Study medicine in English in Italy: discover the vacation program for young people in 2026

The summer of 2026 marks an opportunity for teenagers to explore how it works to study medicine in English in one of the most developed cities in Europe. During two weeks in Milan, participants experience Italian teaching methodology, practice at university hospitals, and receive targeted preparation for the IMAT, the admission test necessary to enter international medical programs in the country.

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How do medical programs in English work in Italy

Italian universities offer complete medical courses taught entirely in English, eliminating the language barrier that traditionally limited international students. These programs follow European medical education standards, with a duration of six years and a globally recognized degree.

Structure of Italian medical programs:

• First two years focus on basic sciences: anatomy, biochemistry, physiology
• Third to fifth years cover clinical disciplines and hospital rotations
• Sixth year dedicated to boarding school and initial specialization
• Teaching in English with complementary Italian classes for clinical internships

Admission depends exclusively on the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test), evaluating knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and logical reasoning. Unlike systems that consider multiple factors, the IMAT works as an objective and transparent criterion.

For families exploring universities abroad, understanding these peculiarities of the Italian system helps to assess whether this educational route aligns with the student's academic and professional objectives.

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What makes the 2026 vacation program different

While many teens vacation in recreational activities, this program offers professional immersion that simulates college medical students' experiences. Participants do not attend lectures passively, they practice procedures, discuss cases, and experience real hospital routine.

Differentials of the program:

• Access to university hospitals where Italian medical students do internships
• Simulations with the same mannequins and equipment used in medical schools
• Workshops conducted by doctors active in various specialties
• Structured preparation for IMAT with specific materials and strategies
• Coaching on the admission process at Italian medical universities

This practical approach contrasts with traditional Pathway programs, which focus primarily on linguistic development. Here, medical English develops naturally through clinical practice and technical discussions.

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IMAT preparation integrated into the program

The IMAT represents a significant obstacle for international candidates. The test requires in-depth knowledge in science and the ability to solve complex problems under time pressure. The vacation program incorporates systematic preparation for this crucial exam.

Components of the IMAT preparation:

1. Daily modules covering specific exam topics
2. Timed simulations under real test conditions
3. Analysis of previous issues and recurring patterns
4. Time management techniques during the exam
5. Strategies for logical reasoning and probability questions

Students who participate in the vacation program later report greater confidence when doing real IMAT. Familiarity with format and types of questions reduces anxiety and allows better performance on test day.

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Hospital experience as a differential

Hospital visits are not limited to guided tours. Participants accompany medical teams during rounds, observe case discussions, and understand how diagnoses are formulated and treatments decided in a real clinical environment.

Hospital activities include:

• Follow-up of morning rounds in different specialties
• Observation of diagnostic procedures such as ultrasound and endoscopy
• Participation in multidisciplinary discussions about complex cases
• Visits to ICUs, surgical centers, and emergency departments
• Interaction with medical residents about educational trajectory

This early exposure works similarly to vocational exchange programs, where teenagers explore careers through practical experience rather than theoretical descriptions about professions.

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Profile of students who get the most out of it

The program attracts a specific profile of teenagers. Superficial interest in medicine is not enough, successful participants demonstrate commitment through prior preparation and active involvement during the two weeks.

Common characteristics for participants:

• Strong academic record in biology, chemistry, and physics
• Minimum intermediate English to accompany technical terminology
• Previous reading about the medical profession and specialties
• Emotional maturity for the hospital environment
• Willingness to learn intensively for a short period

Adolescents who already participate in health-related extracurricular activities, such as volunteering at hospitals or science clubs, generally adapt more quickly to the pace and content of the program.

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Milan as a medical educational center

The choice of Milan is not accidental. The city is home to some of the best medical schools in Italy, renowned university hospitals and research centers with significant contributions to modern medicine.

Why Milan for medical education:

• Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele with internationally recognized medical programs
• San Raffaele Hospital, one of the most technologically advanced in Europe
• Multiple medical specialties concentrated in a small geographical area
• International community of medical students and researchers
• Urban infrastructure facilitating travel between institutions

For students considering High school abroad as preparation for an international university, experiencing Milan while on vacation provides valuable perspective on student life in Europe before a years' commitment.

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Residential structure and life during the program

Participants reside in accommodations close to medical institutions, creating a university campus environment. This proximity allows teens to experience gradual independence, managing time between studies, activities, and rest.

The residential format includes:

• Shared accommodation with other international participants
• Three nutritionally balanced meals a day
• Health insurance covering emergencies and medical appointments
• Organized transportation between accommodation and activity locations
• 24/7 supervision from trained bilingual staff

In addition to structured medical activities, weekends include cultural exploration of Milan. Participants visit the Duomo, walk through Navigli and try authentic Italian cuisine, balancing the intensity of medical learning with moments of relaxation.

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FAQ

Does the program replace the need to do IMAT later?

No, the official IMAT remains a mandatory requirement for admission to Italian medical universities. The program offers structured and simulated preparation, but candidates must register independently and take the official test at authorized centers. Generally, the IMAT takes place in September each year.

Do I need to speak Italian to participate in the vacation program?

It's not necessary. All activities, workshops, and discussions take place in English. However, basic knowledge of Italian facilitates everyday interactions in Milan and can be useful if the participant decides to later study medicine in Italy, where complementary Italian classes are mandatory for clinical internships.

How many participants are accepted per class?

Classes are limited to 15 participants to ensure individual attention during simulations and discussions. This small number allows instructors to answer specific questions and adjust the depth of content according to the group's needs. Registrations generally open six months before the program.

Does the program certificate help with college admission?

Yes, participants receive a certificate detailing training hours, competencies developed, and institutions visited. This document can be included in applications for medical universities demonstrating initiative and early commitment to a career. It does not guarantee admission, but it strengthens the academic profile significantly.

Is there a possibility of scholarships or discounts for the program?

Scholarship policies vary annually. Some discounted positions may be available for candidates with proven academic excellence or specific financial situations. Consult us.

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Be Easy

Deciding to study medicine in English in Italy represents a strategic choice that combines quality European education with balanced costs and global recognition of the diploma. Be Easy provides access to preparatory programs such as this one for holidays in Milan, offering guidance from selection to boarding and monitoring during the experience. Our team understands particularities of the Italian education system and specific requirements for international candidates. Contact us to explore how this 2026 program could be the first step in your child's medical journey.