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January 27, 2024

Minds on Medicine: A Step-by-Step Guide to Medical School Admission in Italy

"WHAT IS THE PROGNOSIS DR. (INSERT YOUR NAME HERE)?": LET THE JOURNEY BEGIN!

N.B This is the Application Process for the following programs:

- Medicine & Surgery

- Dentistry


Embarking on the journey to Medical School in Italy involves 3 STEPS:


a. Pre-enrolment (specific to non-EU students)

b. Preparation for the IMAT Exam

c. Visa Assistance (for those in Zimbabwe) & Integration into the Italian System once you arrive here.


At Olympus Learning Advisors, we specialize in guiding you seamlessly through these steps, ensuring a smooth and successful entry into the esteemed medical programs in Italy.


SUMMARY OF STEPS AND TIMELINES


Let's dive deeper into the STEPS:


1. PRE-ENROLMENT & EMBASSY REGISTRATION

This initial step is exclusive to non-EU students. If you fall into this category, this process is a crucial precursor to the IMAT Exam. Conducted before the exam, pre-enrolment serves as a mandatory registration for non-European students. It acts as a formal declaration of your intention to take the IMAT and pursue medical studies in Italy. Notably, this confirmation is a vital component of the visa application process at the local Italian consulate in your respective country.


Navigating this intricate process may seem daunting, but fear not – Olympus Learning Advisors is here to guide you through each step. With our wealth of experience in these procedures, we ensure that you are well-prepared and confident throughout the pre-enrolment journey.


Moreover, addressing bureaucratic requirements is pivotal. Tasks such as document translation into Italian are essential for university applications and securing fee reductions based on family income and country of origin. Our commitment extends to handling these bureaucratic aspects, ensuring timely adherence to deadlines and facilitating procedures like document translation. We take care of every detail, allowing you to focus on your aspirations without unnecessary stress.


2. REGISTRATION AND PREPARATION FOR THE IMAT EXAM

This crucial step follows the completion of pre-enrolment. To pursue a medical degree in Italy, one must successfully navigate the International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT). Allow us to guide you through the process and shed light on what the IMAT entails.


WHAT IS THE IMAT?


The IMAT, or International Medical Admissions Test, is the gateway to entering Medical School in Italy. It serves as the determining factor for admission.


REQUIREMENTS TO TAKE THE EXAM


i) High School Diploma

reflecting at least 12 years of education, equivalent to Advanced Level (A level) for boards such as Cambridge and other examination boards. It's important to note that A level results, regardless of the score, are merely a prerequisite for the exam and do not influence acceptance. The IMAT itself is the decisive factor for admission.


ii) International English Language Certificate (IELTS)

With the exception of 1 or 2 universities, IELTS is NOT required, as English language proficiency is evaluated within the IMAT. Passing the IMAT serves as proof of English proficiency.


IMAT TEST AND OUR PREPARATORY COURSE


The IMAT is a multiple-choice exam featuring 60 questions across various sections, including:

-       Biology

-       Chemistry

-       Physics

-       Mathematics

-       Critical Thinking 

-       General Knowledge (the smallest section). 


The exam primarily tests A-level knowledge, with a challenging modality that includes negative marking for incorrect answers.


Olympus Learning Advisors offers an all-encompassing IMAT Preparatory Course. Our tutors, current medical students in Italy who have sat the IMAT themselves and have passed share their firsthand experience, tips and tricks and insights to guide you through the exam preparation process.


The course aims to help you meet threshold scores for acceptance into medical school and provides valuable advice on selecting universities for optimal chances of acceptance and academic success.


To register and find out more about this course click below:

IMAT COURSE

DATES AND COSTS OF THE IMAT EXAM


Date of Pre-enrolment and Registration

April to June (Official dates for 2024 to be updated once announced by the IMAT Exam board CINECA). 


Cost

USD170 (This has been the approximate cost for the past years)

Official costs for 2024 to be updated once announced by the IMAT Exam board CINECA 


Date of Exam

September-October (Official dates for 2024 to be updated once announced by the IMAT Exam board CINECA). 



Date of Start of Semester

October-November (Following the exam, results are usually released within one month, and the semester commences the following month)


As soon as CINECA announces official information regarding the IMAT for 2024 we will post it here.


TEST CENTRES

Test centers are available worldwide in major countries and cities.

For those in Zimbabwe, the closest test center is the British Council in Johannesburg, South Africa.



3. VISA & INTERGRATION: A Seamless Transition


After you have passed the IMAT, we assist you with:


a. Visa Assistance

Navigating the visa requirements can be a complex task, but with our experienced team, you're in capable hands. We guide you through the entire visa application process, ensuring all necessary documentation is in order. Our support encompasses not only the compilation of required paperwork but also strategic advice to optimize your visa application for a smoother approval process.


b. Integration into the Italian System

Once you've successfully obtained your visa and arrived in Italy, our assistance doesn't end there. We recognize the importance of a smooth transition into the Italian system, and our team is dedicated to making this process as seamless as possible. From practical matters such as setting up a local bank account to understanding public transportation and local amenities, we provide comprehensive guidance to facilitate your integration.

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