University of PaduaMedicine and Surgery (Venice Campus)
An historic new chapter: Study at one of the world's oldest and most prestigious medical schools, now located in the globally unique and inspiring city of Venice.
Padua-Venice at a Glance
In a landmark move for the 2024-2025 academic year, the University of Padua's renowned English-taught Medicine and Surgery program has relocated to Venice. This exciting development places one of the world's oldest medical curricula in one of its most iconic cities. The 6-year single-cycle degree continues its tradition of training "holistic" physicians—skilled clinicians with a strong scientific foundation and a deep appreciation for the humanistic side of medicine—now against the unparalleled backdrop of Venice.
Educational Philosophy
The core philosophy remains a dynamic blend of Padua's 800-year tradition and innovative teaching. The curriculum integrates solid lectures with modern methodologies like Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and advanced simulation. The move to Venice adds a new dimension, offering a unique context for studying public health, logistics in healthcare, and medicine in a global hub.
Key Competencies Developed
- Anatomical and Pathological Expertise: Upholding Padua's world-leading tradition.
- Holistic Patient Vision: Integrating biological, psychological, and social aspects of health.
- Critical Scientific Appraisal: Strong foundation in evidence-based medicine.
- Adaptability: Training in a unique urban environment (Venice) with its specific health challenges.
- Global Health Awareness: Enhanced by the international context of Venice.
Admission is highly competitive. Below are the approximate minimum scores for admission in recent years for Padua.
Tuition fees at Padua are income-based, calculated using the ISEE certificate for EU students or equivalent documentation for non-EU students.
- Minimum Fee: approx. €156 per year.
- Standard Range: €1,000 - €2,945 per year.
- Maximum Fee (Highest Income): approx. €2,945 per year.
- Non-EU students can apply for a flat-rate based on their country of origin.
Years 1-2: Foundational Sciences
Laying the essential groundwork in basic sciences, from the molecular level to the anatomical structure of the human body.
- • Anatomy & Histology
- • Biochemistry & Biology
- • Medical Physics & Statistics
- • Physiology
- • Immunology & Microbiology
- • General Pathology
Years 3-4: Pre-Clinical & Clinical Introduction
Transitioning to clinical studies with a focus on systemic diseases, pharmacology, and the start of methodical clinical rotations.
- • Systematic Pathology
- • Pharmacology
- • Laboratory Medicine
- • Cardiovascular Diseases
- • Respiratory Diseases
- • Gastroenterology
- • Endocrinology
- • Neurological Sciences
Years 5-6: Clinical Rotations
Final years dedicated to intensive, hands-on clinical training across a wide range of medical and surgical specialties.
- • Internal Medicine
- • General Surgery
- • Pediatrics
- • Obstetrics & Gynecology
- • Psychiatry & Clinical Psychology
- • Public Health & Legal Medicine
- • Emergency Medicine
- • Oncology
- • Thesis Internship
A Medical Student's Life in Venice
Experience an unforgettable student life in a city like no other, but be prepared for its unique challenges and costs.
Housing is the biggest challenge in Venice. Many students choose to live in Mestre or Marghera on the mainland for more affordable and modern options, commuting by a short train/bus ride. Finding a place in historic Venice is expensive and competitive.
Cost: €450 - €800+/month
Venice offers a unique lifestyle. Forget cars; travel is on foot or by "vaporetto" (water bus). Students enjoy the "bacari" (traditional bars) for "cicchetti" (snacks) and wine. Life is quieter than in big cities, but culturally immense.
Cost: €350 - €500/month
The new campus is located near Mestre, on the mainland part of Venice. This provides excellent connections via high-speed train to all of Italy, and the Venice Marco Polo Airport is a major international hub.
Vaporetto Pass: ~€25/month (student)
Studying in Venice: Pros & Cons
Unparalleled Environment: Studying in a UNESCO World Heritage city is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Prestige: The full academic weight and history of the University of Padua remain.
Global Hub: Venice is a center for international tourism and culture (e.g., Biennale), offering a global perspective.
Focused Learning: As a new campus, it may offer a more modern, focused learning environment with a close-knit student body.
High Cost of Living: Venice is one of Italy's most expensive cities, especially for accommodation.
Logistical Challenges: Daily life and commuting can be complicated by crowds and reliance on public transport.
Mass Tourism: The constant presence of tourists can be overwhelming and detract from an authentic student experience.
New Campus Issues: As a newly established campus, there may be initial organizational challenges to overcome.
The Application Journey
Your step-by-step guide and key contacts to apply to the University of Padua.
Admission is highly competitive, based on the IMAT score. Padua's prestige makes it one of the most popular choices for applicants worldwide.
Step 1: Pre-enrollment on Universitaly (April-July)
Mandatory for all non-EU candidates. You must select the University of Padua as your first choice.
Step 2: Register for IMAT (August-September)
Register for the exam via the official testing portal. The exam is typically held in mid-September.
Step 3: Check Rankings & Enroll (October)
Successful candidates in the national ranking must follow Padua's specific enrollment procedures promptly.
Step 4 (Non-EU): Apply for Student Visa
Use the admission letter to apply for a Type D student visa at your local Italian consulate.
Contact Details
admission@unipd.it
unipd.it/en/medicine-surgery