Study Medicine or Dentistry Abroad from Italy: Semestre Filtro, EU Recognition and the Best Destinations

Why So Many Italians Study Medicine Abroad

For years, admission to Medicine and Dentistry in Italy was decided by a single national entrance test, the test d'ingresso. Tens of thousands of candidates competed each year for a fraction of the places.

The Semestre Filtro: How It Works

Since the 2025/2026 academic year, students first enrol freely in a filter semester. During this semester, they attend courses in chemistry, biology and physics and then sit national exams. Only students who pass with sufficient marks enter a national ranking, and the available places are allocated on that basis. Across Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine at public and private universities, there were 24,026 places in the first round.

The reform opened the door to more candidates, but it did not create more places. It shifted the selection from a single test day to a semester of intensive exams. For students who do not make it, the result is still a lost year, and many enter a second-choice degree hoping to switch later.

A Question of Planning

For many Italian families, the uncertainty of the new system is the main reason to look abroad. A place at a European university can be secured before the Italian results are known, which turns a gamble into a plan.

How a Foreign Degree Is Recognised in Italy

Italy is an EU member state, so Directive 2005/36/EC on the recognition of professional qualifications applies. It sets minimum training standards for Medicine and Dentistry across the EU and lists each member state's recognised qualifications in its Annex V.

Automatic Recognition for EU Degrees

An Italian citizen with a qualifying medical degree from another EU country applies to the Ministry of Health for recognition. The Ministry issues a decree recognising the qualification, after which you register with the provincial Order of Doctors and Dentists (Ordine dei Medici Chirurghi e degli Odontoiatri). No additional licensing exam is required.

Language and Documents

For practice in Italy, you need good Italian, which Italian students naturally bring with them. The recognition file includes your diploma, a certificate of conformity with the directive and certified translations.

Specialist Training

After registration, graduates of European universities can take part in the national competition for specialist training schools on the same basis as graduates of Italian universities.

Degrees From Outside the EU

Degrees from outside the EU are assessed individually by the Ministry of Health and may require additional exams or training. For most Italian students, an EU degree is therefore the clearest route.

Dentistry

The same framework applies to Dentistry. A qualifying dental degree from another EU country is recognised by decree, followed by registration in the register of dentists.

Which Destination Countries Suit Italian Students?

For Italian students, EU countries offer automatic recognition and a manageable distance from home. The following destinations are particularly popular.

Romania

Romania has become one of the most important destinations for Italian students. English-language programmes, moderate living costs and short flights to Italy make it very attractive, and in some cities large Italian student communities have formed.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria offers long-established English-language programmes in Medicine and Dentistry. It is popular with Italians for its affordable costs and its well-organised international programmes.

Spain

Spain is culturally and linguistically close to Italy. Spanish-language programmes are an option for students who learn Spanish quickly, and they offer a Mediterranean lifestyle close to home.

Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia

These Central European countries have taught Medicine and Dentistry in English for decades. Their six-year programmes follow EU standards and are highly regarded.

Croatia and Other EU Countries

Croatia and other EU countries offer English-language programmes with smaller cohorts. They are a good fit for students who value a personal learning environment close to the Adriatic.

Practical Tips for Italian Students

Plan Two Paths in Parallel

Many Italian students apply abroad while taking part in the semestre filtro. This keeps both options open and avoids losing a year if the Italian ranking does not work out.

Choose an EU Programme

An EU degree gives you automatic recognition by the Ministry of Health. This is the most direct route back to Italy.

Keep Your Italian Medical Language Up to Date

Teaching abroad is usually in English. Reading Italian medical texts and guidelines alongside your studies makes your return much easier.

Use Summers for Clinical Experience in Italy

Voluntary internships in Italian hospitals during your summers help you stay connected to the Italian health system and build contacts.

Consider Transfer Options

Some students study abroad for a few years and later transfer. The rules are strict, so this should be planned carefully from the start.

How We Help You Find the Right Programme

The right EU programme is the basis for a smooth return to Italy. We offer solutions for exactly this. Contact us and we check individually which of our 25+ partner universities fits you, your plans and your budget. Marcel or another experienced consultant on our team will review your situation and give you a clear recommendation.