Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Program Name |
MBBS / MD (equivalent to Doctor of Medicine) |
|
Duration |
6 years (including 1 year of clinical internship) |
|
Medium of Instruction |
English (for international programs) |
|
Degree Recognition |
Globally recognized by WHO, ECFMG, UNESCO, and European Medical Council |
|
Eligibility Criteria |
10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (minimum 50% marks) and NEET qualification (for Indian students) |
|
Entrance Exam |
IMAT (International Medical Admission Test) – conducted by the Italian Ministry of Education |
|
Tuition Fees |
€500 – €5,000 per year (varies by university and income bracket) |
|
Living Cost |
Approx. €600 – €1,000 per month (accommodation, food, transport) |
|
Top Universities |
University of Milan, Sapienza University of Rome, University of Bologna, University of Pavia, University of Turin |
|
Scholarships |
Available through Italian Government and university-based merit scholarships |
|
Clinical Training |
Conducted in university-affiliated hospitals with modern facilities |
|
Post-Graduation Opportunities |
Eligible to practice in EU countries and apply for licensing exams (USMLE, PLAB, FMGE) |
|
Advantages |
Affordable education, globally accepted degree, multicultural exposure, high-quality healthcare training |
World-Class Medical Education
Italy is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, offering globally recognized MBBS programs that combine advanced medical training with innovative research and technology.
Affordable Tuition and Living Costs
Compared to other European and Western countries, Italy offers high-quality education at a fraction of the cost. Tuition fees range between €500–€5,000 annually, and living expenses are relatively moderate.
English-Medium Programs
Many Italian universities offer MBBS courses entirely in English, making it convenient for international students to study without a language barrier.
Globally Recognized Degree
The MBBS degree from Italy is approved by WHO, ECFMG, UNESCO, and recognized across the EU, allowing graduates to practice medicine worldwide after meeting respective licensing requirements.
Rich Cultural and Academic Environment
Students benefit from Italy’s vibrant culture, diverse community, and exposure to European healthcare systems, enhancing both personal and professional growth.
Scholarship Opportunities
The Italian government and universities provide merit-based and need-based scholarships, making medical education accessible for deserving international students.
Rank |
University Name |
Location |
Approx. Annual Tuition Fees (€) |
Global Ranking (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Bologna |
€2,000 – €4,000 |
QS #154 / THE #155 |
|
|
2 |
Rome |
€1,000 – €3,000 |
QS #171 / THE #181 |
|
|
3 |
Milan |
€800 – €3,500 |
QS #276 / THE #301–350 |
|
|
4 |
Padua |
€2,500 – €4,500 |
QS #242 / THE #201–250 |
|
|
5 |
Turin |
€1,000 – €2,800 |
QS #434 / THE #401–500 |
|
|
6 |
Pavia |
€1,500 – €4,000 |
QS #661–670 / THE #401–500 |
|
|
7 |
Pisa |
€2,500 – €3,500 |
QS #349 / THE #401–500 |
|
|
8 |
Naples |
€1,000 – €2,000 |
QS #424 / THE #501–600 |
|
|
9 |
Siena |
€1,800 – €3,000 |
QS #801–850 / THE #601–800 |
|
|
10 |
Florence |
€1,500 – €3,500 |
QS #335 / THE #351–400 |
Expense Category |
Average Annual Cost (in €) |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
€500 – €5,000 |
Varies by university and student’s family income; public universities are more affordable. |
|
Accommodation |
€3,000 – €6,000 |
University hostels or shared apartments; costs differ by city (Rome, Milan higher). |
|
Food & Meals |
€1,500 – €2,500 |
Based on self-cooking or university canteens. |
|
Transportation |
€250 – €500 |
Monthly student passes available for local travel. |
|
Health Insurance |
€150 – €300 |
Mandatory for all international students; covers basic healthcare. |
|
Miscellaneous Expenses |
€1,000 – €1,500 |
Includes books, utilities, internet, and personal expenses. |
|
Total Estimated Annual Cost |
€6,000 – €15,000 |
Equivalent to approx. 5–13 lakh per year for Indian students. |
Globally Recognized Degree
Italian medical universities offer MBBS (MD equivalent) programs recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), National Medical Commission (NMC) of India, and European Medical Council, enabling graduates to practice medicine globally after qualifying respective licensing exams.
Affordable and Quality Education
Public universities in Italy provide world-class medical education at affordable tuition fees ranging from €500–€5,000 per year, with several scholarships and need-based financial aids for international students, including Indians.
English-Medium Programs
Many top Italian universities, such as the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and University of Milan, offer complete MBBS programs in English, eliminating language barriers for Indian students.
Admission through IMAT
Admission is based on the International Medical Admission Test (IMAT) conducted by the Italian Ministry of Education, ensuring a transparent and merit-based selection process.
Global Exposure and Career Opportunities
Studying in Italy provides exposure to European healthcare systems, cultural diversity, and international medical practices, preparing students for successful careers in India, Europe, the UK, or the USA.
Event / Activity |
Timeline (Typical Schedule) |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Application Opening |
November – February |
Online applications open on university portals and Universitaly platform. |
|
Application Deadline |
March – April |
Last date to submit documents and select universities for the IMAT exam. |
|
IMAT Registration |
June – July |
Conducted by the Italian Ministry of Education for international MBBS admissions. |
|
IMAT Exam Date |
September |
Online test held simultaneously worldwide; assesses biology, chemistry, logic, and general knowledge. |
|
Result Announcement |
Late September – Early October |
Results published on official IMAT and university websites. |
|
University Enrollment |
October – November |
Successful candidates confirm admission and submit required documents. |
|
Academic Session Begins |
October / November |
Classes commence for the first year of MBBS programs. |
Category |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
Must have completed 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects. |
|
Minimum Marks Required |
At least 50% aggregate in PCB (for General category) and 40% for reserved categories (as per NMC norms). |
|
NEET Qualification |
Mandatory for Indian students to be eligible for studying medicine abroad and for NMC registration in India. |
|
Age Requirement |
Minimum 17 years old as of 31st December of the admission year. |
|
Entrance Exam |
IMAT (International Medical Admission Test) conducted by the Italian Ministry of Education. |
|
IMAT Exam Pattern |
60 questions (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math, Logic, and General Knowledge); duration: 100 minutes. |
|
Language Proficiency |
English proficiency required (some universities may request IELTS/TOEFL). |
|
Selection Process |
Based on IMAT score, academic record, and document verification. |
Document |
Description / Purpose |
|---|---|
|
Valid Passport |
Must be valid for the entire study period; required for visa and university admission. |
|
10th & 12th Mark Sheets |
Proof of academic qualification with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as main subjects. |
|
NEET Scorecard |
Mandatory for Indian students as per NMC regulations for studying medicine abroad. |
|
IMAT Scorecard |
Required for admission to English-taught MBBS programs in Italian universities. |
|
Birth Certificate |
Proof of date of birth; may need to be translated into Italian. |
|
Passport-Sized Photographs |
Recent colored photos as per visa and university specifications. |
|
Medical Fitness Certificate |
Confirms physical and mental fitness to pursue medical studies. |
|
English Proficiency Proof |
IELTS/TOEFL (if required by the university). |
|
Offer Letter / Admission Letter |
Issued by the university after selection. |
|
Visa Documents |
Student visa application form, financial proof, and travel insurance. |
Research and University Selection:
Choose Italian public universities offering English-taught MBBS programs recognized by the NMC and WHO.
Check Eligibility:
Ensure completion of 10+2 with PCB, minimum 50% marks, NEET qualification, and eligibility for the IMAT entrance test.
IMAT Registration:
Register for the International Medical Admission Test (IMAT) through the Universitaly portal (June–July).
Appear for IMAT Exam:
Take the test in September; selection is based on global merit ranking.
Receive Admission Offer:
Qualified candidates receive an offer letter or invitation from the chosen university.
Apply for Student Visa:
Submit required documents (offer letter, passport, financial proof, health insurance) to the Italian Embassy for visa approval.
Travel & Enrollment:
Upon visa approval, travel to Italy and complete university enrollment before the academic session begins (October–November).
Intake Session |
Timeline |
Key Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Primary Intake (Fall / Autumn) |
October – November |
Main intake for MBBS programs in Italy; all public universities start their academic year during this period. |
|
Application Period |
November – April |
Students must apply online via university portals or the Universitaly platform before the deadline. |
|
IMAT Exam |
September |
Conducted annually; mandatory for international applicants to English-taught MBBS programs. |
|
Visa Processing |
August – September |
Apply for a student visa immediately after receiving the admission offer. |
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Course Name |
MBBS / MD (Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery) |
|
Total Duration |
6 years (including clinical training and internship) |
|
Pre-Clinical Phase |
Years 1–3: Focus on basic sciences – Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Pathology. |
|
Clinical Phase |
Years 4–6: Hospital-based training, clinical rotations, and practical exposure in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, etc. |
|
Medium of Instruction |
English (for international programs) |
|
Assessment Method |
Written exams, viva voce, practical evaluations, and research projects. |
|
Degree Awarded |
Doctor of Medicine (MD) – globally recognized and equivalent to MBBS. |
Parameter |
MBBS in Italy |
MBBS in India |
|---|---|---|
|
Course Duration |
6 years (including internship) |
5.5 years (including internship) |
|
Medium of Instruction |
English (for international programs) |
English |
|
Entrance Exam |
IMAT (and NEET for Indian students) |
NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) |
|
Tuition Fees |
€500 – €5,000 per year (45,000 – 4.5 lakh) |
5–20 lakh per year (private colleges) |
|
Quality of Education |
European-standard curriculum with global exposure |
Good theoretical base; practical exposure varies by college |
|
Degree Recognition |
Recognized by WHO, NMC, ECFMG, and EU countries |
Recognized by NMC and WHO |
|
Clinical Exposure |
Early and extensive in advanced hospitals |
Depends on college infrastructure |
|
Global Opportunities |
Easier access to EU, UK, and US medical practice |
Limited to India unless foreign exams are cleared |
|
Scholarships |
Government and university-based |
Limited or merit-based only |
Technically, Indian students must qualify NEET to study MBBS abroad and later practice in India, as per NMC (National Medical Commission) rules. However, if a student does not plan to return to India for medical practice, they can pursue MBBS in Italy without NEET by qualifying the IMAT (International Medical Admission Test)—the mandatory entrance exam for international applicants. Several Italian universities accept IMAT scores for admission to English-taught medical programs. In this case, NEET is not required, but students won’t be eligible to practice medicine in India after graduation.
Year |
Subjects / Focus Area |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
1st Year |
Anatomy, Histology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Medical Terminology |
Foundation in human biology and structure; introduction to medical ethics. |
|
2nd Year |
Physiology, Microbiology, Genetics, Immunology, Behavioral Sciences |
Study of body functions, microbes, and basic disease mechanisms. |
|
3rd Year |
Pathology, Pharmacology, Clinical Biochemistry, Introduction to Clinical Medicine |
Transition from theory to early clinical exposure and patient interaction. |
|
4th Year |
Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology |
Core medical disciplines with hospital-based clinical rotations. |
|
5th Year |
Psychiatry, Orthopedics, Dermatology, Neurology, Emergency Medicine |
Advanced clinical training and specialty exposure. |
|
6th Year |
Clinical Internship, Research Project, Public Health, Electives |
Full-time clinical practice, research work, and preparation for licensing exams. |
Indian students pursuing MBBS in Italy can access several government and university-funded scholarships to reduce tuition and living costs. The Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI) offers full or partial tuition waivers, accommodation, and monthly stipends. Regional scholarships like EDISU (Piedmont), DSU Toscana, and Laziodiscoprovide financial aid based on income and academic merit. Many universities, including the University of Bologna and University of Pavia, also grant merit-based scholarships for high-performing students. These scholarships make studying medicine in Italy highly affordable, covering €3,000–€10,000 annually, depending on the student’s financial background and academic excellence.
Postgraduate Studies (Residency): Graduates can specialize in various fields like Surgery, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, or Psychiatry by applying for postgraduate programs in Italy or other European nations.
Medical Practice in the EU: After clearing local licensing requirements, students can work as doctors within the European Union, benefiting from high salaries and advanced healthcare systems.
Global Licensing Exams: Graduates can appear for USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), or MCCQE (Canada) to practice medicine abroad.
Returning to India: Those wishing to work in India must qualify the FMGE/NExT exam to register with the NMC.
Research and Public Health: Italy’s strong medical research environment also offers opportunities in biomedical research, public health, and global healthcare organizations.
After completing an MBBS (MD) degree in Italy, students can pursue a wide range of postgraduate (PG) and specialization programs in medicine both within Italy and abroad. Italian universities offer Residency Programs (Specializzazione Medica) in fields like Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Cardiology, Gynecology, Orthopedics, and Psychiatry. Admission is based on a national entrance test for EU and non-EU students, and the training typically lasts 3–6 years, depending on the specialty.
Graduates can also explore Master’s degrees in Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, or Healthcare Management, often offered in English. Italy’s collaboration with other European Union universities allows students to continue their medical specialization in countries like Germany, France, or Spain under the EU professional mobility framework.
For those seeking international opportunities, students can take USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), or MCCQE (Canada) to qualify for residency programs abroad. Indian graduates can return home and appear for FMGE/NExT to pursue postgraduate medical education in India.
Additionally, students with a research interest can pursue PhD programs in Medical Sciences, Biotechnology, or Clinical Research at top Italian or international universities.
Doctors who complete their MBBS (MD) from Italy earn competitive salaries depending on experience, specialization, and workplace. On average, a medical graduate working in Italy earns between €35,000 and €70,000 per year (31–62 lakh). Resident doctors or trainees typically earn around €1,800–€3,000 per month, while specialists can make €5,000–€8,000 per month in public or private hospitals. Salaries increase significantly with experience and specialization. Graduates working in other EU countries, the UK, or the USA can earn even higher incomes, making an Italian MBBS degree highly rewarding and globally valuable for medical careers.
Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
Offer Letter: Official admission letter from a recognized Italian university confirming MBBS enrollment.
Visa Application Form: Completed and signed, available on the Italian Embassy/Consulate website.
Academic Documents: Attested copies of 10th and 12th mark sheets, NEET scorecard, and IMAT result (if applicable).
Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsorship showing funds of at least €7,000–€8,000 per year to cover living expenses.
Accommodation Proof: University hostel confirmation or rental agreement.
Health Insurance: Valid insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical emergencies.
Passport-Sized Photos (as per Schengen specifications).
Visa Fee: Approximately €50–€60, payable at the time of application.
Yes, an MBBS degree from Italy is valid in India, provided the university is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and meets the criteria mentioned in the Foreign Medical Graduate Regulations, 2021. Italian medical universities such as the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and University of Milan are globally accredited by WHO and NMC, making their degrees acceptable in India.
Indian students who complete MBBS in Italy must qualify the FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination) or the upcoming NExT (National Exit Test) to obtain a license for medical practice in India. The Italian MBBS program’s duration (6 years), clinical training, and English-medium instruction also fulfill NMC’s requirements for foreign medical education.
In summary, MBBS from Italy is fully valid in India, provided students clear the required screening exam and obtain NMC registration for professional practice.
University Shortlisting:
Based on your academic profile, NEET score, and budget, Standyou helps shortlist top Italian public universitiesoffering English-taught MBBS programs recognized by NMC and WHO.
Application Documentation:
Assistance in preparing and verifying required documents such as academic transcripts, passports, NEET certificates, and IMAT registration forms as per university standards.
Exam Preparation (IMAT):
Expert mentoring and study resources are provided to help students prepare effectively for the International Medical Admission Test (IMAT), essential for MBBS admission in Italy.
University Applications:
Standyou manages the online application process through the Universitaly portal, ensuring accurate submission before deadlines.
Scholarship Filing:
Guidance in applying for Italian Government (MAECI) and regional scholarships like EDISU, maximizing financial aid opportunities.
Visa Assistance:
End-to-end support for student visa documentation, interview preparation, and residence permit application, ensuring a hassle-free transition to Italy.
Question |
Answer |
|---|---|
|
1. Is MBBS in Italy recognized in India? |
Yes. MBBS degrees from Italian public universities recognized by NMC and WHOare valid in India after passing FMGE/NExT. |
|
2. What is the duration of MBBS in Italy? |
The MBBS (MD) program lasts 6 years, including pre-clinical and clinical training. |
|
3. Is NEET mandatory for Indian students? |
Yes, NEET qualification is required to study MBBS abroad and practice in India later. |
|
4. What entrance exam is required for admission? |
Students must qualify the IMAT (International Medical Admission Test)conducted by the Italian Ministry of Education. |
|
5. What is the medium of instruction? |
The MBBS course for international students is taught entirely in English. |
|
6. What is the average tuition fee? |
Tuition fees range between €500 – €5,000 per year, depending on the university and scholarships. |
|
7. Are scholarships available? |
Yes, scholarships such as MAECI, EDISU, and DSU Toscana offer tuition waivers and living allowances. |
|
8. Can Indian students work while studying? |
Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester. |
|
9. Is the cost of living affordable? |
Yes, living costs range from €600–€1,000 per month, depending on the city. |
|
10. What are the post-MBBS options? |
Graduates can pursue residency in Italy/EU, appear for USMLE, PLAB, or return to India for FMGE/NExT. |