What is the IMAT Exam?

IMAT is a 100-minute subject-oriented admission test held in English by some Italian universities for candidates applying to medicine, surgery and dentistry courses. The International Medical Admission Test (IMAT) is used as part of the admission process of certain Italian universities. These universities are also open to applicants from outside Italy and accommodate students who have successfully passed the IMAT exam. The exam was developed in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research and Cambridge Assessment's Admissions Testing Service. The exam is sometimes incorrectly referred to as the 'Italian Medical Admission Exam'.

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IMAT Exam Topics

The IMAT Exam measures general knowledge of medicine and health sciences. It contains multiple choice questions and these questions evaluate the candidates' knowledge levels and analytical thinking skills. It consists of 5 main sections and 60 questions in total and applicants must go to IMAT exam centers and take the exam. Additionally, the exam duration is 100 minutes and candidates receive 1.5 points for each correct answer and lose 0.4 points for each incorrect answer.

The sections of the IMAT exam are:

Logical Reasoning: Consists of basic math skills and logic questions. There are 5 questions in total. Questions are multiple choice.
Reading Comprehension and General Knowledge: Includes general ability questions that evaluate critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical abilities. There are 4 questions in total. Questions are multiple choice.
Biology: Includes basic topics in biology such as cell biology, genetics, evolution, anatomy and physiology. It consists of a total of 23 multiple-choice questions.
Chemistry: Basic chemistry topics may include areas such as organic chemistry and biochemistry. There are a total of 15 multiple-choice questions.
Physics and Mathematics: Includes topics such as basic physics principles, arithmetic, trigonometry and mechanics. It consists of a total of 13 multiple-choice questions.

Is the IMAT Exam Difficult?

IMAT aims to evaluate the general knowledge level and analytical thinking skills of candidates applying to undergraduate programs in medicine, surgery and dentistry. Therefore, it may be easier for candidates who have solid foundational knowledge in these areas. The broad scope of the exam and detailed questions on certain topics may be challenging for some candidates who do not have a strong foundation. Mastering the subjects, taking mock exams and developing exam strategies can increase the chance of success. For this reason, candidates who want to pass the exam are recommended to follow an effective preparation program.

It is recommended to score at least 45 points, which equates to approximately 30 correct answers. However, since the number of participants is high and the quota is limited, it is advantageous for candidates to get higher scores, which will help them eliminate their competitors. As a result, the difficulty of the IMAT exam may vary depending on personal factors. However, with effective preparation and thorough study, candidates can successfully pass the exam.

When is the IMAT Exam?

The IMAT exam is held once a year and usually takes place in September-October. It has been reported that the IMAT exam will be held in September 2024. Applications are generally received in June and July, however, in some years the dates shift to September. The application period for the IMAT exam lasts only 1-2 weeks, so it is recommended that applicants follow the exam and application dates in advance on official sites.

How to Apply to the IMAT Exam

Candidates are generally expected to follow these steps when applying for the IMAT exam:

University and Program Selection: Candidates must choose the university and relevant undergraduate program to which they will apply. Selection takes place before the exam.
Filling out the Application Form: They must fill out the application form on the official website of the relevant university. This form may include candidates' personal information, educational background and other necessary information.
Providing Documents: Various documents may be requested from candidates during the application. These documents may include education diplomas, transcripts, language proficiency certificates, identity documents and similar documents.
Application Fee: A fee must be paid for the application. The IMAT fee for 2023 was 130 euros.
Application Confirmation: Once the application is completed, candidates receive a confirmation that their application has been received. This confirmation is used for candidates to keep track of exam dates and other important information.

Helpful Information About the IMAT Exam

+1.5 points are given for correct answers, -0.4 points for incorrect answers, and 0 points for unanswered questions.
The exam consists of 60 questions and 5 sections in total.
Exam duration is 100 minutes.
Questions are not weighted equally and are scored according to difficulty level.
The candidate who answers all 60 questions correctly receives 90 full points.
The exam is held in English.
Each candidate must score at least 20 points to be accepted into a university.
Nothing other than black ballpoint pens is allowed into the exam hall.
The exam is not online and is held only once a year.
To take the IMAT exam, candidates must be physically present at the centers where the exam is held.