IMAT 2025 news: the University of Padua – Medicine and Surgery is moving to Venice

WHY IS MEDICINE AND SURGERY MOVING FROM PADUA TO VENICE? WHAT IS GOING ON?

On January 8th, 2025, the president of the Veneto region, Luca Zaia, signed an agreement that will reshape medical education in the area. Starting from the 2025/2026 academic year, the University of Padua’s prestigious Medicine and Surgery program will find its new home in the iconic Santi Giovanni e Paolo Hospital, nestled in the heart of Venice.

In this first year, 100 eager students will embark on this transformative journey, with enrollment steadily growing each year until 2030. By then, the program is set to host a remarkable 600 students across all six years of study.

Why the Big Move?

This decision is all about creating an outstanding learning experience. By relocating to a dedicated hospital setting, students will dive into real-world clinical scenarios from day one, gaining invaluable hands-on experience alongside a top-tier education.

The move is also part of a broader vision:

• Boosting International Prestige : Venice will host an English-language Medicine and Surgery program, opening its doors to students from all over the world.
• Driving Innovation : Cutting-edge technology will revolutionize clinical simulations and internships, making learning more immersive and impactful.
• Strengthening Healthcare in Venice : The program aims to address the growing demand for healthcare workers in the region by training skilled medical professionals in the city.

To ensure a seamless transition, faculty members will travel between Padua and Venice, bringing their expertise to both cities.

Growing Opportunities for Students of Medicine and Surgery 2025

The program’s expansion reflects its growing popularity. In 2019-2020, there were 530 places for students; by 2025, this number will rise significantly to 950. The move to Venice promises not only an enhanced academic experience but also a wealth of new opportunities for research and personal growth.

This is more than just a relocation: it’s the beginning of an exciting chapter for medical education in Veneto and a bright future for the University of Padua’s Medicine and Surgery program.

THE NEW MEDICINE AND SURGERY COURSE STRUCTURE: WHAT IS GOING TO CHANGE?

The course is set to begin with an initial enrollment of 100 students for the academic year 2025/2026. This number will steadily increase over the next several years until it reaches a maximum capacity of 600 candidates by 2030. The student body will be composed of:

• 75% EU students or non-EU students currently residing in Italy
• 25% will be non-EU students who live abroad

This new program will welcome first-year students, while those who were already enrolled at the University of Padua will continue to complete their studies there. As part of the expansion, the course will gradually transition from Padua to the enchanting historical center of Venice.

WHAT WILL CHANGE FOR STUDENTS ALREADY ENROLLED?

In brief, the answer is nothing! The memorandum clearly outlines that all aspects will remain consistent for the current academic year and the following years. This means that the location of courses, the examination procedures, and all related elements will stay the same for students who enrolled during the academic year 2024/2025 or earlier. If you are concerned about any potential changes, rest assured that your experience will not be modified.

WHAT ABOUT HOUSING?

Daniela Mapelli, the head of the University of Padua, has some great news for students: a new guesthouse and dormitory are in the works, providing much-needed accommodations to make student life easier and more enjoyable.

But that’s just the beginning! The university is partnering with various organizations and institutions to expand housing options further. This collaborative effort is all about creating a warm, welcoming environment where more students can thrive while also adding to the energy and charm of the city.

The goal is ambitious but exciting: by 2030, the university plans to significantly increase the number of housing and dormitory spaces available, building a vibrant community that will attract even more students to this historic and inspiring setting.

Worried About Venice’s Cost of Living?

Let’s be honest: Venice is magical but can also be pricey. If you find that it doesn’t quite fit your budget or lifestyle, don’t worry! Nearby cities like Padua or Mestre offer more affordable living options and easy commutes to Venice. This way, you can enjoy the beauty and culture of Venice without stretching your wallet too thin.

With these new accommodations and flexible living options, the University of Padua is making student life in Venice more accessible and enriching than ever before. Whether you stay in the heart of Venice or opt for a quieter, more budget-friendly spot nearby, the opportunities are endless!

TESTBUSTERS PREDICTIONS FOR FUTURE IMAT CANDIDATES

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Students in this program will be able to live and learn in one of Italy’s most enchanting cities, celebrated for its breathtaking architecture and rich history.

The program is designed to offer the best of both worlds:

• Cutting-Edge Facilities : Learn in state-of-the-art laboratories that make hands-on learning both exciting and effective.
• Early Clinical Exposure : Jump into real-world medical practice right from the first year with clinical rotations that ensure early and meaningful engagement.
• A Hospital Just for Students : Uniquely, the university has an entire hospital dedicated exclusively to student training. This means you won’t compete for clerkships with traditional Italian medicine courses; you’ll just have a focused, immersive learning experience tailored to you.

We’re thrilled to update you on Venice’s new Medicine and Surgery program as more details roll out. This groundbreaking course offers students a comprehensive education, helping them stand out in the competitive medical field. 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year; stay tuned!