IMAT 2027: What’s Changed for Studying Medicine in Italy – Guide for Indian Students

IMAT 2027: What’s Changed for Studying Medicine in Italy – Guide for Indian Students

Italy continues to be one of the most popular destinations for Indian students who want to study Medicine in English at an affordable cost in Europe.

Entry to English-taught Medicine and Surgery programmes at Italian public universities is through the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test).

With the IMAT 2026 now completed, many students are already planning for IMAT 2027. This guide explains what we know so far, the important changes introduced in recent years, and how Indian students should plan their preparation.

Important: As of November 2026, the official IMAT 2027 decree from the Italian Ministry of University and Research has not yet been published. Test date, seats and registration details will be confirmed in the decree. Always check the official Universitaly portal and university websites.

What Is the IMAT?

The IMAT is the official entrance test for English-taught Medicine and Surgery, Dentistry and related programmes at Italian public universities.

It is a single national test, and admission is based on your score and your position in the ranking list for your applicant category.

The test assesses biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics along with reasoning-based questions. The exact question split and timing are set in each year’s ministerial decree.

IMAT 2027: What We Know So Far

Because the decree usually comes out only a few weeks before registration, students should start preparing well before the official announcement.

Key Changes Students Must Know

1. Separate Ranking for Non-EU Students Living Abroad

Since 2025, there are two separate national ranking lists: one for EU candidates (and non-EU candidates legally resident in Italy) and a separate one for non-EU candidates living abroad.

For most Indian students applying from India, this means you compete within the non-EU ranking, for seats reserved for non-EU applicants at each university.

2. The Test Is No Longer Valid for All Three Courses

From 2026, a significant change was introduced: the IMAT is no longer a single test valid for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine together. Students need to understand which course they are applying for and follow the specific rules in the decree.

3. Minimum Score for EU Candidates

For EU candidates and non-EU candidates residing in Italy, a minimum entry score of 20 points applies – candidates below this score cannot be admitted, regardless of ranking.

4. The “Filter Semester” Reform Does Not Apply to IMAT

Italy has reformed admission to its Italian-taught Medicine programmes with a new “filter semester” system. This reform does not affect the IMAT – English-taught programmes at public universities continue to use the IMAT test.

IMAT Application Process for Indian Students

As a non-EU student living abroad, your process will usually include:

1. Pre-enrolment on the Universitaly portal – this is mandatory for non-EU students and is required for the student visa process
2. IMAT registration on Universitaly, including choosing your preferred universities
3. University pre-registration, if required by a particular university
4. Sitting the IMAT at an approved test centre
5. Checking rankings and accepting an offer when allocated
6. Applying for the student visa and enrolling at the university

Remember: pre-enrolment and IMAT registration are separate steps. Missing either can affect your application.

Important Points for Indian Students

• NEET qualification: Indian students planning to practise Medicine in India after studying abroad must meet National Medical Commission (NMC) requirements, which include qualifying NEET. Check the latest NMC regulations before applying.
• Licensing exam on return: Foreign medical graduates need to clear the national licensing exam (FMGE, being replaced by NExT) to practise in India.
• Public vs private universities: Private universities such as Humanitas, San Raffaele and Cattolica run their own admission tests and have higher tuition fees. The IMAT is for public universities.
• Affordable fees: Public universities usually charge fees based on income brackets, which can make Italy one of Europe’s most affordable options – check each university’s fee rules.
• Scholarships: Regional scholarships may cover fees, accommodation and living costs for eligible students.

How to Prepare for IMAT 2027

Start Now (November – February): Build Strong Foundations

• Revise Biology and Chemistry from your Class 11–12 syllabus thoroughly
• Strengthen Physics and Mathematics basics
• Start practising logical reasoning and reading comprehension

March – May: Topic-Wise Practice

• Solve past IMAT papers topic by topic
• Identify areas beyond the Indian syllabus and cover them
• Build an error log of mistakes

June – August: Timed Practice and Mocks

• Take full-length timed mocks regularly
• Practise IMAT-style speed and accuracy
• Watch closely for the IMAT 2027 decree and register on time

September: Final Revision

• Focus on weak areas and high-yield topics
• Review test-day documents and logistics

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting for the decree before starting preparation
• Confusing pre-enrolment with IMAT registration
• Ignoring logical reasoning and general knowledge sections
• Choosing universities without checking non-EU seat numbers and fees
• Not checking NMC rules for practising in India later

Final Thoughts

The IMAT remains the main route for Indian students to study English-taught Medicine at Italian public universities.

The rules have changed significantly in recent years, with separate non-EU rankings and course-specific validity. While the IMAT 2027 decree is still awaited, the smartest step is to start preparing early and stay updated with official announcements.

Plan carefully, prepare consistently and follow every application step on time.

Note: The information provided above is based on the most recent updates available in 2026.