University of Zagreb, Split Branch

Basic sciences

Exam courses

Admission Procedure

Eligibility Criteria

• Completion of secondary education, preferably with science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
• Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS for non-native speakers)
• Pass the entrance exam in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, OR submit MCAT scores

Application Process – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Online application through the university portal

• Required Documents:
  • High school transcripts
  • Passport copy
  • English proficiency certificate
  • Medical certificate of fitness
  • Motivation letter
  • Recommendation letters

Step 2: Take the Entrance Examination

• Subjects tested: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
• Held in Split or selected international locations or online

Step 3: Interview (if shortlisted)

• Assesses communication skills and motivation for medicine

Step 4: Admission Decision

• Successful candidates receive admission offers and further enrollment instructions

Step 5: Enrollment & Tuition

• Tuition fee for international students: Approx. €12,000 per year
• Scholarships are available for top-performing students in later years

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Courses Taught (Curriculum Overview)

Years 1–3: Preclinical Studies

• Anatomy
• Histology
• Biochemistry
• Physiology
• Pathology
• Pharmacology
• Microbiology
• Medical Ethics
• Communication Skills

Years 4–6: Clinical Rotations

• Internal Medicine
• Surgery
• Pediatrics
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Dermatology
• Emergency Medicine
• Family Medicine
• Public Health

Final Year:

• Supervised hospital rotations and clinical clerkships

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Admission Procedure

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Background: Completion of secondary education with a strong emphasis on science subjects, particularly Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.​
• English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must provide proof of proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.​

Application Process

1. Online Application Submission:
   • Complete the online application form available on the MSE website.​
   • Upload the required documents, including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a motivation letter, and letters of recommendation.​
2. Entrance Examination:
   • Applicants are required to pass an entrance exam that assesses knowledge in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.​
   • Details regarding the format, dates, and preparation materials for the exam are provided upon application.​
3. Interview:
   • Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview to evaluate their motivation, communication skills, and suitability for the medical profession.​
4. Admission Decision:
   • Successful candidates will receive an offer of admission, after which they must complete the enrollment process, including the submission of additional documents and payment of tuition fees.​

For detailed information and updates on the admission procedure, please refer to the official application procedure page on the MSE website.​

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Prospects After Graduation

Licensure

• Graduates are eligible to take the Croatian medical licensing exams
• The degree is recognized across the EU, enabling graduates to work or apply for residency in any EU country
• Graduates can also sit for the USMLE or PLAB to practice in the US or UK

Career Opportunities

• Work in Croatian public or private hospitals
• Apply for specialist training (residency) in Croatia or abroad
• Engage in medical research or public health programs
• Some graduates pursue careers in medical education, policy, or global health

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Life as a Doctor in Croatia

Work Conditions & Salary

• Doctors in Croatia generally work 40-hour weeks with on-call duties
• Entry-level doctors earn €1,200–€1,600/month
• Specialists earn more depending on their field and experience
• Good work-life balance, especially in coastal cities like Split

Cultural & Social Life

• Split offers a Mediterranean lifestyle with mild weather, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural life
• International students integrate well into Croatian society
• Croatia’s EU membership offers the benefit of freedom of movement and employment across the EU