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Located in: Italy
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (UCSC), which translates to Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, is a private research university established in 1921. The university’s main campus is located in Milan, but there are 5 more campuses - in Cremona, Brescia, Piacenza, Bolzano and Rome. The latter 2 campuses, Bolzano and Rome, specialise in medical education. Nowadays, UCSC is home to over 40,000 students, many of whom are international.
UCSC is the largest Catholic University in the whole world and the largest private non-profit university in Europe. It is recognised as one of the most comprehensive and prestigious universities in Italy and the UCSC faculty of medicine is renowned for its world-class medical education that prepares outstanding medical professionals.
The university’s medical faculty is one of the most selective and difficult to get accepted to, yet it remains among the most applied to medical schools in Europe by international students. In 2017, for example, 8,907 applicants sat the admission exam for only 300 seats. The competition for entry here is fierce, but there’s no need to worry because Medlink Students can significantly increase your chances of getting accepted.
In employability, teaching, facilities and engagement, the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore has been granted 5 stars by the global university ranking system QS Stars.
UCSC Rome offers a comprehensive medicine and surgery programme. The university uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), and the course is worth 360 ECTS credits and lasts for 6 years.
The Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore campus in Rome also offers a double degree programme in partnership with Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, USA.
Università Cattolica also accepts student transfers. For more details, sign up for a FREE consultation to learn more about your options at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore.
The 6-year medicine and surgery degree thoroughly prepares students for a successful career on the international stage. The curriculum is designed to combine the educational objectives of both European and American education through a comprehensive, interdisciplinary strategy. The curriculum emphasises not only the fundamental and clinical sciences but also patient management, communication, empathy, ethics, the legal responsibilities of the medical profession, and more.
During the first 3 years of study, students at the Rome Campus of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart build up a strong theoretical foundation, which they can directly apply through simulations, laboratories and clinical training.
UCSC is committed to preparing students for global success by giving them the opportunity to participate in research, internships and volunteer programmes in Italy and abroad through its vast network of international partners.
At this Campus, teaching is carried out in English, but you will also have Italian language in your curriculum to help you prepare for your clinical training and to give students more career opportunities upon graduation.
Graduates of the UCSC English-taught medicine programme will be qualified to take part in United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) Steps 1 and 2, enabling them to pursue Post Graduate Training and Residencies in the USA. Additionally, graduates are also eligible to take a variety of licensing exams in European countries, like the United Kingdom Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) and Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) tests in the UK.
From the 4th year onward, students enter the clinical studies phase of the curriculum and undergo professional training through internships in hospitals and clinics. During this time, students will get a better understanding of internal medicine, general surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, and a variety of medical-surgical specialities.
The Rome campus at UCSC is partnered with the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli University Hospital, the top hospital in Italy and one of the best worldwide. While studying at UCSC, students will have access to the latest medical technologies available, including:
Policlinico Agostino Gemelli is one of the largest and most advanced healthcare facilities in Italy and it offers a wide range of medical services. Its affiliation with the UCSC greatly enhances the quality of the provided medical education, as students directly benefit from the latest medical research and innovation.
The medical faculty in Rome employs highly experienced professors to teach the next generation of medical professionals. 45 of UCSC’s faculty members are among the top Italian scientist and 27 doctors are ranked in the world’s top 2% of scientists.
The university’s emphasis on professional educators ensures that students are not only exposed to the latest medical knowledge and techniques but also benefit from the rich professional experiences of their instructors.
The tuition fees at the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore campus in Rome for the 6-year medicine programme in English and available seats are as follows:
In contrast to many other Italian medical schools, USCS doesn’t use the IMAT examination system for their rankings. The medical faculty has prepared their own admission exam. It consists of 65 questions for 65 minutes.
The scientific subjects included in the test are Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Maths. Other questions include logical exercises, general knowledge, and religious and ethical culture.
Also, students whose native language is not English will have to provide a TOEFL or IELTS certificate or a document that certifies the language of instruction in their high school was English. USCS does not offer graduate entry options.
The Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore is renowned for offering exceptional medical education in Italy, which makes the application process highly competitive. On top of that, the admission procedure can be intricate and confusing, with strict prerequisites and legal steps to adhere to. These requirements involve submitting specific documents that require translation, notarisation, and legalisation. Failure to meet these conditions will result in the rejection of your application. Fortunately, our top-notch admissions experts, widely acknowledged as some of the best in Europe, can manage your entire application process from start to finish, including handling all the necessary legal formalities. We maintain a strong partnership with this university and possess a comprehensive understanding of the university's application. Choosing to apply with Medlink Students guarantees your acceptance to the Cattolica because we will provide you with excellent study materials to help you excel in the entrance exam. Additionally, we will prepare an S-tier application that will make you stand out among your peers. With our assistance, you can confidently navigate the complexities of applying to a foreign medical school and focus on what truly matters – preparing for the entrance examinations.
Typically, the application period for the USCS MD programme in English begins in the middle of October and closes towards the end of February. The entrance exam is typically carried out mid-March and results become available between the end of March and beginning of April.
*Your advisor has the final word on program intake availability. Consult them before applying.
The university is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, a list by the World Health Organisation that includes only accredited universities. It is also recognised by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) - one of the six regional associations for accreditation of schools and colleges in the United States.
When you graduate from this medical school, you will receive a globally recognised diploma, which will allow you to continue your studies or start practising medicine in many countries across the world.
Additionally, the curriculum for the medical programme in English prepares students to participate in the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and similar European licensing exams, like the PLAB in the UK.
The on-campus dorms are in two buildings - one for male students and one for female students. Both are situated close to the faculty’s building. They are made up of single and shared rooms with private bathrooms. Each floor has a shared living room and kitchen.
Going abroad for the first time without a family might be difficult sometimes. That’s why living on campus is your best choice. Students who live there are involved in many activities and receive support services to assist them in the transition to living independently.
The annual rent for the female dormitories is , and for the male is . It includes rooms, utilities and usage of all the facilities around the building.
If you prefer to live on your own, Rome’s average monthly rent is between and , based on the location. Adding the utilities and living expenses, you will need around - every month.
The Fall semester classes usually start in mid-September and finish around the beginning of December. The exam session is usually in mid-December. For complete information about the dates for 2024 or other help you might need to start your medical education, contact us.
The spring semester begins in mid-February 2025 and finishes in mid-May 2024. The examination usually takes place at the end of May.
UCSC is dedicated to the well-being of its students and provides a wide array of facilities and support services to help them have a successful and fulfilling student experience. Some of the facilities include:
While some of the support services at USCS Rome are:
And many more.
Rome is the capital of Italy and a significant global centre with a strong international presence. The official language is Italian, but English is widely spoken, and you will have no trouble with language barriers here.
Here’s just a piece of what student life in Rome has to offer:
The city is known for its ancient history, rich architecture, and cultural heritage, and many people say that Rome is more than a city, it’s a living museum. Some of the most iconic attractions include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City.
The people of Rome are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness. The local community plays a vital role in creating the city’s inviting and relaxing atmosphere, making it easy for students to feel right at home.
Rome is also renowned for its superb nightlife, lively festivals and events that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. It is safe to say that you will have plenty of ways to relax and enjoy yourselves during your off-time.
Additionally, students in Rome can enjoy a variety of cultural events, such as the Festa della Primavera (Spring Festival), the Estate Romana (Roman Summer Festival), and the Natale di Roma (Birthday of Rome). These festivals provide a fantastic way to experience the local traditions, music, and cuisine.
Rome is a vibrant metropolis that is home to residents from all over the world with different cultures, heritages, and beliefs. As an example of this inclusivity, the city has churches, mosques, synagogues, and Hindu temples to cater to its diverse population and their religious needs.
Additionally, Rome has a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, and delicious food options. You can easily find halal, kosher, vegan and vegetarian options throughout the city.
Italian culture is built upon respect, diversity, and looking out for each other. Both in Rome and throughout Italy, all residents can feel right at home, including hijabi women. The Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore is no exception to this, and the university makes sure that every student feels welcomed and appreciated, while they’re studying medicine in Rome.
The University has several campuses across Italy. The medical faculty is located at Rome, Italy. The city straddles the Tiber river in the province of Lazio. The school’s address is Largo Francesco Vito, 1 00168 Roma, Italy.
Yes. Transfers are possible for medical students.
No. Fast track medicine is not possible at this medical school.
The tuition fees are as follows:
The university's medical graduates get international recognition of their degrees. The World Health Organisation recognises it through its World Directory of Medical Schools. In addition, the UK General Medical Council also recognises the university.
Yes. You can study general medicine in English.
Yes. As of 2025, the university has over 210 graduates registered with the UK General Medical Council.
Yes. The university has its own entrance exam testing students in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Maths.
Students should take the university entrance exam. In addition, non-native speakers should present an English-proficiency certificate.
The school year starts on the 20th of September.
The application deadline is on the 18th of March.
Please note, intake information changes so to have the latest information talk to your Medlink Students' advisor.
The proximity of UCSC to Vatican City offers students a unique cultural and historical perspective, enriching their educational experience. This location provides access to numerous cultural, religious, and educational resources, enhancing the overall student experience outside of the classroom.
