Health Professions English test 2025: structure, subjects and syllabus

Today we’ll explore everything about the 2025 entrance exam for Health Professions taught in English — how the test is structured, what subjects it covers, how many questions you’ll face, how long it lasts, and what the official syllabus includes. We’ll also look at the marking criteria, the types of questions, and how to prepare effectively so you can walk into the exam confident and well-organised.

All the details in this article are based on the official ministerial decree issued by the Italian Ministry of Universities and Research (read the official decree here) and the corresponding university notices that follow its rules.

How many questions there are and how they are divided among sections

The entrance exam for Health Professions in English includes 60 multiple-choice questions, each with five possible answers and only one correct option. The structure is identical across all Italian universities, ensuring fairness and comparability of results.

The distribution of questions is as follows:

• 4 questions on reading comprehension and general knowledge
• 5 questions on logic and problem-solving
• 23 questions on biology
• 15 questions on chemistry
• 13 questions on physics and mathematics

Biology carries the greatest weight, followed by chemistry, while the remaining areas play a supporting but still essential role. This distribution should guide your study plan, allocating more time to the subjects with more questions.

Duration of the exam and in-room regulations

The 2025 test in English will take place on Wednesday, 10 September 2025 at 11:00 a.m., lasting 100 minutes. Candidates must arrive early and bring a valid form of identification. Entry procedures and identity checks take time, so being punctual is crucial.

Inside the examination hall, it is strictly forbidden to use or carry mobile phones, smartwatches, tablets, notes, or any electronic or paper material. Only the identity document and the university-provided black pen are permitted.

Students with disabilities or specific learning disorders may apply for extra time (up to 30%) and other forms of assistance when registering for the test, by submitting the required documentation.

Subjects covered and relative weight of each section

The test assesses both scientific knowledge and verbal reasoning skills. Each section contributes differently to the final score:

• Biology forms the largest portion and is the most important section overall.
• Chemistry focuses on formulas, reactions, and numerical problem-solving.
• Physics and mathematics require a clear understanding of calculations and logical thinking.
• Logic tests reasoning and analytical skills, while reading comprehension evaluates your ability to interpret texts in English quickly and accurately.

Balancing your preparation in proportion to these weights helps you manage time efficiently and build a stronger foundation where it matters most.

Official 2025 syllabus: topics to study

The official 2025 syllabus, published by the Ministry, is the only document that defines what may appear in the test. It is essential to base your preparation on it.

In biology, you’ll need to master topics such as the chemistry of living organisms, organic molecules, enzymes, cell structure and function, cell division, reproduction, Mendelian and molecular genetics, human genetics, mutations, evolution, and the anatomy and physiology of human systems. It also covers bioenergetics (photosynthesis, respiration, fermentation) and the concept of homeostasis.

In chemistry, the programme includes atomic structure, chemical bonding, the periodic table, states of matter, reactions and stoichiometry, solutions and concentrations, acids and bases, pH, equilibria, and an introduction to organic chemistry.

In physics, students should revise units and measurements, kinematics and dynamics, work and energy, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and electricity and magnetism.

In mathematics, the main areas are algebra, equations and inequalities, functions, plane and analytic geometry, probability, and statistics.

The logic and reading comprehension sections measure reasoning skills, data interpretation, and the ability to identify relationships or draw inferences from short texts, all in English.

Types of questions

All questions are multiple-choice, but the level of reasoning required varies. Some test direct knowledge, while others ask you to apply concepts, analyse data, or draw logical conclusions.

Since the exam is entirely in English, candidates should practise reading and reasoning in English from the very beginning of their preparation. Some questions may include graphs, tables, or short problems, so developing precision and timing is key.

Regular full-length mock tests help improve both accuracy and time management, which are vital within the 100-minute limit.

Marking criteria and penalties for wrong answers

Each correct answer awards 1.5 points, each incorrect answer deducts 0.4 points, and unanswered questions earn 0 points. The highest possible score is 90 points.

To be considered eligible, you must obtain a score above zero. Because of the penalty, it’s better to skip uncertain questions than to guess randomly.

In the event of a tie, priority is given to candidates with higher scores in biology, then chemistry, followed by physics and mathematics, and finally logic and reading comprehension.

Most common topics in recent years

Looking at recent editions, the most recurring subjects include genetics, human physiology, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, kinematics, and electrostatics. In mathematics, functions, probability, and basic statistics often appear.

The logic section typically features number sequences, verbal analogies, and deductive reasoning questions. Knowing these recurring themes allows for smarter and more focused study sessions.

How to train with the syllabus: study plans and exercises

Preparation should follow a structured plan aligned with the syllabus and the official question distribution. The best approach is to start with biology and chemistry, alternating between theory and practice, and gradually adding physics and mathematics exercises.

For the English-language sections, it’s useful to practise reading short scientific texts and answering questions without rereading the passage, to simulate real exam conditions.

On TestBuddy, you can take mock exams with 60 questions and a 100-minute timer, including automatic penalty calculation. The platform also offers topic-based exercises, progress tracking, and AI-generated study plans that adapt to your weaknesses. It’s designed to help you study smarter and stay calm through every stage of preparation.

By following the official syllabus and tracking your progress step by step, you’ll approach the exam day with clarity and confidence.

Official sources

All information in this guide comes from the official ministerial decree for the 2025 Health Professions test, the official syllabus annex, the official notice on test dates and the university call for Nursing (in English) 2025/2026 – University of Palermo.