IMAT Exam Centers!
Guide to Locations & Dates
Imagine securing your spot in an Italian medical school without ever setting foot on a plane to Rome or Milan—at least, not yet. One of the biggest strategic advantages of the IMAT is its global accessibility.
You do not need to fly to Italy to take the exam; for the 2025 cycle, there are 26 official international test centres in major cities around the world. However, do not mistake convenience for ease. The IMAT is the exclusive gateway to Italy’s public medical schools and is held only once a year. With no second chances until the following cycle, understanding your testing options is the first step toward admission.
Is the Exam Different Abroad?
Standardization RulesA common misconception is that taking the IMAT outside of Italy puts you at a disadvantage. This is false. Whether you sit the exam in Rome, New York, or New Delhi, the playing field is perfectly level.
Guaranteed Equality
The test is organized centrally by the Italian Ministry (MUR), ensuring:
- Same Paper: Every candidate receives the exact same questions.
- Same Date: The test is held on a single designated day globally.
- Same Moment: The exam begins simultaneously worldwide to prevent leaks. (Note: It starts at 11:00 AM Italian time, which might be 2:00 AM or 5:00 AM in your local time zone!)
Where will you actually sit the test? When you register on the Universitaly portal, you will be asked to select your preferred test centre. Most international centres are hosted by:
- The British Council
- Italian Cultural Institutes
- Partnered Universities
The IMAT Timeline
2024 vs 2025While the structure of the IMAT cycle remains consistent year over year, the specific dates shift. Below is a comparison of the previous cycle (2024) and the official schedule for 2025.
| Event | 2024 Dates (Ref) | 2025 Dates (Official) |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Opens | September 2 | August 26 |
| Registration Closes | September 12 | September 9 (15:00 CET) |
| Exam Date | September 17 | September 17 |
| Results (Anon) | September 26 | September 26 |
Where Can You Take the IMAT?
Italy vs. The WorldYou have two main options for where to sit the exam: directly in Italy or at one of the global test centres. Your choice depends on your strategy and location.
1. Taking the Test in Italy
The "First Choice" RuleIf you decide to travel to Italy for the exam, you cannot just pick any city. You must sit the exam at the university you listed as your first choice in your application.
- Example: If your first choice is the University of Milan, you must take the test in Milan. You cannot take it in Rome just because the flights are cheaper.
- Availability: In 2025, there are 17 Italian test centres—essentially every public university that offers an English-taught medical program.
2. Taking the Test Abroad
International CentresFor the 2025 cycle, there are 26 international centres spanning five continents. Note: Most countries have a single designated test centre. However, to accommodate high demand, the UK and India currently host two centres each.
| Region | 2025 Confirmed Test Locations |
|---|---|
| Europe | UK (London & Birmingham), Albania, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland |
| Asia | India (New Delhi & Chennai), Azerbaijan, China, Hong Kong, Pakistan |
| Middle East | Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE |
| North America | Canada, USA |
| South America | Brazil |
| Africa | South Africa |
Registration Strategies
The "First Test" Before the ExamGetting a seat at the exam can sometimes feel as stressful as the exam itself. The registration window is brief—typically opening just 3–4 weeks before the test date—and competition for specific locations is fierce.
For International Seats: Speed is your best friend. Centres in Turkey, India, and the UAE fill up within hours. Log in the moment the window opens.
For Italian Seats: Be patient. The system guarantees accommodation for everyone applying to their first-choice university. Wait for chaos to settle.
The "Universitaly Crash" Warning
Every year, thousands of students refresh the page simultaneously at opening time, causing the portal to crash. Don't Panic: This is normal. The site typically stabilizes after the initial rush.
Fees & Final Checks: The registration fee is typically €130–€135. Once paid, verify that the Test Centre Location on your confirmation email matches your selection.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Can I choose any city in Italy to take the test?
I live in London but applied to Rome. Can I test in London?
When was the deadline to register for 2025?
🏁 Summary
The logistics of the IMAT are strict, but they are manageable if you plan ahead. Whether you are sprinting for a seat in Dubai or planning a trip to Milan, the most important date right now is August 26th. Set your alarms, prepare your documents, and get ready to secure your future in medicine.