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    MBBS in Italy for Indian Students 2026-27: Fees & Top Colleges
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    • MBBS in Italy for Indian Students 2026-27: Fees & Top Colleges

    MBBS in Italy for Indian Students 2026-27: Fees & Top Colleges

    Piyush KohliUpdated on 17 Nov 2025, 10:24 AM IST

    Studying MBBS in Italy is a great opportunity for Indian students. The program lasts for 6 years and is taught in English, but students need to achieve at least 50% in the NEET exam and pass the IMAT after completing their 12th grade in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Italy has become a top choice for pursuing MBBS abroad, as it offers high-quality education and has gained recognition from prestigious medical organizations like WHO, FAMER, UNESCO, and NMC. There are 16 medical universities in Italy offering MBBS courses in English, with 13 of them being public institutions. Renowned public universities such as the University of Milan and Sapienza University of Rome are well-respected for their research-oriented MBBS programs. Many of Italy's top medical universities rank highly in the QS World University Rankings 2026. Some international students wonder, 'Is it possible to study MBBS in Italy for free?' The good news is that several excellent medical universities in Italy offer MBBS programs at very low fees. Students with strong academic records or financial needs can benefit from 100% tuition-free scholarships provided by the Italian government, significantly reducing their education costs. Dive into the article to learn more about the perks of studying in Italy, the medical schools, fees, eligibility criteria, and the admission process!

    This Story also Contains

    1. MBBS in Italy 2026 - Highlights
    2. Advisory for Indian Students Planning MBBS in Italy 2026
    3. Why Study MBBS in Italy?
    4. Key Features of MBBS in Italy
    5. MBBS in India Vs MBBS in Italy
    6. NMC Guidelines to Study MBBS in Italy 2026
    7. Top Medical Colleges in Italy 2026
    8. MBBS Course Duration in Italy 2026
    9. Requirements to Study Medicine in Italy 2026
    10. NEET Requirements for MBBS in Italy
    11. Documents Required for MBBS in Italy 2026
    12. Studying MBBS in Italy: Admission Requirements
    13. Language Requirements for MBBS in Italy
    14. Admission Process for Studying MBBS in Italy
    15. Recognition of MBBS in Italy
    16. MBBS Fees in Italy
    17. Syllabus for MBBS in Italy
    18. Career Opportunities After MBBS in Italy
    19. MBBS in Italy: Cost of Living
    20. Scholarships to Study MBBS in Italy
    21. Study MBBS in Italy Without NEET 2026
    22. Important Considerations for Studying MBBS in Italy
    23. Requirements for License to Practice in India
    24. FMGE Requirements to Study MBBS in Italy for Indian Students
    MBBS in Italy for Indian Students 2026-27: Fees & Top Colleges
    MBBS in Italy 2026

    MBBS in Italy 2026 - Highlights

    Particulars

    Details

    Degree offered

    Single Cycle Degree in Medicine and Surgery equivalent to MBBS

    Eligibility Requirement

    Grade 12th

    Entrance Exam

    IMAT & NEET

    MBBS Duration in Italy

    6 years

    IELTS / TOEFL

    Required

    MBBS fee in Italy

    Free to Rs 30 lakhs

    Living Costs in Italy

    Rs 7-9 lakhs/year

    Medium of Instruction

    English/Italian

    Also Read:

    Advisory for Indian Students Planning MBBS in Italy 2026

    The Indian Embassy has shared some mandatory guidelines for Indian candidates who are willing to study MBBS abroad. You can check these guidelines before selecting or enrolling in an Italy MBBS university.

    • There is no specific list of foreign medical institutions or MBBS courses approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.

    • Candidates are required to individually check the course details and credibility before enrolling in these medical colleges.

    • Students who are interested in practising medicine back in India have to qualify for the FMGE screening test conducted by the NBE.

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    Why Study MBBS in Italy?

    Want to know why many Indian and international students prefer to study in Italian medical universities? Check the advantages mentioned below.

    • Top Ranking Universities: Italy has some of the best medical universities in the world where international students look forward to studying. Many medical colleges hold their positions in the top 500 medical colleges in the world as per the QS World University Ranking 2026.

    • Low Tuition Fee: Some of the Italy universities require a very affordable range of tuition fees for the MBBS course when compared with other top abroad destinations.

    • English Language of Instruction: There are a total of 16 universities in Italy that teach the MBBS course in English, so you will not be required to learn any new language.

    • Settle in Italy as a Doctor: After completing the MBBS courses in Italy, you can register for a license and work as a doctor in Italy.

    • Part-time job opportunity: With an Italy student visa you even have the opportunity to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week.

    • 100% tuition-free scholarships: The government of Italy offers scholarships to students with good academic records. These scholarships can cover the 100% tuition fee for the medical students. In this way, one can study free MBBS in Italy on scholarship for Indian students.

    Key Features of MBBS in Italy

    • English-Taught Programs: Several public Italian universities offer English-taught MBBS programs to international students.
    • Degree Recognition: The MD degree is equivalent to the MBBS degree and is globally recognized, often accredited by bodies like the WHO.
    • Cost-Effective: The medical education in Italy is lower than in several popular study abroad destinations like UK or USA.
    • Career Prospects: After graduation, you can pursue further studies or specialization in Italy or the EU, or return to India and appear for the FMGE to practice.

    MBBS in India Vs MBBS in Italy

    Factors

    India

    Italy

    Entrance exams

    NEET qualification

    IMAT, NEET

    Cost

    High tuition fees and moderate living expenses

    Affordable in public universities and high in Private universities

    Competition level

    Extremely high

    Extremely high

    Course duration

    5.5 years

    6 years

    Language of instruction

    Hindi, English

    English/Italian

    MBBS fee

    Government Colleges: Rs 3 to 5 lakhs annually

    Private colleges: Rs 0 to 25 lakhs per year.

    Rs free - 18 Lakhs per year

    Clinical exposure

    Compulsory in all institutions

    Compulsory in all institutions

    Recognition

    Globally recognised degree

    Globally recognised degree, but requires an FMGE exam to practice medicine in India

    Living Expenses

    Rs 2 to 6 lakhs per year

    Rs 7 to 9 lakhs per year

    NMC Guidelines to Study MBBS in Italy 2026

    All the Indian students who are willing to practice medicine in India after completing the MBBS course from abroad must follow the National Medical Council guidelines mentioned below.

    • NEET is the mandatory exam to qualify before enrolling in the Italy medical universities.

    • The MBBS course enrolled by the candidate in Italy must be at least 54 months in duration. The course must also include 12 months of internship.

    • The MBBS course must cover topics like General Medicine, Pediatrics, Community Medicine, Psychiatry, Anaesthesia, General Surgery, Orthopaedics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Otorhinolaryngology, Emergency or Casualty services, Ophthalmology, Dermatology, lab services, etc., and their related sub-specialities.

    • Make sure the MBBS course medium of instruction is in the English language.

    Top Medical Colleges in Italy 2026

    As of now, 16 medical universities in Italy teach MBBS in the English language. Among them, 13 are public universities and 3 are private. Medical authorities like WFME and FIAMER recognise the MBBS degree in Italian medical universities. Check out the top-ranking medical colleges in Italy, which are suitable for studying MBBS.

    Top Medical Universities in Italy for Indian Students

    University

    Location

    QS World University Ranking 2026

    University of Milan

    Milan, Italy

    =276

    University of Bologna

    Bologna, Italy

    =138

    Sapienza University of Rome

    Rome, Italy

    128

    University of Padova

    Padova, Italy

    =233

    University of Turin

    Turin, Italy

    408

    University of Messina

    Mesina, Italy

    741 - 750

    University of Bari

    Bari, Italy

    801-850

    University of Milan

    The University of Milan is one of the top universities established in 1924. It is a public university located in Milan. Here are the details regarding the MBBS course at this university.

    • School Type: Public

    • Degree Offered: Laurea Magistrale in Medicine and Surgery (English Program)

    • Curriculum Duration: 6 years

    • Year when Instruction Started: 2017

    • Medium of Instruction: English

    • Phone Number(s): +39 (02) 64488003

    • Contact Email ID: segr.studenti.medicina@unimib.it

    University of Bologna

    The University of Bologna is one of the oldest universities in Italy, established in 1200. The university is located in Bologna and also has campuses in Cesana, Forli, Ravenna, Rimini, etc., cities. Here are the details related MBBS course and the university.

    • School Type: Public

    • Degree Offered: Laurea Magistrale in Medicine and Surgery (English Program)

    • Curriculum Duration: 6 years

    • Year when Instruction Started: 2017

    • Medium of Instruction: English

    • Phone Number(s): (+39) 0512094601

    • Contact Email ID: segmed@unibo.it

    University of Messina

    The University of Messina, founded in 1548, is one of the top medical colleges in Italy. Here are the details of the MBBS course at Messina University, given as follows.

    • School Type: Public

    • College alternate names: Università degli Studi di Messina Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Spreimentale, Università degli Studi di Messina Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia

    • Degree Offered: Single-cycle degree course in Medicine and Surgery

    • Curriculum Duration: 6 years

    • Year when Instruction Started: 2018

    • Medium of Instruction: English

    • Phone Number(s):(+39) 090 2213650

    • Contact Email ID: foreignstudents@unime.it

    MBBS Course Duration in Italy 2026

    The MBBS course duration is 6 years in Italy. As the course duration is 6 years, the medicine is referred to as a single-cycle degree. If you go across the web, the MD program can be seen as Laurea Magistrale in Medicina e Chirurgia, which is its Italian name. Here, you can check the Italy MBBS course curriculum in the table given below.

    MBBS Course Structure in Italy

    1st year

    human anatomy, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics & genomics

    2nd year

    biomedical research clerkships, pathophysiology, biochemistry, general, clinical microbiology, pharmacology, medical humanities

    3rd year

    Laboratory medicine & immunogenetics, psychiatry, haematology, oncology, biomedical technologies, endocrine & metabolic & gastrointestinal diseases, neurological sciences, respiratory diseases & allergology, cardiovascular diseases

    4th year

    clinical immunology & rheumatology, nephrology & urology, musculoskeletal diseases, rehabilitation medicine, dermatology, plastic surgery, geriatrics & functional patient management, clinical surgery & emergency medicine, medicine and surgery clerkship

    5th year

    internal medicine, pathology, pediatrics, pathology, obstetrics & gynaecology, public health, emergency medicine, international health systems & economics and cardiology, clinical pharmacology & clinical risk management, forensic & occupational medicine, medicine and surgery clerkship

    6th year

    clinical clerkships & thesis

    Requirements to Study Medicine in Italy 2026

    If you want to study the MBBS course in Italy medical universities, then check the eligibility. Here is the list of MBBS in Italy requirements for admission purposes.

    • Minimum 17 years.

    • 12th-grade certification with 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

    • IMAT exam score

    • English language proficiency test scores of IELTS/TOEFL/DET (if required)

    • NEET Qualified

    Candidates need to prove their English language proficiency by showcasing their English subject marks in the 12th-class certificate. Whereas few universities require the IELTS/TOEFL exam score for English language proficiency.

    NEET Requirements for MBBS in Italy

    To be eligible for MBBS in Italy, an Indian student must appear for the NEET examination. Without NEET, you are not allowed to appear for MBBS in Italy.

    Documents Required for MBBS in Italy 2026

    Here is the document checklist for the MBBS admission in Italy medical universities.

    • Valid passport

    • Passport size photos(2 to 4)

    • Marksheets of 10th and 12th class

    • IMAT test scores

    • NEET exam scorecard

    • Statement of comparability CIMEA

    Studying MBBS in Italy: Admission Requirements

    The following are the most important admission requirements that you should fulfill to study MBBS in Italy.

    • Academic Requirements: Students who are applying for admission to MBBS courses in Italy need to obtain a minimum of 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Along with this, passing the IMAT exam is compulsory for the students.
    • IMAT Exam: Foreign students are notified that they must undergo the International Medical Admission Test (IMAT) in order to be permitted to pursue medical courses in Italy.
    • English Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL scores are mandatory to submit.
    • Passport and Visa: Students need a valid passport and a student visa to pursue studies in Italy.
    • SOP and LORs: You need to provide a Statement of Purpose (SOP) accompanied by a minimum of two Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
    • Application Schedule: Applications typically open between the months of January to May, with classes beginning in September.

    Language Requirements for MBBS in Italy

    These are the language requirements for doing MBBS in Italy:

    For Studying: As most of the top universities in Italy offer English-taught MBBS programs, you must be proficient in the English language. However, it is also recommended to know basic Italian (A2-B1 level) as it will help you with clinical interactions with patients and for communicating in your day-to-day life.

    For Licensing: It is a must to clear the Italian Medical Licensing Exam and get registered with the Italian Medical Association (Ordine dei Medici) to practice medicine in Italy after completing MBBS.

    Admission Process for Studying MBBS in Italy

    • Apply: First, you need to submit the application along with all the required documents to the selected university.
    • Clear IMAT: Next, you must clear the International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT).
    • English Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English language by meeting minimum score requirements for IELTS or TOEFL.
    • Visa Application: Obtain the student visa by demonstrating proof of funds for the entire course duration to stay in Italy.
    • Start Study: Your session will begin in October.

    Recognition of MBBS in Italy

    MBBS degree from Italy is recognized globally. The MBBS colleges in Italy are authorised by:

    • National Medical Council
    • World Health Organisation
    • FAIMER
    • ECFMG
    • WFME
    • Ministry of Health, Italy
    • UNESCO

    MBBS Fees in Italy

    MBBS in Italy for Indian students is lower in public colleges than in private ones. Most of the public universities set the fee for international students based on their home country and international assets. On average, the overall tuition fee for the whole MBBS program can be around 5,400 to 1,20,000 Euros based on the university. Here are the details for MBBS in Italy fees and tuition fees for MBBS in Italy medical colleges.

    MBBS Tuition Fees at Top Medical Universities in Italy

    University

    MBBS Fees of Italy in Indian Rupees (Avg.)

    University of Milan Fees

    Rs. 2.3 LPA per year

    University of Bologna Fees

    Rs. 2.5 LPA per year

    Sapienza University of Rome Fees

    Rs. 2.6 LPA per year

    University of Padova Fees

    Rs. 2 LPA per year

    University of Turin Fees

    Rs. 2.5 LPA per year

    University of Messina Fees

    Rs. 1.9 LPA per year

    University of Bari Fees

    Rs. 14,000 to Rs. 18 LPA

    Syllabus for MBBS in Italy

    Year of Study

    Syllabus

    1st Year

    Histology and Anatomy

    2nd Year

    Physiology, Histology, Biochemistry, Anatomy, Microbiology

    3rd Year

    Path Physiology, Microbiology, Pathology, Pharmacology

    4th to 6th Year

    Cardiology, Oncology, Internal Medicine, Psychology, Neurology, Gynecology, General Surgery, Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, ENT

    Career Opportunities After MBBS in Italy

    You can explore the following career opportunities once your 6-year MBBS course in Italy is completed.

    • You can start your own private clinic.
    • You can work at a private clinic.
    • Shake hands with a reputable institute as a part of their research team.
    • Get a license to practice in Italy.
    • Practice in India after clearing the Foreign Medical Graduates Examination.
    • Practice in the US once you have cleared your USMLE.

    MBBS in Italy: Cost of Living

    Before moving to Italy for MBBS, you must know the living costs that will come along with Italy MBBS fees. Check the table below to get an estimated idea:

    Categories

    Cost in USD

    Cost in INR

    Accommodation

    857-1000

    60-70,000

    Transport

    28-42

    2000-3000

    Food

    142-285

    10,000-20,000

    Scholarships to Study MBBS in Italy

    The government of Italy and universities offer scholarships for international students to study the MBBS course. These scholarships are both merit-based and need-based, covering expenses like tuition fees, accommodation, transport allowances, etc and more. Check the MBBS in Italy scholarships for international students.

    • DSU scholarship

    • University of Milan Excellence Scholarship

    • University of Bologna

    • Regione Veneto Scholarships by the University of Padua

    • University of Messina: Casa and ERSU scholarships

    • UCSC International Scholarship by Cattolica International

    Study MBBS in Italy Without NEET 2026

    Is NEET compulsory for MBBS in Italy for Indian students? Yes, NEET is the primary requirement to apply for the Italy medical colleges. Even though the IMAT score is the selection criterion to get enrolled in Italy medical universities, NEET and 12th class certification are the mandatory requirements for Indian students to study MBBS in this country. The NEET is also the required apply for the FMGE exam which allows Indian students to practice medicine back in India.

    Important Considerations for Studying MBBS in Italy

    • Living Expenses: If you are a student in Italy, your monthly expenses can range from €500 to €1,000.
    • Course Duration: The total duration of MBBS programs in Italy is 6 years, including the first 5 years focusing on classroom learning and the last year for an internship.

    Requirements for License to Practice in India

    The following are the requirements for getting a license to practice in India.

    1. Graduation: It is a must to complete the entire 6-year duration of the MBBS program from a university in Italy that follows NMC guidelines.

    2. FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate Examination): If you wish to practice medicine in India after doing MBBS in Italy, it is a must to clear the FMGE to be eligible.

    3. Registration with NMC: Once you clear the FMGE, you can then register with the NMC to obtain your legal license to practice medicine in India.

    Note: The complete process from clearing NEET to doing the internship will likely span the 6 years of the MBBS program, the required licensing exams, and the mandatory internship.

    FMGE Requirements to Study MBBS in Italy for Indian Students

    The FMGE test allows International medical graduates to practise medicine back in India. So, Indian students can take the FMGE test after completing their MBBS in Italy. The FMGE test is conducted by the National Board for Examination (NBE) twice a year in the months of June and December.

    Here are the essential things to consider before applying for the FMGE entrance test:

    • Students are required to register with the National Medical Commission (NMC) or State Medical Council (SMC), after completing the Italy MBBS course.

    • International medical graduates can register with SMC only after qualifying for the FMGE exam.

    • To appear for the FMGE test, the Eligibility Certificate and the degree certificate of their primary medical degree are required.

    • The NEET exam score is essential to apply for the eligibility certificate. Candidates have to make sure they obtain this eligibility certificate before enrolling in the Itay medical universities.

    • The MBBS degree abroad must comply with the standards of the MBBS degree in India.

    Also Check: Study in Italy with a Scholarship for Indian Students

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: How much NEET score is required for MBBS in Italy?
    A:

    At least 50% of valid NEET score is required to study MBBS in Italy for Indian students. Also, a good IMAT score is also mandatory along with NEET. 

    Q: Can I study MBBS in Italy in English?
    A:

    Yes, 16 universities in Italy offer the MBBS course in the English language. Among them 13 are public and 3 are private universities, candidates can choose any depending on their requirements.

    Q: Can I do MBBS in Italy for free?
    A:

    The public universities in Italy require a much lower amount of tuition fee from international students. Added to it, there are many Italy government scholarships for talented students. So by utilising both opportunities, you can study with lower costs in Italy.

    Q: Is Italy MBBS valid in India?
    A:

    The medical colleges in Italy are recognised globally and are well renowned for their quality of education. The MBBS in Italy is valid in India if it meets the NMC guidelines like 54 months course duration and 12 months internship, etc and more.

    Q: What is a single-cycle degree in Italy?
    A:

    In general, the single cycle degree is a course of 5 to 6 years duration. As the MBBS course in Italy is 6 years it is referred to as single cycle degree. The only major difference between bachelor's and single-cycle degrees is the duration. For bachelor's, the duration is 3 to 4 years while the single cycle degree is 5 to 6 years.

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    To apply in Italian University as an Indian student, you well need:

    valid passport
    Class 10 and 12 Marksheets (Class 12 result can be submitted later)
    IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught course (may be waived)
    Hey SOP, LORs, and CV
    Portfolio (for design/arts)
    Fly via university website or platform like Uni-Italia
    Declaration

    Hello Namrata,

    To prepare for the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test) 2025 for MBBS in Italy, you should focus on the following study materials and strategies:

    1. Recommended Books:

    • General Science Textbooks : Use standard high school-level books for Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.

    • Logical Reasoning Practice Books : Focus

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