University of Cagliari
A Coastal Gem for MBBS in Italy: Holistic Medical Training on the Island of Sardinia.
Institutional Overview
Founded in 1606, the University of Cagliari (UNICA) is a historic university on the island of Sardinia. Supported by 1,500 staff, it enrolls ~25,000 students across 11 faculties, with its medical campus located at the Health Sciences Campus in Monserrato, integrated with AOU Cagliari hospital.
Global Stature
QS 2025 (Medicine): 301-350
Censis 2024: Top in Southern Italy for research & facilities.
International Outlook
7% international students.
100+ Erasmus+ agreements & Globus study-thesis programs.
Key Accreditations
WHO, NMC, GMC, USMLE Eligible
EC Directive 2005/36/EC Aligned
Newly Accredited Program (2024)
Advanced Campus
Clinical training at AOU Cagliari, ‘Beniamino Orrù’ library, and specialized anatomy rooms.
Medicine and Surgery Program
Launched in 2024, this six-year, 12-semester (Oct-July) Single Cycle Master’s degree in English trains doctors with a holistic, patient-centered approach, dedicating 60 ECTS credits to professional skills and early clinical exposure.
- Holistic Approach: Emphasizes patient-centered care and preventive medicine.
- Unique Curriculum: Features a first-year Medical Humanities course and final-year TPVES for state exam preparation.
- Small Class Sizes: Capped at 60 students (20 Non-EU, 40 EU for 2024/25) for personalized mentorship.
- Early Clinical Skills: First aid training in the first year provides immediate hands-on experience.
Curriculum Overview (360 ECTS)
Semester 2 (Typical): Physiology I, Histology, Molecular Biology, First Aid
Focus: Basic sciences, organ organization, and early clinical skills.
Semester 6 (Typical): Pathological Anatomy, Medical-Surgical Specialties
Clerkships: 4–10 CFU (80–200 hours) at AOU Cagliari. Italian B1 required by Year 3.
Semester 10 (Typical): General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Thesis, TPVES (300 hours)
Clerkships: 18–28 CFU (360–560 hours), including key rotations. Italian proficiency progresses to B2.
Life in Cagliari & Student Support
Located in Cagliari, a coastal city of 150,000, students enjoy Sardinia’s pristine beaches like Poetto, affordable living, and cultural landmarks. The International Relations Office and welcome point support student integration.
Tuition Fees (2024/25)
Range: €150 - €2,500 annually (ISEE-based). No-tax area for ISEE < €23,000. Payable in 3 installments.
Financial Support (ERSU)
ERSU scholarships (€2,000–€5,000/year) and merit-based grants (€500–€1,000). KALINGAEURO guidance available.
Campus accessible by bus (€1/ticket) or bike (€20/month).
Living costs: €250–400/month (shared), rentals via Subito.it.
Enjoy subsidized canteens (€2-4/meal) and vibrant local festivals.
Admissions & Notable Features
Admission Requirements
- 12 years of secondary education with a high school diploma.
- Competitive IMAT score (100-minute, 60-question exam).
- Estimated 2024 IMAT cut-offs: Approx. 42.0 (non-EU) & 44.0 (EU) per AcadIMAT.
- Non-EU: D-type visa, pre-enroll via Universitaly, apply via UNICA portal by July.
- English B2 required; Italian B1 needed by year 3 for clinics.
- KALINGAEURO provides IMAT preparation.
Notable Features
New Program (2024)
A modern curriculum emphasizing health promotion and holistic training.
Medical Humanities
A unique first-year course providing a broader perspective on medicine.
Free Italian Courses
Offered by the University Language Center to support clinical integration.
Globus Programs
Opportunities for international study and thesis research after 140 CFU.
Why Choose Cagliari for Your MBBS?
UNICA offers a cutting-edge MBBS experience, blending holistic training with clinical excellence. Globally accredited and set in Cagliari’s affordable, breathtaking Sardinian city, it prepares you for a pioneering medical career.