Italy sees rise in nursing applications and medical training spots

Italy is seeing a significant increase in interest toward healthcare professions. In the Piedmont region, nursing applications have surged, with the University of Turin recording 869 candidates for 712 available spots for the 2026-2027 academic year—a 30% increase from the previous year. The University of Eastern Piedmont also reported growth, with applications rising from 315 to 454.

This regional trend aligns with a national rise in nursing interest. The National Federation of Nursing Orders reports approximately 22,000 applications for 20,672 available positions for 2026, a 16.3% increase compared to last year. To address long-term staffing challenges, the Piedmont Region has established a permanent committee to focus on nurse recruitment and service reinforcement.

Simultaneously, Minister of University and Research Anna Maria Bernini has signed a decree allocating 15,221 medical specialization training contracts for the 2025/2026 academic year. This represents an increase from the 15,088 contracts available last year. The expansion includes 36 newly accredited specialization schools and an increase in state-funded positions to strengthen the national health service.