University of Siena: Institutional Profile
| Official Name | Università degli Studi di Siena - School of Dentistry |
| Campus Location | Polo Scientifico San Miniato & Hospital Le Scotte |
| Degree Title | Master's Degree in Dentistry and Dental Prosthodontics (English-taught) |
| Degree Level | 6-Year Single-Cycle (LM-46) |
| Course Language | Full English Curriculum |
| Historical Status | Founded Dec 26, 1240 by the Commune of Siena |
| Clinical Hub | Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Senese (Le Scotte) |
| Admission Test | IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test) |
| 2025 Quota | EU: 22 seats | Non-EU: 12 seats |
| Tuition Policy | Progressive Fee Structure based on ISEE-U (€0 to €4,500) |
| Regional Admin | DSU Toscana (Scholarships, Housing, Canteen) |
| Academic Calendar | October to July (Two Semesters) |
The Medieval Academic Root: Siena 1240
The University of Siena is not just old; it is one of the few institutions that was founded by the people, for the people. In 1240, the citizens of Siena taxed themselves to attract masters and scholars, creating a "Studium Senese" that would rival the greats of Bologna and Paris.
Siena has always been a city of medical innovation. During the Black Death of 1348, its physicians were at the forefront of epidemiological observation. This legacy of resilience and research passed down through the centuries, culminating in the creation of one of Italy's most prestigious Dental Schools.
The English Dentistry program was launched to bring this Tuscan excellence to the global stage. It represents a bridge between the medieval humanism of the city center and the high-tech clinical reality of the San Miniato science park and the Le Scotte hospital.
Today, studying in Siena means walking the same brick-paved streets as generations of healers. It is a city where every corner has a story, and where the university is the heartbeat of the community. In Siena, you don't just attend a university; you join an Academic Family.
Siena Chronology
- 1240 Foundation by the Commune
- 1252 Innocent IV Recognition
- 1357 Imperial Studium Status
- 1970 Le Scotte Hospital Built
- 2024 QS World Top 100 Dent
Tuscan Precision: Educational Philosophy
The Artisan Approach
Dentistry is as much a craft as it is a science. In Siena, we treat dental training with the same precision and dedication that Tuscan artisans bring to leather and marble.
Phantom Head Labs
Early manual dexterity training using advanced simulators from Year 1.
Small Class Sizes
With only 34 seats, students get personalized attention from professors.
Digital Prosthetics
Integration of 3D scanning and milling in the clinical workflow.
Scientific Innovation
Siena is home to one of Italy's most advanced dental research centers, focusing on Laser Dentistry and Periodontology.
Laser Research
Pioneering work in non-invasive laser treatments for gum disease.
Biomaterials Lab
Testing the next generation of biocompatible dental resins.
Public Health Focus
Research into oral health prevention programs for the Tuscan population.
The Clinical Heart: Hospital Le Scotte
AOU Senese (Le Scotte)
The main university hospital. A massive clinical complex where dental students perform their clinical rotations and surgeries.
San Miniato Hub
The scientific campus. Home to the pre-clinical laboratories, dental simulation units, and core lecture halls.
Tuscan Dental Center
A specialized research wing focusing on periodontology and dental implantology with a focus on elderly patients.
Siena Dentistry: IMAT Admission Data
Siena Dentistry is known for being slightly more accessible for EU students than Rome, but extremely competitive for Non-EU students due to high interest from international applicants.
| Year | EU Quota (Min) | Non-EU (Min) | Seats (E/NE) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 54.6 | 52.0 | 22 / 12 |
| 2024 | 59.7 | 69.3 | 22 / 12 |
| 2023 | 33.2 | 51.3 | 22 / 10 |
| 2022 | 32.8 | 44.9 | 20 / 10 |
| 2021 | 33.8 | 35.4 | 20 / 8 |
| 2020 | 33.8 | 35.4 | 15 / 5 |
| 2019 | 33.0 | 31.4 | 15 / 5 |
| 2018 | 31.2 | 15.9 | 15 / 5 |
| 2017 | 31.5 | – | 15 / 5 |
The Sienese Dental Journey
Human Biology & Chemistry
Foundation in basic sciences and the start of professional scientific English.
Anatomy & Physiology
Mastering the structure and function of the human body and oral cavity.
Pathology & Clinical Skills
Introduction to disease mechanisms and pre-clinical dental simulation.
Restorative Dentistry
Clinical rotations begin. Focus on saving teeth and restoring function.
Advanced Prosthodontics
Complex prosthetic reconstructions and surgical dental implantology.
Integrative Clinical Practice
Full clinical immersion and defense of the original graduation thesis.
Medieval Life, Modern Student
Siena is one of the few places on Earth where you can live in a Medieval Time Capsule. The city is divided into 17 Contrade (districts), each with its own flag, church, and identity. As a student, you quickly become part of this vibrant, historical social fabric.
The "Piazza del Campo" is the city's living room. After classes, students gather here to sit on the shell-shaped bricks, drink coffee, and study. It is a Pedestrian Paradise—you can walk across the entire city center in 20 minutes.
Housing in the Hills
- Centro Storico
Historic center. High demand, magical atmosphere. Shared Room: €350-€450.
- San Miniato / Le Scotte
Close to the hospital and science hub. More modern apartments. Studio: €600-€750.
Cost of Living in Siena
Tuscan Economics
Siena is moderately priced. While tourism drives some prices up in the center, students have access to the "Mensa" (canteen) which provides high-quality Tuscan meals for a few euros.
| Item | Cost (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| Room in Shared Flat | €380 – €480 |
| Groceries (Student Supermarket) | €250 – €300 |
| Mensa Meals (Daily) | €3.00 – €4.50 |
| Public Transport (Student Pass) | €25 |
| Utilities | €80 – €120 |
Siena Dentistry: Strategic Scorecard
Key Advantages
- High professor-to-student ratio.
- Clinical training at the modern Le Scotte hospital.
- UNESCO heritage city with extreme safety and beauty.
- Strong focus on laser dentistry and research.
- Lower cost of living than Rome or Milan.
Strategic Challenges
- Small city, can feel "too quiet" for some.
- Hilly terrain—be prepared for constant walking/climbing.
- Limited Non-EU seats (12).
- Bureaucracy in Tuscany requires patience.
Tuscany Administrative Survival Kit
DSU Toscana
The regional agency for student rights. They manage the canteens and scholarships.
Questura di Siena
Handles the residence permit. Located just outside the city walls.
Siena Mobilità
The bus network connecting the center to San Miniato and Le Scotte.
Siena Dentistry FAQ
Is the degree global?
Yes, it is WFME recognized and valid across the EU and for global licensing exams.
What is the clinical language?
English for theory, but Italian B1/B2 is required for hospital work in Le Scotte.
How many seats for EU?
Currently 22 seats.
What is Le Scotte?
The major tertiary hospital of South-East Tuscany and the clinical home for dentistry.
Are there scholarships?
Yes, via DSU Toscana, based on family economic indicators.
Is Siena expensive?
Less than Florence or Rome, but more than Southern Italy. Monthly budget ~€900.
Where is the dental school?
Mainly at the Polo Scientifico San Miniato, near the hospital.
Is the city walkable?
Extremely. No cars are allowed in the center. But it's very hilly!
What is the Palio?
A historic horse race that defines Sienese culture. You will experience it twice a year.
Are exams oral?
Yes, following the standard Italian model of oral examination.
How do I get there?
Train or bus from Florence (1.5 hrs) or Rome (3 hrs).
Is there a student canteen?
Yes, there are several canteens run by DSU offering full meals.
Is dentistry in Siena high-tech?
Yes, they use advanced simulators and laser technology in clinical units.
What is the IMAT score needed?
Usually 30-40 for EU and 50-60 for Non-EU.
Can I work part-time?
Non-EU students can work 20 hrs/week, but it's difficult given the class schedule.
Are there many international students?
Yes, Siena is a very international university city.
What is the DSU card?
A multipurpose card for meals, library access, and sometimes transport.
Is there a gym?
Yes, the University Sports Center (CUS) offers many activities.
How long is the program?
6 years (360 ECTS).
Are clinical materials provided?
The hospital provides materials, but students may need to buy small personal tools.
Is Siena safe?
One of the safest cities in Italy with very low crime rates.
What is 'Contrada'?
A neighborhood district. You will likely live in one and be 'adopted' by its members.
Are there research options?
Yes, Siena is a major research hub in life sciences.
Can I do Erasmus from Siena?
Yes, they have a wide range of European partners.
What is the minimum attendance?
Generally 75% for clinical courses and 67% for theoretical ones.
Strategic Location: Siena Medical District
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