Can I study MBBS in Italy without IELTS or TOEFL?

Is it necessary to study an English-taught MBBS course?

Although the NMC states that using English as the primary medium of instruction is necessary, Indian students need to study all modules in the language they used primarily until their 12th grade. This is to ensure that students can understand the classes with utmost clarity, as learning a new language takes time. Moreover, students cannot adapt to learning the new language for the medical theory. The National Medical Commission guidelines insist the same, while this common problem continues to trouble outgoing Indian students.

What is a Language proficiency test?

The language proficiency test assesses candidates’ ability to read, write, and understand in a particular language. This is commonly conducted to test candidates’ proficiency in English. Students planning to study courses abroad need to take a language test to demonstrate their proficiency in the language they are considering.

For this purpose, IELTS and TOEFL are introduced to test candidates’ ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend. Universities with certain eligibility criteria require one of these tests to test the applicant’s English proficiency.

IELTS - International English Language Testing System

International English Language Testing System, abbreviated as IELTS, is a test conducted by the British Council and IDP - Australia. This exam contains 4 sections and lasts about 2 hours and 50 minutes, with the sections: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The score is in points for each section; candidates need to score at least 6.0 to obtain a good overall score. The overall score is calculated in bands, with 6 being the minimum score and a 7-band score considered decent in many universities. The 8 and 9 bands are the top-scoring bands, awarded for high scoring in every section. The results are typically released within 3-5 days and are valid up to 2 years.

Also read - IELTS 2026

TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language

The Test of English as a Foreign Language, abbreviated as TOEFL, is an exam conducted to assess candidates’ abilities in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Although it might be similar to IELTS, this exam lasts for 90-120 minutes, and the results are typically released within 72 hours to 10 days. The score is valid for a 2-year period, after which it will not be considered.

Also read - Study MBBS in Italy

Exemptions from IELTS and TOEFL for English Medium Students

Public universities such as the University of Milan in Italy often exempt students from this requirement if they use English as their primary medium of instruction until their 12th grade. A few private medical universities in Italy require students to submit language proficiency test scores as needed to meet eligibility criteria. For this reason, students are advised to check all necessary details concerning eligibility criteria before considering joining the college.

So, it is possible to study MBBS in Italy if the student has studied English till their 12th grade, but only in public universities, whereas private universities require students to demonstrate English proficiency by providing IELTS or TOEFL scores.

Also check - MBBS abroad for Indian students

Conclusion

Students who wish to study MBBS in Italy should know all the details of the course. Moreover, the eligibility criteria for international students vary by college. So, it is recommended to check whether the language proficiency test is needed.