Pavol Jozef Šafárik University

Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice (UPJŠ) is a well-established public university in eastern Slovakia, known for its strong academic heritage, high medical training standards, and welcoming international environment. Founded in 1959 and named after the renowned Slovak scholar Pavol Jozef Šafárik, UPJŠ is one of Slovakia’s most respected universities.

The Faculty of Medicine, established in 1948, is among the oldest medical faculties in the region and has been delivering English-taught medical and dental programmes since 1992, attracting students from across Europe, the UK, Asia, and beyond.

Why Choose Pavol Jozef Šafárik University?

A Trusted, Traditional Medical Education

UPJŠ offers a classical European medical education, combining strong theoretical foundations with structured clinical training. This approach is ideal for students seeking a well-recognised, academically rigorous pathway into medicine or dentistry.

Strong Clinical Exposure in a University Hospital

Students complete their clinical training at the Teaching Hospital in Košice, a large tertiary care centre that provides exposure to a wide range of specialties and real patient care. Clinical teaching is delivered by experienced physicians actively working in the healthcare system.

European Recognition & Mobility

The programmes follow the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), ensuring degree recognition across the EU and supporting graduate mobility for postgraduate training and licensing exams internationally.

English-Taught Programmes at UPJŠ

🩺 General Medicine (MD – MUDr)

Duration: 6 years
Language: Fully taught in English
Credits: 360 ECTS

Programme Structure:

• Years 1–2: Foundations in anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and medical sciences

• Years 3–5: Clinical subjects including internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics, obstetrics & gynaecology

• Year 6: Full-time clinical rotations and preparation for final examinations

Tuition Fee: €12,500 per year

Career Pathways:
EU-recognised degree, with eligibility to pursue postgraduate training and licensing exams such as PLAB (UK), USMLE (USA), and equivalent pathways in Europe and internationally (subject to local regulations).

🦷 Dental Medicine (MDDr)

Duration: 5 years
Language: Fully taught in English

Key Features:

• Early practical training in pre-clinical dental subjects

• Access to modern dental simulation labs

• Supervised patient treatment during clinical years

Tuition Fee: €13,500 per year

Career Pathways:
EU-recognised qualification with routes toward postgraduate training and professional registration in the UK, EU, and other regions (subject to local requirements).

Entry Requirements

• Completed secondary/high school education (A-Levels, IB, or equivalent)

• Strong background in Biology and Chemistry

• Written entrance exam in Biology and Chemistry (multiple-choice format)

• Proof of English language proficiency may be required

• Admission based on entrance exam results and academic background

Student Life in Košice

Košice is Slovakia’s second-largest city and a popular student destination known for its historic Old Town, vibrant cultural scene, and affordable lifestyle. The city offers a safe, welcoming environment with a strong international student community.

Living Costs:
Students typically spend €500–€750 per month, including accommodation, food, and local transport — making Košice one of the most affordable cities in the EU for medical study.

Apply to UPJŠ with Gateway Medics – 100% Free Support

At Gateway Medics, we offer completely free, end-to-end support for students applying to Pavol Jozef Šafárik University.

Our support includes:

• Initial Eligibility Assessment – Honest guidance on your chances of admission

• Document Preparation – Help with academic documents and translations

• Entrance Exam Preparation – Guidance and resources to help you succeed

• Application Submission & Tracking – We manage the process on your behalf

• Offer & Enrollment Support – Step-by-step help once you receive an offer

• Visa & Relocation Guidance – Support with moving to Slovakia and settling in

With Gateway Medics, you’re supported from your first enquiry all the way to starting medical school — at no cost to you.