What is the IMAT? The Complete Guide to Studying Medicine in Italy
The IMAT (International Medical Admission Test) is the official entrance examination for the English-taught Single-Cycle Degree in Medicine and Surgery at Italian public universities.
It is a single national exam that allocates seats across multiple medical faculties throughout Italy. All candidates—EU, non-EU, and international applicants worldwide—compete on the same national ranking list, making the IMAT the exclusive gateway to studying Medicine in English at Italy’s public universities.
Admin Update
Until IMAT 2022, the exam was administered by Cambridge Assessment. Starting in 2023, full control of the IMAT transitioned to the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR), which now manages every aspect of the exam.
Each year, MUR releases an official Call for Applications detailing the seat quotas, exam date, test format, and registration procedures, forming the foundation for the entire IMAT admission cycle.
Historically, IMAT registration opens in August and remains available for approximately 2–3 weeks, with the exam taking place in September. Most essential details—such as seat quotas, the official exam date, and procedural instructions—are typically published 1–2 months beforehand, usually in June or July, based on previous admission cycles.
The IMAT is not limited to the 15 Medicine and Surgery programs offered in English. It also serves as the official entrance exam for three additional English-taught degree programs at Italian public universities:
- Sapienza University of Rome
- University of Siena
- University of Bologna
Through one national exam, candidates gain access to three English-language programs within Italy’s public university system, significantly expanding their options.
Language and Format
The IMAT is conducted entirely in English and follows a multiple-choice format with 60 questions, each with five options and only one correct answer. The exam is strictly in-person, held simultaneously at official test centers in Italy and at authorized international locations worldwide.
What does the IMAT test?
The IMAT assesses a candidate’s logical reasoning, scientific knowledge, and problem-solving ability—core competencies required for medical training. The exam covers logical reasoning, problem-solving, reading skills, and general knowledge, with Biology and Chemistry representing the largest share of the test, followed by Mathematics and Physics.
Subject Distribution
Who can take the IMAT?
Any student who has completed—or is in the final year of completing—12 years of secondary education and meets the general university admission requirements is eligible to sit the IMAT. The exam is open to both EU and non-EU candidates, with all applicants assessed through the same national procedure.
✅ Eligible: 12 Years of Schooling + General Admission Req.
When and where is the IMAT held?
The IMAT takes place once per year, typically in September. Candidates may sit the exam either in Italy or at one of the officially authorised international test centers located across major cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Admission Pathway Overview
Complete the Pre-Enrollment Process
Required only for non-EU applicants, following each university’s specific deadlines.
Submit Pre-Evaluation (If Required)
Some universities request document pre-evaluation; it may apply to all candidates or only non-EU, depending on the institution.
Apply Through the University Portal
Register on the official portal of your chosen university when applications open.
Register for the IMAT Exam
Complete the IMAT registration once MUR releases the annual call.
Take the IMAT Exam
Sit the test in September at your selected test center.
Check Your Result and National Ranking
Review your score and position on the official ranking lists.
Secure Your Seat
Based on your ranking and university preferences, confirm your place at one of Italy’s English-taught medical schools.
Question and Answer
1. What is the IMAT exam used for?
The IMAT is the official national entrance exam for the English-taught Medicine and Surgery, Dentistry, and Veterinary Medicine programs at Italian public universities. One exam gives access to multiple universities and programs across Italy.
2. Who administers the IMAT?
Until 2022, the exam was run by Cambridge Assessment. From 2023 onward, the IMAT is fully administered by MUR (Italian Ministry of University and Research).
3. When does IMAT registration open?
Based on previous admission cycles, IMAT registration typically opens in August and remains available for 2–3 weeks. MUR usually announces the official date, seat quotas, and instructions in June or July.
4. What programs can I apply to with the IMAT?
- 15 Medicine and Surgery programs
- Dentistry at Sapienza (Rome) and Siena
- Veterinary Medicine at the University of Bologna
5. What format does the IMAT exam follow?
The IMAT is a 60-question multiple-choice exam, in English, with five options per question and only one correct answer. It is in-person only, held simultaneously in Italy and worldwide at authorised centers.
6. What subjects does the IMAT test?
- Logical reasoning and Problem-solving - 5 questions
- Reading skills and General knowledge - 4 questions
- Biology -23 questions
- Chemistry - 15 questions
- Mathematics and Physics - 13 questions
7. Who is eligible to take the IMAT?
Any student who has completed (or is completing) 12 years of secondary education and meets basic university admission requirements may sit the IMAT. It is open to EU and non-EU applicants.
8. Where can I take the IMAT exam?
The IMAT is offered once per year in September and can be taken in Italy or at one of the officially authorised international test centers located across major cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.