Sapienza University of RomeMedicine and Surgery
Study at Europe's largest university, a center of academic excellence for over 700 years. Experience a world-class medical education in the heart of the Eternal City, Rome.
Sapienza at a Glance
Admission to Sapienza is extremely competitive, consistently requiring some of the highest IMAT scores in Italy. Below are the approximate minimum scores for admission in recent years.
For a world-leading university, Sapienza's tuition fees are remarkably affordable and are based on family income (ISEE).
- Minimum Fee: approx. €140 per year.
- Standard Range for EU: €500 - €2,924 per year.
- Fixed Fee for Non-EU: A flat rate of approx. €1,000 per year is often applied.
- Many scholarships are available for international students through DiSCo Lazio.
The 6-year single-cycle Master's Degree in Medicine and Surgery at Sapienza University of Rome is one of the most prestigious and sought-after medical programs in Europe. Leveraging the vast resources of the continent's largest university, the program offers an unparalleled depth and breadth of knowledge. It is designed to train physicians with a strong scientific background, extensive clinical experience gained at the renowned Policlinico Umberto I, and a profound understanding of the ethical and social dimensions of medicine.
Educational Philosophy
Sapienza's philosophy is to cultivate "complete" physicians. This is achieved through a carefully structured curriculum that integrates basic sciences, social and humanistic studies, and clinical practice. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to patient health, preparing students to manage diseases and promote well-being in a global context. A strong focus is placed on research, with students encouraged to participate in projects across Sapienza's many departments.
Key Competencies Developed
- Clinical Excellence: Training in one of Italy's largest and most important teaching hospitals.
- Research Proficiency: Abundant opportunities to engage in cutting-edge biomedical research.
- Global Prestige: A degree from a world-renowned university, highly respected internationally.
- Interdisciplinary Knowledge: A holistic curriculum that includes medical humanities and ethics.
- Cultural Competence: Experience gained from living and studying in the diverse, international city of Rome.
Year 1 & 2: Basic Scientific Foundations
Building the essential scientific knowledge base, from cellular biology to the macroscopic structure of the human body.
- • Chemistry & Biochemistry
- • Physics & Statistics
- • Biology & Genetics
- • Human Anatomy
- • Histology & Embryology
- • Physiology
- • Medical Humanities
Year 3 & 4: Pathophysiology & Clinical Foundations
Transitioning from theory to practice with pathology, pharmacology, and the beginning of systematic clinical clerkships.
- • General & Systemic Pathology
- • Pharmacology
- • Microbiology & Immunology
- • Laboratory Medicine
- • Clinical Semeiotics & Methodology
- • First Clinical Rotations
Year 5 & 6: Clinical Practice & Thesis
Full immersion in the hospital environment across all major specialties, culminating in the final thesis and state exam.
- • Internal Medicine
- • General Surgery
- • Pediatrics
- • OB/GYN
- • Neurology & Psychiatry
- • Emergency Medicine
- • Public & Legal Medicine
- • Elective Rotations
- • Final Thesis
A Medical Student's Life in Rome
Live and learn in a city that is a living museum, offering an unparalleled mix of history, culture, food, and vibrant social life.
Rome offers a wide range of housing. Students often live in shared apartments in student-friendly districts like San Lorenzo (near the main campus) or Tiburtina, connected by public transport.
Cost: €400 - €700/month
Experience the "Dolce Vita." Rome's culinary scene is immense, from historic trattorias to bustling food markets. The city's social life is vibrant, with endless options for aperitivo, cultural events, and nightlife.
Cost: €300 - €500/month
Rome is a major European capital with two international airports and high-speed train connections across Italy. The city itself has an extensive public transport network of metros, buses, and trams.
Transport Pass: €35/month
Studying in Sapienza: Pros & Cons
World-Class Prestige: A degree from Sapienza is highly respected globally, opening doors to careers worldwide.
Vast Resources: As Europe's largest university, it offers immense resources in terms of libraries, research, and expertise.
Life in Rome: The experience of living in one of the world's most beautiful and historic cities is unparalleled.
Excellent Clinical Training: Policlinico Umberto I is a massive, high-volume hospital offering incredible clinical diversity.
Extremely Competitive: Sapienza requires some of the highest IMAT scores for admission.
Large and Bureaucratic: Navigating the administration of such a huge university can be slow and frustrating.
Cost of Living: Rome is one of Italy's more expensive cities, particularly for rent in central areas.
Large Class Sizes: The large student intake can sometimes feel impersonal compared to smaller programs.
The Application Journey
Your step-by-step guide and key contacts to apply to Sapienza University of Rome.
Admission is exceptionally competitive. A top-tier IMAT score is essential for a chance at admission.
Step 1: Pre-enrollment on Universitaly (April-July)
Mandatory for all non-EU candidates. You must select Sapienza University of Rome 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 Sapienza'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
internationaladmissions@uniroma1.it
corsidilaurea.uniroma1.it/en/corso/2022/30761