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    We have carefully gathered a comprehensive collection of the most frequently asked questions by IMAT candidates to ensure that no query goes unanswered. In this guide, we delve deep into the concerns and curiosities of aspiring medical students, addressing everything from how to effectively prepare for the exam, strategies to tackle challenging sections, what to expect on the day of the test, and the steps to take after the results are released. Whether it’s about the syllabus, scoring system, or the registration process, we aim to provide clear and detailed answers to help you navigate every stage of your IMAT journey with confidence.

    1. What is the IMAT Exam?

    The IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test) is a paper-based entrance exam designed for students who wish to apply to English-taught medical and surgery programs at public universities in Italy.

    The exam is held annually, typically in September or October, and is required for both EU and non-EU students applying to these programs.

    Each year, the Italian Ministry of Education, University, and Research (MUR) sets out the guidelines and content for the IMAT exam. These details are officially published in a decree, typically released in the summer.

    The IMAT exam is open to any EU or non-EU student who wishes to apply to an English-taught medical or surgery program at Italian public universities. These programs are aimed at both domestic and international students who havecompleted their secondary education and meet the admission requirements set by the universities andthe Italian Ministry of Education.

    The IMAT is offered once a year, but there is no limit on the number of times you can take it as long as you apply each year.

    No, the IMAT exam is not age-limited. There is no specific age requirement to take the IMAT; both younger students who have completed their secondary education and older individuals who meet the eligibility criteria can sit for the exam.

    The IMAT covers:

    i. Biology
    ii. Chemistry
    iii. Physics and Mathematics
    iv. General Knowledge and reading skills
    v. Logical Reasoning

     

    The IMAT exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and the format is as follows:

    I) Logical Reasoning and General Knowledge consist of 9 questions designed to evaluate your ability to think critically, solve problems, and analyze information effectively. General Knowledge covers topics like culture, history, current events, and general facts.

    II) Biology consists of 23 questions, focusing on topics such as cell biology, genetics, evolution, physiology, and ecology.

    III) Chemistry consists of 18 questions, covering topics such as atomic structure, chemical reactions, periodic properties, and organic chemistry.

    IV) Physics and Mathematics consist of 13 questions. Physics covers topics such as mechanics, electricity, and thermodynamics, while Mathematics focuses on algebra, geometry, and statistics.

    Yes, the IMAT exam is time-limited. The total time allotted for the exam is 100 minutes. During this period, candidates must answer all 60 multiple- choice questions across subjects like logical reasoning, general knowledge, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. 

    Given the time constraints, time management is crucial for success, especially since the questions vary in difficulty and cover different topics.

    Each correct answer gives 1.5 points, each incorrect answer results in a deduction of -0.4 points, and unanswered questions give 0 points.

    The maximum score is 90 points.

    Students can utilize various resources that cover the IMAT syllabus including reviewing past IMAT exams to practice and familiarize themselves with the format.

    We also offer flexible IMAT courses tailored for students preparing for the exam. These courses include study planners, weekly tests, and mock exams designed to mimic the real IMAT exam format, ensuring that students are well-prepared and confident on test da

    Preparation time varies, but it is recommended to start at least 4 to 6 months before the exam, focusing on both the science subjects and logical reasoning skills.

    There is no official passing Admission depends on your ranking relative to other candidates. Each university has a cut-off score based on the number of available seats and competition.

    Results are calculated based on your performance and released within 3-4 weeks after the Scores and Rankings are published on the Universitaly platform.

    EU students are allowed to choose multiple universities in their application and rank them in their preferred order on the Universitaly

    Non-EU students, however, are limited to choosing only one university during the registration process. This means non-EU students must carefully select the university where they wish to study, as their application is only considered for that specific institution.

    Citizens of the European Union (EU): Individuals with citizenship in any EU member state.

    Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA): This includes non-EU countries like Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.

    Swiss Citizens: Switzerland is not an EU member, but Swiss citizens are treated similarly to EU nationals for education purposes in

    Non-EU nationals with EU-equivalent status: This category includes non- EU citizens who have obtained legal residence in an EU country and hold specific residence permits.

    Recently, some universities have updated their policies and no longer consider certain non-EU nationals with EU-equivalent status as EU candidates for the IMAT Itʼs important to double-check the

    specific requirements for each university to confirm whether they will treat EU-equivalent candidates the same as EU citizens for admissions purposes. Always review the most up-to-date guidelines provided by individual universities to avoid any confusion during the application process.

    The pre-enrollment process is a mandatory step for non-EU students applying to English-taught medical programs in Italy through the IMAT exam. This process is conducted through the Universitaly portal and is designed to secure a study visa and verify eligibility for admission.

    Non-EU students must submit a pre-enrollment application on the Universitaly portal, indicating their preferred university and medical program.

    Required documents, such as educational qualifications, identification (passport), and proof of language proficiency (if needed), are submitted through the portal.

    Watch This Video Now! Pre-enrolment for IMAT exam

    Head to the Universitaly website and create an account when the registration window opens, typically in the summer.

    Then, go to the IMAT section. Fill out the application form by providing your personal details, choosing your preferred test center, and listing your university choices. Non-EU students are limited to selecting one university, while EU students can choose multiple universities in their preferred order.

    Pay the registration fee. You need to pay the required fee, which typically ranges around €130, but the exact amount may depend on your test location. Payment is made through the Universitaly platform.

    Once your payment is processed, you will receive an email to confirm your registration and provide further details about your exam location.

    The IMAT exam is conducted worldwide in designated test centers. A list of the centers is usually shared a month before.

    In order to study medicine in Italy, you will need to have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. To be eligible for enrollment in an Italian university, including medical programs, you must demonstrate that you have completed secondary education that meets the admission standards set by the university and the Italian Ministry of Education.

    You should apply for your student visa to study medicine in Italy after you receive the results. Keep in mind, visa processing times can vary depending on the country.

    A DOV (Declaration of Value) is an official document issued by an Italian consulate or embassy in your home country, which certifies the value of your foreign qualifications (like a high school diploma) and their equivalence to the Italian education system. The DOV confirms that your diploma allows you to pursue higher education in your home country, and that it meets the requirements for admission to universities in Italy.

    Contact the Italian consulate or embassy in your country. 

    CIMEA (Information Centre on Academic Mobility and Equivalence) provides the Statement of Comparability, a document that helps foreign qualifications be understood and recognized in This document compares your educational degree to the Italian system, ensuring itʼs valid for study or work.

    An English language certificate like IELTS is not required to take the IMAT exam. The IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test) is conducted in

    English, and your ability to understand and answer questions in English is implicitly tested through the exam.Therefore, the IMAT serves as a sufficient indicator of your English proficiency for most universities.

    Some universities may require proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers, especially if they did not complete their previous education in English. Exams like IELTS or TOEFL might be requested. Check the specific language requirements of the university you are applying to, as they can vary. Some may accept the IMAT score alone as proof of your English skills, while others may require an additional certificate.

    Some universities require both EU and non-EU students to pre-register on their portal system to evaluate their documents and It is important to check the specific requirements of each university before the exam. This process differs from pre-enrollment.