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University of Messina
A Sicilian Pinnacle for MBBS in Italy: Blending 475 Years of Tradition with Modern Clinical Training.
Institutional Overview
Founded in 1548, the University of Messina (UniME) is one of Italy’s oldest public institutions. Supported by 1,300 academic staff, it enrolls ~24,000 students (10% international from 27 countries) across four main departments, with its medical campus at the G. Martino University Hospital.
Global Stature
QS 2025 (Medicine): 201-250
Censis 2024: Leader in Southern Italy for research & training.
International Focus
10% international students from 27 countries.
400+ Erasmus+ agreements & visiting professor programs.
Key Accreditations
WHO, NMC, USMLE Eligible
UK GMC (>60 grads registered by 2023)
EC Directive 2005/36/EC Aligned
Advanced Facilities
Training at G. Martino University Hospital, 20 libraries, & cutting-edge simulation labs.
Medicine and Surgery Program
Launched in 2012, this six-year, 12-semester (Oct-July) Single Cycle Master’s degree in English is designed to train world-class doctors with a strong focus on clinical reasoning, patient-centered care, and research.
- Clinical Reasoning Focus: Emphasizes clinical maturation and ethical practice from early years.
- Small Class Sizes: Capped at 55 students (20 Non-EU, 35 EU for 2024/25) for personalized mentorship.
- Thesis Discussion Groups: A unique feature designed to enhance clinical maturation and scientific dialogue.
- Elective Activities (8 ECTS): Allows students to tailor a portion of their studies to personal interests.
Curriculum Overview (360 ECTS)
Semester 2 (Typical): Biochemistry, Physiology I, General Pathology, Clinical Introduction
Focus: Basic sciences, tissue organization, and early patient interaction.
Semester 6 (Typical): Pathological Anatomy, Medical-Surgical Specialties, Clinical Skills
Clerkships: 4–10 CFU (80–200 hours) at G. Martino. Italian B1 proficiency required by Year 3.
Semester 10 (Typical): General Surgery, Pediatrics, Thesis, Clinical Reasoning
Clerkships: 18–28 CFU (360–560 hours), including elective rotations.
Life in Messina & Student Support
Located in Messina, a city of 230,000 on Sicily's northeastern tip, students enjoy affordable living and rich culture, from the Messina Cathedral to nearby Taormina. UniME fosters a vibrant community with sports, festivals, and strong international support.
Tuition Fees (2024/25)
Range: €156 - €2,200 annually (ISEE-based). No-tax area for ISEE < €23,000. Payable in 3 installments.
Financial Support (ARSUM)
ARSUM scholarships (€2,000–€5,000/year) and merit-based grants (€500–€1,000). KALINGAEURO guidance available.
Campus accessible by bus (€1.20/ticket) or bike (€20/month).
Living costs: €250–400/month for shared rooms.
Enjoy subsidized canteens (€2-4/meal) and events like the Messina Film Festival.
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. 41.5 (non-EU) & 43.5 (EU) per AcadIMAT.
- Non-EU: D-type visa, pre-enroll via Universitaly, apply via UniME portal by July.
- English B2 required; Italian B1 needed by year 3 for clinics.
- KALINGAEURO provides IMAT preparation.
Notable Features
Thesis Discussion Groups
A unique feature to enhance clinical maturation and scientific dialogue.
Strong GMC Recognition
Over 60 graduates registered to practice in the UK by 2023.
Free Italian Courses (DICAM)
Coordinated by the Dept. of Ancient and Modern Civilizations.
Elective Activities (8 ECTS)
Allows students to tailor their learning path to personal interests.
Why Choose UniME for Your MBBS?
UniME offers a world-class MBBS experience, blending 475 years of tradition with cutting-edge training at G. Martino University Hospital. Globally accredited and set in Messina’s affordable, culturally rich city, it prepares you for a transformative career.
