University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli"Medicine and Surgery
Join one of Italy's largest English-taught medical programs, offering a unique dual-campus experience across the historic metropolis of Naples and the royal city of Caserta.
Vanvitelli at a Glance
Vanvitelli offers a significant number of places, making it a popular and relatively accessible choice. Below are the approximate minimum scores for admission in recent years.
Tuition fees are income-based (ISEE) and are very affordable, reflecting the lower cost of living in the Campania region.
- Minimum Fee: approx. €156 per year.
- Standard Range: €200 - €2,800 per year.
- Maximum Fee (Highest Income): approx. €2,800 per year.
- Scholarships and aid are managed by ADiSURC Campania.
The 6-year single-cycle Master's Degree in Medicine and Surgery at the University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" offers a distinctive model in Italian medical education. With one of the largest intakes of international students in the country, the program is split across two campuses: the historic medical center in the heart of Naples and the modern facilities in Caserta. This dual structure provides students with a uniquely diverse clinical and social experience, training them in both a bustling metropolis and a significant regional capital.
Educational Philosophy
The program's philosophy emphasizes a strong, integrated approach to clinical science. The curriculum is designed to build a solid scientific foundation in the initial years, followed by extensive clinical rotations where students apply their knowledge. The dual-campus system is a core part of this philosophy, exposing students to a wide spectrum of pathologies and healthcare delivery models, from a high-complexity urban hospital to a major regional reference center.
Key Competencies Developed
- Clinical Versatility: Experience in diverse healthcare settings (Naples vs. Caserta).
- Large Cohort Dynamics: Skills in collaborating within a large and diverse international student body.
- Strong Foundational Knowledge: A comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of modern medicine.
- Regional Health Insight: Understanding of healthcare challenges in the populous Campania region.
- Adaptability: Graduates are well-prepared for a variety of clinical environments.
The Clinical & Academic Environment
Two distinct campuses and two major hospitals provide a broad and comprehensive training ground.
Located in the historic center of Naples, the Vecchio Policlinico is the university's main teaching hospital. It is a vast complex with a long history of medical education and offers a huge diversity of clinical cases typical of a major European city.
- Primary teaching hospital for the Naples-based cohort.
- Comprehensive range of medical and surgical specialties.
- Houses numerous research labs and university departments.
- Students are integrated into a bustling, high-volume urban healthcare environment.
The Caserta campus offers a more modern and contained learning environment. The A.O.R.N. "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano" di Caserta is the main reference hospital for the province, providing a different but equally valuable clinical experience.
- Primary teaching hospital for the Caserta-based cohort.
- A modern hospital serving a large provincial population.
- Provides experience in a regional healthcare system.
- The campus offers a quieter, more focused study atmosphere.
Student Life: Naples vs. Caserta
Choose between the vibrant chaos of a world-famous metropolis and the royal charm of a historic provincial capital.
Naples: Very affordable for a big city. Students live in the historic center or areas like Vomero. (€250-450/month).
Caserta: Even more affordable. A quieter city, easy to find housing near the hospital or university buildings. (€200-350/month).
Naples: A world culinary capital. Incredibly vibrant, energetic, and chaotic with an intense social scene.
Caserta: Excellent local cuisine. A much calmer and more relaxed lifestyle, centered around the magnificent Royal Palace.
Naples: A major transport hub with an international airport and high-speed trains. Gateway to Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, and Capri.
Caserta: Just a 40-minute train ride from Naples, offering easy access to the city while providing a quieter home base.
Studying in Campania: Pros & Cons
Large Program Size: One of the highest number of seats available, increasing admission chances.
Diverse Clinical Experience: The dual-campus system offers exposure to two very different hospital environments.
Very Low Cost of Living: Both Naples and Caserta are extremely affordable for students.
Rich Cultural Setting: Live in a region packed with history, from ancient ruins to royal palaces.
Split Campuses: The student body is divided between two cities, which might dilute the sense of a unified community.
Bureaucracy: As a very large public university, navigating administration can be challenging.
Lower Ranking: The university has a lower international ranking than some of the top-tier Northern universities.
Infrastructure: Public transport and city infrastructure in the region can be less reliable than in the North.
The Application Journey
Your step-by-step guide and key contacts to apply to the University of Campania.
Admission is based on the IMAT score. With a large number of seats, Vanvitelli is a popular choice for many international students.
Step 1: Pre-enrollment on Universitaly (April-July)
Mandatory for all non-EU candidates. You must select the University of Campania as your first choice.
Step 2: Register for IMAT (August-September)
Register for the exam via the official testing portal. The exam is typically held in mid-September.
Step 3: Check Rankings & Enroll (October)
Successful candidates in the national ranking must follow Vanvitelli's specific enrollment procedures promptly.
Step 4 (Non-EU): Apply for Student Visa
Use the admission letter to apply for a Type D student visa at your local Italian consulate.
Contact Details
international@unicampania.it
www.medicina.unicampania.it