The admission intake for MBBS in Italy opens once each year, with applications beginning around July for international students. The IMAT entrance exam usually takes place in September, followed by the release of merit rankings. Academic classes for MBBS programs typically start between September and October.
Study in MBBS in Italy 2026: Benefits, Universities, Eligibility Criteria
Study MBBS in Italy for Indian Students offers a clear academic and financial advantage through public universities, English-taught programs, and global recognition. Indian students access low tuition fees, often between €500 and €4,000 (₹53,000–₹4,28,000 INR) annually, which keeps total costs far below private medical colleges. Government-backed and university-level scholarship opportunities support tuition reduction and living expenses of international students. These benefits position Italy as a practical medical education route with strong academic depth and controlled spending.
Top medical colleges and universities in Italy to study MBBS include University of Bologna, University of Milan, and Humanitas University. These universities offer a six year degree in MD (Medicinae Doctor) equivalent to MBBS in India.
Requirements to study MBBS in Italy focus on academic eligibility and entrance tests. Indian students need completion of Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, along with a valid NEET qualification as per Indian regulations. Admission in medica colleges in Italy depends on performance in the IMAT entrance exam, which assesses biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and logic. Document verification, visa processing, and language readiness complete the eligibility pathway for MBBS admission in Italy.
What are the Benefits of Studying MBBS in Italy?
The main benefits of studying in MBBS Italy are discussed below.
Low tuition fees reduce financial pressure since public medical universities charge roughly ₹53,000 to ₹4.3 lakh per year.
Government and university scholarships lower education and living expenses through need-based and merit-based funding schemes.
Globally recognised medical degrees support career mobility since Italian MBBS programs hold approval from WHO and Indian medical authorities.
English-taught MBBS programs remove language barriers while maintaining European medical education standards.
Standardised IMAT admission process ensures transparent selection based on merit rather than donation-based entry systems.
Strong clinical exposure develops practical skills through training in public hospitals and research-driven medical centers.
Affordable student living costs help Indian students manage expenses in many Italian cities compared to other Western countries.
What are the Top Medical Universities to Study MBBS in Italy?
The top medical universities to study MBBS in Italy for Indian students are summarized in the table below.
| Universities to Study MBBS in Italy | QS World Ranking | Medical Degree (English-Taught) | Duration | Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Milan | 285 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| Sapienza University of Rome | 132 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| University of Bologna | 133 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| University of Padua | 236 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| University of Turin | 241 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| University of Florence | 375 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| University of Pisa | 382 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| University of Naples Federico II | 347 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| University of Milan-Bicocca | 513 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| University of Pavia | 440 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| Vita-Salute San Raffaele University | Top 300 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
| Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore | Top 200 | MD – Medicine and Surgery | 6 Years | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, AMEE, EMSA |
What is the Syllabus of MBBS in Italian Medical Universities?
The MBBS syllabus in Italian medical universities follows a six-year structure defined by the Italian Ministry of Education and aligned with European medical standards. The MBBS Syllabus in public medical universities in Italy is mentioned below.
First Year cover Anatomy, Histology, Embryology, Biology, and Biochemistry during the first two years.
Second Year introduce Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, and Immunology in the middle phase.
Third Year starts from the third year through hospital observations and clinical methodology training.
Fourth Year focuses on Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics and Gynecology in senior years.
Fifth Year place students in teaching hospitals under faculty supervision during the final phase.
Sixth Year internship to train students in patient safety, communication, and clinical posting.
What Is the Eligibility & Admission Requirement for MBBS in Italy?
The eligibility and admission requirement for studying MBBS in Italy is given below.
Pass Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology from a recognised Indian board.
Score at least 50–60% marks in PCB subjects based on university eligibility norms.
Qualify the NEET exam to keep the Italian MBBS degree valid for medical practice in India.
Appear for the IMAT entrance exam, which governs admission to English-taught MBBS programs.
Meet the age requirement by turning 17 years old before 31 December of the admission year.
Submit academic transcripts, NEET scorecard, passport, and required translated documents.
Apply for an Italian student visa after securing admission and financial proof.
Is NEET Required for MBBS in Italy?
No, NEET is not required by Italian universities for admission. However, NEET qualification remains essential to study MBBS abroad and return to India for medical practice. Italian universities grant MBBS admission based on IMAT scores, while NEET remains compulsory only for Indian regulatory compliance.
What Documents are Required for MBBS Admission in Italy?
The documents required for MBBS admission in Italy are listed below.
Class 10 mark sheet
Class 12 mark sheet
Acamedic transcripts
IMAT scorecard
Valid passport
When is the Admission Intake for MBBS in Italy?
What is the Cost to Study MBBS In Italy?
The overall cost to study in Italy, including the living expenses is given in the table below.
| Expense Type | 1st Year | 2nd Year | 3rd Year | 4th Year | 5th Year | 6th Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | €1,000 – €4,000 (₹1.07 – ₹4.28 lakh) |
€1,000 – €4,000 (₹1.07 – ₹4.28 lakh) |
€1,000 – €4,000 (₹1.07 – ₹4.28 lakh) |
€1,000 – €4,000 (₹1.07 – ₹4.28 lakh) |
€1,000 – €4,000 (₹1.07 – ₹4.28 lakh) |
€1,000 – €4,000 (₹1.07 – ₹4.28 lakh) |
| Living Expenses | €6,000 – €8,000 (₹6.4 – ₹8.6 lakh) |
€6,000 – €8,000 (₹6.4 – ₹8.6 lakh) |
€6,000 – €8,000 (₹6.4 – ₹8.6 lakh) |
€6,000 – €8,000 (₹6.4 – ₹8.6 lakh) |
€6,000 – €8,000 (₹6.4 – ₹8.6 lakh) |
€6,000 – €8,000 (₹6.4 – ₹8.6 lakh) |
| Health Insurance | €150 – €300 (₹16k – ₹32k) |
€150 – €300 (₹16k – ₹32k) |
€150 – €300 (₹16k – ₹32k) |
€150 – €300 (₹16k – ₹32k) |
€150 – €300 (₹16k – ₹32k) |
€150 – €300 (₹16k – ₹32k) |
| Study Materials | €200 – €400 (₹21k – ₹43k) |
€200 – €400 (₹21k – ₹43k) |
€200 – €400 (₹21k – ₹43k) |
€200 – €400 (₹21k – ₹43k) |
€200 – €400 (₹21k – ₹43k) |
€200 – €400 (₹21k – ₹43k) |
| Estimated Total | €7,350 – €12,700 (₹7.9 – ₹13.6 lakh) |
€7,350 – €12,700 (₹7.9 – ₹13.6 lakh) |
€7,350 – €12,700 (₹7.9 – ₹13.6 lakh) |
€7,350 – €12,700 (₹7.9 – ₹13.6 lakh) |
€7,350 – €12,700 (₹7.9 – ₹13.6 lakh) |
€7,350 – €12,700 (₹7.9 – ₹13.6 lakh) |
Availing a scholarship in Italy helps to cover living and study expenses. Therefore, before moving to Italy, Indian students consider applying for merit or need-based scholarship to study MBBS for free in Italy.
What Scholarships are Available for MBBS Students in Italy?
The following scholarships are available for MBBS students in Italy.
Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI Scholarship)
DSU Regional Scholarship (Diritto allo Studio Universitario)
LazioDisco Scholarship
EDISU Piemonte Scholarship
ER.GO Emilia-Romagna Scholarship
University of Bologna Study Grants
Sapienza University Tuition Waiver Program
University of Milan Excellence Scholarships
What Career Opportunities are Avaialble After Completing MBBS in Italy?
After completing your MBBS degree in Italy, following career opportunities can be availed.
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Start a private clinic in the home country after meeting local licensing requirements.
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Work at a private clinic or hospital in India or abroad after completing the required registration process.
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Join a reputed institute as a research associate within universities or medical research centers in Europe.
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Obtain a license to practice in Italy after registering with the Italian Medical Council and proving Italian language proficiency at B2 level or higher.
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Pursue postgraduate specialization in Italy by clearing the national residency entrance exam, with most programs taught in Italian.
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Move to other EU countries for further studies due to degree alignment with European medical education standards.
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Practice medicine in India after clearing the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination or NExT as per Indian regulations.
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Practice medicine in the United States after clearing the USMLE and completing residency requirements.
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Apply for medical PG abroad in countries such as the UK, Germany, or India through licensing exams like PLAB, national exams, or FMGE.
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Enter research and academia through PhD programs and clinical research projects supported by European research initiatives.
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Work in public health or hospital administration within healthcare systems, NGOs, or government health departments after relevant certification.
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Collaborate with international organizations such as global health agencies and humanitarian medical groups.
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Transition into medical writing or consulting for pharmaceutical firms, journals, or health-technology companies.
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Build a career in telemedicine or health-tech startups by combining clinical knowledge with digital healthcare platforms.
Is MBBS in Italy Better than India?
MBBS in Italy offers lower public tuition fees, merit-based IMAT admission, and strong EU recognition, while MBBS in India provides wider patient exposure and direct licensing for practice within India. Italy suits students seeking affordable European education and global mobility, whereas India suits students targeting local clinical practice and structured reservation-based admissions. The better choice depends on career goals, budget, and long-term practice location.
| Comparison Factor | MBBS in Italy | MBBS in India |
|---|---|---|
| Admission Process | IMAT-based national merit exam | NEET-based national entrance exam |
| Tuition Fees (Public) | Lower public fees with income-based slabs | Low in government colleges, high in private colleges |
| Donation System | No donation-based admission | Private colleges may involve high capitation fees |
| Medium of Instruction | English (selected universities) | English |
| Duration | 6 Years | 5.5 Years (including internship) |
| Clinical Exposure | Structured hospital rotations | High patient load in government hospitals |
| Global Recognition | Recognized across EU with mobility advantage | Recognized globally, licensing depends on country |
| Practice in India | Requires FMGE/NExT after return | Direct eligibility after MBBS |
| PG Opportunities | Access to EU residency pathways | Competitive PG entrance exams (NEET-PG/NExT) |
| Cost of Living | Moderate to high depending on city | Lower compared to Europe |
What are the Pros and Cons of Studying MBBS in Italy?
The pros and cons of studying MBBS are given in the table below.
| Pros of MBBS in Italy | Cons of MBBS in Italy |
|---|---|
| Low public tuition fees with scholarship options | Require FMGE/NExT to practice in India |
| IMAT-based merit admission without donation system | Face Italian language requirement for residency or practice in Italy |
| EU-recognized degree with mobility across Europe | Manage higher living expenses compared to India |
Which is the Best Medical University for MBBS in Italy?
There is no single best university, since the choice depends on ranking, clinical exposure, city preference, and IMAT score. However, Sapienza University of Rome, University of Bologna, and University of Milan are often considered top italian medical universities due to strong global rankings, structured hospital training, and established English-taught MBBS syllabus.
Is IMAT Compulsory for MBBS in Italy?
Yes, IMAT is mandatory for admission to English-taught MBBS programs in Italian public universities. Your rank determines seat allocation through the national merit system.
Whati s the Course Duration of MBBS in Italy?
The course duration of MBBS in Italy is 6 years, structured as an integrated medical program. The first two years focus on basic medical sciences such as anatomy and biochemistry, the third and fourth years introduce pathology and clinical subjects, and the final two years emphasize full-time hospital rotations and advanced clinical training. The program combines theory and practical exposure throughout, without a separate internship year.
What Is the Medium of Teaching for MBBS in Italy?
The medium of teaching for MBBS in Italy is English in selected public and private universities, especially for international students admitted through the IMAT exam. These English-taught Medicine and Surgery programs cover lectures, practical sessions, and examinations in English. Italian language training becomes important during clinical rotations and for long-term medical practice in Italy.
What Is the Fee of MBBS for Italy?
The fee for MBBS in Italy at public universities typically ranges between €1,000 and €4,000 per year (approximately ₹1.07 to ₹4.28 lakh per year), depending on family income declared under the ISEE system.
Is Study MBBS Free in Italy for Indian Students?
MBBS in Italy is not completely free, but public universities charge low tuition fees and offer strong scholarship support. Income-based tuition reduction through the ISEE system lowers annual fees significantly, and regional scholarships in Italy such as DSU may cover tuition, accommodation, and provide a living allowance. With scholarships, many Indian students pay minimal fees, though living expenses still apply.
How Many Seats are Available for Indian Students for MBBS in Italy?
Seat numbers vary yearly, but non-EU students compete under a reserved quota defined by each university and published before IMAT registration.
What is the Minimum IMAT Score Required for MBBS in Italy?
There is no fixed minimum score. Admission depends on yearly cut-offs, competition level, and seat availability in your chosen universities.
Is Italian Language Required for MBBS in Italy?
Italian is not required for admission to English-taught programs, but B2-level proficiency becomes important for clinical interaction and residency in Italy.
Is the MBBS Degree from Italy Recognized Globally?
Yes, Italian MD degrees are recognized across the EU and listed in global medical directories, subject to country-specific licensing exams.
Is MBBS in Italy Valid in India?
Yes, MBBS in Italy is valid in India, provided the student qualifies NEET before admission and clears the FMGE or NExT licensing exam after graduation. Italian medical universities award an MD (Medicine and Surgery) degree, which is equivalent to MBBS and recognized under international medical education frameworks. Graduates must register with the National Medical Commission after passing the required screening test to practice medicine in India.
How Pathway to Overseas Study Consultant Help in Studying MBBS in Italy?
Pathway to Overseas Study Consultant guides Indian students through every stage of the MBBS admission process in Italy, from IMAT registration to university selection. The team assists with profile evaluation, document preparation, university application submission, and scholarship guidance aligned with Italian public university requirements.
The consultant supports NEET-compliant admission planning, study visa documentation, and pre-departure counseling to reduce procedural errors. Indian students benefit from structured guidance on IMAT strategy, university preference filling, and ISEE-based tuition documentation.
Choosing Pathway to Overseas helps students avoid application mistakes, understand seat allocation strategy, and manage timelines efficiently, which improves admission clarity and reduces uncertainty during the MBBS application process in Italy.