The Secret How to Apply for MBBS in Italy
Dreaming of a medical career? Picture yourself studying medicine in a country known for its rich history, incredible food, and beautiful architecture. Italy has become a top choice for international students, especially from India, looking for high-quality, affordable medical education.
How to apply for MBBS in Italy the entire process might seem a bit complex at first, but with this step by step guide, you will see that it’s completely manageable. Let’s break down everything need to know to successfully apply for MBBS in Italy.
How to Apply for MBBS in Italy without IELTS
The first major question many students have is about English proficiency tests. It’s common misconception that to study in Europe, you absolutely need to take the IELTS or TOEFL. The good news is that when it comes to Italian public universities, the answer is often no many of the English taught medical programs do not require you to submit an IELTS score. This is a huge relief for student who want to avoid the extra exam and its associated costs.

However, keep in mind that a strong command of English is still essential, as the entire curriculum and all lectures will be in English. The universities trust that your performance on the entrance exam and your academic background are sufficient proof of your English language skills.
Beyond this, let’s look at the other basic requirements to ensure you are eligible to begin this journey. You must have completed your 10+2 with physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects. While some universities have a minimum required of around 50%, aiming for at least 70% in your PCS subjects will significantly boost your chances. For Indian students, it is also mandatory to have a valid NEET score. Furthermore, you must be a minimum of 17 years old to be considered for admission.
The Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you are ready to start the formal application process. Think of it as a series of checkpoint you need to clear to reach your destination.
Step 1: The IMAT Exam: The Gateway to Admission
The most crucial part of the application process is the IMAT. This single mandatory exam is the sole criterion for admission to all public universities offering MBBS programs in English. The exam itself is a 100-minute, paper based test. It consists of 60 multiple choice question and is scored out of a total of 90 points. It divided into 2 main sections.
- Logical Reasoning & General Knowledge (22 questions): This tests your critical thinking, problem solving skills, and awareness of current events.
- Scientific Knowledge (38 questions): This section is where your high school science knowledge comes in handy, with questions on Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
A quick heads up the IMAT has a negative marking of 0.4 for every incorrect answer. This means it’s smarter to leave a question unanswered than to guess and risk losing points. The exam is typically held in September, so you should start your preparation at least 4-6 months in advance.
Step 2: The Application Portal: Universitaly.it
This is the central hub for your entire application. The pre-enrollment and IMAT registration are done online through the official universitaly.it portal. The application window is very specific, usually opening in July and closing in early august. During this time you will.
- Create an account on the portal.
- Select your preferred universities in order of priority.
- Upload all your academic and personal documents.
- Pay the IMAT registration fee approximately €130-€170
Step 3: Visa and Documents
After you receive your IMAT results and secure an offer letter from a university, it’s time to apply for your student visa. The process takes a few weeks, so you must start it as soon as you have your offer letter. You will need to schedule an appointment at the Italian embassy or VFS Italy center and submit the following documents.
- Your passport with at least 18 months of validity.
- Your 10th and 12th-grade mark sheets and passing certificates.
- The university offer letter.
- Proof of financial stability to cover your living expenses around €6,000 to €7,000 in your bank account.
- Accommodation proof and medical reports.
Step 4: The Final Journey: Arrival in Italy
Once your visa is approved, you can book your flight. After you land in Italy, there are two final steps to complete. You must go to the university to complete you land in Italy, there are 2 final importantly, apply for your permesso di soggiorno residence permit at the local police station within 8 days of your arrival.
MBBS in Italy Scholarship
One of the biggest attractions of studying medicine in Italy is the incredibly low cost, which is further reduce by generous scholarship opportunities. While tuition fees for public universities are already affordable €0-€5,000 per year students can apply for regional scholarships. These scholarships are based on family income and merit and can cover everything from your tuition fees to your accommodation and meals.

Many students get a 100% scholarship on educational expenses, which can make your total annual cost of living extremely low. The Italian government also offers scholarship for international students, making a high quality education more accessible than ever. With these scholarships, it’s possible for many students to study MBBS in Italy at a fraction of the cost of other countries.
Disadvantages of Studying MBBS in Italy
Disadvantage of studying MBBS in Italy include the language barrier in daily life and clinical practice, high competition for limited seats, slow and complex bureaucracy, and a high cost of living in major cities despite low tuition fees.
Final Thoughts:
Studying medicine in Italy is a dream worth chasing. The combination of a world-class degree, low fees, and a vibrant cultural experience makes it an unbeatable choice. By understanding the eligibility criteria, acing the IMAT, and diligently following the application steps, you can turn this dream into a reality. For a smoother journey, consider getting expert guidance to navigate the complex process, especially with IMAT registration visa applications and scholarships. Don’t wait, take the first step toward your medical career today.







