Medicine and Surgery at the University of Bologna
Program Overview
The Medicine and Surgery degree at the University of Bologna is a prestigious six-year program taught entirely in English. Located in the historic city of Bologna, the program is designed for international students and combines cutting-edge biomedical education with early clinical exposure. Offered by the Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, it prepares students to become highly competent physicians for both national and international healthcare environments. Students benefit from hands-on learning, world-class research opportunities, and access to leading hospitals in northern Italy.
International Reputation
Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is the oldest university in the Western world and consistently ranks among the top academic institutions in Italy and Europe. Its medical faculty is well-known for rigorous academic standards and a research-driven approach.
- QS World University Ranking: Among the top 200 globally
- Medicine and Surgery program: Highly ranked for education quality and employability
EU and Non-EU Seats
| Category | Seats |
|---|---|
| EU students | ~97 seats |
| Non-EU students | ~20 seats |
Exact seat numbers are published annually through official notices.
Admission Test
Admission is based on the International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT), assessing scientific knowledge, critical thinking, and logical reasoning. Past cut-offs are:
| Year | Non-European Min Score | European First / Last Round Scores |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 50.0 | First: 57.8 / Last: 47.2 |
| 2021 | 48.9 | First: 48.6 / Last: 42.6 |
| 2022 | 51.6 | First: 48.4 / Last: 41.5 |
| 2023 | 59.1 | First: 43.9 / Last: 42.6 |
| 2024 | 74.5 | First: 65.6 / Last: 64.8 |
Curriculum Breakdown
The six-year program (360 ECTS credits) gradually transitions students from foundational sciences to advanced clinical competencies and professional development.
Year 1 – Basic Foundations
- Biological Chemistry – 9 ECTS
- Medical Physics – 6 ECTS
- Histology and Embryology – 7 ECTS
- Cytology and Histology Laboratory – 1 ECTS
- Computer Science – 3 ECTS
- Human Anatomy I – 5 ECTS
- Italian Language (Elective) – 3 ECTS
- Optional Activities and Seminars – 2 ECTS
Year 2 – Core Medical Sciences
- Human Anatomy II – 5 ECTS
- Biochemistry – 6 ECTS
- Physiology – 8 ECTS
- Medical Statistics – 3 ECTS
- General Pathology – 7 ECTS
- Microbiology – 6 ECTS
- English Language (for Italian students) – 3 ECTS
- Optional Activities and Seminars – 2 ECTS
Year 3 – Introduction to Clinical Medicine
- Pharmacology – 7 ECTS
- Pathophysiology – 5 ECTS
- Clinical Biochemistry – 4 ECTS
- Medical Genetics – 5 ECTS
- Medical-Surgical Pathology – 8 ECTS
- Hygiene and Public Health – 5 ECTS
- Medical Humanities – 3 ECTS
- Optional Activities and Seminars – 2 ECTS
Year 4 – Clinical Practice Begins
- Internal Medicine – 8 ECTS
- General Surgery – 8 ECTS
- Clinical Clerkship Internal Medicine – 4 ECTS
- Clinical Clerkship Surgery – 4 ECTS
- Diagnostic Imaging – 4 ECTS
- Laboratory Medicine – 4 ECTS
- Anesthesiology and Resuscitation – 4 ECTS
- Legal Medicine – 3 ECTS
- Optional Activities and Seminars – 2 ECTS
Year 5 – Specialized Clinical Training
- Pediatrics – 6 ECTS
- Obstetrics and Gynecology – 6 ECTS
- Clinical Clerkship Pediatrics – 4 ECTS
- Clinical Clerkship Obstetrics and Gynecology – 4 ECTS
- Psychiatry – 4 ECTS
- Neurology – 4 ECTS
- Clinical Clerkship Psychiatry and Neurology – 4 ECTS
- Dermatology – 3 ECTS
- Ophthalmology – 3 ECTS
- Otorhinolaryngology – 3 ECTS
- Optional Activities and Seminars – 2 ECTS
Year 6 – Final Year and Thesis
- Clinical Clerkship Internal Medicine and Surgery – 6 ECTS
- Clinical Clerkship Emergency Medicine – 6 ECTS
- Clinical Clerkship Primary Care – 6 ECTS
- Clinical Clerkship Elective Specialty – 6 ECTS
- Final Examination / Thesis – 6 ECTS
- Optional Activities and Seminars – 2 ECTS
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition is income-based, with most students paying between €750 and €1,000 per year, though fees can reach up to €3,000 for those without financial aid. Students submit an ISEE certificate assessing financial status for fee reductions.
Several scholarships are available, typically ranging from €1,000 to €2,000 annually, though competitive and limited in number.
Exam Structure
- Courses divided into smaller modules each tested by one or two professors
- Exams mainly written (multiple-choice), some open-ended and oral exams
- Students may retake exams unlimited times to improve scores
- Emphasis on practical exams in anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical subjects
Cost of Living
Typical monthly expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Student housing (shared/dorm) | 250–500 |
| Food and groceries | 200–300 |
| Transportation (TPER bus pass) | 40–70 monthly or 150 yearly |
| Books and study materials | 200–300 yearly |
| Health insurance (non-EU) | 149–215 yearly |
| Mobile phone plan | 10–30 monthly |
| Internet and utilities | 50–100 monthly |
| Leisure | 100–200 monthly |
Overall monthly living costs typically range from €700 to €1,000 depending on lifestyle and housing.
Life in Bologna
Bologna is a vibrant city known for its rich history, lively student culture, and culinary tradition. The city has charming medieval streets, affordable eateries, and a strong sense of community. Bologna offers numerous student events, historic landmarks, and a stimulating academic atmosphere that combines tradition and innovation.
Conclusion
The Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Bologna is an excellent choice for international students seeking a world-class medical education in English. With a strong academic heritage, comprehensive curriculum, and practical clinical training, Bologna prepares students to become competent, globally ready physicians. Coupled with cultural immersion in one of Italy’s most historic cities, it offers a compelling pathway to a medical career in Europe.