The University of Rome “Tor Vergata” is a renowned Italian public university based in Rome. Founded in 1982, it is relatively young but has quickly attained high academic standards in Italy and Europe. Tor Vergata hosts over 40,000 students across six faculties (including Medicine) and is known for its modern campus and research centers. In recent years, Tor Vergata has expanded its international reach by partnering with the Catholic University “Our Lady of Good Counsel” (Universiteti Katolik “Zoja e Këshillit të Mirë”, often abbreviated as OLGC) in Albania.
The Catholic University OLGC, located in Tirana, is a private Catholic university founded in 2004. It has a strong tradition of cooperation with major Italian universities – including Bari, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Palermo, and Rome Tor Vergata – to deliver joint degree programs in health sciences. Through these partnerships, OLGC offers integrated curricula aligned with Italian standards, allowing students to earn degrees recognized in both Albania and Italy. The collaboration with Tor Vergata led to the establishment of an English-taught Medicine and Surgery program at OLGC’s Tirana campus, where Tor Vergata serves as the partner university. All courses follow the same curriculum as Tor Vergata’s Rome program, and instruction is delivered by professors from Tor Vergata alongside qualified Albanian faculty. Upon graduation, students receive a joint diploma from OLGC and Tor Vergata – a degree officially recognized in Italy, Albania, and across the European Union. In other words, the Tirana program meets the exact standards of an EU medical degree, enabling graduates to continue with licensing or specialization in Italy and other EU countries without additional hurdles.
The Tirana campus of OLGC provides the setting for this unique cross-border medical program. It represents a true blend of Albanian and Italian academic collaboration. The partnership not only broadens Tor Vergata’s international footprint but also gives students in Tirana access to Italy’s medical education excellence. In summary, the Medicine and Surgery course in Tirana is a fully European-standard MD program run jointly by Tor Vergata University of Rome and OLGC in Albania – combining the strengths of a top Italian medical school with the local resources of a modern Tirana university campus.
About the Medicine and Surgery Course in Tirana
Tor Vergata’s Medicine and Surgery program in Tirana is a single-cycle Master’s degree in Medicine (MD) taught entirely in English. The course spans six academic years (twelve semesters) and is structured in accordance with the European higher education requirements for medical training. Students must complete a total of 360 ECTS credits over the six years, which include formal coursework, laboratory practicals, and clinical rotations. In fact, practical exercises and clinical internship make up about 78 ECTS of the program, reflecting the strong emphasis on hands-on training. By the end of the program, graduates earn the title of Master’s Degree in Medicine and Surgery (equivalent to an M.D.), granted jointly by OLGC and Tor Vergata.
All instruction is delivered in English, making this program particularly attractive to international students. Lectures, exams, seminars, and conferences are conducted in English, and the teaching staff primarily consists of professors from Tor Vergata University – many of whom commute from Rome to teach in Tirana – as well as qualified faculty from Albania. This means students in Tirana receive the same lectures and course material as their peers in Rome, ensuring parity in quality and content. Importantly, student attendance is mandatory for at least 67% of each course’s teaching hours. This attendance requirement underscores the program’s rigor and the expectation of active student participation in both theoretical and practical learning.
Because the curriculum in Tirana perfectly mirrors the Tor Vergata curriculum, the degree is fully compliant with EU standards for medical education. As noted, the final diploma is a joint degree officially recognized in Italy and across the EU. Graduates are eligible – after passing the required national licensing exam – to practice medicine or pursue specialization in Italy, Albania, or other European countries just as any Tor Vergata graduate would. The cross-border nature of the program does not compromise transferability; if anything, it enhances students’ exposure to different healthcare systems. The program’s accreditation and recognition ensure that mobility (for example, transferring or doing electives abroad) is possible within the EU framework. In essence, studying in Tirana offers the same credentials and professional opportunities as studying medicine in Italy, backed by Tor Vergata’s reputation.
To summarize, the Medicine and Surgery course at OLGC Tirana is a six-year English-language MD program (360 ECTS) that adheres to European Union directives on medical training. It awards a joint Tor Vergata–OLGC degree, granting graduates full rights to continue medical careers throughout Europe. The language of instruction, the integrated curriculum, and the joint diploma all make this course a truly international medical education experience anchored in EU standards.
Course Structure and Program Highlights
The six-year program is organized to integrate preclinical sciences, clinical knowledge, and practical skills development in a progressive manner. Years 1–3 are generally focused on building a strong foundation in basic medical sciences, while years 4–6 concentrate on clinical training and specialized medical disciplines – although there is some early clinical exposure even in the first years.
Preclinical Phase (Years 1–3): In the first two years, students study the core sciences that underpin medicine. The curriculum includes subjects such as Chemistry and Biochemistry, Physics and Medical Statistics, Biology and Genetics, Human Anatomy, Histology, Physiology, and basic pathology. These courses provide the fundamental knowledge of human biology and disease mechanisms. Notably, the program introduces practical elements early: from the first year, students engage in “Clinical Practice I” modules (worth 6 ECTS) which likely involve basic clinical skills or hospital observations alongside their science courses. The second year continues this pattern with “Clinical Practice II” (3 ECTS) – indicating that even as students learn anatomy or biochemistry, they are also gradually being exposed to patient contact, clinical settings, or simulation sessions. By the third year, the curriculum transitions into more medically oriented sciences: pathology, microbiology, immunology, pharmacology, and an important course titled Clinical Symptomatology, where students learn to recognize and interpret clinical signs and symptoms of disease. The third year also includes a substantial “Clinical Practice III” component of 15 ECTS, suggesting that students spend a significant portion of the year in hospitals or clinics, practicing history-taking, physical examination, and other clinical skills under supervision. In fact, at the end of year 3, students are required to have passed all preclinical exams in order to progress to the clinical years. This strict progression rule ensures that students enter the clinical phase with a solid mastery of the basics.
Clinical Phase (Years 4–6): The fourth year marks the beginning of full-scale clinical training. At this stage, the curriculum covers specialized disciplines and system-based pathology. Students delve into courses like general pathology (continued from third year), advanced anatomy/pathology, and specialized fields such as Dentistry (as a medical overview), Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), Audiology, and more. These are often introductory rotations or courses in various medical specialties, giving students a broad exposure. Clinical rotations intensify with “Clinical Practice IV” in fourth year (worth 12 ECTS), where students likely rotate through wards in internal medicine, surgery, etc., applying their knowledge to real patient care. In fifth year, the program covers major clinical subjects: Diagnostic Imaging and Radiotherapy, Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System, Neurological Sciences (Neurology and Neurosurgery), Psychiatry and Clinical Psychology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the bulk of Internal Medicine and Surgery specialties. For example, fifth year includes study of Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Pediatrics, Surgery, and allied fields, often referred to as Systemic Pathology II and III in the study plan. By this time, students split their days between classroom lessons and clinical clerkships. A “Clinical Practice V” is scheduled in the fifth year as well, which likely continues the rotations through different hospital departments; this practical component ensures students are working alongside doctors, refining their clinical competencies. Finally, the sixth year is largely about consolidating clinical experience and preparing for independent practice. Sixth year courses cover remaining key areas like Family Medicine (General Practice), Emergency Medicine, Medical Oncology, Public Health, Occupational Medicine, Forensic Medicine, and Anesthesiology/Emergency Care. During the final year, students undertake “Clinical Practice VI” (additional rotations, 4 ECTS) and dedicate time to a thesis research/project (12 ECTS) as well. A capstone of the program is the “Medical Practice with Evaluation (MMG)”, a 15-ECTS internship that includes a formal evaluation of clinical skills. This is typically a hands-on internship (for example, a rotation in a general hospital or as an assistant intern) which, upon successful completion, validates that the student is ready for the medical profession. The thesis and the final practical evaluation together prepare students to graduate as competent new physicians.
Integration of Theory and Practice: A standout feature of the Tor Vergata – Tirana curriculum is the early and continuous integration of clinical exposure. Unlike some traditional programs that delay patient contact until the later years, this program introduces clinical practice modules from year one and steadily increases practical training each year. By third year, students are already spending a considerable portion of time in clinical environments, and by the clinical years (4–6) much of the learning occurs on the hospital wards. Furthermore, the partnership structure means clinical training isn’t limited to one country. The clinical teaching activities take place both in Albania and Italy: students practice in the departments and laboratories of OLGC’s own teaching hospital in Tirana, and have opportunities to train at the Tor Vergata Polyclinic in Rome and other affiliated hospitals in Italy. This bi-national clinical exposure is a unique highlight – students get to experience healthcare delivery in an Albanian context and also rotate in Italian hospitals, broadening their clinical perspective and network. The curriculum’s “perfect overlap” with Tor Vergata’s means that a student could, in theory, transfer to Rome or vice versa without disruption (subject to seat availability), and indeed some short-term exchanges might be possible due to the identical programs.
In summary, the program’s structure carefully blends preclinical science and clinical application, enforced by a milestone at the end of third year that ensures only well-prepared students enter the clinical phase. The later years deliver comprehensive clinical training across all major fields of medicine, culminating in a final thesis and a supervised medical practice internship. By graduation, students are not only academically knowledgeable but also have substantial real-world clinical experience in both Albania and Italy. Graduates are thus well-prepared for the national licensing exam and for entering residency/specialization programs. The broad skill set acquired (from foundational science to hands-on patient care) aligns with Tor Vergata’s goal of producing physicians capable of working in public and private hospitals, clinics, or pursuing research and specialization in any EU country.
Admissions and Tuition
Admissions Process: The Medicine and Surgery course in Tirana is a limited-enrollment program, meaning prospective students must pass a competitive entrance exam to secure a seat. Starting from the 2025–2026 academic year, admission to the Medicine program at the University of Tirana will be based entirely on the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test) — the same standardized entrance exam used for English-taught medical programs in Italy. This marks a major shift from previous years, when the Tirana campus conducted its own entrance test through OLGC (Our Lady of Good Counsel).
All 150 available seats(all non-eu) for Medicine in Tirana will now be assigned strictly according to IMAT scores, aligning the program’s admissions process with that of Italian public universities such as Tor Vergata, Sapienza, and the University of Milan.
Applicants must register for the IMAT exam through the official Universitaly portal and also finalize their pre-enrolment on the same portal, following the same procedure as candidates applying to Italian universities.
Candidates will be ranked according to their IMAT performance, with offers extended to the highest scorers until all 150 seats are filled. There will be no separate local exam or internal OLGC assessment.
Application and Enrollment: To apply for the University of Tirana Medicine program (IMAT 2025 intake), candidates must follow the official Italian medical university admission procedure. The process begins with pre-enrolment on the Universitaly portal, where applicants select the University of Tirana (Tor Vergata affiliation) and upload their high school diploma, academic transcripts for all secondary years, certificate of grades, a valid passport or ID, and proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS, TOEFL, or a letter confirming English-medium instruction). Once the documents are reviewed and approved, applicants must register for and sit the IMAT (International Medical Admissions Test), the standardized exam required for all English-taught medicine programs in Italy and its partner campuses. Admission is based entirely on IMAT ranking scores, with the top 150 candidates offered a place for the 2025–2026 academic year. After passing the IMAT and receiving an offer, students must finalize enrollment by verifying the authenticity and equivalence of their high school diploma (via legalization or CIMEA recognition), submitting any remaining documents, and completing tuition and registration formalities. This unified procedure ensures international students can study medicine in Europe through an officially recognized and globally competitive IMAT-based admission system.
Tuition Fees:
For students from Albania and neighboring Balkan countries (including Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina), the annual tuition fee is approximately €5,360. In addition, high-achieving students may qualify for merit-based scholarships — typically a 15% reduction for those with a high school average between 9.0 and 9.99, and 30% off for students who achieved a perfect 10.0 average. These scholarships aim to encourage academic excellence and support talented regional applicants.
For international students from outside the EU and the Balkan region, tuition is €9,650 per year, payable as a single annual installment. Unlike Italian public universities, which often calculate fees based on income brackets and allow multi-installment payments, the Tirana campus follows a flat-rate tuition model. This structure ensures transparency and simplicity for all overseas students, covering the full cost of academic instruction, facilities, and administrative services.
When compared globally, the €9,650 annual fee remains highly competitive — significantly lower than private medical universities in Western Europe or North America, while offering the same European-recognized MD degree awarded by Tor Vergata University of Rome. Over six years, total tuition for international students amounts to roughly €57,900, while regional students with scholarships can pay substantially less.
Facilities and Teaching Environment
Campus and Learning Facilities: The OLGC Tirana campus provides a modern, well-equipped environment for medical studies. The university has invested in quality infrastructure to support both preclinical teaching and clinical training. Classrooms and lecture halls are equipped for multimedia presentations, and there are dedicated laboratories for subjects like chemistry, biology, and anatomy (including histology labs) to ensure students get practical laboratory experience alongside theory. Given OLGC’s collaboration with Italian institutions, the labs and teaching tools adhere to high standards. The campus also hosts a library and study centers to facilitate independent learning. Notably, OLGC boasts advanced simulation centers where medical and health sciences students can practice clinical skills on mannequins and simulated patients. Such simulation labs are crucial for training in procedures, emergency response, and clinical decision-making in a controlled, supervised setting before students handle real patients.
Because the program is taught in English, the academic atmosphere is international. Both faculty and student body are diverse. Many professors are flown in from Rome’s Tor Vergata University to teach modules in Tirana, ensuring the same expertise as in the home campus. These Italian professors often hold MD or PhD qualifications and are actively involved in research, bringing a wealth of knowledge. They work side by side with Albanian faculty members (many of whom have trained or specialized in Italy or other European countries). This creates a bilingual and multicultural faculty team that enriches the learning experience. The university emphasizes close collaboration between teachers and students; class sizes are kept reasonable (as it’s a limited-number program), allowing for interactive teaching and personal mentorship. In fact, OLGC prides itself on being “a unique example in Albania and the region, where international professors and students interact with each other, cooperating in a high-quality educational process”. This quote underlines the community feel on campus – students are not just attending lectures; they are engaging in discussions, group work, and practical activities with teachers from different backgrounds, all in English. For students, this environment improves not only medical knowledge but also soft skills like communication, cultural competence, and teamwork.
Clinical Training Facilities: A major advantage of the Tirana program is access to excellent clinical training facilities in both Albania and Italy. In Tirana, OLGC operates its own teaching hospital – the Polyclinic “Father Luigi Monti” – which serves as a primary site for clinical rotations. This hospital, named after a Catholic figure, is a modern medical center in Tirana where students can observe and assist in patient care under supervision. Departments in the polyclinic likely include internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, OB/GYN, etc., to accommodate the range of rotations needed. The university also has affiliated clinics, such as a Stomatological (Dental) Clinic and a Sports Rehabilitation Center, which are utilized for specialized training and interdisciplinary exposure. These facilities are either on campus or within short distance, giving students convenient access to practical training. Moreover, the simulation center mentioned earlier allows for clinical skills practice (like suturing, resuscitation, ultrasound use, etc.) in a safe environment on campus.
During the clinical years, students have the opportunity to train in Italy as well. According to the program description, part of the clinical internships are conducted in Rome at the Tor Vergata University Hospital (Policlinico Tor Vergata) and other affiliated hospitals in Italy[29]. This means that certain rotations or internships (perhaps for example in specialized areas like cardiology, oncology, or others) could take place in Italy, or students might spend a semester in Rome as exchange. The Policlinico Tor Vergata is one of the most modern hospitals in Italy and is directly attached to the medical school campus in Rome. There, students would work with patients in a high-end healthcare setting, alongside Italian medical students. The cross-country training not only enhances clinical exposure but also allows Tirana students to network with peers and mentors in Italy, possibly smoothing the path for those who might want to pursue residency in Italy later.
Libraries and Resources: OLGC’s campus provides a library with a rich collection of medical textbooks, journals, and online databases. Being a joint program, students likely have access to Tor Vergata’s digital library resources as well, which is a huge plus – they can use databases like PubMed, Scopus, etc., and have the latest research articles at their fingertips. Additionally, the campus has a University Language Centre (Centro Linguistico), which might offer support classes, though for this program the focus would be on English (since courses are in English, students are expected to know English well; however, some may choose to learn Italian during their studies, which could be beneficial for clinical rotations in Rome or interacting with Italian-speaking patients in Tirana, so language courses are possibly available).
Technology and Support: Classrooms are equipped with modern teaching aids; the university likely uses a learning management system for distributing lecture notes and tracking grades. There is on-campus Wi-Fi and IT support for students. As a student of OLGC/Tor Vergata, one also benefits from academic support services, tutoring, and career orientation programs offered by the university. The partnership with Tor Vergata might allow students to participate in exchange programs like Erasmus or other mobility opportunities in Europe (since OLGC is part of European university networks).
In terms of student services, OLGC provides health services (perhaps an on-campus clinic) and counseling. There are offices dedicated to helping foreign students with visa, residence permit, or other bureaucratic issues. The campus has facilities like cafeterias, study lounges, and spaces for student clubs or activities, contributing to a well-rounded campus life beyond academics.
Housing and Accommodation: Many international students will need accommodation in Tirana. OLGC has recently opened a brand-new student residence called “Folé” Student Residence, located about 10 minutes from campus. The Folé residence is a purpose-built student housing complex offering a variety of living options – from single studios to shared apartments – all fully furnished with private kitchens, bathrooms, and central climate control. The amenities at Folé are quite impressive: the complex features a bar-restaurant (meal plan option), a study library area, 24/7 reception and security, free Wi-Fi, a private courtyard with leisure space, gym and spa facilities, and even a semi-Olympic swimming pool. Such facilities provide comfort and a sense of community for students living away from home. The presence of on-site laundry, a small clinic/pharmacy, and shuttle transportation to the city center make it a convenient option. Essentially, OLGC has invested in creating a safe, comfortable living environment for its students, recognizing that a supportive residential life contributes to academic success. Students can choose to have their own space or share with roommates (which also helps lower costs). Apart from Folé, some students opt for private apartments in the city; OLGC’s student services often assist newcomers in finding trusted housing if they prefer to live off-campus.
Overall, the teaching environment in Tirana is intimate and supportive. Students benefit from small-group learning, accessibility to professors, and the melding of Italian and Albanian academic cultures. The campus fosters a professional yet collegial atmosphere – you are studying in a medical faculty that might be physically in Albania but in spirit and operation is an extension of a top Italian medical school. This translates to high expectations but also high support. The presence of state-of-the-art facilities – from simulation labs to well-equipped hospitals – ensures that students can practice what they learn. Moreover, being part of a tight-knit cohort of international students, everyone is likely to know each other, collaborate closely in study groups and practical sessions, and develop a strong camaraderie. Many students find this environment highly enriching, as it combines rigorous medical training with cultural exchange and personal growth.
Life in Tirana for Medical Students
Beyond the classroom and hospital, students in the Tor Vergata (Tirana) program get to experience life in the vibrant city of Tirana, Albania’s capital. Tirana offers a dynamic yet affordable living experience, which is a significant advantage for students coming from abroad.
Cost of Living: One of the first things international students notice is that the cost of living in Tirana is considerably lower than in many Western European capitals. This makes student life more budget-friendly, a relief especially given the demands of a six-year program. For housing, rental prices vary by location and size. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from about €250 to €500 per month, whereas in the suburbs or less central areas the rent can be cheaper. Many students choose to share apartments to further cut costs, or they stay at the Folé student residence where rents are competitive for the quality provided. Utilities (electricity, water, heating/cooling) usually add roughly €100–150 per month for a typical apartment, though in a dorm/residence setting some utilities may be included.
Daily expenses like food are quite affordable. If you cook for yourself, groceries for one person might total about €150–€200 per month for a balanced diet. Local markets and supermarkets in Tirana offer fresh produce, meat, and dairy at reasonable prices, and many students enjoy shopping at the farmer’s markets for good deals on fruits and vegetables. Eating out is also inexpensive compared to Europe: a tasty meal at a mid-range restaurant might cost only €10–€20 per person, and there are plenty of student-friendly eateries and pizzerias where you can eat for even less. Grabbing a coffee (an integral part of Tirana’s social life) often costs under €1 – Albania has a strong café culture and you’ll find countless coffee bars where students gather to study or chat. Fast food or street food (like byrek, a local pastry, or sufllaqe wraps) can be just a couple of euros. In short, food will not break the bank, and you can enjoy a mix of home cooking and dining out without much financial strain.
Transportation in Tirana is simple and cheap. The city center is quite walkable – many students live within walking distance of the campus or take short bus rides. A one-way bus ticket in the city costs about 40 Lek, which is roughly €0.40. Monthly public transport passes are available; a general monthly pass costs around 1,600 Lek (~€14), but there is a discounted student pass for about 600 Lek (approximately €5–€6) per month that gives unlimited rides on all city bus lines. This means for just a few euros, students can commute all month – extremely affordable. Buses are the main mode of public transit in Tirana (there is no metro), and while they can be crowded at rush hour, they cover most areas of the city. Taxis are also relatively cheap if needed; short rides within the city might be just €3-5 (always good to use official taxi companies or ride-hailing apps to get fair rates). Many students also choose to walk or even bike (Tirana has been improving its bike lanes in recent years) given the pleasant weather most of the year.
City and Culture: Tirana is a city with a lively atmosphere and a mix of historical and modern influences. As a student, you’ll find plenty of ways to unwind during free time. The entertainment options are diverse: movie theaters show films in English and Albanian (a cinema ticket costs on the order of €4–€7), and there are theaters, live music venues, and galleries to explore at student-friendly prices. The Blloku district is famous for its nightlife – full of cafes, bars, and clubs where young people hang out. It’s quite a scene on weekends, and very popular among students (always remember to balance nightlife with those early hospital shifts!). For a quieter time, the Grand Park of Tirana (Parku i Liqenit) is a wonderful green space with an artificial lake – perfect for jogging, relaxing, or studying outdoors. Tirana also has interesting museums (like the National History Museum, Bunk’Art, etc.) and cultural events. Many events have free or minimal entry fees for students; for example, local cultural festivals, open-air concerts, or university-organized events are common and low-cost.
Climate: The climate in Tirana is Mediterranean, which means hot, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. You can expect four distinct seasons. Summers (June through August) can be quite hot, with temperatures often above 30°C (86°F) and lots of sunshine – many students take advantage of free weekends to hit the Albanian beaches (the coast is only 30-40 minutes drive away). Autumn is pleasant, with cooler temperatures starting late October. Winters (December through February) are mild compared to Northern Europe; temperatures rarely drop below freezing in Tirana itself (usually 5–10°C in the day), but it’s the rainy season so you’ll need a good umbrella. Snow is very rare in the city (though the mountain Dajti just east of Tirana can get a dusting, offering a quick escape to a winter landscape). Spring arrives early, around March, with blooming trees and warming weather. Overall, the climate is student-friendly – you won’t be trudging through snow to classes, and you’ll enjoy a lot of sunny days which are great for morale during study sessions. Do note that many apartments in Tirana use AC units for heating/cooling, so factor that in for comfort.
Social Life and Language: Albanian people are known for their hospitality and friendliness. As an international student, you’ll likely find locals very welcoming. Many young Albanians speak some English, and certainly on campus everyone communicates in English due to the nature of the program. Picking up some basic Albanian phrases (or Italian, which is surprisingly widely understood due to cultural ties and TV) can enrich your experience and help in daily life, but it’s not strictly necessary for survival. Tirana is a safe city to live in as a student – violent crime is low and not typically directed at foreigners. As with any city, you should take standard precautions against petty crime like pickpocketing, especially in crowded markets or buses, but serious incidents are rare. According to travel safety assessments, Albania is considered quite safe for visitors, with a crime index roughly on par with countries like Canada. The main “hazards” students mention are the somewhat chaotic traffic (drivers in Tirana can be assertive, so be careful crossing streets – pedestrian right-of-way is not always respected!) and the occasional stray dogs in some neighborhoods. Overall, by exercising normal awareness, students feel secure walking around town, even in the evenings, especially in the central areas.
Housing and Daily Life: If staying at the Folé student residence, much of your daily needs are catered to: you have on-site study areas, dining options, gym etc., and you’re near campus which is convenient for early classes or late library nights. If you live off-campus, you’ll find plenty of apartments near the university (the campus is located on Rruga Dritan Hoxha, a central area). Many students like living in areas like Komuna e Parisit or near the Pyramid/Ish-Blloku, where there’s a youthful vibe. Rents there might be a bit higher but still reasonable if shared. Utilities like high-speed internet are cheap (around €10-€20 a month for a good plan, and most cafes have free Wi-Fi too). Mobile phone plans are also inexpensive (you can get a monthly plan with calls/texts and data for under €15).
Tirana offers all the conveniences you need: large shopping malls, supermarkets (including international chains like Carrefour or Conad), and lots of affordable services (from hairdressers to copy shops for printing notes). For healthcare, students can access local clinics or the university polyclinic; many doctors in Albania speak English, and basic consultations or medications are affordable. Some students opt for private health insurance for peace of mind, but even without it, costs are manageable (though it’s wise to have insurance as an international student).
Leisure and Travel: Being in Tirana also means you’re in a great jumping-off point to explore the Balkans and Europe during semester breaks. Albania itself has stunning natural beauty – from the beaches of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas to the mountainous north (Albanian Alps) and historic towns like Berat and Gjirokastër. As a break from studies, you can take a weekend trip to hike in the mountains or relax by the sea; nothing in the country is more than a few hours away by car or bus. Buses and minibuses (furgons) connect Tirana to other cities cheaply, and there’s an international bus terminal for travel to neighboring countries. You can reach Italy in a short flight (less than 1.5 hours to Rome), and there are also overnight ferries from the port of Durrës to Italy if you ever want a change of scenery. Nearby destinations like Montenegro, Greece, Kosovo, or North Macedonia are reachable by bus or car in just a few hours – ideal for holiday breaks. Students often organize group trips, which can be a fun bonding experience.
In terms of student life, OLGC and the student council may organize events, such as cultural nights, academic conferences, sports activities, and celebrations for various holidays. Tirana has a growing student scene with other universities in the city as well, so you’ll be part of a larger community of Albanian and international students. There are gyms, sports clubs, and possibly university sports teams you could join (football, basketball, etc.), and if you’re interested in volunteering or community work, there are NGOs and community projects in Tirana that welcome student involvement.
Conclusion – Living in Tirana: Medical school is demanding, but living in Tirana provides a comfortable and engaging backdrop for your studies. The city offers a compelling mix of affordability, safety, and social richness. You can study hard on weekdays and still enjoy a vibrant social life and cultural experiences on weekends – without needing a big budget. The relatively low cost of living means you won’t be as stressed about finances, and you can afford little luxuries like cafe outings or trips around the region. Climate-wise, the abundance of sunny days is a plus for mental health (no long dark winters here!). And importantly, you’ll be part of an international student cohort, so you’ll never feel alone – you will build friendships and networks that make the experience enjoyable. Many who study in this program find that by the time they graduate, they have not only earned a degree from a top university but also grown personally from living in a different country and culture. Tirana, with its youthful energy and expanding opportunities, truly becomes a second home for the duration of the studies. Students feel safe and supported, both on campus and in the city at large, allowing them to focus on becoming the best doctors they can be in this unique Medicine and Surgery program.
Bottom line: the Tor Vergata – OLGC Medicine and Surgery program in Tirana offers a comprehensive medical education in a setting that combines academic excellence with an enriching life experience. From a strong curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities to a welcoming city life, the program equips future doctors with knowledge, skills, and a broadened worldview – all at a fraction of the cost of similar programs elsewhere. It’s an ideal option for aspiring medics looking for an English-language program in Europe that doesn’t compromise on quality or recognition. With the degree in hand, graduates will have the world open to them – and many fond memories of their years in Tirana to carry forward.