University of Messina (UniME) — Medicine and Surgery
Overview
Founded in 1548, the University of Messina (UniME) is one of Italy’s oldest universities, well-regarded for its strong academic tradition and international collaborations. The university offers various exchange programs, double-degree, and joint-degree opportunities, attracting students worldwide.
Messina is located in eastern Sicily, southern Italy. While the city itself lacks an airport, it is conveniently connected via nearby airports in Catania, Palermo, and Reggio Calabria.
International Ranking of UniME
- QS World University Ranking 2025: 751-760 globally, 25th in Italy
- Medicine: Ranked among the top 500 globally
Seats Available
| Category | Seats |
|---|---|
| Non-EU | 56 |
| EU | 55 |
Admission requires qualification through the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test).
IMAT Scores and Cut-offs (Past Years)
| Year | Min Score (Non-European) | EU Scores (First/Last Round) |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 28.5 | First: 50.4 / Last: 38.9 |
| 2021 | 34.6 | First: 43.0 / Last: 33.0 |
| 2022 | 42.9 | First: 42.9 / Last: 33.8 |
| 2023 | 36.9 | First: 35.2 / Last: 33.0 |
| 2024 | 61.4 | First: 57.6 / Last: — |
Admission Requirements
- High school diploma equivalent to Italian secondary school (minimum 70%)
- Valid IMAT score above cutoff for EU/non-EU category
- Proof of English proficiency (for non-native speakers)
- Visa and residence permit (for non-EU students)
Course Structure and Subjects
The 6-year Medicine program includes comprehensive theoretical and practical training. Below are subjects per year with corresponding credits (CFU) and hours.
Year 1
- Body Architecture (5 CFU, 62.5 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Further Learning Activities (0 CFU, 0 hours)
- Early Clinical Contact and Communication Skills (1 CFU, 12.5 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Genetics (6 CFU, 75 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Histology and Embryology (8 CFU, 100 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Medical Physics, Statistics and Bioinformatics (10 CFU, 125 hours, 1st Semester)
- Molecular and Cellular Biology (9 CFU, 112.5 hours, 1st Semester)
- The Living Matter (12 CFU, 150 hours, Full Year)
Year 2
- Early Clinical Contact and Communication Skills (26 CFU, 87.5 hours, 1st Semester)
- Human Anatomy (8 CFU, 100 hours, 1st Semester)
- Mechanisms of Disease (12 CFU, 150 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Microbiology (5 CFU, 62.5 hours, 1st Semester)
- Neuroanatomy (6 CFU, 75 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Neurophysiology (5 CFU, 62.5 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Physiology (7 CFU, 87.5 hours, 1st Semester)
Year 3
- Cardiovascular and Respiratory Diseases (14 CFU, 237.5 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Clinical Laboratory Medicine (8 CFU, 100 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Clinical Semeiotics (18 CFU, 325 hours, 1st Semester)
- Head and Neck (11 CFU, 175 hours, 1st Semester)
- Infectious Diseases, Skin and Sexually Transmitted Diseases & Plastic Surgery (12 CFU, 187.5 hours, Full Year)
Year 4
- Endocrine, Metabolic and Rheumatological Diseases (11 CFU, 175 hours, 1st Semester)
- Gastroenterological Diseases (4 CFU, 62.5 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Hematology and Oncology (11 CFU, 162.5 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Hygiene and Global Public Health (8 CFU, 100 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Imaging and Radiotherapy (9 CFU, 150 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Nephro-Urological Diseases (6 CFU, 100 hours, 1st Semester)
- Pathology (11 CFU, 150 hours, 1st Semester)
Year 5
- Legal Medicine (5 CFU, 62.5 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Neuroscience (12 CFU, 200 hours, 1st Semester)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology & Fetal Development Abnormalities (7 CFU, 112.5 hours, 1st Semester)
- Orthopedics and Traumatology & Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (8 CFU, 125 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Pediatric Science (11 CFU, 200 hours, 2nd Semester)
- Pharmacology (10 CFU, 125 hours, 1st Semester)
- Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology (7 CFU, 87.5 hours, 2nd Semester)
Year 6
- Emergency and Intensive Care (10 CFU, 175 hours, 2nd Semester)
- General Surgery (13 CFU, 212.5 hours, 1st Semester)
- Internal Medicine (13 CFU, 225 hours, 1st Semester)
- Practical-Evaluation Traineeship in Medical Area (5 CFU, 125 hours, Full Year)
- Practical-Evaluation Traineeship in Specific Field of General Medicine (5 CFU, 125 hours)
- Practical-Evaluation Traineeship in Surgical Area (5 CFU, 5 hours)
- Thesis (18 CFU, 18 hours)
- Elective Didactic Activities (8 CFU)
Exams
- Most exams are oral and integrate multiple courses (e.g., chemistry and biochemistry combined).
- Both subjects must be passed to clear the exam; failing one requires retaking both.
- Minimum passing score: 18/30; highest grade: 30 cum laude (30+).
- Clinical practice included in later years.
- Students may accept or reject exam scores to attempt improvement ethically.
Scholarships and Tuition Fees
- Standard tuition fee: €750, but actual fees depend on the student’s ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator).
- Most students pay €156 upfront (includes €140 regional tax refundable for scholarship recipients).
- Scholarships are merit-based and managed by ERSU — https://www.ersumessina.it
Messina as a City
Messina is a lively coastal city with rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a warm Mediterranean climate. The city offers scenic views, friendly locals, and an affordable cost of living, making it ideal for students.
Living Expenses and International Life
- Accommodation: Shared apartments cost between €300-500 per month
- Food & Dining: Weekly groceries cost €30-50, with affordable dining out options
- Transportation: Bus and tram services available; student bus pass costs €30, valid from 6 months to 1 year
- Social Life: Cultural events, cafes, and seaside spots offer a vibrant student community with diverse networking opportunities
Conclusion
The University of Messina provides a strong medical program with affordable fees, rigorous academics, and a scenic coastal setting. Its structured curriculum, thorough assessments, and international exposure make it an excellent choice for aspiring medical professionals. Whether for quality education, affordability, or a balanced lifestyle, studying medicine at UniME offers a rewarding experience.