MBBS in Italy 2024 : Eligibility, Admission, Fees

As an Indian student looking for MBBS abroad, are you wondering about Italy as an ideal destination? In this blog, let’s discuss all aspects of MBBS in Italy for Indian students.  Pursuing MBBS in Italy offers world-class medical education and the opportunity to experience all this fascinating nation has to offer. As a matter of fact, due to its high prospects, approximately 6000 Indian students are pursuing their higher education in Italy.

Why Study MBBS in Italy

Here are some reasons you should consider studying MBBS in Italy:

• Affordable Education

Compared to other Western countries, the cost of education in Italy is lower. Generally, MBBS in Italy costs around €400-4000/year depending on the university and the scholarship you get. You can also save on living expenses, as Italy has a moderate cost of living. 

• Widely Acclaimed Universities

Italy has some of Europe's oldest and most prestigious universities, especially in medicine. Some top universities for MBBS in Italy are Humanitas University, Sapienza University of Rome, and the University of Milan. These universities have excellent facilities, faculty, and curriculum for MBBS students. They also have global recognition and accreditation from organizations like WHO, MCI, WFME (World Federation for Medical Education), FAIMER (Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research), and ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates).

• Scholarship Opportunities

Many universities in Italy offer scholarships and financial aid to deserving students based on their academic performance and entrance exam scores. The most popular scholarships for MBBS in Italy are EDISU Piemonte, University of Bologna Study Grants, and Italian Government Scholarships.

• Courses are Taught in English

Most of the universities in Italy offer MBBS programs in English, which makes it easier for Indian students to follow the course and communicate with the faculty and peers. You can also learn Italian as an optional language to enhance your cultural experience.

• Globally Recognized Degree

The six-year course emphasizes self-learning, analytical thinking, and classroom discussions. After completing your MBBS study in Italy, you can practice medicine anywhere in the world as long as you clear the licensing exams of that country. You can pursue higher studies or research in Italy or other countries with your MBBS degree from Italy.

• Top-level Facilities

The universities in Italy have state-of-the-art infrastructure and equipment for medical education and research. They also have affiliations with reputed hospitals and clinics for clinical training and internships.

• Top Specializations After MBBS in Italy

MBBS in Italy is a six-year program that covers all aspects of medical education, from basic sciences to clinical skills and humanities. The program follows the international study pattern: two semesters per year and a six-week examination period. The program is taught in English, but students can also learn Italian as an optional language. After MBBS, here are some top specializations that students can pursue. 

Medical Programs

• Allergology and Clinical Immunology
• Dermatology
• Endocrinology
• Internal Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Hematology
• Cancer Medicine
• Cardiology
• Clinical Psychology
• Neuropsychopathology
• Nephrology
• Neurology
• Pediatrics

Surgery Programs

• Maxillofacial Surgery
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Pediatric Surgery
• General Surgery
• Cardiac Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedics
• Plastic surgery

Top Universities for MBBS in Italy

Italy has many top ranked universities. Each of them has different universities have different fee structures. Here is a list of the top universities for MBBS in Italy, along with fees & QS ranking. 

MBBS in Italy: Eligibility Criteria

To study MBBS in Italy, you must meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria may vary depending on the university and program but generally include:

• Complete 12th grade from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology subjects. Secure at least 50% marks in PCB in class 12th.
• Obtain at least 50% marks in NEET. Also, you need to pass the IMPT (International Medical Admissions Test) exam.
• Be proficient in English. You don't need IELTS.
• Be at least 17 as of 31st December of the admission year.
• The medical qualification you obtain should be recognized in the country of the medical institution.
• Obtain an 'Eligibility Certificate' from the National Medical Commission (or MCI) as per regulations, unless you are an Indian or Overseas Citizen of India who acquired the medical qualification or got admission before 15th March 2002.

MBBS in Italy: Intakes

The intake for MBBS education in Italy usually starts by the end of September or October each year. Here are the details of the intake capacity of various universities in Italy for MBBS.

MBBS in Italy: Scholarships

There are several scholarships available for MBBS in Italy for Indian students. The Italian government, universities, and other organizations offer these scholarships. Scholarships help students cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs of studying abroad. Some of them are:

Some universities also offer scholarships for MBBS students based on their academic performance and entrance test scores. For example,

MBBS in Italy: Jobs

After completing MBBS in Italy, you have many job opportunities as a medical professional in Italy or abroad. The MBBS degree from Italian universities is globally recognized and accredited by NMC and WHO. You can work in government or private hospitals, clinics, and research institutes or start your own practice. You can also pursue further studies or specialization in Italy or other countries.

*As per job sites

MCI-Approved Medical Colleges in Italy

The National Medical Commission (NMC), formerly Medical Council of India (MCI), does not provide an official list of approved medical colleges in Italy or any other country outside of India.

It is essential to personally confirm the accreditation and recognition of the medical university or institution with the appropriate Italian authorities if you are an Indian student thinking about taking an MBBS or comparable program in Italy. This entails obtaining official confirmation from the university or other appropriate organisation regarding the pricing schedule, course specifics (such as content, length, and internship), and other pertinent information.     
 

FMGE After MBBS from Italy to Practice in India

All Indian medical graduates from foreign institutes must clear the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) to obtain a license to practice medicine in India. The FMGE is a screening test conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE).

Conclusion

Studying for MBBS in Italy can be a great option. The course fees are much lower than in the UK or US while still providing a top-quality education. The universities have modern facilities and campuses, and many classes are taught in English, making it accessible for international students. Once you graduate, you can practice medicine in Italy, Europe, and beyond. Overall, obtaining your MBBS in Italy means getting a reputable medical degree at a reasonable cost from a country with a strong healthcare system. So if you want an affordable yet still world-class medical education, Italy is worth considering.