Undergraduate Studies in Italy

Italy has a long-standing reputation for its rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and picturesque landscapes. However, the country’s higher education system is equally impressive and attracts students from all over the world. Undergraduate studies in Italy offer an excellent opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the country’s vibrant culture while receiving a quality education.

The top 10 universities in Italy according to the 2023 QS World University Rankings are:

Politecnico di Milano, Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, Università di Padova, University of Milan, Politecnico di Torino, University of Pisa, University of Naples – Federico II,

Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele and University of Trento.

What undergraduate courses are available in Italy?

The students can have their pick from the 100 English based programmes offered by top universities in Italy. These programs range from STEM programs to Fine Arts and Humanities degree programs. In general international students do not need to learn the local language (Italian) to study in Italy.

What are the costs?

International students from Non EU/ EEA countries are required to pay the tuition fees. Tuition fees for undergraduate studies in Italy vary depending on the institution and program. 

a.) Public universities: Public universities in Italy offer lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. The average tuition fee for a bachelor’s degree program at a public university is around €1,000-€2,000 per academic year. For example: Students enrolled in University of Bologna’s bachelor in ‘building construction engineering’ pay €1,200 every year.

b.) Private universities: Private universities in Italy can charge significantly higher tuition fees, ranging from €6,000 to €20,000 per year. For example: Students enrolled in Humanitas University’s bachelor in Medicine and Surgery pay € 10,156 in their first year.

EU/EEA students pay the tuition fees at a subsidized rate.

What are the application deadlines?

The academic year in Italy generally runs from October to July, and universities typically have two intakes per year i.e. the Winter intake and the Summer intake. The deadlines for application vary depending on the institution and the type of program offered.

For example, the University of Bologna, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Italy, has different deadlines for different programs. The application deadline for bachelor’s degree programs taught in English for non-EU students is early June while The Politecnico di Milano, one of the leading technical universities in Italy has an application deadline of mid March for non-EU students.

What are the documentation requirements?

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English language proficiency tests

Do I need to take English Proficiency tests?

Yes, English language proficiency tests are a must for the international students who wish to study in Italy. There are no exceptions to this rule.
Students need to have a minimum of B2 level of English language proficiency.

For Example: To study at undergraduate level at the University of Padova students need to have B2 level of proficiency in English language with a minimum score required: 80 in TOEFL (IBT).

What are the specific requirements in Italy?

Each university has their own specific requirements. For example: Students need to have knowledge on basic mathematics and logical reasoning to get admission into University di Bologna’s Bachelor in Business and Economics programme.

Is there a Selection Procedure to study in Italy?

Many universities have their own selection procedure. It depends on the university and the program offered by that particular university.

For example: Students interested in pursuing a BSc from Bocconi University (private university) need to have their SAT or ACT score as well as their CV and motivation letter before applying to this institute.

Is there a common application portal?

No, there is no common portal for international students wishing to pursue a bachelors degree from Italy. Students need to apply directly to each university. There is a small fee for the application. It depends on the university you are applying to.

For example: Sapienza University in Rome requires students to pay a 20 euro application fee.

What are the opportunities of higher education in Italy?

International students studying a course in Italy on student visa may be able to apply for permesso di attesa occupazione, which translates into ‘temporary stay permit’. This work permit allows the international students at Italian higher education institutions to live in Italy legally post the completion of their studies and search for jobs around the country for a maximum period of 12 months. 

Graduates from Italian universities have excellent job prospects in Italy and around the world. The country is home to many multinational companies, and its economy is one of the largest in Europe. Studying in Italy provides students with an opportunity to develop their skills and gain practical experience that can help them stand out in the job market.

What are the job opportunities in Italy?

Italy has a diverse and dynamic economy, offering job opportunities in a variety of sectors. The country has a well-developed manufacturing industry, as well as a thriving service sector. In recent years, Italy has also become a hub for startups and entrepreneurship.

Italian universities are known for their quality of education with special emphasis on research and innovation, which makes them a popular destination for students seeking to advance their knowledge in various fields. The country’s affordable tuition, number of scholarships and grants offered by the Italian government to international students to support their studies makes it a great place to study.