Study in Italy

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Italy is a popular destination for international students. It offers quality higher education with more affordable tuition fees than other Western European countries. There are around 32,000 international students in Italy, adding to the diversity of the country. With a rich history and tradition of higher education, Italy is always an attractive option for students.

1. Why study in Italy ?

Studying in Italy as an international student can be a rewarding experience for many reasons:

1. Rich Cultural Heritage

Italy is renowned for its historical and cultural significance. It is home to countless landmarks, museums, and art galleries. Students can immerse themselves in the rich history of cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice.

2. High-Quality Education

Italian universities are known for their high academic standards. Institutions like the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico di Milano are highly regarded globally.

3. Wide Range of Programs

Italy offers a diverse array of academic programs, particularly strong in fields like art, design, architecture, engineering, and humanities. Many programs are also available in English.

4. Affordability

Compared to other Western European countries and the United States, the cost of living and tuition fees in Italy are relatively affordable. There are also numerous scholarships and financial aid options available for international students.

5. Culinary Experience

Italy is famous for its cuisine. Living in Italy provides an opportunity to experience authentic Italian food and learn about its culinary traditions.

6. Language Learning

Studying in Italy offers the chance to learn or improve your Italian language skills, which can be a valuable asset in the global job market.

7. Travel Opportunities

Italy’s central location in Europe makes it easy to travel to other European countries. The country itself offers diverse landscapes, from the Alps in the north to the Mediterranean beaches in the south.

8. Welcoming Environment

Italians are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Many universities have support services to help international students adapt to their new environment.

9. Innovative Research

Italy is involved in various innovative research projects and collaborations. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in fields like technology, medicine, and environmental science.

10. International Community

Italian universities attract students from all over the world, creating a diverse and multicultural environment that enriches the educational experience.

2. About Italy

Capital

Rome

Continent

Europoe

Language(s) of tuition

English, Italian

National Language

Italian

Major Student Cities

Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice

3. Universities in Italy

Here are some of the top universities in Italy according to the QS World University Rankings 2024:

1. Politecnico di Milano

  • Ranking: 123rd globally
  • Location: Milan
  • Strengths: Engineering, Architecture, and Design

2. Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna

  • Ranking: 154th globally
  • Location: Bologna
  • Strengths: Humanities, Law, Social Sciences, and Medicine

3. Sapienza University of Rome

  • Ranking: 171st globally
  • Location: Rome
  • Strengths: Classics, Ancient History, Archaeology, and Medicine

4. Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa

  • Ranking: 229th globally
  • Location: Pisa
  • Strengths: Mathematics, Physics, and Humanities

5. Politecnico di Torino

  • Ranking: 246th globally
  • Location: Turin
  • Strengths: Engineering, Technology, and Architecture

6. University of Milan

  • Ranking: 290th globally
  • Location: Milan
  • Strengths: Life Sciences, Medicine, and Arts & Humanities

7. University of Padua

  • Ranking: 243rd globally
  • Location: Padua
  • Strengths: Medicine, Science, and Engineering

8. Vita-Salute San Raffaele University

  • Ranking: 288th globally
  • Location: Milan
  • Strengths: Medicine, Psychology, and Philosophy

 

9. University of Trento

  • Ranking: 457th globally
  • Location: Trento
  • Strengths: Social Sciences, Law, and Humanities

10. University of Naples Federico II

  • Ranking: 424th globally
  • Location: Naples
  • Strengths: Engineering, Technology, and Medicine

4. Courses in Italy

Italy offers a wide range of academic courses across various disciplines, with many programs available in English to cater to international students. Here are some popular fields of study and notable courses offered by top Italian universities:

1. Engineering and Technology

l  Politecnico di Milano

    • Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
    • Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering
    • Master of Science in Civil Engineering for Risk Mitigation

l  Politecnico di Torino

    • Master of Science in Automotive Engineering
    • Master of Science in Nanotechnologies for ICTs
    • Master of Science in Energy and Nuclear Engineering

2. Arts and Design

l  Politecnico di Milano

    • Bachelor in Fashion Design
    • Master in Interior Design
    • Master in Product Design

l  Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze

    • Bachelor in Painting
    • Bachelor in Sculpture
    • Bachelor in Graphic Design

3. Architecture

l  Politecnico di Milano

    • Master of Science in Architecture - Built Environment - Interiors
    • Master of Science in Sustainable Architecture and Landscape Design

l  Sapienza University of Rome

    • Master of Science in Architecture (Conservation)
    • Master of Science in Architecture (Restoration)

4. Humanities and Social Sciences

l  University of Bologna

    • Bachelor in International Relations and Diplomatic Affairs
    • Master in Global Cultures
    • Master in International Cooperation on Human Rights and Intercultural Heritage

l  Sapienza University of Rome

    • Bachelor in Modern Literature
    • Master in European Studies
    • Master in Communication, Media, and Journalism

5. Business and Economics

l  Bocconi University

    • Bachelor in International Economics and Management
    • Master of Science in Finance
    • Master of Science in International Management

l  Luiss Guido Carli University

    • Bachelor in Economics and Business
    • Master in Management
    • Master in Corporate Finance

6. Medicine and Health Sciences

l  University of Milan

    • International Medical School (Bachelor and Master in Medicine and Surgery)
    • Master in Biotechnology and Medical Biology

l  University of Padua

    • Bachelor in Medicine and Surgery (English-taught)
    • Master in Medical Biotechnologies

7. Science and Technology

l  University of Pisa

    • Bachelor in Computer Science
    • Master in Physics
    • Master in Data Science and Business Informatics

l  University of Trento

    • Bachelor in Mathematics
    • Master in Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology
    • Master in Cognitive Science

8. Law

l  University of Bologna

    • Master in International Studies
    • Master in European and Global Studies

l  Luiss Guido Carli University

    • Master in Law and Innovation

9. Environmental Studies

l  University of Padua

    • Master in Environmental Engineering
    • Master in Sustainable Agriculture

l  Sapienza University of Rome

    • Master in Landscape Architecture and Environmental Design

5. How to apply

Applying to a university in Italy is a relatively straightforward process. Most universities will accept direct applications from international students. Some universities do participate in a more centralised application system, but not all. You will most likely pay an application fee for each university you apply to.

Common application requirements for a bachelors or masters degree in Italy include:

  • A high school diploma (or equivalent) or a bachelors degree
  • Evidence of funds (including scholarship information)
  • Proof of language proficiency
  • A CV or resume
  • Recommendation letters

You might be required to have any documents translated into Italian, depending on the universities you are applying to.

6. Cost of studying in Italy

The cost of studying in Italy can vary significantly depending on the type of institution (public vs. private), the level of study (undergraduate vs. postgraduate), and the location of the university. Here are some key aspects to consider when estimating the cost of studying in Italy:

1. Tuition Fees

Public Universities:

  • Undergraduate Programs: €900 - €4,000 per year
  • Postgraduate Programs: €1,000 - €5,000 per year

Tuition fees at public universities are generally lower for EU students compared to non-EU students. Additionally, fees can vary by discipline, with programs in medicine and engineering typically being more expensive.

Private Universities:

  • Undergraduate Programs: €6,000 - €20,000 per year
  • Postgraduate Programs: €8,000 - €25,000 per year

Private universities tend to have higher tuition fees compared to public institutions. Prestigious institutions like Bocconi University and Luiss Guido Carli University are known for their higher costs.

2. Living Expenses

Accommodation:

  • University Dormitories: €200 - €500 per month
  • Private Renting: €300 - €800 per month (depending on the city and type of accommodation)

Food and Dining:

  • Groceries: €150 - €300 per month
  • Eating Out: €8 - €20 per meal

Transportation:

  • Public Transport Pass: €25 - €50 per month (depending on the city)
  • Bicycle: €50 - €150 (one-time cost, popular in many cities)

Other Expenses:

  • Books and Study Materials: €100 - €200 per year
  • Health Insurance: €100 - €200 per year (for non-EU students)

3. Scholarships and Financial Aid

Italy offers various scholarships and financial aid options for international students. Some of these include:

  • Italian Government Scholarships: Available for foreign students and Italians residing abroad, covering tuition fees, health insurance, and a monthly allowance.
  • University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students.
  • Regional Scholarships: Certain regions in Italy provide financial support based on family income and academic performance.

4. Cost of Living by City

The cost of living can vary greatly depending on the city:

  • High-Cost Cities: Milan, Rome, Venice
    • Monthly Expenses (excluding tuition): €1,000 - €1,500
  • Moderate-Cost Cities: Florence, Bologna, Turin
    • Monthly Expenses (excluding tuition): €800 - €1,200
  • Low-Cost Cities: Pisa, Padua, Trento
    • Monthly Expenses (excluding tuition): €600 - €1,000

 

Example Monthly Budget

  • Accommodation: €300 (shared apartment) - €600 (private apartment)
  • Food: €200 - €300
  • Transport: €30 - €50
  • Utilities and Internet: €50 - €100
  • Leisure and Miscellaneous: €100 - €200
  • Total: €680 - €1,250

7. Common Student question

Can I study in Italy for free?

Higher education in Italy is not government subsidised, meaning that universities can set their own tuition fees. However, fees are generally affordable for international students looking to study abroad.

Can I study in Italy as an international student?

Italy is a superb place to study as an international student. It has long been a popular destination for studying abroad, and can offer excellent higher education at reasonable prices. If you are from an EU or EFTA country, you will not need a visa to study in Italy. If you are from any other country, you will need to obtain a visa in order to study or stay in Italy. For more information about this and the application process, take a look at our Italian Student Visas article.

Can I study in Italy with English?

Many universities offer their courses in English as well as Italian, meaning you can choose which language you wish to study in. If your first language is not English, you will need to provide evidence of your language proficiency. Most Italian universities accept an IELTS or TOEFL certificate.

Cities List

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