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University of Padova
A Legacy of Freedom and Excellence for MBBS in Italy, embodying "Universa Universis Patavina Libertas".
Institutional Overview
Founded in 1222, the University of Padova is Italy’s second-oldest university, established by scholars seeking academic freedom. Home to Europe's first botanical garden and oldest anatomical theatre, it has shaped global knowledge for over 800 years across its 32 departments and 8 schools.
Global Stature
QS 2025 (Medicine): 125
Censis 2024: #4 in Italy for Medicine (91 points).
Innovation & Research
43 research centers driving innovation in oncology, neuroscience, and regenerative medicine.
Key Accreditations
WHO, NMC, GMC, USMLE Eligible
EC Directive 2005/36/EC Aligned
Member of Coimbra Group & EUA
Historic Medical Venues
Training at Padova University Hospital and, from 2025, a new Venice campus.
Medicine and Surgery Program
Launched in 2019, this six-year, 12-semester (Oct-July) Single Cycle Master’s degree in English is designed to train globally competent physicians with a holistic approach, emphasizing Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and early, extensive clinical training.
- Earliest Clinical Exposure: Internships (1,020 hours) begin in the very first year, a unique feature in Italy.
- Problem-Based Learning (PBL): A core pedagogical method that fosters critical thinking and clinical reasoning from day one.
- Unique Exam Format: Employs written computer-based exams, setting it apart from other Italian medical schools.
- New Venice Campus: The program is expanding to include a new, modern campus in Venice starting in 2025.
Curriculum Overview (360 ECTS)
Semester 2 (Typical): Biochemistry, Physiology, Histology, Organ Systems
Focus: Foundational sciences with immediate clinical exposure (e.g., radiology rotations).
Semester 6 (Typical): Infectious Diseases, System Diseases, Patient Communication
Internships: 14 CFU (280 hours) focusing on diagnostics. B2 Italian proficiency required.
Semester 10 (Typical): Emergency Medicine, Oncology, Psychiatry, Clinical Clerkships
Internships: 46 CFU (920 hours), culminating in a final thesis.
Life in Padova & Student Support
Located in Padova, a vibrant university city where one-third of residents are students, the atmosphere is youthful and international (over 60% of med students). Students enjoy the famous "University Wednesday" nightlife, festivals, and easy access to Venice.
Tuition Fees (2024/25)
Range: €200 - €2,623 annually + €188 first-year fee. Payable in 3 installments.
Scholarship Opportunities
Padua International Excellence Scholarship and a special award for the top IMAT scorer.
Campus accessible via tram (€1.50/ticket) or bike (€25/month).
Living costs: €300–500/month for shared rooms.
Subsidized canteens are free for scholarship holders.
Admissions & Notable Alumni
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. 49.2 (non-EU) & 40.1 (EU).
- Non-EU: D-type visa, register via Universitaly & unipd.it portal (with €30 fee).
- An Italian language test is required upon arrival for non-Italian speakers.
- KALINGAEURO provides IMAT preparation.
Notable Alumni
Andreas Vesalius
Revolutionized the study of human anatomy with his 1543 work.
William Harvey
Discovered the circulation of blood, a cornerstone of physiology.
Elena Lucrezia Piscopia
Became the world’s first woman to receive a university degree in 1678.
G. B. Morgagni
Considered the father of modern pathological anatomy.
Why Choose Padova for Your MBBS?
Padova offers an elite MBBS experience, blending 800 years of medical tradition with innovative PBL and early clinical training. Globally accredited and set in a student-centric city, it prepares you for a distinguished medical career.
