MBBS in Greece

University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion 2025-26

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University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion The School of Medicine at the University of Crete was established with the vision of becoming a modern teaching and research center dedicated to excellence in the education and training of future physicians and biomedical scientists. Its mission is not only to provide high-quality medical education but also to foster innovation, research, and community service in line with international standards.

About University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

Since 1989, the School has been operating on its new campus, situated approximately 7 kilometers from Heraklion, which is considered one of the most advanced medical research and teaching complexes in Greece.

The campus consists of a spacious 24,000-square-meter ten-building complex designed to support both academic and research activities, along with a 62,000-square-meter University Hospital that is modern, fully equipped, and serves as a primary center for clinical training, research, and healthcare delivery in the region.

University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion – Table of Contents

About
Advantages
Ranking
Departments And Course Duration
Facilities And Infrastructure
Fee Structure
Required Documents
Eligibility Criteria
Admission Process
Benefits
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
FAQ’s

The Medical Library is an essential academic resource, housing more than 9,000 book titles and 360 biomedical journals, while also providing online access to major international databases, ensuring that students and faculty stay updated with the latest scientific knowledge and medical advancements.

University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions

The School is structured into ten academic departments, each led by a Chairperson elected annually. The executive administration is carried out by the Dean and the Deputy Dean, both elected by faculty members and student representatives for a two-year term.

The Administrative Council, comprising the Dean, Deputy Dean, and all Department Chairs, functions as the main decision-making body, whereas the General Assembly of the School acts as the supreme governing authority, ensuring democratic participation and collective decision-making.

In addition, the administration is supported by several specialized committees, which play an advisory and preparatory role, assisting both the Dean and the Administrative Council in academic, research, and strategic matters. This well-structured governance framework allows the School to maintain academic integrity, ensure smooth operations, and continuously adapt to the evolving demands of medical education and healthcare.

Advantages of Studying in University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

All-in-One Campus: The School boasts a modern, well-equipped campus where classrooms, research laboratories, and clinical facilities are located together.

Early Clinical Exposure: This integrated setup allows students to gain early exposure to clinical practice from their first years of study.

Personalized Education

Small Class Sizes: With approximately 30 students per year, the program offers a personalized training approach and dedicated support throughout the degree.

Strong Academic Foundation

International Recognition: The School is recognized as a leading medical institution in Greece and the Balkans, with over 40 years of experience in medical education and full accreditation by the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education (HAHE).

Accreditation for Global Practice: Its accreditation ensures that graduates are eligible to practice medicine in Europe and worldwide.

Research and Innovation

Cutting-Edge Research: Students have access to advanced research laboratories, fostering an environment of innovation and research-led education.

Modern Facilities and Student Life

University Hospital Access: The School provides direct access to the University Hospital for clinical training.

Comprehensive Student Amenities: A dedicated Student Center, modern gym, and indoor swimming pool are available to support students’ academic and personal development.

Cultural and Academic Experience

Rich Cultural Experience: Students benefit from an enriching academic and cultural experience on the historically significant island of Crete.

English-Taught Program: A specific International Program in Medicine is offered in English, welcoming international students to the global medical community.

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University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion – Ranking

The School of Medicine at the University of Crete, established in 1983, admitted its first cohort of 91 students in the academic year 1984–85. Shortly after, the first elections of faculty members (D.E.P.) were held with the participation of professors from Greek, European, and American universities.

In 1989, the School relocated to its new campus, located about 7 km from Heraklion, which today stands as one of the largest and most modern medical and research complexes in Greece. The campus comprises a 24,000-square-meter ten-wing building along with a well-equipped 62,000-square-meter University Hospital, offering state-of-the-art facilities for education, clinical training, and research.

Since its inception, the School has aspired to become a center of excellence in biomedical sciences, fostering innovation in education, research, and healthcare. Its faculty members enjoy international recognition, actively participating in executive boards, administrative committees, and scientific councils of European and global organizations.

They also serve on the editorial boards of leading journals and collaborate with major funding institutions. Several divisions and faculty maintain long-standing partnerships with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission, reflecting the School’s strong international orientation.

Through its academic achievements, research initiatives, and global collaborations, the Medical School of the University of Crete continues to strengthen its role as a hub of excellence in biomedical sciences, with a vision to further advance its position on the international stage in the years ahead.

Departments And Course Duration in University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

The School of Medicine at the University of Crete offers a comprehensive 6-year undergraduate medical program (equivalent to MBBS/MD in other countries). The program combines pre-clinical, para-clinical, and clinical studies with strong emphasis on research and practical training, in alignment with European and international medical education standards.

Departments

The curriculum is organized into ten academic departments, each responsible for teaching, research, and clinical training:

Department of Basic Sciences – Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and related foundational disciplines.

Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences – Pathology, Microbiology, Immunology, and Medical Biochemistry.

Department of Social Medicine – Public Health, Epidemiology, Medical Statistics, and Health Management.

Department of Internal Medicine – General Medicine and its subspecialties (Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, etc.).

Department of Surgery – General Surgery and surgical subspecialties.

Department of Pediatrics – Child health, neonatal medicine, and pediatric subspecialties.

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology – Maternal health, gynecological diseases, and reproductive medicine.

Department of Neurology & Psychiatry – Neurological sciences, psychiatry, and mental health.

Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine – Diagnostic imaging, interventional radiology, and nuclear medicine.

Department of Anesthesiology & Intensive Care – Anesthesia, critical care medicine, and pain management.

Course Duration

Total Duration: 6 years (12 semesters)

Years 1–3: Pre-clinical and para-clinical studies (basic sciences, laboratory training, and introductory clinical exposure).

Years 4–6: Full clinical training at the University Hospital of Heraklion, covering all core specialties through rotations, clerkships, and patient-centered learning.

Graduates are awarded the Ptychion Iatrikes (Medical Degree), which is recognized across the European Union and internationally.

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Facilities And Infrastructure in University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

The University of Crete School of Medicine, located about 7 km from Heraklion, operates on a modern campus that is considered one of the most advanced medical and research complexes in Greece. The infrastructure is designed to support high-quality education, research, and healthcare services, providing students with an excellent academic and clinical environment.

Campus & Academic Buildings

A 24,000-square-meter, ten-wing building complex houses lecture halls, classrooms, laboratories, and faculty offices.

Modern lecture theatres are equipped with multimedia and e-learning technologies to support interactive teaching.

Dedicated seminar and tutorial rooms for small-group learning and student discussions.

Library & Learning Resources

A Medical Library with more than 9,000 book titles and subscriptions to 360 biomedical journals.

Comprehensive online databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, etc.) accessible to students and faculty.

Quiet reading halls, digital learning spaces, and group study areas.

Research & Laboratory Facilities

Well-equipped basic science laboratories for Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, and Microbiology.

Specialized research labs in molecular biology, genetics, immunology, pharmacology, and neuroscience.

Access to advanced technologies including electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and bioinformatics platforms.

Faculty and students actively participate in EU-funded and international research projects.

University Hospital of Heraklion

A 62,000-square-meter modern University Hospital, directly connected with the School of Medicine.

Provides clinical training in all major specialties through structured rotations and clerkships.

Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment units, including intensive care units, surgical theatres, and specialized clinics.

Serves as a referral hospital for Crete and nearby regions, ensuring exposure to diverse clinical cases.

Hostels & Accommodation

The University offers student dormitories on campus and nearby areas at subsidized rates.

Alternative private housing is available in Heraklion with good transport links to the campus.

Cafeteria & Canteen

On-campus cafeterias and dining halls provide affordable meals for students and staff.

Snack bars and common spaces encourage student interaction and community life.

Sports & Extracurricular Facilities

Access to sports complexes including indoor and outdoor courts, gyms, and recreational facilities.

Student clubs, cultural groups, and medical societies foster extracurricular engagement.

Regular academic conferences, health awareness campaigns, and community outreach programs.

The University of Crete School of Medicine combines modern infrastructure, advanced research facilities, and a large teaching hospital to provide a complete academic, clinical, and cultural environment for medical students.

Official site For University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion: Click Here

University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion Fee Structure

Approximately Estimated fee will be 35 lakhs to 40 lakhs.

Required Documents For Admission in University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

Passport
Academic transcripts and certificates
NEET scorecard
Visa documents
Passport-sized photographs
Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Birth certificate
Medical certificate

Eligibility Criteria For Admission in University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

Academic Requirements

Completion of 12 years of formal education (Higher Secondary/Intermediate or equivalent).
Strong performance in science subjects:
- Biology – compulsory
- Chemistry – compulsory
- Physics and/or Mathematics – recommended
Minimum marks: Generally, 50–60% aggregate in science subjects is expected (for Indian students, this should align with NEET requirements).

Language Proficiency

The MBBS program in Thessaly is primarily taught in Greek.
Students must demonstrate proficiency in the Greek language (through preparatory courses or language certification).
Some postgraduate programs are offered in English, but undergraduate medicine typically requires Greek fluency for both coursework and clinical training.

Other Requirements

Valid passport and student visa for Greece.
Good health and medical fitness certificate.
Proof of financial stability for tuition and living expenses.

Admission Process For University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

Online Application: Fill out the application form and submit the required documents online.
Fee Payment: Once the university reviews and approves the application, pay the required fees.
Immigration Process: The university initiates the immigration process and issues an invitation letter after receiving the ministry order.
Visa Approval: The visa approval process takes around 30 days.
Admission Test if needed (a 60-question multiple choice test, taken online, based on High School knowledge of Biology and Chemistry).
Documents from your home country confirming that you are authorized to study in Greece.

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Benefits of Studying at University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

High Academic Standards

The University of Crete is one of Greece’s most reputable institutions, recognized for academic excellence and rigorous medical training.

The MBBS (MD) program follows European Union standards, ensuring global recognition of the degree.

Modern Campus & Hospital Facilities

Students benefit from studying at a state-of-the-art campus with advanced laboratories, digital classrooms, and simulation centers.

The 62,000 m² University Hospital of Heraklion provides extensive clinical exposure with modern equipment and diverse patient cases.

Strong Research Orientation

The School has a reputation as one of the most active biomedical research hubs in Greece.

Opportunities for students to participate in internationally funded research projects in genetics, neuroscience, public health, and clinical medicine.

International Collaborations

Faculty and departments collaborate with the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Commission, and universities across Europe and the USA.

This creates opportunities for exchange programs, joint research, and academic networking.

Experienced Faculty & Global Recognition

Professors and researchers are recognized internationally, serving on editorial boards, medical councils, and scientific associations.

Students learn from professionals actively engaged in both healthcare and research.

Affordable Education Compared to Western Europe

Tuition fees and living costs in Greece are lower than in Western Europe or the US, while maintaining high educational standards.

Students enjoy a good quality of life in Heraklion at affordable costs.

EU & Global Degree Recognition

The medical degree is recognized across the European Union, making graduates eligible for residency, licensing, and practice in EU countries.

Graduates can also apply for recognition exams in the US (USMLE), UK (PLAB), India (NMC FMGE/NExT), and other countries.

Student-Friendly Environment

Heraklion is a vibrant city with a rich cultural history, Mediterranean lifestyle, and safe environment.

The university provides support services, student clubs, and extracurricular activities to ensure a balanced academic and social life.

Focus on Innovation & Technology in Medicine

Integration of modern diagnostic methods, telemedicine, and biomedical technologies into teaching and clinical practice.

Students gain hands-on experience in using cutting-edge medical tools and techniques.

Pathway to Global Medical Careers

With international exposure, research opportunities, and EU recognition, graduates are well-prepared for medical careers worldwide.

Pursuing MBBS at the University of Crete School of Medicine combines world-class training, advanced research, modern infrastructure, and affordable living, making it an attractive choice for Indian and international students aspiring to a global medical career.

Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in University of Crete School of Medicine Heraklion

Globally Recognized Degree

The MBBS (MD) degree from the University of Crete is recognized across the European Union and internationally.

Indian graduates can appear for NMC’s FMGE / NExT exam, and also for USMLE, PLAB, or other licensing exams, opening global career opportunities.

Affordable Education & Living

Tuition fees in Greece are significantly lower than those in the UK, USA, or other Western countries.

Living costs in Heraklion are moderate, making it more budget-friendly for Indian families compared to other European destinations.

Modern Infrastructure & Clinical Exposure

Indian students train in the 62,000 m² University Hospital of Heraklion, one of the largest and most advanced hospitals in Greece.

Early clinical exposure with diverse patient cases helps in developing practical skills needed for medical practice in India and abroad.

Research Opportunities & International Exposure

Students can participate in European Union-funded research projects and collaborate with global institutions.

Such exposure enhances the chances of securing postgraduate training or fellowships abroad.

Cultural Adaptation & Student Life

Greece offers a welcoming and safe environment with cultural similarities such as family-oriented traditions and a focus on community.

Active Indian student communities and international student associations help new students adapt easily.

Career Pathways in India & Abroad

After graduation, Indian students can return to India for practice after clearing NMC licensing requirements.

Alternatively, they can pursue specializations in Greece, Europe, the UK, USA, or other countries.

Scholarship & Support Options

While tuition is already affordable, some scholarships and financial aid may be available for international students based on merit.

Dedicated student support offices assist with residence permits, academic guidance, and integration into Greek student life.

The University of Crete School of Medicine provides Indian students with affordable, high-quality education, modern medical training, and international recognition, making it a strong choice for those seeking a successful global medical career.

FAQ’s

In which language is the MBBS program taught?

The program is taught in English for international students. Basic Greek language courses are included to help with patient communication during clinical training.

Does the University provide hostel facilities?

Yes, The University offers student dormitories at subsidized rates. Private housing options are also available in Heraklion, well-connected to the campus.

Can graduates practice in Europe or other countries?

Yes, The degree is EU-recognized, allowing graduates to pursue residencies and medical practice across the European Union. They are also eligible for exams like USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and AMC (Australia).

How is student life in Heraklion for Indian students?

Heraklion is a safe, student-friendly city with a mix of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. There are international student communities, cultural events, and recreational facilities that make adaptation easy for Indian students.

What are the eligibility requirements for Indian students?

Completion of 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
Minimum 50% aggregate marks (higher for competitive entry).
A valid NEET qualification (mandatory for Indian students pursuing MBBS abroad).

Is the MBBS/MD degree from the University of Crete recognized in India?

Yes, The degree is recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC) in India, provided students clear the FMGE/NExT exam after graduation. It is also valid across the European Union and other international destinations.