Top 10 Universities in Italy

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Parameters Details
Total Number of Universities 100+ (Public & Private)
Oldest University University of Bologna (Established in 1088)
Top-Ranked Universities 30+ universities featured in QS World Rankings
Language of Instruction Italian & English (many programs offered in English for international students)
Tuition Fees (Public Universities) €500 – €4,000 per year
Intake Months Primarily September/October, some programs in February
Popular Fields of Study Arts, Design, Architecture, Engineering, Medicine, Business
Scholarships Available Yes – Government, university-specific, and international grants
Living Cost €700 – €1,200/month (varies by city)
Student Visa Requirement Yes, for non-EU/EEA students

Top 10 Universities in Italy

Students looking for higher education are getting more and more interested in Italy as a major education destination, all thanks to the world-class universities that offer quality education at affordable prices.

Here are the top 10 universities in Italy:

Bologna University is ranked in the top 5 universities in Italy. It is Italy’s oldest and most prestigious institution, and offers over 79 courses in different streams. 

QS Ranking133
LocationBologna
Official Websitehttps://www.unibo.it/en
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesArts & Humanities, Law, Medicine, Engineering
Course Duration

Undergraduate programs – 3 years

Postgraduate programs – 1-2 years

Phd programs – 5-6 years

Tuition Fee Approx

Undergraduate programs – €900 and €4,000 

Postgraduate programs – €1,200 to €5,000

Scholarship availableYes

It is one of Europe’s largest universities with around 115,000 overall students, and 3,300 professors. The university offers a wide range of English-taught programs to students from across the globe.

QS Ranking132
LocationRome
Official Websitehttps://www.uniroma1.it/en
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesPhysics, Engineering, Medicine, History
Course Duration

Undergraduate programs – 3 years

Postgraduate programs – 1-2 years

Tuition Fee Approx€2,821 and € 2,924
Scholarship availableYes

Known for its wide variety of programs, the University of Padua offers a dynamic learning environment where different fields connect, making your study in Italy both exciting and enriching.

QS Ranking236
LocationPadua
Official Websitehttps://www.unipd.it/en/
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesMedicine, Psychology, Law, Engineering
Course Duration

Postgraduate programs – 2 years

Medicine & Surgery – 5 to 6 years

Phd courses – 5 to 6 years

Tuition Fee Approx€2,821 and € 2,924
Scholarship availableYes

It’s one of Italy’s most prestigious universities, and offers a wide range of management, arts, science, and fashion courses. 

QS Ranking285
LocationMilan
Official Websitehttps://www.unimi.it/en
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesBiotechnology, Pharmacy, Law, Economics
Course Duration

Vocation Postgraduate programs – 1 to 2 years

Medicine & Surgery – 5 to 6 years

Tuition Fee Approx€156 to €3,500 per year
Scholarship availableYes

5.Politecnico di Milano

Also known as Polytechnic Institute of Milan, Politecnico Di Milano is Italy’s largest technical institution. It was founded in 1863, and is known for its engineering courses.

QS Ranking111
LocationMilan
Official Websitehttps://www.polimi.it/
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesArchitecture, Engineering, Design
Course Duration

Undergraduate programs – 3 years

Postgraduate programs – 1-2 years

Phd programs – 3-4 years

Tuition Fee Approx€3,500 to €3,900
Scholarship availableYes

The University of Pisa is a research-based university with over twenty departments and high-level research centres in agriculture, astronomy, computer science, engineering, and more. 

QS Ranking382
LocationPisa
Official Websitehttps://www.unipi.it/en
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesComputer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Law
Course Duration

Undergraduate programs – 3 years

Postgraduate programs – 2 years

Phd programs – 5-6 years

Tuition Fee Approx€ 2,530 year
Scholarship availableYes

7.University of Naples Federico II

The university offers 157 courses in 13 disciplines, making it one university that provides courses in every academic discipline.

QS Ranking347
LocationNaples
Official Websitehttps://www.international.unina.it/
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesMedicine, Engineering, Humanities
Course Duration

Undergraduate programs – 3 years

Postgraduate programs – 2 years

single-cycle Master’s degrees – 5-6 years

Tuition Fee Approx€156 to €3500 per year
Scholarship availableYes

Founded in 1962, the university is a young and dynamic university that focuses majorly on quality research and teaching, globalization, and exceptional services.

QS Ranking506
LocationTrento
Official Websitehttp://www.unitn.it/en
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesCognitive Science, Sociology, Engineering
Course Duration

Undergraduate programs – 3 years

Postgraduate programs – 2 years

single-cycle Master’s degrees – 5-6 years

Tuition Fee Approx€2,000 to €6,000 per year
Scholarship availableYes

9.Politecnico di Torino

Founded in 1494, the university features 27 departments and four doctorate schools.

QS Ranking241
LocationTurin
Official Websitehttps://www.polito.it/
University TypePublic
Popular CoursesEngineering, Architecture, Industrial Design
Course Duration

Undergraduate programs – 3 years

Postgraduate programs – 2 years

Tuition Fee Approx€2,600
Scholarship availableYes

10.Università Bocconi

Bocconi University is one of the top private universities in Milan, Italy. Famous for its Management & Finance programs, this prestigious institute boasts of the ‘Triple Crown’ of accreditations including the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Association of MBAs (AMBA).

QS Ranking36 (business & management)
LocationMilan
Official Websitehttps://www.unibocconi.it/it
University TypePrivate
Popular CoursesEconomics, Business, Finance, Political Science
Course Duration

Undergraduate programs – 3 to 4 years

Postgraduate programs – 2 years

Full-Time MBA – 12 to 15 months

Tuition Fee Approx€14,743 to €75,000 
Scholarship availableYes

Read More : Top 5 Low-Cost Universities in Italy for Indian Students

 

Ready to Study in Italy? Find Which Italian University is Perfect for You.

Types of Universities in Italy

Italy is known for its diverse and well-structured higher education system that includes several types of universities, each with its own focus, governance, and academic offerings. Here are the main types of universities in Italy:

1. Public Universities

These are government-funded institutions that offer a wide range of Bachelors, Masters, and doctoral programs. Public universities in Italy are known for their low tuition fees and high academic standards. Some of the popular public universities are University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico Di Milano.

Key Features: Lower tuition fees, wide variety of programs, large student populations.

Read In Detail : Top Public University in Italy

2. Private Universities

These universities are independently funded and usually offer more personalized learning environments, modern infrastructure, and globally-oriented programs (often in English). However, the tuition fees are significantly higher than public universities. Bocconi University, and LUISS Guido Carli are a few names.

Key Features: Smaller class sizes, better facilities, English-taught courses, higher tuition.

3.Technical Universities (Polytechnic Universities)

These universities specialize in engineering, architecture, technology, and applied sciences. They focus on innovation, research, and strong ties to industry. Some of the popular technical universities are Politecnico Di Torino, and Politecnico di Milano.

Key Features: Strong in STEM fields, practical-oriented, research-driven.

4.Specialized Universities

These cater to specific fields such as fine arts, music, fashion, design, or defense. Admission is often portfolio- or audition-based. Some of the known specialized universities are Nuova Accademia Di Belle Arti (NABA), Istituto Europeo Di Design (IED), and Military Academy of Modena.

Key Features: Field-specific training, practical orientation.

Best Engineering Universities in Italy

University Key Engineering Programs Why It’s Top-Rated
Politecnico di Milano Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Aerospace, Design Leading tech university in Italy; strong international collaborations & innovation hub
Politecnico di Torino Automotive, Mechatronics, ICT, Energy Known for automotive & industrial engineering, strong ties with Fiat & European R&D
Sapienza University of Rome Civil, Environmental, Computer Science One of Europe’s largest universities; strong research output and historical prestige
University of Bologna Biomedical, Environmental, Energy, Automation Europe’s oldest university; renowned for interdisciplinary approach in tech and science
University of Padua Industrial, Information, Aerospace, Electrical Strong academic tradition, research-intensive, part of prestigious Coimbra Group
University of Naples Federico II Civil, Electrical, Naval, Robotics Home to one of Europe’s oldest engineering faculties; excellent robotics research

Cost of Studying in Italy

Italy is known for its affordable education. Here’s a breakdown of cost of studying in Italy at both public and private universities:

Program TypeApprox. Fee
Public Universities
Approx Fee
Private Universities
BachelorsINR 81,000 – INR 3,60,000 (€830 – €3,700)INR 5,40,000 – INR 18,00,000 (€5,530 – €18,430)
MastersINR 1,35,000 – INR 4,50,000 (€1,380 – €4,700)INR 9,00,000 – INR 22,50,000 (€9,220 – €23,040)

Cost of Living in Italy

Living in Italy as an international student is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. While cities like Milan and Rome tend to be on the higher end, smaller student cities offer a more budget-friendly living experience without compromising on quality of life.

Monthly Living Expenses in Italy

Expense TypeExpense amount
Rent€300 – €700
Food€100 – €450
Transport€25 and €45
Miscellaneous€90 to €250

Admission Process in Italian Universities

Applying to a universities in Italy involves a structured process that may vary slightly between institutions. However, the general steps are as follows:

  • Choose Your Program and University: Research and shortlist universities based on your desired course, language of instruction (English or Italian), and eligibility. Also look for specific entry requirements, including academic qualifications, language proficient, and standardized test scores (like GMAT/GRE if applicable). Some universities require you to submit a pre-application to the Italian embassy/consulate in your country.
  • Apply Online: Submit your application through the university’s portal or via Universitaly, the official Italian government platform for international applications. Pay the application fee, which can range between €20–€50 depending on the university.
  • Offer Letter: After submitting your application, wait for the offer letter. Once you receive it, confirm your admission and proceed to apply for your student visa.
  • Italian Residence Permit: Once you land in Italy, make sure to apply for your residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days—it’s a must for all international students.

     

Don’t stress about the process—YES Italy is here to help! As a reliable Italian education consultant in Delhi, they’ll walk you through university selection, application steps, and visa support to make your Italian education dream come true.

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Answer You Need To Know

Frequently Asked Questions

We at YES Italy focus on making your journey to Italy more effortless through simple steps. Obtain answers to all hassling queries related to enrollment at Italian universities. Our expert education consultants are with you at every step!

As per the latest QS World University Rankings, the University of Bologna is considered the number 1 university in Italy. It is also one of the oldest universities in the world and offers a wide range of programs, including arts, science, technology, and humanities.

As per the latest QS World University Rankings, the University of Bologna is considered the number 1 university in Italy. It is also one of the oldest universities in the world and offers a wide range of programs, including arts, science, technology, and humanities.

While some Italian universities may accept an IELTS score of 5.5 for certain undergraduate programs, most top-tier institutions require a minimum of 6.0–6.5. Therefore, it’s best to check the specific English language requirements of the university and program you’re applying to.

Here are some of the best universities in Italy for Computer Science:

  • Politecnico di Milano
  • Sapienza University of Rome
  • University of Bologna
  • University of Padua
  • Politecnico di Torino

These universities offer strong academic frameworks, industry ties, and research opportunities in computer science and related fields.

Politecnico di Milano is widely regarded as the best universities in Italy for Computer Science and Engineering, ranked high globally in technology and innovation, with excellent research output and strong industry collaborations.

There are several universities that offer English-taught master’s programs, cutting-edge labs, and good career support for international students. Here are top choices for MS in Italy:

  • Politecnico di Milano
  • University of Bologna
  • Sapienza University of Rome
  • University of Trento
  • University of Pisa
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