Medical Education in Italy: A Glimpse into the University of Pavia's Innovative Medicine in English Programme
About - Pavia
The University of Pavia, a prestigious public university in Italy, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1361. It stands out in the realm of medical education, especially with its groundbreaking 'Harvey Medicine and Surgery Course' – the first medical course in Italy taught entirely in English.
Named after the 17th-century British physician William Harvey, this course reflects the university's commitment to internationalization and modern medical education, blending the long-established Italian teaching methods with modern interactive learning paradigms.
With 70 seats available for EU students and 40 for those outside the EU,Pavia's English-speaking medical program ranks among Europe's top choices.
Type of Student
Number of Places
European Union
70
Non-EU
40
Medicine program at Pavia
M.D.
The 'Harvey Medicine and Surgery Course' is a six-year, single-cycle Master’s Degree that integrates Bachelor and Master degrees, offering an extensive curriculum covering basic sciences, clinical training, and a range of elective courses. This program is designed not just to teach the medical profession but to build a solid scientific foundation for future medical advancements. The curriculum includes subjects like Chemistry, Medical Physics, Anatomy, and Epidemiology, ensuring a comprehensive medical education.
Tuition fees - Pavia
Tuition fees for the medical program at the University of Pavia are €4,500 per year, with variations based on the student’s nationality and financial background. Non-EU students may have their tuition fees adjusted according to their family income.
Admission Process in Italy - Pavia
Registration - follow these steps
Admission to the University of Pavia's medical programs requires a High School Diploma, with at least 12 years of documented education. International applicants must take the International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT), and submit their qualifications in English, French, Italian, or Spanish, with official translations if necessary. English proficiency is a prerequisite for the course.
Check the individual requirements: Pavia has additional admission requirements. Check the paragraph below.
Visa Requirements: If you're a non-EU citizen, check if you need a student visa. For specifics, consult the Visa for Italy portal.
Online Pre-enrollment: Complete your pre-enrollment application on the Universitaly portal.
Complete Your Enrollment: Follow the specific steps provided by your chosen institution to finalize your enrollment and make the most of services available to international students.
Documents - get these
Pre-Enrollment (April to June): For non-European applicants, pre-enrollment is the first step, involving submitting your application to the University of Pavia through the portal apply.unipv.eu, using course code LM-41.
Register for the IMAT (July): Create an account on universitaly.it and register for the International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT), a mandatory admission exam.
English Proficiency: The University of Pavia does not require English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL for its medical course.
Plan for Arrival: The academic year typically commences on October 14th, so plan travel and accommodation accordingly.
Documents for Pre-enrollment and Visa Request: For non-EU students residing outside Italy, a study visa is required. Upload your high school diploma or bachelor degree, a translation of your documentation in English or Italian, your passport, and an admission/conditional offer letter to the UniversItaly portal.
Codice Fiscale: This is a personal tax code necessary for most procedures in Italy. You can request it from the Italian Embassy in your country or upon arrival in Italy.
Fiscal Documentation: Required for paying university taxes based on family income. This includes details about the family's economic situation, family composition, income, property size, and holdings, all of which must be translated into Italian and legalized by the Italian diplomatic representation in your country.
IMAT - Entrance exam
The IMAT is a critical aspect of the admission process for the University of Pavia's Medicine in English program. This national entry test evaluates applicants on various scientific subjects. Admission to the English-speaking Medical School in Pavia is through the International Medical Admissions Test– IMAT, a 60 multiple-choice test in
The IMAT exams are held every year in September. The IMAT can not be sat online but onsite in a test center. You must prepare thoroughly for this exam, which plays a significant role in their selection, particularly in comparison to other English-speaking medical schools in Italy.
Rich historical and cultural environment, fostering a unique learning experience
Highly regarded medical program with a strong emphasis on research and practical training
Access to modern facilities and hospitals for clinical practice
Diverse international community, promoting cultural exchange and networking opportunities
Located in a student-friendly city with affordable living costs compared to larger Italian cities
Scholarships and financial aid options available for international students
Courses often taught in English, facilitating accessibility for non-Italian speakers
Cons
Competitive admission process, especially for international students
Limited availability of English-taught programs, primarily at the graduate level
Possible language barrier outside of university settings, requiring some knowledge of Italian
Smaller city might offer fewer opportunities for recreational activities compared to larger urban centers
Climate and lifestyle adjustments may be challenging for some international students
Limited part-time job opportunities for students who do not speak Italian
Student Life in Pavia as a student at Pavia
Pavia, the city home to the University of Pavia, is located in northern Italy, near Milan. It is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, cultural centers, libraries, and social-cultural meeting halls, offering a conducive environment for studies and social activities, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience for students.
Rachel, 27: ‘For me, studying medicine at the University of Pavia was a great experience. The curriculum is rigorous and demands a lot of dedication. We have a mix of lectures, practical sessions, and hands-on clinical experiences, which really help in understanding complex medical concepts. The faculty is knowledgeable and often includes experts in their respective fields. The university's rich history in medical education, dating back to the 14th century, adds a unique depth to our learning experience. Balancing study and personal life is tough, but the vibrant student community here makes it a memorable experience.’
Living cost in Pavia
Rachel: ‘Living in Pavia is relatively affordable compared to larger cities in Italy. As a student, you need to be mindful of your budget. Daily expenses like groceries, public transport, and occasional dining out are reasonably priced. The university also offers various dining options that are student-budget friendly. However, personal expenses can vary widely depending on your lifestyle. It's important to keep track of your spending, especially if you're living off a student loan or a tight budget. Overall, Pavia offers a good quality of life without being too heavy on the wallet.’
Financial Support
The University of Pavia offers various scholarship options for medical students:
Tuition Fee Waivers Scholarships, providing exemption from tuition fees for international students.
EDiSU Scholarships, offering free accommodation, meals, and financial support based on economic situation.
Subject-Specific Scholarships, tailored according to students' financial needs.
"Invest your Talent in Italy" Scholarships, offering full or partial fee scholarships from the Italian Government.
Italian Government Scholarships for international and Italian students living abroad.
Financial support for mobility experiences and part-time job opportunities for students.
Scholarships supporting study or traineeship abroad with monthly financial aid.
Accommodation at Pavia
The university offers safe and convenient housing options for medical students. This includes university hostels and other accommodations, ensuring students’ well-being and comfort during their studies.
Rachel: ‘Accommodation in Pavia varies depending on what you're looking for. Many students prefer living in university dorms for the first year as it's convenient and helps in building a social network. The dorms are generally well-maintained, though space can be a bit limited. There are also plenty of options for renting apartments, either alone or shared, which offers more privacy and space. The housing market can be competitive at the start of the academic year, so it's wise to start searching early. Living close to the university is a huge plus, as it saves a lot of travel time.’
In conclusion, the University of Pavia stands out among English-speaking medical schools in Italy, particularly for its professors' fluency in English and the comprehensive education offered by its innovative MBBS degree program. This public university, with its blend of historical tradition and modern educational practices, provides an ideal environment for aspiring medical professionals from around the world.