From application to enrolment
The order things happen in for non-EU applicants, and what each step needs.
EU or non-EU: which rules apply
The process depends on your citizenship. This site focuses on the non-EU route, which has more steps.
| Requirement | EU students | Non-EU students |
|---|---|---|
| Universities you can apply to | SeveralRanked in order of preference | One per yearChosen before the exam |
| Pre-enrolment on Universitaly | Not required | RequiredWith a strict deadline |
| Sit the IMAT | Required | Required |
| DOV or CIMEA | Depends on your diploma | RequiredFor final enrolment |
| Student visa | Not required | RequiredAfter you get an offer |
The steps, in the order they happen
The stamped steps are where documents are checked most closely, and where most delays start.
- 1
Choose your university
Non-EU applicants can choose one university per year, so base it on your expected score, your budget and the city you can live in for six years.
- 2
Pre-enrol on Universitaly
CheckedYour first formal application, submitted on the Universitaly portal to your chosen university.
You will need: a valid passport and your secondary school certificate showing 12 years of schooling.
- 3
Apply for a regional scholarship
CheckedScholarships are run by the regional agency where your university is. Deadlines and rules differ by region, so start early.
You will need: documents on your family's income and property from your home country, translated and legalised.
- 4
Book your IMAT slot
Booked on Universitaly, with your pre-enrolled university as your first choice. You pay the exam fee when you book.
- 5
Sit the exam
60 multiple-choice questions in 100 minutes. This is where the preparation pays off.
- 6
Results and ranking
Results come out in stages after the exam. If you rank within the seats for your university, you receive an offer.
- 7
DOV or CIMEA
CheckedOfficial confirmation that your schooling meets Italian requirements, from the Italian embassy (Declaration of Value) or from CIMEA.
You will need: your school certificates and transcripts, translated and legalised as required.
- 8
Student visa
CheckedApply at the Italian embassy or consulate once you have your admission letter.
You will need: your admission letter, passport, proof of funds, accommodation, health insurance and your DOV or CIMEA.
Start medical school
Your first day as a medical student in Italy. This is what all the steps were for.
Dates and rules change every year. Always confirm them in the official call from the Ministry of University and Research (MUR) and on your university's website.
Want someone to check your documents?
The Documentation package covers every step on this page, from choosing your university to your visa file.