Application Deadlines for Medical and Dentistry Schools 2026/2027
Getting into a medical or dentistry school in Europe requires early planning and attention to detail. This comprehensive guide outlines the key application deadlines and entrance exam dates for the 2026/2027 academic year across Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Greece, Spain, and more. Whether you are an EU or non-EU applicant, submitting your documents on time gives you the best chance at securing a place in your desired programme.
Overview
Most European medical and dentistry schools begin accepting applications up to a year before the academic term starts. While some universities operate on rolling admissions, others follow strict cut-off dates. Entrance exams are often scheduled between April and July for autumn intake courses. Here’s a country-by-country breakdown to help you prepare effectively.
Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Schools in Slovakia
Faculty of Medicine, University of Pavel Jozef Šafárik
The application deadline typically falls in late March, with entrance exams held between May and June. Exams usually include biology and chemistry multiple-choice questions.
Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University
Applicants often need to submit their documents by early April. The entrance exam is usually conducted in late May, focusing on science-related topics and problem-solving skills.
Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University
Expect multiple test dates throughout May and June. The application process often closes in spring, with results released soon after the exam.
Faculty of Medicine, Slovak Medical University
Submission deadlines for international applicants typically close around late April, with entrance tests scheduled in May or early June.
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Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in the Czech Republic
Charles University Faculties of Medicine
The multiple faculties of Charles University — the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and those in Hradec Králové and Pilsen — hold entrance exams from April to July. The subjects tested often cover biology, chemistry, and physics. Applications are usually due between February and March.
Faculty of Medicine in Brno, Masaryk University
Masaryk University’s application system generally closes in February, with entrance exams held in May or June. Successful applicants receive their offer within weeks of testing.
Faculty of Medicine in Olomouc, Palacký University
Applications are expected by the end of March, followed by entrance exams in late May. Both online and in-person exams are frequently available for international students.
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Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in Hungary
University of Debrecen
Applications generally close in early May, with exams held in May and June. The test covers biology, chemistry, and English proficiency.
University of Szeged
Deadlines fall around late April, and entrance exams are usually offered between May and July, including both written and oral components.
University of Pécs
Applicants should apply before mid-April. Exams take place in late May or early June.
Semmelweis University
As Hungary’s oldest medical school, Semmelweis conducts several exam sessions from March through July, allowing applicants flexibility. Application submission ends in early spring.
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Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in Poland
Major Universities
Applications to Polish medical schools such as those in Warsaw, Kraków, Łódź, Szczecin, Olsztyn, Białystok, Bydgoszcz, Kielce, Wrocław, Katowice, and Lublin generally close between March and May. Entrance exams or interviews may follow in May or June. Some institutions consider grades and certificates instead of an entrance exam for specific programmes.
Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in Croatia
University of Zagreb
Applications close by late April, with exams taking place in June for autumn intake. Subjects tested include natural sciences and reasoning skills.
University of Split
Expect deadlines from March to May, and assessments conducted in early summer, depending on the programme type.
University of Rijeka
Submission windows are open until late spring, followed by entrance exams around June.
Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in Latvia
Riga Stradins University
Applications usually close by the end of June for autumn intake. Entrance evaluations are held online and focus on science knowledge and motivation.
University of Latvia
Deadlines are often in March, with entrance assessments following shortly after.
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Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in Lithuania
Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU)
Applications close around April. Entrance exams are typically held in May, assessing key science subjects and communication skills.
Vilnius University
The application deadline is expected by April, with admission exams conducted from May through June.
Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in Estonia
University of Tartu
Applicants must usually apply by mid-April. Exams and interviews take place in late spring and early summer, primarily evaluating academic readiness and English proficiency.
Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in Greece
Leading Medical Faculties
Greece’s principal medical schools — including those in Athens, Thessaloniki, Thessaly, and Crete — typically close applications in April. Entrance assessments or interviews are conducted between May and July for English-language programmes.
Entrance Exam Dates for Medical Universities in Spain
Spanish Medical Faculties Offering English-Taught Programmes
Universities such as those in Valencia, Navarra, and Madrid often have admission windows open from January to May. Entrance exams and interviews take place from May to July, with limited seats for international applicants.
Other European Destinations
Countries like Bulgaria, Italy, Cyprus, Serbia, and Bosnia also host English-taught medical and dentistry programmes. Application deadlines vary but generally close between March and June, with entrance exams scheduled around May or June.
Admission Periods and Application Windows
Winter Semester 2026/27: Applications usually open in autumn 2025 and close by early summer 2026.
Summer Semester 2026: Apply by December 2025 to March 2026.
Summer Semester 2027: Early submissions open mid-2026 for fast-track applicants.
Information for Non-EU Candidates
Non-EU applicants often need additional documentation such as proof of English proficiency, certified transcripts, and visa approval. Starting the process early ensures adequate time for authentication and travel arrangements.
Key Documents Needed for Your University Application
- Completed online or paper application form
- Secondary school or high school diploma
- Transcript of grades in science subjects
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Copy of passport or national ID
- Motivation letter and academic CV (where required)
Missed the Deadline? What to Do
If you miss the deadline, some universities offer late applications depending on seat availability. Alternatively, consider applying for the spring (summer) intake or preparing for the next cycle. Reaching out directly to admissions offices can sometimes open up waiting-list opportunities.
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Which Countries Accept Late Applications?
Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia often allow later submissions, while universities in Spain or Greece typically adhere to stricter closing dates. Flexibility varies by institution, so checking individual school policies is key.
FAQs
When should I start preparing for the 2026/2027 intake?
Start preparing at least a year in advance — ideally by mid-2025 — to ensure all documents and exam requirements are completed in time.
Can I take the entrance exam online?
Many universities now offer online testing options, particularly for international candidates who cannot travel for in-person exams.
Are application fees refundable?
Most institutions charge a small, non-refundable application fee to process submissions, typically ranging from €50 to €150.
Can I apply to multiple universities within the same country?
Yes, you can apply to as many institutions as you wish, provided you meet each university’s specific requirements and deadlines.
What happens if my visa is delayed?
Contact the university immediately. Some schools permit deferred enrolment or late arrival if visas are delayed due to administrative reasons.