IMAT Exam 2026: Your Complete Guide to Medical Admissions in Italy
It’s July, and you’re sitting in your room, biology and chemistry textbooks piled high on your desk, with the Universitaly registration page open on your laptop. In two months, you’ll face an exam that could determine whether you spend the next six years studying medicine in English in Rome, Bologna, or Padua (for tuition fees that are a fraction of what you’d pay in London). This exam is the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test), and if you’re planning to study medicine in Italy, it’s the only gateway you must pass through.
The IMAT is the central admissions exam for English-taught medical programs at Italian public universities. Organized in collaboration between the Italian Ministry of Education (MUR) and Cambridge Assessment, its result determines which university (if any) you’ll be admitted to. For students accustomed to the Polish matura (high school leaving exam), this is one of the most attractive paths to a medical degree in Europe: studying in Italy offers English-language medical education at universities with centuries of tradition, for tuition fees ranging from 150 to 4,000 EUR per year. Sounds too good to be true? Read this guide and judge for yourself.
In this article, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the IMAT in 2026: the exam format, scoring system, registration process, universities accepting IMAT, score thresholds, preparation strategies, and practical tips from the perspective of an international applicant. Whether you’re just starting to consider medicine abroad or are already deep into test preparation, you’ll find information here to help you make an informed decision.
What is the IMAT and Why Does it Matter?
IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test) is a standardized entrance exam for English-taught medical and dental programs at public universities in Italy. The test is organized annually (usually in September) and is the only way to gain admission to these programs. There is no alternative path: without the IMAT, you cannot apply.
The test was established in 2007 when Italian public universities began offering medical programs taught entirely in English. Previously, the only option was an Italian-language exam (test di Medicina). The IMAT enabled applicants from around the world (including those from Poland) to apply for six-year medical programs (Medicine and Surgery) and dentistry (Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics) without prior knowledge of Italian.
Why is the IMAT particularly attractive for international students?
- Low Tuition Fees. Italian public universities calculate fees using the ISEE system (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator), which is based on family income. For many international families, this means tuition fees ranging from 150-1,500 EUR per year, and in many cases, even a full exemption from fees.
- English as the Language of Instruction. You don’t need to know Italian to start your studies. You’ll gradually learn Italian through courses offered by the university (which will be useful for clinical rotations).
- Recognized Degree. A medical degree from an Italian public university is automatically recognized throughout the European Union under Directive 2005/36/EC. You can work with it in Poland, Germany, the UK (after recognition), or anywhere else in the EU.
- Quality of Education. Sapienza, Bologna, Padua, Pavia – these are universities ranked in the QS top 200 worldwide.
- Lifestyle. Let’s be honest, six years in Italy isn’t the worst plan for your youth.
If you’re considering studying abroad for medicine, the IMAT should be one of the first options you analyze.
IMAT 2026 Exam Format
The IMAT is a single-day exam, administered simultaneously in all test centers worldwide. The test lasts 100 minutes and consists of 60 multiple-choice questions (each with five answer options, only one of which is correct). The questions are divided into four sections:
| Section | Number of Questions | Subject Area |
|---|---|---|
| Section 1: Logical Reasoning & General Knowledge | 10 | Logical reasoning, problem-solving, critical thinking, general knowledge |
| Section 2: Biology | 23 | Cell biology, genetics, anatomy, physiology, ecology, evolution |
| Section 3: Chemistry | 15 | General chemistry, organic chemistry, basic biochemistry |
| Section 4: Physics & Mathematics | 12 | Mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, optics, algebra, trigonometry |
Key information about the format:
- The exam is entirely in English.
- Logical reasoning and general knowledge questions test reasoning skills. They cannot be “crammed” in the traditional sense.
- The biology section is the most extensive (23 questions) and usually determines the final score. It’s worth focusing on this section.
- Chemistry and physics/mathematics questions align with the curriculum of an advanced high school leaving exam, with some emphasis on organic chemistry, which is often covered less thoroughly in some high school curricula.
- No calculator is allowed. All calculations must be done manually.
- There is no penalty for unanswered questions (0 points), but there is a penalty for incorrect answers (-0.4 points). The strategy of leaving questions unanswered is therefore an important part of the game.
IMAT Scoring System
The IMAT scoring is specific and requires a strategic approach to taking the test:
| Answer Type | Points |
|---|---|
| Correct Answer | +1.5 |
| Incorrect Answer | -0.4 |
| No Answer | 0 |
The maximum possible score is 90 points (60 questions x 1.5 points). In practice, scores above 70 points are rare.
What does this scoring mean in practice? If you’re unsure of an answer but can eliminate at least two of the five options, it’s statistically beneficial to guess. If you cannot eliminate any options, leave the question unanswered. This is not an exam where you “answer everything and hope for the best.”
Important disclaimer: thresholds change every year depending on the number of candidates and their results. The numbers above are approximate ranges from recent years. Treat them as a reference point, not a guarantee. The admissions system works on a ranking basis: the higher your score, the wider your choice of universities.
| University | Approximate Score Threshold (2024/2025) | Places (EU) |
|---|---|---|
| Milano Statale | ~48-55 | ~60 |
| Sapienza (Rome) | ~38-44 | ~60 |
| Bologna | ~40-48 | ~60 |
| Padua | ~42-50 | ~60 |
| Pavia | ~35-42 | ~60 |
| Napoli Federico II | ~32-38 | ~30-50 |
| Bari | ~28-35 | ~40 |
| Torino | ~38-45 | ~40 |
| Messina | ~25-32 | ~30 |
Registration and Application Process
The IMAT registration process consists of several stages and requires careful attention to deadlines. Here’s a typical timeline (dates may vary slightly year to year – always check the official MUR website):
Step 1: Registration on Universitaly.it (July-August)
The Universitaly portal is the central application platform. You must:
- Create an account on universitaly.it
- Complete the registration form with personal data
- Select a maximum of one university as your first choice (this is important: you cannot apply to several universities simultaneously, although a redistribution procedure exists after results are announced)
- Upload required documents (passport/ID, high school diploma or certificate of anticipated graduation)
Step 2: Registration Fee
The exam fee is usually around 130 EUR and is payable during registration.
Step 3: IMAT Exam (September)
The IMAT 2025 test took place on September 16, 2025. The IMAT 2026 date will be announced in spring 2026 on the MUR website. Expect a similar timeframe (mid-September). The exam is held simultaneously in all test centers worldwide (including in Warsaw, if a center is designated there; in recent years, the exam has been available in Polish cities, but you must confirm this on Universitaly).
Step 4: Results and Ranking (October)
Results are usually published 2-3 weeks after the exam. Based on these, rankings are created for individual universities. If you don’t get into your chosen university, there is a scorrimento (place redistribution procedure). You can try to get into a university with a lower threshold if there are available spots.
Step 5: Enrollment (October-November)
After admission, you must confirm your place and complete the formalities at your chosen university.
Universities Accepting IMAT Scores
Here are the most important Italian public universities offering English-taught medical programs with IMAT-based admissions:
Sapienza – Università di Roma
The largest university in Italy and one of the largest in Europe. The “Medicine and Surgery” program at Sapienza is one of the most popular among international candidates. The university ranks in the QS top 150, and its medical faculty has a strong clinical tradition. You can read more about Sapienza in our guide to studying in Italy.
Università di Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum)
The oldest university in the world (founded in 1088) offers an English-taught medical program with an excellent reputation. Bologna is a student city with a rich cultural life and some of the lowest living costs among major Italian cities. You can find details in our guide to the University of Bologna.
Università degli Studi di Milano (Milano Statale)
The medical program in Milan is one of the most competitive, resulting in the highest score thresholds. Milan is Italy’s economic capital with excellent clinical hospitals and research opportunities. Milan is also home to Bocconi University and Politecnico di Milano, making the city popular among international students.
Università di Padova
The second oldest university in Italy (1222), where Galileo taught and where the world’s first anatomy theater was established. Padua has an excellent medical faculty and is located 30 minutes by train from Venice.
Università di Pavia
A smaller university with an intimate atmosphere and a College system (Collegi di Merito) – something that doesn’t exist in many national education systems. Pavia is 30 minutes by train from Milan.
Other Universities with IMAT Programs
- Università di Napoli Federico II – the oldest public university in the world (1224), programs in Naples
- Università di Bari – lower thresholds, lower living costs, Southern Italy
- Università di Torino – an excellent university in dynamic Turin
- Università di Messina – Sicily, lowest thresholds and costs, but limited infrastructure
- Università di Campania (Caserta/Napoli) – a second Neapolitan option
Your High School Curriculum and IMAT: How to Leverage Your Preparation
If you’ve completed an advanced high school curriculum with biology, chemistry, and physics, you have a solid foundation for IMAT preparation. But (and this is an important “but”) it’s not sufficient on its own.
What your high school curriculum provides:
- A good foundation in cell biology, genetics, and physiology. The IMAT biology section largely overlaps with advanced high school biology curricula.
- Solid basics in inorganic chemistry: concentrations, equilibria, redox reactions.
- A decent foundation in physics and mathematics. Most questions in Section 4 are at an advanced high school level.
- Read our article on how your high school diploma translates to studying abroad.
What your high school curriculum typically LACKS:
- Organic Chemistry. The IMAT places significant emphasis on organic chemistry (functional group reactions, stereochemistry, reaction mechanisms), which is often covered marginally in many high school curricula. This is the biggest gap you’ll need to fill.
- Logic and Problem-Solving. IMAT Section 1 tests logical reasoning skills in a format that often has no direct equivalent in national high school exams. It requires dedicated practice.
- General Knowledge. Questions may cover the history of science, medical ethics, and current scientific events. This section is the most challenging for many candidates to prepare for.
- Scientific English. The entire exam is in English, and biology and chemistry questions use specialized terminology that you must master.
How to Prepare for the IMAT: A Step-by-Step Plan
IMAT preparation should last a minimum of 3-6 months, ideally a full academic year. Here’s a recommended plan:
Stage 1: Diagnosis (1-2 weeks)
Take an official IMAT practice test from a previous year (available on the Cambridge Assessment website and various forums). Identify which sections you perform weakest in. Most international candidates identify the same gaps: organic chemistry and logic.
Stage 2: Building the Foundation (2-4 months)
- Biology: Use an “IMAT Biology” textbook or a concise version of Campbell Biology. Focus on molecular genetics, systems physiology, cell biology, and immunology.
- Chemistry: Supplement your organic chemistry knowledge. Use Solomons’ “Organic Chemistry” textbook (chapters on functional groups, stereochemistry, reactions). Review inorganic chemistry to an advanced high school level.
- Physics and Mathematics: Review mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, and optics. Most questions are at an advanced high school level – you don’t need to go beyond this scope.
- Logic: Start practicing logical questions. Use question banks from BMAT (British Medical Admissions Test), previous years’ IMAT papers, and UKCAT/UCAT-style tests.
Stage 3: Practice and Tests (2-3 months)
- Solve official IMAT tests from 2011-2025. All are available online. This is absolutely crucial – the question format is specific and repetitive.
- Use platforms such as IMAT Buddy, Edises, and Cambridge question banks.
- Conduct simulations under exam conditions: 100 minutes, 60 questions, no calculator.
- Practice your scoring strategy. Learn when it’s worth guessing and when to leave a question blank.
Stage 4: Refinement (Final Month)
- Focus on weak points identified in practice tests
- Review key formulas from physics and chemistry
- Go over English terminology (a list of key biological and chemical terms in English)
- Take care of logistics: check your test center location, plan your travel
If you want professional support with your preparation, consider an entrance exam preparatory course. Prepclass.io offers individualized preparation, and Okiro.io can help you with your overall application strategy.
IMAT vs. Other Medical Exams: A Comparison
If you’re considering medical studies abroad, you’ve likely heard of several entrance exams. Here’s a comparison of the IMAT with the most important alternatives:
| Feature | IMAT (Italy) | UCAT (UK) | BMAT (UK, formerly) | MCAT (USA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 100 min | 120 min | 120 min | 7.5 h |
| Format | 60 MC questions | 233 questions + essay | 3 sections + essay | 230 questions, 4 sections |
| Sections | Logic, Bio, Chem, Phys/Math | Verbal, Quant, Abstract, Decision, SJT | Aptitude, Science, Writing | Chem/Phys, CARS, Bio, Psych/Soc |
| Exam Costs | ~130 EUR | ~120 GBP | (discontinued) | ~340 USD |
| Frequency | 1x/year (September) | Multiple dates (July-October) | (discontinued) | Multiple dates (January-September) |
| Difficulty Level | Medium | Medium-High | Medium-High | Very High |
| Tuition after admission | 150-4,000 EUR/year | 9,250+ GBP/year (UK), 38,000+ (international) | – | 40,000-70,000 USD/year |
For many international applicants, the IMAT offers the best effort-to-benefit ratio. The exam is shorter and simpler than the MCAT or the former BMAT, and tuition fees after admission are significantly lower than in the UK or USA. If you’re interested in the British path, read our guide to studying in the UK, and if you’re considering the American route, check out the article on the MCAT exam.
Costs of Medical Studies in Italy
One of the biggest advantages of the IMAT pathway is the low costs. Here’s an overview:
Tuition Fees
Public universities in Italy use the ISEE (Indicatore della Situazione Economica Equivalente) system. The amount of tuition depends on your family’s income and assets. For international families with an average income, it looks roughly like this:
| Annual Family Income | Approximate Annual Tuition |
|---|---|
| Below 6,000 EUR | 0 EUR (full exemption) |
| 6,000 - 13,000 EUR | 150-500 EUR |
| 13,000 - 25,000 EUR | 500-1,500 EUR |
| 25,000 - 40,000 EUR | 1,500-2,500 EUR |
| Above 40,000 EUR | 2,500-4,000 EUR |
Compare this to UK universities, where medical tuition for international students is 38,000-50,000 GBP per year, and you’ll see why Italy attracts more and more candidates from across Europe.
Living Costs
Living costs in Italy vary by city but are significantly lower than in London, Zurich, or Amsterdam:
| City | Estimated Monthly Living Cost (EUR) | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Milan | 900-1,300 | Most expensive, but greatest opportunities |
| Rome | 800-1,100 | Capital, moderate costs |
| Bologna | 700-1,000 | Student-friendly, affordable |
| Padua | 650-900 | Affordable, close to Venice |
| Pavia | 550-800 | Cheapest among major IMAT cities |
| Naples/Bari | 500-750 | Southern Italy, lowest costs |
In total, a six-year medical degree in Italy can cost 40,000-80,000 EUR (tuition + living expenses). This is less than one year of medical school in the USA.
Be sure to check out available scholarships for studying in Europe. Many Italian regions offer additional financial support (borse di studio), and universities have their own scholarship programs.
Common Mistakes by IMAT Applicants
Based on conversations with many students who have gone through the IMAT process, a list of recurring mistakes emerges:
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1. Underestimating the Logic Section “You either have logic or you don’t” – this is a myth. Logical questions on the IMAT have repeatable patterns that can be mastered through practice. Candidates who ignore this section lose an easy 10-15 points.
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2. Undervaluing Organic Chemistry Many high school curricula do not prepare students for organic chemistry at the IMAT level. You must dedicate a separate 4-8 weeks of intensive study to it.
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3. Answering All Questions The -0.4 penalty for an incorrect answer means that random guessing will lower your score. Learn to leave questions blank if you have no basis for eliminating options.
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4. Registering Too Late on Universitaly The portal can be slow, and the system may become overloaded towards the end of the registration period. Don’t wait until the last day. Register as soon as the form opens.
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5. Spending Too Much Time on One Question 100 minutes for 60 questions means less than 1 minute 40 seconds per question. If you get stuck, move on and come back at the end.
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6. Ignoring English Scientific Terminology You might know concepts in your native language, but on the exam, you must recognize them in English. Create a glossary and learn biological and chemical terms in English.
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7. Not Reading the IMAT Regulations Every year, candidates appear who don’t know that calculators are forbidden or are unaware of the place redistribution procedure (scorrimento).
Life as a Medical Student in Italy: What Awaits You After the IMAT
You’ve passed the IMAT, and you’ve been admitted to your dream university. What’s next? The medical degree program in Italy lasts 6 years (similar to many European medical programs) and culminates in a Laurea Magistrale in Medicina e Chirurgia degree, which is equivalent to a medical degree in many other EU countries.
Program Structure:
- Years 1-2: Basic sciences (anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, histology)
- Years 3-4: Clinical sciences (pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, first clinical rotations)
- Years 5-6: Intensive clinical rotations, ward work, preparation for the state exam
Language: Lectures and exams in English-taught programs are entirely in English. However (and this is important), patient contact during clinical rotations is in Italian. Most universities offer Italian language courses in the first few years, and you should take them seriously. By the 3rd or 4th year, you’ll need to speak Italian at a level that allows for communication with patients.
Exams: The Italian examination system differs from what many students are accustomed to. Most exams are oral exams. The professor asks you questions, and you respond. For students accustomed to written exams, this can be a cultural shock. But you’ll get used to it over time (and learn to appreciate this format, as it forces a deep understanding of the material).
After Graduation: To practice medicine in Italy, you must pass a state exam (Esame di Stato) and complete a specialization. If you wish to return to your home country within the EU, your degree is automatically recognized under EU law. You will only need to complete the formalities with your national medical chamber.
Your motivation letter for studies in Europe is not required for the IMAT process (admission is based solely on test results), but it can be useful if you are also applying to private universities or scholarship programs.
Preparation Timeline: Plan for the 2025/2026 Academic Year
If you’re reading this in early 2026 and planning to take the IMAT in September 2026, here’s a realistic timeline:
| Period | Action |
|---|---|
| January-February 2026 | Take a practice test, identify gaps. Begin biology review. |
| March-April | Intensive organic chemistry study. Continue biology. Start logic exercises. |
| May | High school leaving exams! Focus on your exams, but don’t abandon IMAT prep (30 min of logic daily). |
| June | After your exams – full speed ahead with IMAT. Review physics and mathematics. Daily practice tests. |
| July | Universitaly registration! Solve full IMAT practice tests under exam conditions. |
| August | Intensive simulations. 2-3 full tests per week. Review weak areas. |
| September | Final revisions, stress management. IMAT Exam! |
If you need support with exam preparation, contact us. The College Council team advises international candidates on medical studies in Italy and other countries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to know Italian to take the IMAT?
No. The IMAT is an English-language exam and does not require knowledge of Italian. The medical programs it leads to are taught in English. However, you will need Italian for clinical rotations (years 3-6) and for daily life in Italy. Universities offer Italian language courses for international students.
How many times can I take the IMAT?
The IMAT takes place once a year (in September), so you can take it annually. There is no formal limit to the number of attempts. Many candidates succeed on their second attempt (this is normal and not viewed negatively).
Can I apply to several universities simultaneously?
During registration on Universitaly, you select one university as your first choice. However, after the results are announced, there is a scorrimento (redistribution) procedure. If you don’t get into your chosen university, you can try for others that have available spots. The system is quite dynamic and involves several rounds in October-November.
What level of English is required?
Formally, most universities require a B2 level (confirmed by an IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge certificate), but in practice, simply passing the IMAT (which is in English) often suffices as proof of language proficiency. Check the specific requirements of your chosen university. Some require a separate certificate, others do not.
Is the IMAT score valid for several years?
No. The IMAT score is valid only for the given academic year. If you don’t get admitted in a particular year, you must retake the IMAT the following year.
Is the IMAT more difficult than an advanced high school biology exam?
The IMAT is different from a typical high school leaving exam. In terms of the depth of biological knowledge, it’s similar to or slightly easier than an advanced high school biology exam. However, the IMAT requires additional knowledge of organic chemistry, logical thinking skills, and (crucially) everything is in English with scientific terminology. The biggest challenge for many applicants is not the subject matter level, but the exam format and scoring strategy.
How much does full IMAT preparation cost?
Minimalistically: free online materials + official past papers = 0-50 EUR. With textbooks (Solomons, Campbell, Edises question banks): 100-250 EUR. With a preparatory course: 500-2,000 EUR depending on the format. Add the registration fee of ~130 EUR and potential travel costs for the exam.
Can I work as a doctor in my home country (e.g., Poland) after studying medicine in Italy?
Yes. A medical degree from an Italian public university is automatically recognized in Poland (and throughout the EU) under Directive 2005/36/WE. You will only need to complete the formalities with the Regional Medical Chamber in Poland: submit your diploma, pass the LEK (Final Medical Examination), and obtain the right to practice medicine.
Summary: IMAT as Your Gateway to Medicine in Italy
The IMAT is an exam that combines two things that rarely go hand-in-hand: accessibility and quality. For the price of a 130 EUR registration fee and a few months of preparation, you open the door to a six-year English-taught medical degree at universities with centuries of tradition (for tuition fees that are a fraction of the cost of British or American medical education).
For a student with a strong foundation in biology and chemistry, ready to supplement their organic chemistry knowledge and master the IMAT format, this path is realistic and achievable. It doesn’t require astronomical scores. You’ll need a solid 40-50 points to get into many universities. However, it does demand consistent preparation, good time management during the exam, and a conscious scoring strategy.
If you’re considering this path, start by taking a practice test, identifying your gaps, and planning your preparation. And if you need support, the College Council team can help you through the entire process, from IMAT preparation to enrollment at your dream university.
Good luck with the exam. In a few years, you could be a medical student in Bologna, Rome, or Padua, learning the profession in a country where the history of medicine has been written for centuries. And in the evening – an espresso on the piazza. Not bad at all.
