Established in 1548, the University of Messina stands as one of Italy’s oldest public universities, renowned for its rich research tradition and modern academic programs. Among its distinguished departments, the Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences offers an English-taught Medicine and Surgery degree tailored for international and EU students alike.

If you’re considering pursuing medicine in Italy, here’s everything you need to know about studying Medicine at the University of Messina—from admission and curriculum to campus life and fees.

Admission Requirements: How to Get Accepted

Admission to the Medicine program at the University of Messina is competitive and regulated by the national IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test). Here’s what you should know:

• IMAT Test: Covers biology, chemistry, physics, math, and logical reasoning. Required for all applicants.
• Minimum Scores:
  • Non-EU students: Minimum score of 36.9
  • EU students: First round minimum 35.2, last round minimum 33.5
• Places Available: Total of 83 seats – 41 for EU and 42 for non-EU candidates.
• Pre-enrolment and Credential Verification: Non-EU applicants may need to complete pre-enrolment procedures and have their qualifications verified before final registration.
• Language Requirements:
  • English proficiency at least B2 (CEFR) is mandatory.
  • Italian language courses (aiming for B1 CEFR level) are provided during the first two years to prepare students for clinical settings.

The Curriculum: Six Years to Becoming a Doctor

The Medicine and Surgery program at UniMe is a six-year single-cycle degree offering 360 ECTS credits aligned with Italian and European education standards. Here’s an overview:

Years 1-2: Building Foundations

• Core subjects: anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, pathology.
• Additional courses: physics, statistics, chemistry, and early clinical exposure via practical labs with interactive dummies.
• Italian language learning integrated for communication in healthcare settings.

Years 3-6: Clinical Training and Specialization

• Students engage in hospital internships, gaining real-world experience.
• Progressive exposure to patient care and clinical decision-making.
• Integration of theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice.
• Exams are mainly oral and often combine multiple subjects in integrated assessments.

Exams and Attendance

• Exams are held across nine sessions annually (Jan-Feb, April, June-July, Sept, Nov).
• At least 75% attendance is required to qualify for exams.
• Oral exams dominate, with some written components in early years.

Campus & Facilities: Learning in a Modern Medical Environment

The Faculty of Medicine is based at the Polyclinic Gaetano Martino, a state-of-the-art hospital in Messina. This location offers:

• Access to cutting-edge medical technology and clinical departments.
• Shuttle services connecting classrooms at Torre Biologica with the polyclinic.
• Multiple transport options: tram, bus, and parking facilities.
• Proximity considerations: students can live in the city center (approx. 30 minutes by bus) or near the polyclinic (walking distance), though the latter is quieter but less central.

Tuition Fees & Living Costs

Tuition fees depend on your financial status (personal or family income) with a fixed registration fee of €156 for all students. Some key points:

• Non-EU students must provide income certification from their home country’s Italian consulate.
• Scholarship programs and tuition reimbursements are available through ERSU (Regional Agency for the Right to Higher Education).
• Living expenses vary but budgeting for accommodation, food, transport, and study materials is essential.

Student Life: Support, Food & Study Spaces

Meals and Cafeterias

• Outdoor seating areas for bringing your own food.
• Cafeterias inside and near the polyclinic, vending machines, and takeaway options.
• Income-based canteen service available.

Libraries and Study Areas

• Main medical library at the polyclinic and additional university libraries.
• Available study spaces include empty classrooms when free.
• Reduced library hours at the polyclinic, so plan accordingly.

International Opportunities & Student Mobility

The University of Messina promotes global academic exchange through:

• Cooperation Agreements with universities worldwide, including framework and specific research and study collaborations.
• Erasmus+ Program: Offers study and internship mobility within Europe and beyond.
• Students can participate in international seminars and workshops to broaden their knowledge.

Additional Student Services and Enrollment Guidance

• Student Secretariat & Info Point: Located at Palazzo Mariani for all enrolment, registration, and academic paperwork support.
• Transferring Students: Transfers from other Italian universities or internal transfers are possible via specific calls on the university website.
• Accommodation Assistance: ERSU manages university residences located near the campus and within the polyclinic (for medical students), with special programs helping students from outside Messina with rent subsidies.

Pros & Cons of Studying Medicine at UniMe

Pros ✅

• English degree equivalent to the Italian one, fully recognized in Italy and the EU.
• Small class sizes allow personalized attention.
• Friendly, accessible faculty and regular workshops.
• Cosmopolitan, diverse student body.
• Scholarships available for high-achieving students.
• High recognition of transfer credits from other universities.

Cons ⚠️

• Exams are spaced with 15-day intervals, potentially stretching study periods.
• Rigid attendance and lecture schedules.
• Some faculty members have varying English proficiency.
• Being a relatively new program, less established study material and alumni network.

Summary

The University of Messina offers an attractive, internationally recognized Medicine program with strong clinical training, modern facilities, and a supportive learning environment. Its strategic location within a large teaching hospital enriches students’ practical experience, while diverse international opportunities prepare graduates for global medical careers.

If you’re ready for a challenging yet rewarding medical education in Italy, UniMe’s Medicine and Surgery degree is definitely worth considering!