General Information About Studying Dentistry in Italy
Studying dentistry in Italy has been the choice of candidates planning to study abroad, especially if they have a desire to study in the field of medicine. Rather than other European countries, Italy is preferred by students in many fields, especially in medical area in recent years. Every year, students from many countries of the world, who prefer Italy for education, receive a blue diploma if they successfully complete their education and thanks to this diploma, they have a chance to work wherever they want in Europe also all around the world. Dentistry education, which lasts for 6 years in total, is available in Italian and in English languages. Thanks to our Italian course, you can study at majority of universities by learning Italian, but if you want to study dentistry in English, you can also study at the University of Siena.
For more detailed information about the university, you can read our article about “University of Siena“.
Moreover, there are opportunities to study dentistry in Italy for your master’s and doctoral studies either in English or in Italian.
Studying Dentistry at the University of Siena
The University of Siena founded in 1240 and one of the oldest public universities in Italy. Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage city. Its dentistry program in English was established in 2017 and is one of the most established English-taught dental programs in the country.
The primary aim of the Department of Dentistry at Siena is to train doctors with sufficient clinical expertise and strong ethical values in oral and dental health. Students receive training in:
- Oral physiology and pathology
- Restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontology
- Oral surgery, implantology, prosthodontics
- Orthodontics and gnathology
Each subject is covered through both lectures and hands-on practical training to develop professional skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
The Department of Dentistry at the University of Siena is also recommended by the ADEE (Association for Dental Education in Europe), the European organization that brings together the most renowned dental schools and by the Italian Ministry of Education.
Studying Dentistry at La Sapienza University of Rome
Roma La Sapienza University ranked 128th globally by QS ranking. Launched its English-language dentistry program in 2022, making it one of the newest English-taught dental programs in Italy.
The 6-year single-cycle program is designed to develop clinically skilled and ethically grounded dentists. Subjects covered include:
- Basic sciences, anatomy, and physiology
- Restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontology
- Oral surgery, implantology, prosthodontics, and orthodontics
Clinical practice begins in Year 4, where students work directly with patients in Sapienza’s dental clinics under the supervision of experienced faculty. Admission requires the IMAT exam. The program is recognized by ADEE, the Italian Ministry of Education.
Advantages of Studying Dentistry in Italy
So, why should you study dentistry in Italy? Here are the pros of studying dentistry item by item:
- Italian universities are among the best universities in the world
- Issuing a blue diploma valid all over Europe
- A survey by the Italian Dental Association showed that 91.5% of dentists are in stable employment within three years of graduation
- Bilingual study (even if you study in English, you will improve your Italian a lot during your stay in the country)
- Opportunity provided in terms of tuition fees and scholarships to students that are not available in many countries
- International social scene
- Opportunity to experience Italian history and culture
You can also read our article about ” Job Opportunities after Graduation in Italy “.
How Long Does Dentistry Take in Italy?
Dentistry programs in Italy last 6 years, following the same single-cycle structure as medicine. The program combines both theoretical and practical training throughout all six years, with clinical internships integrated from the fourth year onward. Upon graduation, students receive the title of Dottore in Odontoiatria e Protesi Dentaria.
Note that in some other countries dentistry programs last 5 years. Italy’s 6-year structure is designed to meet EU standards for full clinical preparation.
Application Requirements for Dentistry Education in Italy
In order to study dentistry in Italy, students must meet the following application requirements:
- Completion of 12 years of education.
- Passing the university entrance exam threshold, in your home country (e.g. YKS for Turkish students) — only exceeding the minimum threshold is required; placement at a specific university is not necessary
- B2 level English proficiency, a formal IELTS or TOEFL certificate is not always required for IMAT registration, but is recommended as some universities or post-acceptance steps may request it
- Passing the IMAT exam, (for public universities: Siena and Sapienza) or the university’s own admission exam (for private universities such as UniCamillus)
Note: In some years, English proficiency certificates (TOEFL/IELTS) may become mandatory due to increased demand. Obtaining a B2 certificate in advance is always recommended.
Attention: TOEFL and IELTS in some years may be required due to the intensity of the course. For this reason, it is recommended to obtain an English proficiency certificate.
- It is necessary to achieve success in the IMAT exam for medicine and dentistry at public universities or similar exams for private universities.
For more detailed information, you can take a look at the page IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test) or if you want to prepare for the exam as soon as possible, you can check out the IMAT course:
IMAT Course (Online)
Start Dates: Please View Course Details
Course Lengths: Please Review Course Details
Level: Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced
Studying Dentistry in Italy – Tuition Expenses
Universities in Italy publish regulations on student fees annually. On average, annual university fees are between 156€ and 3,500 €. Students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate and long single-cycle degree programs (5-6 years) pay an annual fee in one or more installments (up to four).
The amount of tuition fees depends on both the student’s stated family income and success factor (number of credits obtained on 10th of August each year). After the real economic conditions of the family are calculated correctly, the contribution is calculated. Accordingly, if there is a minimum income of 16.000 € and a maximum of 90.000 €, a contribution fee is paid to the university. If less than 16,000 € no contribution is expected.
You can check our article about “University Fees and Scholarships” for more detailed information.
Studying Dentistry in Italy – Scholarships and Accommodation Opportunities
Students who want to study dentistry in Italy are aware that Italy is very generous in granting scholarships compared to other European countries. After the scholarship application, students are offered many scholarship alternatives. As a result, students can continue their education by paying the minimum contribution to the University (156 €), receive a scholarship for cafeteria fees, free accommodation in university or state dormitories, or an annual scholarship of 4000 € to 8200 €.
DSU scholarship applications typically open in mid-July and close in early September. Final rankings are published by end of November. Students must reapply each year and meet minimum credit requirements from the second year onward.
You can also check our page about “Scholarship Opportunities in Italy“.
Dormitory facilities are offered to students in many universities and state dormitories in Italy. In addition, you have an opportunity to stay in private dormitories and student houses thanks to the companies contracted by the universities. Accommodation fees also vary among regions.
For more detailed information, you can check our article on “Accommodation in Italy“.
Why Pava Education?
Pava Education, an Italy-based study abroad consultancy firm, successfully completes the procedures of prospective students who want to study dentistry in Italy with its progressive and professional attitude. The institution, which assists the prospective student from the moment he/she decides to apply until the moment he/she settles in Italy, requests only the necessary documents from the students during all the procedures and then carries out the procedures. Thanks to its team that has experienced the one-to-one process, it ensures that prospective students have minimal contact with the bureaucratic process during the exam preparation process and manages the mixed application process. Pava Education, which can easily access the most up-to-date information since its center is in Italy, has adopted the principle of “good education reaching everyone”.
For contacting Pava Education: Contact
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years does dentistry take in Italy?
Dentistry in Italy lasts 6 years, combining theoretical and clinical training. Upon graduation, students receive the title of Dottore in Odontoiatria e Protesi Dentaria.
Is there an entrance exam for dentistry in Italy?
Yes. Students must take the IMAT exam to apply to public universities (Siena and Sapienza). UniCamillus uses its own admission process (UCAT Camillus).
What language is the IMAT exam conducted in?
The IMAT is conducted entirely in English.
Is a Turkish high school diploma valid in Italy?
Yes. Turkish high school diplomas are accepted. However, students must complete the apostille and legalization process, and submit a DOV (Dichiarazione di Valore) application through the Italian consulate.
How much are dentistry tuition fees in Italy?
At public universities: €156–€3,500 per year (calculated based on family income via ISEE). At UniCamillus (private): approximately €15,000–€20,000 per year.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. The main option is the DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) scholarship, which can cover tuition fees, provide an annual cash grant of up to €8,000, and include free meals and accommodation. Applications open in mid-July.
Can I practice dentistry in Turkey after graduating in Italy?
Yes. Graduates must complete the YÖK equivalency (denklik) process in Turkey before practicing as a dentist.
Is there a post-graduation work permit in Italy?
Yes. After graduation, students can apply for a 1-year job-seeking residence permit (permesso di soggiorno per ricerca di lavoro). Graduates can also pursue specialization or postgraduate studies in Italy or elsewhere in the EU.
Do I receive a “Blue Diploma” upon graduation, and is my degree recognized worldwide?
Yes. What is commonly referred to as the “Blue Diploma” is officially known as the Diploma Supplement.
