Study Medicine in Italy Without IMAT: The Guide to Private & Open-Access Medical Schools in Italy
Italy is one of the few European countries that offers multiple legitimate pathways into medical school—even for students who do not want to take the IMAT.
Depending on your language skills, financial situation, and preferred university type, you can enter Medicine through:
- Private English-taught medical schools (no IMAT required)
- The Filter-Semester pathway in Italian-taught public universities
- Hybrid strategies combining private tests and IMAT backup
This guide provides an up-to-date breakdown of every real option for 2025–2026, including deadlines, admission tests, seat availability, visa requirements, and tuition fees.
1 General Q&A: No IMAT Options
Can you study medicine in Italy without taking the IMAT?
Do private universities require IMAT?
Is the Filter Semester taught in English?
2 Private Universities (English)
Private Italian medical schools provide full English-taught MD degrees and offer the simplest path to studying in Italy without IMAT. Each university runs its own admission exam.
One of Europe’s most modern medical campuses, integrated with Humanitas Research Hospital.
A global-health-focused private university with strong ties to Rome hospitals.
Located in San Raffaele Hospital — a top clinical and research center known for neuroscience and oncology.
Based at Gemelli Hospital, one of Italy’s highest-ranked medical centers.
3 The "Filter Semester" (Italian)
The Filter Semester — known in Italy as “Semestre di Sbarramento” — allows students to begin studying Medicine in public universities without taking the IMAT. However, it applies ONLY to Italian-taught programs.
How it Works (Step by Step)
Open Enrollment (No Exam)
Students enroll directly into the Italian-taught Medicine program. No entrance exam is required.
Mandatory Core Subjects
You take three foundational courses: Chemistry & Biochemistry, Physics, and Biology.
Official Exams
To qualify for ranking, you must score ≥18/30 in each subject exam.
National Merit Ranking
Your ranking is based exclusively on your grades. No IMAT, no interviews.
Progression to Year 2
Top students progress. Those who don't pass aren't expelled but must repeat or switch degrees.
Retake Options
You can retake exams within the same session. Only your best score counts.
If You Don't Pass
You are not expelled. You can transfer credits to another degree or repeat the year.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is an entrance exam required? | No. Enrollment is open for the first semester. |
| What subjects determine acceptance? | Chemistry/Biochemistry, Physics, Biology. |
| What grade do I need? | Minimum 18/30 in each exam. |
| How is ranking calculated? | Only by the three exam grades. |
| Can I retake exams? | Yes — within the same session. |
| Do international students need Italian? | Yes — B1/B2 level. |
| What happens if I fail? | You can switch degrees or repeat. You are not expelled. |
| Is the program taught in English? | No — Italian only. |
| Do all universities offer this? | No — only selected public universities. |
4. Requirements for Non-EU Students (2025–2026)
Non-EU applicants must follow the official procedure:
- Apply on Universitaly by 25 July 2025 (17:00 Italy time).
- Complete all pre-enrollment steps (mandatory for visa approval).
- Provide valid Italian certification (B1 or B2) if choosing the Filter Semester.
- Start visa processing early — filter-semester programs begin earlier than regular courses.
5. Which Path Is Best for You?
Choose Private Universities if:
- • You want to avoid IMAT
- • You prefer studying in English
- • You can afford €10k–€23k/year
- • You want modern campuses & small classes
Choose Filter-Semester if:
- • You speak Italian at B1/B2
- • You want low tuition (€1k–€3k/year)
- • You prefer exam-based progression
- • You want a second chance after IMAT
Italy offers more flexibility than almost any other country in Europe. Whether you choose private English universities, the Italian filter semester, or the IMAT, you can build a pathway that fits your goals.