shows your English language competency. Most of the universities won’t ask for extra English certificates.
What is the difference between public and private universities in Italy?
In public medical schools where the tuition fee is very nominal, However, in private universities, which are not government-funded, tuition fees are similar to other private medical schools in Europe, typically ranging from €9000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the university.
How to choose the best medical school in Italy?
Consider the below points while choosing the best medical school in Italy.
Reputation and Ranking
Accreditation
Curriculum and Specializations
Faculty and Facilities
Student Support Services
Research Opportunities
Location and Environment
Student Feedback and Reviews
Can I study medicine in Italy without IMAT?
Public universities in Italy usually prioritize the IMAT exam, managed by the Italian Ministry of Education, Universities, and Research (MIUR), and do not have their entrance exams. However, Private universities administer their admission tests for medicine programs, which means applicants can apply without taking the IMAT.
How long is it going to take to prepare for the IMAT Examination?
The answer to this question depends to a large extent on your background and your initial level.
The average amount of time candidates dedicate is about 5-6 months for Indian students. This being said, if you started preparing 3-4 months before the IMAT, You still might have an excellent chance to get in.
Which are the best books to prepare for the IMAT?
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving books for IMAT
Thinking Skills Coursebook (by Marc Dawes)
Pearson Biology: A Global Approach, Global Edition
AS-level biology and A2-level biology
Oxford IB Study Guide: Chemistry for the IB Diploma
A-Level Physics for AQA: Year 2 Student Book
Pearson’s Higher Level Chemistry book
IMAT Physics and Maths books
CGP A-Level Physics for AQA
A-Level Maths for OCR
How can DIVINE help me get into the best MBBS universities in Italy?
Divine is one of India’s most trusted consultant and assists students with their admission process, accommodation, and other requirements.
Is it worth studying MBBS in Italy for international students?
Studying medicine in Italy for international students offers many advantages like affordable tuition fees, excellent education standards, and rich cultural immersion.
What is the cost of MBBS in Italy for Indian students?
The cost of MBBS in Italy for Indian students varies, with most medical universities charging approximately between 20-30 lakhs (INR) for the entire course.
What is the MAECI Scholarship in Italy?
The MAECI Scholarship is a government-funded scholarship for international students and Italian citizens living abroad to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in Italian public universities. It covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and health insurance for one year, renewable for up to four years.
Does studying in Italy require strong academics?
No, admissions in most Italian universities require academics at 65%. IELTS scores are a great saviour for access to most universities.
How do you study for free in Italy?
You must apply for scholarships like the IYT or RO Scholarship in Italy to study for free.
How do I check for Italian scholarships for Indian students?
You can refer to the Indian Embassy in Milan website cgimilan.gov for Italian government scholarships offered to international students
As an Indian citizen, do I need a visa to study in Italy?
Yes, Indian citizens require a visa to study in Italy.
Can I work to support myself while studying in Italy as an Indian student?
You can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week with a study permit.
Can I convert my student visa to work visa in Italy?
Yes, it is possible to convert a student visa to a work visa in Italy under certain conditions and with the approval of the relevant authorities.
How do I get my degree Recognized in Italy?
To recognize your qualification in Italy, you must legalize the original document, provide an official translation, and obtain a certificate of equivalence of qualification
What are the language requirements for studying in Italy?
The language requirement for studying in Italy is typically a B2 level of English proficiency.
Are scholarships available for Indian students to study in Italy?
Yes, various scholarships are available for Indian students to study in Italy. These include scholarships from the Italian government, Italian universities, external organizations, and Indian government scholarships for international education.
Is finding part-time work as an international student in Italy easy?
International students in Italy can work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, during the academic year and full-time during semester breaks. Many students find part-time work in tutoring, language teaching, hospitality, and retail.
Is it possible to stay and work in Italy after graduation?
Italy offers a post-study work visa that allows international students to stay and work in Italy for up to 12 months. After finding a job, you can transition to a work visa or residence permit for longer-term employment.
What are the popular courses for Indian students in Italy?
Italy offers international students various courses, including engineering and technology, business and management, medicine and health, art and design, humanities, law, natural sciences, social sciences, and more. Popular choices include engineering programs, MBBS courses, and business degrees.
What is the cost of living for international students in Italy?
The cost of living in Italy can vary by city and lifestyle. Students may spend around €800 to €1,000 per month on accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and other expenses. Bigger cities are generally more expensive than smaller cities.
What are the accommodation options for international students in Italy?
Accommodation options in Italy include university halls of residence, private student housing, shared apartments, homestays, and private rentals. Students can select the option that suits their preferences and budget.
How can I apply for a student visa to study in Italy?
You must have received an acceptance letter from an Italian university to apply for a student visa to study in Italy. Complete the visa application, attend an interview, and provide the required documents, including proof of financial means and health insurance. Check the official guidelines from the Italian consulate or embassy in India for the latest requirements.
