Nursing degree applications in Italy rise by 15%

Applications for nursing degree admission tests in Italy have seen a significant increase, rising by an estimated 15% compared to 2025. Preliminary data indicates at least 21,500 applications have been submitted for 20,676 available positions, marking a reversal from the previous year when applications fell below the number of available spots.

This upward trend is attributed to several factors, including recruitment initiatives by universities and regional authorities, media coverage regarding the shortage of healthcare professionals, and the impact of new medical school admission rules. The recovery is expected to benefit the National Health Service, which faces chronic shortages of qualified nursing staff.

New master's degree programs have also been introduced, focusing on primary care and family nursing, intensive and emergency care, and neonatal and pediatric care.