University of Rijeka Faculty of Medicine
General Information
The University of Rijeka Faculty of Medicine (MEDRI) is a highly regarded medical school in Croatia, known for its strong focus on research and internationalization. Its English-taught MD program, launched in 2016, attracts students globally due to its EU-compliant curriculum and modern clinical training facilities.
General Information
Core Institutional and Program Facts
| Feature | Detail |
| Official Name | University of Rijeka Faculty of Medicine (Medicinski fakultet u Rijeci) |
| Founding Year | 1955 (University founded in 1973). |
| Institutional Status | Public University (Oldest and largest constituent of the University of Rijeka). |
| Degree Awarded | Doctor of Medicine (MD) (equivalent to a Master’s degree). |
| Program Duration | 6 Years (360 ECTS credits). |
| Instruction Language | English (Full program for international students). |
| Accreditation | EU-compliant (Directive 2005/36/EC); Agency for Science and Higher Education Croatia. |
| Global Recognition | Listed in WDOMS, recognized by the WHO, ECFMG (USA), and MCC (Canada). |
| International Quota | Approximately 50 students per year for the English program. |
Campus Facilities
Admission Requirements (2025–2026)
Academic Qualifications: High school diploma with strong grades in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Entrance Examination: Mandatory test typically covering Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
Exemption: Applicants with high BMAT scores (>4) or a relevant BSc degree (e.g., Biomedical Sciences) may be exempt from the entrance exam.
Language Proficiency: Proof of English fluency (IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 79+, or equivalent B2 level certificate).
Health Certificate: A general health certificate from a physician (not older than one month).
Curriculum Structure
The program uses an integrated approach, merging theoretical knowledge with clinical practice early on.
Phase 1 (Pre-clinical): Focus on basic medical sciences (Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Histology).
Phase 2 (Clinical): Rotation-based training in specialized departments, starting more intensively from the 3rd year.
Final Year: Includes a comprehensive internship and the defense of a graduate thesis.
Hospital & Medical Facilities
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
Rijeka offers a diverse clinical environment through several major regional health centers.
Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka (KBC Rijeka): The primary teaching hospital and the largest medical center in western Croatia.
Specialized Clinics:
Orthopaedic Clinic in Lovran: Renowned center for orthopedics and traumatology.
Thalassotherapia Opatija & Crikvenica: Specializing in cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Psychiatric Hospital Rab: Providing psychiatric clinical exposure.
Simulation Centre: The faculty features a modern clinical skills laboratory for simulation-based learning before students enter hospital wards.
Fee Structure
State University Affordability
As a public university, the English program is self-funded for international students.
Annual Tuition Fee: Approximately €12,000 per year.
Application Fee: €200 (non-refundable).
Payment Terms: Fees are typically paid in one or two installments before each semester begins.
City Details
Vibe: A major port city and cultural hub. It was the European Capital of Culture in 2020 and is famous for its international carnival and industrial-chic aesthetic.
Geography: Located on the northern coast of the Adriatic Sea (Kvarner Gulf), nestled between the sea and the mountains.
Climate: Subtropical/Mediterranean; mild, rainy winters and warm summers.
Leisure: Close to the luxury resort town of Opatija and the islands of Krk and Cres.
Hostel & Mess
Rijeka is a coastal city with a student-friendly infrastructure, though private rentals are often more common for international students.
Accommodation Options
| Type | Approx. Monthly Cost | Features |
| University Dorms | €100 – €250 | Shared rooms; limited availability for international students. |
| Private Rentals | €350 – €600 | One-bedroom apartment in neighborhoods like Trsat or the City Center. |
| Shared Apartments | €250 – €400 | Cost per person in a shared student flat. |
Dining (Mess/Food)
Student Cafeterias (Menza): Students with a student card (Iksica) have access to highly subsidized meals at university restaurants. A full meal costs roughly €2 – €5.
Monthly Food Cost: Estimated at €250 – €400 (combining cafeteria meals and groceries).
Miscellaneous
Visa/Residency: Non-EU students require a Temporary Stay Permit for Study Purposes. Students must apply for this immediately upon arrival or at the Croatian consulate in their home country.
Transport: Rijeka has an efficient bus network. A student monthly pass costs approx. €30 – €50.
Safety: Rijeka is a very safe port city with a low crime rate and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Language Requirement: While the degree is in English, learning basic Croatian is mandatory during the study years to communicate with patients in clinical settings.
Collage Images Gallery
Facilities & Campus Life
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Consult With Us?
- 15+ years of experience in medical education counseling
- 5000+ students successfully guided
- 50+ partner universities worldwide
- Free initial consultation with no obligation
