Did you know that Italy hosts over 200,000 international students from 168 countries? That’s right—this boot-shaped peninsula isn’t just about pasta and piazzas. It’s a global hub for curious minds, and an excellent destination for the pursuit of medicine. Italy has a long-standing tradition of excellence in medical education and research and is home to prestigious medical schools that are some of the oldest in the world. There are several MBBS programs taught in English for international students, covering basic sciences, clinical skills and humanities over a six-year duration. From high-quality healthcare to low tuition fees, there are many reasons Italy could be the perfect study-abroad destination for you.

This guide provides you with all the essential information and guidance you need to study an MBBS in Italy. You can browse the various MBBS programs in Italy on Global Admissions to learn more and apply to them online.

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Medicine in Italy

Italy is the birthplace of modern medicine During the 16th century, the Italian city of Padua played a pivotal role in a scientific revolution. It was here that Andreas Vesalius, a groundbreaking anatomist, performed human dissections, allowing the real picture of human anatomy to emerge for the first time. Prior to this, ancient knowledge relied on dissections of monkeys. The University of Padua, founded in 1222, upheld the tradition of studying medicine and became a renowned center of the sciences.

Today, Italy’s healthcare system is a masterpiece of universal coverage. The Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) ensures that even the humblest trattoria owner can access top-notch medical care. The system makes more an extremely conducive learning environment for students.

Why Study MBBS in Italy?

High academic standards and comprehensive medical curriculum.
Internationally recognized degree that is highly regarded worldwide
Promising job market with a demand for skilled medical professionals
Wide range of career paths and specialties to choose from
Affordable tuition fees compared to other destinations, with the availability of scholarships and other financial aid options
Warm climate, lively culture, fascinating history, and beautiful landscapes
Strategic location and easy access to explore other destinations in Europe
State-of-the-art facilities, world-class faculty, and strong research opportunities
Warmth and hospitality of Italian people
Delicious and healthy cuisine

Overview of MBBS Programs in Italy

Italy is home to several prestigious universities recognized worldwide for their medical education and research programs, such University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and the University of Milan. These institutions attract students from all over the world, creating a multicultural campus environment that can prepare you to excel in an increasingly globalized healthcare system.

The MBBS degree in Italy, called “Laurea Magistrale in Medicina e Chirurgia”, is a 6-year program that covers both theoretical knowledge and practical training. The program provides a solid foundation in the medical sciences by focusing on medical scientific research and evidence-based medicine.

Italian medical schools emphasize hands-on training and offer extensive clinical exposure. As an international MBBS student in Italy, you will have opportunities to work with experienced doctors, gain practical skills in a variety of clinical settings, and engage in research projects. Many universities have well-equipped research centers and collaborations with leading global institutions, giving you the chance to contribute to innovative scientific discoveries and advancements in medicine.

There are usually specific eligibility criteria for international students, including minimum grades for certain subjects, the IMAT exam, and language proficiency skills.

Apart from the academic aspect, living and studying in Italy offers a unique experience. You’ll have a chance to discover the depths of Italy’s history, landscapes and artistic heritage. Immersing yourself in the Italian lifestyle provides students with a well-rounded experience that contributes to their personal growth.

Where is an MBBS Degree from Italy recognized?

MBBS degrees awarded by Italian universities have worldwide recognition and are accredited by NMC (National Medical Commission) and WHO (World Health Organization).

Universities for MBBS Programs in Italy

Learn more about the MBBS program offered by these top universities in Italy:

Application Process for MBBS in Italy

Admission Requirements

Be at least 17 years of age
A high school diploma with a score of at least 50% marks in physics, chemistry, and biology.
For Indian students, a valid NEET score of at least 50%.
A good score in the International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT), a mandatory test for all candidates.
Proof of language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs and CILS or CELI for Italian-taught programs.

Dates and Deadlines

The important dates for applying will vary by university and program, so ensure you check the dates for the specific program you’re applying to on Global Admissions. Here are some general estimates:

Pre-enrollment: April to June (only for non-EU students)
IMAT registration: July to August
IMAT exam: September
Admission results: October
Academic session: October to November

Fees & Scholarships

Tuition Fees

To give you an idea of how much it costs to study MBBS in Italy, here are the recent program fees at different universities. Ensure you check the up-to-date fees for your program before you apply.

University Name	Fee (Yearly)	Total Program Fee
University of Turin	€2,800 ($3,300)	€16,800 ($19,800)
Humanitas University	€23,156 ($27,300)	€138,936 ($163,800)
University of Padua	€2,529 ($2,980)	€15,174 ($17,880)
University of Bologna	€3,000 ($3,540)	€18,000 ($21,240)
University of Milan	€3,985 ($4,700)	€23,910 ($28,200)
University of Pavia	€3,500 ($4,130)	€21,000 ($24,780)
Sapienza University of Rome	€1,200 ($1,410)	€7,200 ($8,460)

The tuition fee may vary depending on the student’s income, academic performance, and nationality. Some universities may offer discounts or exemptions for students from low-income families or developing countries.

READ MORE: Study for CHEAP in Italy!

Scholarships

There are a number of scholarship, grant and financial aid options available for international students who want to study MBBS in Italy. Some of them include:

Italian Government Scholarships: Financial support for international students is offered through various programs, such as Invest Your Talent in Italy.
University Scholarships: Many of the universities offer their own scholarships, which may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. Universities include the University of Pavia, University of Bologna, and University of Milan
External and Private Scholarships: International organizations, foundations and governments can also offer support for your studies, depending on your circumstances. Organizations include the Fulbright Program and the Erasmus+ program.
The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) offers scholarships for students from developing countries who want to pursue a degree in medicine or related fields in Italy

Career Prospects for MBBS Graduates from Italy

An MBBS degree from Italy can qualify you to enter the workforce in Italy or around the world, or to pursue further studies in the field or in a specialization.

To practice medicine in Italy, you’ll need to undergo a three-month clinical placement, pass a national medical exam, and register with the Italian medical professional association to obtain a medical license. The average salary of a doctor in Italy is approximately €130,983 a year.

You can also practice medicine in other countries, as long as they clear the licensing exams of that country. The MBBS degree from Italian universities is globally recognized and accredited by NMC and WHO.

There is also the option to pursue further studies and specializations in Italy or abroad.

Life in Italy

Italian Culture:

Immerse yourself Italy’s rich cultural heritage, through its numerous historical sites, museums, and cultural events. Italians are known for their warmth and hospitality, and foreign students often find themselves welcomed into a close-knit community. There is strong emphasis on family, tradition, and community, which plays a significant role in the daily lives of Italians.

Environment:

There is a thrilling diversity of natural environments to explore in Italy, with landscapes ranging from the coastline of the Amalfi Coast to the peaks of the Alps. There are also many national parks and UNESCO Word Heritage Sites reflecting the country’s beauty. With a mild Mediterranean climate in the south and a more continental climate in the north, there are opportunities to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities all year round.

Cost of Living:

The cost of living in Italy varies depending on the location, with major cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence generally being more expensive than smaller towns.

Language:

Italian is the official language of Italy, though many Italians speak English. Learning the Italian language can enrich your study abroad experience, as it allows you to better interact with locals and understand the culture and society. Many universities offer Italian language courses for international students.

Transportation:

Italy has an efficient public transportation system incorporating trains, buses, trams, and metros, making it easy to travel within and between cities. Many cities also have bike-sharing programs, providing a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around. There are well-connected airports and train stations make it relatively simple to explore other European destinations during breaks.

Healthcare:

Italy has a high-quality public healthcare system. International students studying in Italy can access healthcare services by obtaining the necessary health insurance or the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Many universities also provide healthcare services for their students, including access to on-campus clinics and medical professionals.

Food & Cuisine:

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its specialties. From pasta and pizza to gelato and espresso, you can explore traditional dishes and local ingredients from the origin. Italian food culture also emphasizes the social aspect of dining, so you can enjoy the gastronomic traditions by sharing meals with friends and classmates.

Apply to Study in Italy

Whether you’re dissecting a prosciutto or a pancreas, Italy beckons—a canvas where medicine meets Michelangelo, where the scalpel meets Stradivarius. If you are interested in studying MBBS in Italy, you can browse and apply to programs through the Global Admissions platform.