The admission process in Split is known for its holistic approach, focusing on academic background and entrance exam performance.

Admission Requirements for 2026–2027

1. Academic Qualifications: High school diploma with strong performance in Biology and Chemistry.

2. Entrance Examination: A mandatory written test covering Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

   • Exemptions: Candidates with high MCAT scores (>500) or those with a previous degree in natural sciences may be exempt from the entrance exam after faculty review.

3. Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is required (IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 79+), unless the student’s previous education was conducted in English.

Curriculum Structure

Split uses an integrated curriculum that emphasizes clinical skills from the very beginning.

• Pre-clinical (Years 1–3): Foundation in basic sciences (Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology) often taught in blocks (one subject at a time).

• Clinical (Years 4–6): Intensive hospital-based rotations.

• Research Focus: Every student must complete and defend a Graduation Thesis, which often involves participating in the faculty's active research projects.

The faculty is closely linked to the largest healthcare provider in the Dalmatian region.

1. Clinical Hospital Centre Split (KBC Split): The primary teaching hospital, spread across two main sites (Firule and Križine). It is the regional center for the entire Adriatic coast.

2. Research Excellence: The faculty is home to the RegMed (Regenerative Medicine) center and several world-class research labs.

3. Simulation Lab: MEFST features a highly advanced Clinical Skills Center where students practice emergency procedures and diagnostic techniques on high-fidelity manikins.

As a public university, the English-language program is self-funded by student tuition.

• Annual Tuition Fee: €12,000 per academic year.

• Application Fee: Approximately €200.

• Payment Terms: Typically paid in full at the time of enrollment to secure the seat.

• Vibe: A perfect mix of a 1,700-year-old living museum (Diocletian's Palace) and a modern, vibrant Mediterranean port. It is sunnier and warmer than Zagreb or Rijeka.

• Climate: Mediterranean; very hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters.

• Safety: Extremely safe. People spend a lot of time outdoors on the "Riva" (waterfront promenade).

• Location: Ideal for exploring the Croatian islands (Hvar, Brač) and coastal mountains.

Split is a Mediterranean city; while it offers university dorms, the international community often relies on private rentals.

1. Accommodation (Hostels & Dorms)

• University Dorms: Places like Dormitory Dr. Franjo Tuđman are modern but very competitive. Priority is often given to scholarship students and those on exchange. Cost: approx. €120 – €180/month.

• Private Rentals: Most international students live in apartments near the Firule campus or in the city center.

  • Shared Flat: €350 – €500 per month.

  • Private Studio: €550 – €750 per month.

• Note: Because Split is a major tourist destination, many private rentals require students to move out by June 1st for the tourist season. Always look for "year-round" rentals.

2. The Mess System (Dining)

• Subsidized Meals (X-ica): International students receive the X-ica card, allowing them to eat at university canteens (Menze) for a fraction of the cost.

• Cost: A full meal with the subsidy costs roughly €1.50 – €3.00.

• Locations: There is a main cafeteria right at the Faculty of Medicine (Križine) and a large one at the main University Campus (Visoka).

Beyond the standard annual tuition of €12,000, you should budget for the following mandatory administrative and legal costs:

Information for Indian Students (The "NRI" Perspective)

Since Croatia does not have a separate "NRI" category, Indian students compete in the same pool as other non-EU applicants.

• NEET Requirement: While Croatian universities do not always mandate a NEET score for admission, the NMC (National Medical Commission) requires all Indian students to be NEET-qualified to practice in India after graduation.

• Seat Availability: The University of Split typically reserves around 30–35 seats specifically for international students (those not part of the German Regiomed program).

• Direct Admission: Admission is often based on high school grades (PCB) and an online interview, rather than a high-pressure national entrance exam, making it a viable alternative to the intense competition for government seats in India.

Visa and Residency Formalities

Once you pay your first year's tuition, you must follow these "Miscellaneous" legal steps:

1. Nostrification: You must submit your Indian 10+2 certificates to the Education and Teacher Training Agency in Croatia to prove your high school diploma is equivalent to the Croatian "Matura."

2. OIB Number: You will need to obtain a Personal Identification Number (OIB) upon arrival, which is necessary for opening a bank account and registering for the student "X-ica" card.

3. Mandatory Health Insurance: Even if you have private travel insurance, you must register with the Croatian Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) within 8 days of receiving your residence permit. This costs roughly €1,000 annually if paid upfront.

Student Lifestyle Miscellaneous

• The "X-ica" Card: This is your most valuable asset. It provides heavily subsidized meals (up to 70% off) at university cafeterias.

• Public Transport: A monthly student pass in Split costs roughly €15 – €20, providing unlimited travel on city buses.