Study Medicine in Italy (IMAT Universities & Admission Guide)

Your Complete Guide to Studying Medicine in English at Italian Public Universities

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to studying medicine in Italy in English. Italy offers a unique opportunity for international students to pursue a world-class medical education at renowned public universities—with affordable tuition and programs taught entirely in English. This guide is designed to walk you through every step of the journey, from choosing the right university and registering for the IMAT exam, to understanding the key differences between EU and Non-EU applicants, seat availability, and important deadlines. Whether you're just beginning your research or getting ready to apply, you'll find clear, accurate, and up-to-date information to support your path to becoming a doctor in Italy.

Why Study Medicine in Italy?

English-Taught Programs: Italy offers a number of Medicine and Surgery degrees in English at prestigious public universities.

Low Tuition Fees: Tuition typically ranges from €500 to €4,000 per year, with options for reductions based on income.

EU-Recognized Degrees: Your degree will be recognized across the EU and in many other countries.

Diverse Student Body: Italian med schools are highly international, with students from all over the world.

High Quality of Life: Enjoy the rich culture, food, and history Italy has to offer while pursuing your dreams.

Universities Offering Medicine in English

Here are the Italian public universities that offer medical degrees in English and accept IMAT:

University of Rome La Sapienza – Website

University of Milan – Website

University of Pavia – Website

University of Bologna – Website

University of padova - Website

University of Rome Tor Vergata – Website

University of Turin – Website

University of Milan Bicocca – Website

University of Naples Federico II – Website

University of Parma – Website

University of Messina – Website

University of Naples Luigi Vanvitelli – Website

University of Bari – Website

University Poli Marche (Ancona) – Website

University of Catania – Website

University of Cagliari – Website

University of Siena (Dentistry) – Website

University of Rome La Sapienza (Dentistry) – Website

IMAT – Your Gateway to Italian Medical Schools

The International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT) is required for all applicants to English-language medical programs in Italy.

Format: 60 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 100 minutes.

Sections:

4 questions: General Knowledge and Reading Comprehension
5 questions: Logical Reasoning and Problem Solving
23 questions: Biology
15 questions: Chemistry
13 questions: Physics and Mathematics

Scoring:

+1.5 points for each correct answer

-0.4 points for each wrong answer

0 points for unanswered questions

IMAT Test Centers (2025)

Test Centers in Italy:

Bari, Milan (x2), Rome (x2), Naples (x2), Bologna, Turin, Pavia, Parma, Siena, Messina, Padova (Venice), Ancona, Cagliari

Test Centers Outside Italy:

Students can take the IMAT in various countries across the world including:

Albania, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Canada, China, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, Dubai, UK, USA

IMAT Key Dates (based on previous year)

IMAT Registration: September 2–12

Test Date: September 17

Anonymous Results: September 26

Scores Published: October 3

National Ranking: October 10

(Note: 2025 dates not yet announced. Stay updated.)

IMAT Test Fees

€130 / $164 / £114 (payment via Universitaly)

EU vs. Non-EU Applicants: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the distinction between EU and Non-EU applicants is crucial when applying to medical schools in Italy, as the admission rules and processes vary significantly.

EU Candidates

Compete in a national ranking system.
Have the flexibility to apply to multiple universities.
Admission is based on IMAT score and rank, allowing greater chances through ranking movement.

Non-EU Candidates

Can apply to only one university per academic year.
Admission is based strictly on IMAT score and the limited number of available seats at the selected university (usually 10–60 spots).
A high score is essential, especially if applying to competitive programs.
Selecting a university with high score cutoffs without adequate preparation may lead to rejection.

EU vs Non-EU Applicants

EU Applicants

• Compete in the general national ranking.
• Can apply to multiple universities.
• Admission depends on IMAT score and ranking movement.
• More flexibility in university choice and placement.

Non-EU Applicants

• Can apply to only one university.
• Admission is based on IMAT score and seat availability.
• Seats per university are limited (usually 10–40).
• A high score is essential for competitive programs.
• Strategic university selection is critical.

Carefully assessing your applicant category and understanding the strategic approach to university selection can significantly impact your chances of admission.

Available Seats & Cutoffs

IMAT 2024 Seats

IMAT 2024 - Available Seats

University	Seats 2022	Seats 2023	Seats 2024
La Sapienza	10	13	13
Milan	25	25	15
Pavia	40	40	40
Bologna	20	20	20
Padova	25	20	25
Tor Vergata	10	15	15
Turin	32	32	32
Bicocca	16	18	18
Federico II	25	25	25
Parma	40	45	45
Messina	42	56	56
L. Vanvitelli	40	50	50
Bari	11	11	11
Marche	25	55	60
Catania	-	-	30
Cagliari	-	-	20
Siena (Dentistry)	15	12	12
Sapienza (Dentistry)	6	6	6

University	Seats 2022	Seats 2023	Seats 2024
La Sapienza	10	45	45
Milan	45	55	55
Pavia	103	103	103
Bologna	70	97	97
Padova	51	80	75
Tor Vergata	25	40	40
Turin	70	40	40
Bicocca	26	30	30
Federico II	15	15	15
Parma	60	75	75
Messina	41	55	55
L. Vanvitelli	50	60	60
Bari	42	69	69
Marche	35	25	20
Catania	-	60	30
Cagliari	-	-	80
Siena (Dentistry)	28	23	23
Sapienza (Dentistry)	19	19	19

IMAT Cutoff Scores 2024

Discover the latest IMAT cutoff scores for EU and Non-EU applicants across Italian public medical universities. Plan your strategy and check your eligibility with up-to-date data!

View IMAT Cutoff Scores

Application Process

Step 1: Registration

Register for IMAT on Universitaly.it during the official registration window.

Step 2: Pre-enrollment

Non-EU applicants must complete pre-enrollment on Universitaly for visa purposes.

Step 3: Pre-registration/Application

Some universities also require direct applications (varies by institution and student type).

Step 4: Take the IMAT Exam

Step 5: Check Results and Rankings

Track progress on Universitaly and check anonymous and national rankings.

Step 6: Enrollment

Accepted students must submit required documents to officially enroll.

Application Process

Step 1: Registration

Step 2: Pre-enrollment

Non-EU applicants must complete pre-enrollment on Universitaly for visa purposes.

Step 3: Pre-registration/Application

Some universities also require direct applications (varies by institution and student type).

Step 4: Take the IMAT Exam

Sit for the IMAT exam on the official exam date.

Step 5: Check Results and Rankings

Track progress on Universitaly and check anonymous and national rankings.

Step 6: Enrollment

Accepted students must submit required documents to officially enroll.

Pre-Enrollment vs Pre-Registration

Pre-Enrollment: For non-EU students only, necessary to obtain a study visa. Done through Universitaly.

Pre-Registration: University-specific requirement, needed by some universities (e.g., Milan, Pavia).

Document Checklist

Valid Passport
High School Diploma after completing 12 years of study (translated and legalized)
Statement of Comparability or Declaration of Value (CIMEA)
IMAT Score Result
Pre-enrollment receipt
Visa (for non-EU applicants)
Residence permit (post-arrival)

Helpful Tips for Applicants

Choose your university wisely based on past cutoffs.
Prepare well for Biology and Chemistry — they make up most of the IMAT.
Track all deadlines (registration, ranking release, enrollment).
Join IMAT preparation courses (like ours at Ehabona Academy).

Scholarships and Financial Aid in Italy

Studying medicine in Italy is relatively affordable compared to other countries, and there are multiple financial aid opportunities available, especially for international students. Here’s a breakdown of the main options:

1. DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) Regional Scholarship

This is the most common scholarship for both EU and non-EU students. It is based on family income and includes:

Full or partial tuition fee waiver
Free accommodation or financial support for rent
Free meals or food vouchers
Additional allowances for books or transport

Each region has its own DSU system (e.g. DSU Toscana, EDISU Piemonte). Students apply through the regional portal related to their university.

2. University-based Scholarships

Many universities offer their own merit-based or need-based scholarships. These are usually:

Based on your IMAT score
Based on your academic merit
Sometimes automatically applied during enrollment

Check each university's international student scholarship section for details.

3. Fee Reduction Based on ISEE

The ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator) determines how much tuition a student should pay. Non-EU students must submit income documentation translated and legalized to calculate an equivalent ISEE.

4. External Scholarships

Some students apply for scholarships from:

Home country ministries
Embassies or exchange programs
Private or NGO scholarships

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about Studying Medicine in Italy

1. What is the IMAT and why is it required?

The IMAT (International Medical Admission Test) is the entrance exam required for English-taught Medicine and Surgery programs at public universities in Italy. It tests general knowledge, logic, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Your IMAT score determines your eligibility and ranking.

2. Who needs to take the IMAT?

Anyone applying to an English-language Medicine or Dentistry program at an Italian public university must take the IMAT—this includes both EU and non-EU applicants.

3. Can I apply to more than one university?

EU students can list multiple university preferences and be placed based on their IMAT score and available seats.

Non-EU students can only apply to one university and are evaluated independently based on score and available seats.

4. What happens if I fail the IMAT?

You won't be eligible for admission that year. You can retake the IMAT the following year, or explore private or foundation-year alternatives.

5. What is the difference between pre-enrollment and pre-registration?

Pre-enrollment is a mandatory step for non-EU students to obtain a visa via Universitaly.it.

Pre-registration is an additional application some universities require via their own portals.

Registration, on the other hand, refers specifically to signing up for the IMAT exam.

6. Do I need a visa to study medicine in Italy?

Only non-EU students need a student visa. You’ll apply through the Italian consulate after pre-enrollment approval. EU students do not need a visa.

7. What documents are required for non-EU students?

Typical documents include:

Valid passport

High school diploma + translation and legalization

Pre-enrollment confirmation

Proof of financial means and accommodation

Health insurance

Visa application form

IMAT registration confirmation

8. Are Italian language skills required?

No, the programs are taught entirely in English. However, learning Italian is highly encouraged for daily life and clinical rotations.

9. What are the tuition fees at Italian public universities?

Fees vary by university and your family income. Most universities charge between €500 to €4,000 per year. Scholarships and fee waivers are often available.

10. When should I start preparing?

At least 6–12 months in advance is recommended to prepare for the IMAT and collect all required documents. Many students begin studying for IMAT in January or earlier.

11. Can I transfer from another university or country?

Some universities allow transfers into later years if your previous coursework matches. However, this is rare, competitive, and subject to university approval.

12. Are the degrees recognized internationally?

Yes. Degrees from Italian public universities are recognized across the EU and in many non-EU countries. However, you may need to pass local licensing exams (e.g., USMLE, PLAB) if returning to your home country.

13. What’s the student life like in Italy?

International students enjoy a rich cultural experience, affordable living (especially in smaller cities), and access to historic sites, good food, and a safe environment. Most universities have support services and student communities.

14. Can I work while studying?

Yes, students with a valid residence permit can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week). However, balancing work with medical studies is challenging.

15. What is the Declaration of Value or cimea?

These are official validations of your high school diploma to prove it is legally recognized in Italy. You will need one of them depending on your home country or university need's.

16. How many times can I take the IMAT?

There is no official limit. You can take it every year as long as you meet eligibility requirements.

17. How do I choose the right university as a non-EU student?

You must choose carefully based on:

Previous years' cutoff scores
Number of available non-EU seats
Your preparation level
City preferences and living costs
You’ll only get one chance, so strategy matters.

18. Can non-EU students apply for DSU scholarships?

Yes. Non-EU students can apply, but they must submit translated, legalized, and certified financial documents from their home country that meet the requirements of the Italian region where they study.

19. Is it possible to study medicine in Italy for free?

Yes, if your family income is low and you meet the regional scholarship criteria, you can get a full tuition waiver, free housing, and meals, making it essentially tuition-free.

20. When do I apply for the DSU scholarship?

Applications usually open in July or August, and deadlines vary by region. It’s best to apply as early as possible, even before knowing your IMAT result.

21. What if I miss the scholarship deadline?

If you miss the DSU application, you may still qualify for fee reductions or university-based scholarships, but it will be harder to get full benefits like housing or meals.

Do You Have Any Inquiries?

We’re here to support your journey toward studying medicine in Italy. Whether you have questions about IMAT, universities, or anything else—don’t hesitate to reach out.