Are you considering studying medicine abroad? Slovakia offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring medical professionals, boasting renowned faculties and high-quality education. In this guide, we’ll explore the esteemed faculties of medicine in Slovakia, including the Faculty of Medicine of Comenius University in Bratislava, the Jessenius Faculty of Medicine of Comenius University in Martin, Faculty of Medicine of Pavol Jozef Safarik in Kosice, and the Faculty of Medicine of Slovak Medical University in Bratislava. From admission requirements to program details and beyond, we’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to kickstart your medical journey in Slovakia.
Best Medical Universities in Slovakia
1. Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava:
Established as one of Central Europe’s oldest and most prestigious medical faculties, the Faculty of Medicine at Comenius University in Bratislava epitomizes excellence in medical education and research.
• Program Duration: The General Medicine program typically spans six years, comprising preclinical and clinical phases.
• Admission Requirements: Prospective students are required to pass an online entrance examination, covering subjects such as Biology, Chemistry. The applicants can register for one the dates for the entrance exam (March 19th, 2024, June 25th, 2024 or August 13th, 2024). It is important to submit the required documents before the application deadline for each period. Applicants are required to submit following documents:
- A passport scan
- A scan of the Secondary Education Diploma/Certificate
- A scan of Certificate of Medical Fitness (Certificate of Eligibility to Study)
- Proof of admission fee payment.
- Proof of vaccination against Hepatitis B
💡 Please note that all the documents should be correctly uploaded when registering for the entrance exam.
The entrance exam includes multiple choices of 100 chemistry and 100 Biology questions. The maximum number of points are 800 and applicants are required to achieve bout 600 points to be qualified for the program. The final number of accepted applicants will be decided by the dean of the faculty.
Applicants can attend to the 3 online classes organized for free by the faculty of medicine of Comenius university prior to the online entrance exam. The faculty also offers a booklet of Biology and chemistry for reference. The questions will be derived directly from this booklet.
The expected number of students for academic year 2024-2025 is 150 students.
• Tuition Fee: The tuition fee for Program is 11,000 Euro per year which remains the same until the end of the program.
2. The Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Martin:
Located in the charming town of Martin, the Faculty of Medicine at Comenius University in Martin offers a conducive environment for academic excellence and personal growth.
• Program Duration: Similar to other medical faculties in Slovakia, the General Medicine program typically is six years, structured to provide students with a solid foundation in medical sciences and clinical practice.
• Admission Requirements: Prospective students must pass the entrance examination, which evaluates their knowledge in subjects of Chemistry and Biology. The entrance exam is online and similar to the entrance exam of the Medicine faculty of Comenius university in Bratislava. It includes multiple choices of 100 chemistry and 100 biology questions. The total exam time is 200 minutes for both subjects. The results of entrance exam then are published on the webpage the faculty.
The entrance exam dates are 21st of March 2024, 12th of July 2024 and 10th of August 2024. Applicants are required to submit all the necessary documents before the admission deadline.
• Admission Requirements:
- Completed or be in the process of completing the secondary education to provide a medical confirmation of general health and the ability to study at the university level.
- Pay the admission fee.
💡 The expected number of students for academic year 2024-2025 is 150 students.
• Tuition Fee: The tuition fee is 11000 Euro per year.
• Program Structure: The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to medical education, integrating classroom learning with hands-on practical experience and research opportunities under the guidance of experienced faculty members.
3. Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University in Kosice:
Situated in the beautiful city of Kosice, the Faculty of Medicine at Pavol Jozef Safarik University is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement.
• Program Duration: The General Medicine program typically is six years, comprising both theoretical and practical components designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for a successful medical career.
• Admission Requirements: Prospective students must meet academic prerequisites and pass the entrance examination, which includes the multiple-choice questions of Chemistry and Biology. The questions are directly derived from the Booklet of the Entrance exam offered by the faculty. The entrance exam is held in several dates including 19th June 2024, 14th August 2024 in Kosice and other dates (September 2024) in Budapest and Vienna. The total number of accepted students is 210. The required documents for entrance exam registration of faculty of Medicine of Pavol Jozef Safarik in Kosice are as following:
- Filled in, signed and printed application form
- Medical confirmation
- Copy of passport / ID card
- Confirmation of application and entrance exam fee payment
- School leaving certificate
• Tuition Fee: The tuition fee for academic year 2024/2025 is 10500 Euro pear academic year.
• Program Structure: The curriculum is structured to provide a holistic understanding of medical sciences, with emphasis on practical training, clinical rotations, research projects, and elective opportunities to explore specialized areas of interest.
4. Faculty of Medicine, Slovak Medical University in Bratislava:
As the only university in Slovakia specializing in healthcare sciences, the Faculty of Medicine at Slovak Medical University in Bratislava offers a unique educational experience combining academic rigor with practical relevance.
• Program Duration: The General Medicine program is six years, structured to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in biomedical sciences, clinical skills, and professional ethics.
• Tuition fee: the tuition fee for the medical program of Slovak Medical University is 9000 Euro per year.
• Admission Requirements: Prospective students must fulfill academic prerequisites and pass the entrance examination, which evaluates their knowledge in core subjects and language proficiency. Subjects of entrance examination: biology (80 questions) and chemistry (80 questions). The entrance examination is written in the form of a test in English, with the total of 160 questions. The time provided for elaboration is 150 minutes. The maximum score is 640 points. Applicants are required to submit the necessary documents indicated by the faculty of medicine of Slovak Medical university before the deadline. Required documents are as following:
- Successful completion of secondary school
- Submitting a certificate from a general practitioner indicating the applicant’s health
- Successful completion of the entrance examination
- Proof of the admission payment
• Program Structure: The curriculum is designed to be dynamic and student-centered, with a focus on active learning, problem-solving skills, clinical reasoning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, simulation labs, and clinical training sites to enhance their learning experience.
Why choose Slovakia for medicine?
1. Quality of Education: Slovakian universities offer high-quality medical education with modern facilities and experienced faculty. Many medical schools in Slovakia are recognized internationally, providing a solid foundation for a medical career.
2. Lower coition fee comparing neighboring countries: Slovakia generally offers competitive tuition rates for medical studies compared to its neighboring countries. The average tuition fee in neighboring countries such as Czeck republic, Hungary, Poland are higher than Slovakia.
3. Low cost of living: Compared to some other European countries or North America, the cost of studying medicine in Slovakia might be more affordable. Tuition fees and living expenses could be lower, making it an attractive option for students seeking quality education without breaking the bank.
4. Multicultural Experience: Slovakia’s central location in Europe allows for exposure to diverse cultures and languages. This multicultural environment can enrich the student experience, fostering cross-cultural communication skills and global perspectives, which are valuable in the medical field.
5. EU Membership: Slovakia being a member of the European Union offers certain benefits to students, such as access to EU-funded programs, scholarships, and the opportunity to easily travel within the Schengen Area.
6. Job Opportunities: Completing medical studies in Slovakia may open up various job opportunities not only within the country but also across Europe. Slovakia’s healthcare system provides avenues for internships and practical training, enhancing students’ employability after graduation.
7. Language Opportunities: While Slovak might be the primary language of instruction, some universities offer medical programs in English, attracting international students who may not be fluent in Slovak. This allows students from different linguistic backgrounds to pursue their medical education in Slovakia.
💡 Above , we outline compelling reasons why Slovakia stands out as an ideal choice for international students aspiring to pursue medical studies within its esteemed universities. For further insights into studying at Slovak universities, we invite you to explore the article titled “Why Study In Slovakia?“
Tuition fee of medical programs in Slovak universities:
| Program | Tuition fee (EUR) /year |
| Medicine (Comenius university) | 11000 |
| Medicine (Jessenius faculty Comenius university) | 11000 |
| Medicine (Pavol Jozef Safarik) | 10500 |
| Medicine (Slovak Medical University) | 9000 |
What Are the Admission Requirements?
Admission requirements for medical universities in Slovakia can vary slightly between institutions and programs, but there are some common criteria that applicants typically need to fulfill. Here’s an overview of the typical admission requirements:
1. Secondary School Diploma: Applicants are usually required to have completed secondary education equivalent to the Slovakian high school diploma (Vysvedčenie o maturitnej skúške). This may include completing a certain number of years of secondary education and passing relevant examinations in subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
2. Entrance Examination: Many medical universities in Slovakia require applicants to pass an entrance examination as part of the admission process. The examination may assess the applicant’s knowledge in subjects relevant to medicine, such as biology, chemistry.
3. Health certificate letter: A certificate letter indicating the general physical and mental heath of the applicant issued by a General Doctor
4. Proof of vaccination against Hepatitis B: Either a confirmation from the doctor or a scan of the vaccination card is sufficient (in English, German or Slovak language).
5. Nostrification (recognition), of foreign General Certificates of Secondary Education: This process involves validation by the Regional School Administration office. Prospective students should thoroughly examine the distinct admission criteria and procedures of each medical university and program they wish to apply to, as these requirements can differ. Moreover, applicants should be mindful of application deadlines and any supplementary documents or materials necessary for the application process.
How to prepare for medical schools in Slovakia?
Medical schools in Slovakia require applicants to pass an entrance examination. The entrance exam can be hold online or in person based on the faculty. You can prepare for the examination by studying the booklets (Chemistry and Biology) of the questions offered by the faculty of medicine of respected university. The Questions included multiple choices of Chemistry and Biology subjects. The entrance exam questions are usually 100 questions from biology and 100 questions from chemistry which are extracted directly from the booklet. Some faculties, like the medicine faculty of Comenius university in Bratislava provide online courses for entrance exam preparations.
Jobs and Careers
After completing medical courses in Slovakia, graduates can go for a wide range of career opportunities in the healthcare sector. Some of the prominent career paths available to medical graduates in Slovakia are mentioned below:
- Physician (Doctor)
- Specialist Physician
- Surgeon
- General Practitioner (GP)
- Medical Researcher
- Medical Educator
- Healthcare Administrator/Manager
- Public Health Official
- Medical Writer or Medical Journalist.
- Healthcare Consultant
Final point
Embarking on a medical education journey in Slovakia offers a unique opportunity to experience academic excellence, cultural diversity, and professional growth in a vibrant European setting. Whether you choose to study at the Faculty of Medicine of Comenius University in Bratislava, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine of Comenius University in Martin, Pavol Jozef Safarik University in Kosice, or Slovak Medical University in Bratislava, you can expect to receive a world-class education that prepares you for a rewarding career in medicine. With the support of EduSlovakia, navigating the application process, securing accommodation, obtaining visas, and adjusting to life in Slovakia becomes a streamlined and stress-free experience. Take the first step towards realizing your dream of becoming a healthcare professional by exploring the diverse opportunities available at Slovakia’s top medical faculties. Your journey starts here!
How to start with EduSlovakia?
EduSlovakia Assistance: EduSlovakia offers comprehensive support to international students, including assistance with university selection, application documentation, visa processing, accommodation arrangements, cultural orientation, and ongoing academic support to ensure a smooth transition and successful integration into student life in Bratislava.
- Contact our team by filling out the application form: Apply Now
- Our team will provide information about the programs and assist you in choosing your future program and university.
- Select your required service: Our Services
- Our team will provide you with instructions about university registration, required documents, and supporting information about the entrance exam and booklets.
- Our team will take care of the recognition of your documents in Slovakia and receive the confirmation of the certificate on your behalf.
- Our team will assist you with your visa application.
- We will arrange your accommodation and provide instructions for your arrival in Slovakia.
- We will meet you upon your arrival and ensure you have a smooth experience arriving in Slovakia.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is job prospects and salary related to medicine in Slovakia?
| Profession | Salary (Euro) (max) |
| Doctor | 1200-2900 |
| Dentist | 1200-4850 |
| Pharmacist | 1200 – 2380 |
| Nurse | 1200-2100 |
| Radiologist | 1200-3370 |
| Psychologist | 1200-1800 |
Is it possible to study medicine in Slovakia in English?
Yes, many medical universities in Slovakia offer medical programs taught in English to accommodate international students. Faculty of Medicines of Comenius university in Bratislava, Pavol Jozef Safarik in Kosice, Jessenius faculty of Medicine in Martin and Slovak medical university in Bratislava offer medical programs to international students.
How much does it cost to study medicine in Slovakia?
Tuition fees for studying medicine in Slovakia vary depending on the university and program. On average, tuition fees for international students range from approximately €9000 to €13,000 per year.
Can I study medicine in Slovakia for free?
Yes, Study in Slovak language is free for all the applicants.
How many years does it take to study medicine in Slovakia?
Medical programs in Slovakia typically last for six years, including both theoretical and practical training.
Is it hard to get into medical school in Slovakia?
Admission to medical school in Slovakia can be competitive, with entrance examinations and other criteria determining acceptance. However, with adequate preparation and meeting the requirements, it is achievable. The faculties of medicine of Slovak universities offer booklets including the question of the entrance exam.
How much does a doctor earn in Slovakia?
The salary of doctors in Slovakia varies depending on factors such as experience, specialization, location, and type of employment. On average, a doctor’s salary can range from €1,500 to €4,000 per month.
Do you get paid to study medicine in Slovakia?
Generally, students do not get paid to study medicine in Slovakia. However, students can apply for student jobs.
Can you study medicine in Slovakia without knowing Slovak?
Yes, many medical programs in Slovakia are offered in English, allowing students to study without knowing Slovak.
What is the best university in Slovakia for medicine?
Comenius University in Bratislava and Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice are among the top universities in Slovakia for medical education.
Is there an entrance exam for medicine in Slovakia?
Yes, medical universities in Slovakia require applicants to pass an entrance examination as part of the admission process.
Can I work while studying medicine in Slovakia?
International students in Slovakia are allowed to work part-time during their studies, subject to certain conditions and restrictions.
Can I work as a doctor in Slovakia without speaking Slovak?
While some healthcare institutions in Slovakia may offer opportunities for non-Slovak speaking doctors, proficiency in Slovak is typically required for practicing medicine in Slovakia.
Is there a shortage of doctors in Slovakia?
Yes, Slovakia has faced challenges with shortages of doctors, particularly in certain regions and specialties.
How many years is medical residency in Slovakia?
Medical residency in Slovakia typically lasts for 3-6 years, depending on the specialty.
What are the disadvantages of studying medicine in Slovakia?
Disadvantages may include language barriers for non-Slovak speaking students, cultural adjustments, and differences in healthcare systems compared to their home countries.
