The ultimate guide to studying in Italy in 2025

🇮🇹 Overview: Study in Italy

Italy is a rising destination for international students, known for its world-class education, historic universities, and affordable tuition fees. Each year, thousands of students from around the globe choose Italy to experience a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural heritage, and vibrant student life.

With over 90 universities, including some of the oldest in the world, Italy offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs — extreme in fields such as architecture, design, engineering, economics, humanities, and the arts. Many programs are available in English, especially at the master’s level, making Italy an attractive choice for non-Italian speakers.

🎯 Whether you’re looking for a high-quality European education, rich cultural experiences, or a budget-friendly academic journey, Italy provides an inspiring setting for personal and professional growth.

🌟 Why Study in Italy?

🌍 Globally Respected Degrees – Italian universities are part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and offer internationally recognised qualifications under the Bologna Process.

🎓 Affordable Education – Public university tuition fees are among the lowest in Europe, especially compared to countries like the US or UK.

💼 Work & Residency Options – International students can work part-time during studies and apply for a “stay-back” visa extension after graduation to look for jobs.

🏛️ Historic Institutions – Home to prestigious universities like the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, Politecnico di Milano, and Bocconi University.

🍝 Lifestyle & Culture – Study in cities like Milan, Rome, Florence, or Bologna while enjoying Italy’s world-famous food, art, fashion, and Mediterranean lifestyle.

💸 Tuition & Costs: Study in Italy

Studying in Italy offers one of the best cost-to-quality ratios in Europe. Italian public universities are heavily subsidised by the government, which makes tuition fees affordable even for international students. Additionally, the cost of living in many Italian cities is significantly lower than in other Western European countries, making Italy a smart choice for budget-conscious students.

🎓 Tuition Fees

There are two main types of higher education institutions in Italy:

1. Public Universities
   Tuition typically ranges between €1,000 and €2,500 per year for international students. The exact amount depends on your program and income declaration (ISEE).
   Example institutions: University of Bologna, University of Padua, University of Milan
2. Private Universities
   Fees are generally higher and may range from €6,000 to €20,000 per year, depending on the institution and program.
   Example institutions: Bocconi University, Università Cattolica, LUISS Guido Carli

💡 Many Italian universities offer tuition waivers, need-based reductions, and regional grants. See the Scholarships & Funding section for more details.

🏠 Living Expenses

Living costs in Italy vary by city. Major urban centres like Milan and Rome are more expensive, while cities like Bologna, Turin, or Bari offer more affordable options.

On average, students can expect to spend €700 to €1,200 per month, which typically includes:

• Rent & Utilities: €300–€600
• Food & Groceries: €150–€250
• Transportation: €25–€50 (many cities offer student discounts)
• Health Insurance: ~€150 per year for non-EU students
• Personal Expenses: €100–€200

📍 Cities like Florence, Venice, and Milan tend to have higher rental prices, while southern regions like Puglia or Sicily offer lower overall costs.

🧮 Budget Planning Tips

• Opt for university dormitories or shared student apartments to reduce housing costs
• Apply early for regional scholarships (e.g., LazioDisco, EDISU, ERSU)
• Use student ID cards to get discounts on transportation, museums, and dining
• Budget for initial one-time costs such as residence permit fees, enrollment tax, and textbooks

🛂 Visa & Permit: Study in Italy

International students from outside the European Union are required to obtain a student visa and residence permit to study in Italy. The process is generally straightforward, but it’s essential to prepare the necessary documents in advance and follow the correct steps based on your nationality and length of stay.

📌 Student Visa (Type D – Long Stay)

If your study program in Italy lasts more than 90 days, you will need a Type D Student Visa. You must apply for this visa at the Italian consulate or embassy in your home country before arriving in Italy.

To apply, you typically need:

• A letter of acceptance from an Italian university
• Proof of sufficient financial means (approx. €6,000–€7,000 per year)
• Valid passport with at least two blank pages
• Proof of accommodation in Italy
• Health insurance valid in Italy
• Flight reservation or travel plan
• Completed visa application form and recent passport photos

Processing times can vary but generally take 2 to 6 weeks, so early planning is key.

🏠 Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno)

After arriving in Italy, all non-EU students must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) within 8 days. This is done at the local post office using a special application kit.

To complete your residence permit application, you’ll need:

• Copy of your passport and visa
• Acceptance letter from your university
• Proof of health insurance
• Four passport-size photos
• Proof of accommodation
• Application fee and revenue stamps

Once submitted, you’ll receive an appointment with the local immigration office (Questura) to finalise your permit with fingerprinting. The initial residence permit is usually valid for one year and can be renewed annually based on your enrollment.

💡 Tips for a Smooth Process

• Start your visa application as soon as you receive your admission letter
• Prepare multiple copies of all documents for both visa and residence permit procedures
• Use university support services — many institutions offer assistance with the application process
• Keep your Permesso di Soggiorno valid by renewing it before expiry and maintaining your student status

🏛️ Top Universities in Italy

Italy is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Known for their academic heritage, cultural richness, and research output, Italian universities offer international students a high-quality education within the globally recognised European Higher Education Area (EHEA). Whether you’re pursuing architecture, design, economics, engineering, humanities, or political science, Italy provides a broad academic landscape to explore.

🎓 Several Italian universities consistently appear in the Top 200 globally in rankings like QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education (THE).

🌟 Leading Italian Universities for International Students

1. University of Bologna (UniBo)
   Founded in 1088, it is the oldest university in the Western world
   Known for law, humanities, political science, and cultural studies
   Offers a wide range of English-taught programs at all levels
2. Politecnico di Milano
   Italy’s top university for engineering, design, and architecture
   Strong ties with industry and innovation hubs in Milan
   Ranked in the global Top 20 for Architecture (QS 2024)
3. Sapienza University of Rome
   One of the largest universities in Europe
   Known for natural sciences, engineering, humanities, and medicine
   Strong research tradition and wide international collaborations
4. Bocconi University
   Italy’s most prestigious institution for economics, business, and finance
   Located in Milan with strong corporate partnerships
   Highly ranked MBA and master’s programs offered in English
5. Scuola Normale Superiore (Pisa)
   Elite research university focused on philosophy, mathematics, and physics
   Extremely competitive admission; tuition-free for selected students
   Offers advanced academic paths with small class sizes

🧭 Other Highly Ranked Italian Institutions

• University of Padua – Research excellence and strong student support
• University of Milan – Life sciences, biotechnology, and legal studies
• Politecnico di Torino – Engineering and applied sciences
• University of Trento – Innovation and internationalization leader
• LUISS Guido Carli – Political science, international relations, and law

💡 Many top Italian universities offer tuition waivers, regional scholarships, and merit-based grants specifically for international students.

🔍 How to Explore Rankings

• QS World University Rankings
• Times Higher Education (THE)
• U-Multirank (EU-based comparative tool for universities)
• CIMEA Database (for checking program recognition and equivalency)

🗣️ English Requirements for Studying in Italy

If you are planning to enroll in an English-taught degree program in Italy, you will need to demonstrate your proficiency in the English language. While requirements vary by university and program, most Italian institutions accept a range of standardized English tests, and many offer flexibility depending on your academic background.

🎯 Always check the specific English language requirements of your chosen university and degree program, as minimum scores and accepted tests may differ.

✅ Most Commonly Accepted English Tests

1. IELTS Academic
   Widely accepted by Italian universities for English-taught programs
   Minimum overall score typically required: 6.0–6.5
   Some programs may set higher requirements for writing or speaking modules
2. TOEFL iBT
   Recognized by most major Italian institutions
   Minimum score generally: 80–90 iBT
   Some universities accept the TOEFL Home Edition
3. Cambridge English Qualifications
   Accepted by many universities in Italy
   Commonly accepted levels: B2 First (FCE) or C1 Advanced (CAE)
   Certificates do not expire and are highly regarded in Europe
4. Duolingo English Test (DET)
   Increasingly accepted, especially for international master’s programs
   Minimum score usually: 95–105
   Fully online and cost-effective for applicants

🔄 Alternatives & Exemptions

Italian universities may offer alternative ways to fulfill English requirements:

• Proof of prior education in English: If you completed your previous studies in English (e.g., international high school, IB Diploma, English-medium university), you may be exempt from test requirements
• Internal placement tests: Some universities conduct their own English assessments during the application or pre-enrollment stage
• Preparatory or Foundation Programs: Offered by several institutions to help students meet language and academic criteria
• Pathway agreements: Certain partner institutions offer conditional admission based on English improvement

📍 Example: Politecnico di Milano accepts IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, and DET scores, or proof of previous English-medium education for exemption.

🧠 Tips for Applicants

• Check if your selected program is fully taught in English or offers bilingual instruction
• Prepare your English proficiency test 3–6 months before the application deadline
• Ensure your scores are still valid — most tests are valid for two years
• Always submit official score reports directly through the testing organization (e.g., ETS, IELTS, Duolingo)

📝 Application Process: How to Apply to Italian Universities

Applying to universities in Italy as an international student requires careful planning and a step-by-step approach. While some universities use centralised platforms like Universality, others accept direct applications through their websites. The process varies slightly depending on whether you’re applying for a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program — and whether you’re from an EU or non-EU country.

🎯 Italy typically has two main intakes: Fall (September/October) and Spring (February/March), with Fall being the primary intake for most programs.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

1. Choose Your Program & University
   Use official portals like Study in Italy or university websites to find English-taught programs.
   Consider location, tuition fees, scholarships, and whether the program requires entrance exams or interviews.
2. Check Admission Requirements
   Requirements vary by level and university, but common documents include:
3. • Academic transcripts and diploma (high school for bachelor’s, bachelor’s degree for master’s)
   • Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo)
   • Statement of purpose or motivation letter
   • Copy of passport
   • CV (especially for master’s and PhD)
   • Recommendation letters (not always mandatory)
   • Portfolio (for design or architecture programs)
   • Application fee (if applicable)
3. Submit a Pre-Application (non-EU students)
   Non-EU students often need to pre-enroll through the Universitaly portal, which connects your application with the Italian embassy in your country.
   This is usually required before applying for a student visa.
4. Apply via University Portal or Universitaly
5. • Some universities accept direct applications via their own portals (especially for master’s degrees)
   • Others may process all applications through www.universitaly.it, especially for undergraduate and medicine programs
   • Always follow the specific instructions of your chosen institution
5. Receive Admission & Apply for Visa
   Once accepted, you’ll receive a formal admission letter to use for your Type D student visa application.
   You must also complete the residence permit process (Permesso di Soggiorno) once in Italy.

📆 Application Timelines

• Fall Intake (September/October):
  Most applications open between December and March
  Deadlines vary but are typically between April and June
• Spring Intake (February/March):
  Fewer programs available
  Applications usually close around October–November

📌 Always verify deadlines and required procedures on the official university website.

🧠 Tips for a Strong Application

• Start preparing your documents at least 6–9 months in advance
• Write a clear, personalized motivation letter that reflects your academic goals
• Check if your diploma needs to be legalized or translated
• Some programs may require an entry test or interview — prepare accordingly
• Ask the university if they offer pre-evaluation of your credentials

🎓 Scholarships & Funding for International Students in Italy

Italy is one of the most affordable study destinations in Western Europe, thanks to its low public university tuition fees and the availability of national, regional, and university-level scholarships. Both EU and non-EU students can apply for various forms of financial aid — ranging from full tuition waivers to monthly living stipends.

💡 Thousands of international students in Italy benefit from public or institutional funding each year.

💰 Types of Scholarships Available

1. 🎯 Merit-Based Scholarships
   Awarded for academic achievement, outstanding performance, or talent in specific fields.
   Example: Bocconi Merit Awards

• Full or partial tuition waiver
• Renewable based on academic performance
• May include accommodation support

2. 💡 Need-Based Financial Aid (Regional Grants)
   Funded by regional authorities and based on the student’s financial need and academic progress.
   Example: LazioDisco (Lazio Region), EDISU Piemonte, DSU Toscana

• Covers tuition, accommodation, and living expenses
• Available to both EU and non-EU students
• Requires ISEE (Equivalent Financial Indicator) or income declaration

3. 🌐 Government Scholarships for Foreign Students
   Offered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI)

• Monthly allowance (~€900/month)
• Covers tuition and health insurance
• For master’s, PhD, or research programs
• Applications open via the Study in Italy portal (usually around May)

4. 🏛️ University-Specific Scholarships
   Many Italian universities offer internal scholarships for international students, often linked to academic excellence or specific programs. Examples include:

• University of Bologna – Unibo Action 1 & 2 (full tuition + allowance)
• Politecnico di Milano – Laurea Magistrale Scholarships
• University of Padua – Padua International Excellence Scholarships
• LUISS University – International Students Scholarships
• University of Pavia – Invest Your Talent in Italy Program

💡 How to Increase Your Chances

• Apply early — most scholarships have deadlines between March and June
• Prepare a strong motivation letter, CV, and academic transcripts
• Demonstrate academic merit or financial need, depending on the type of scholarship
• Be prepared to submit income documents (even for international applicants)
• Explore opportunities via the official Study in Italy portal and regional websites

🧑‍🎓 Student Life in Italy

Studying in Italy offers far more than academic excellence — it’s a full cultural experience marked by historic cities, vibrant communities, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. From lively university towns and student clubs to affordable housing and rich traditions, international students enjoy a balanced and enriching life both on and off campus.

🌎 With over 100,000 international students choosing Italy each year, you'll find a diverse, welcoming environment no matter where you study.

🏛️ Campus Life & Culture

Italian universities have a strong academic focus, but student life also includes various clubs, social activities, and cultural events — especially in major student cities like Bologna, Milan, Rome, and Florence.

• Join university sports teams, music or art groups, Erasmus Student Networks (ESN), and cultural associations
• Participate in campus events like welcome weeks, international dinners, and student-run festivals
• Access university libraries, language centers, career offices, and public study halls (Aule Studio)
• Enjoy historic campuses and lively piazzas that serve as student meeting points

📍 Tip: The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is active in most universities and organizes trips, parties, language exchanges, and integration events for international students.

🏠 Student Housing Options

Students in Italy typically choose between:

1. University Dormitories:
→ Managed by the university or regional student welfare offices (e.g., EDISU, ERSU)
→ Affordable and convenient (monthly cost: €200–€400)
→ Competitive to get in; early application recommended

2. Private Shared Apartments:
→ Most common option among students
→ Rent ranges from €250 to €600/month, depending on city and location
→ Sites like Uniplaces, Spotahome, and idealista it are commonly used

3. Host Families or Room Rentals:
→ Good option for cultural immersion
→ Often includes meals and utilities

🏥 Health Insurance

Health coverage is mandatory for non-EU students staying over 90 days. You have two main options:

• Private Health Insurance:
  → Purchase before arrival or during enrollment
  → Approx. cost: €150–€300/year
  → Must meet visa and residence permit requirements
• Italian National Health System (SSN):
  → Public healthcare registration for around €150/year
  → Grants access to general practitioners, specialists, and emergency care
  → Recommended for long-term students

Universities often offer guidance on how to register for health services.

🌐 Diversity & Inclusion

Italian campuses are becoming increasingly international and inclusive:

• You’ll study alongside peers from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas
• Many universities run integration programs, intercultural workshops, and mentorship schemes
• Language support, legal aid, and mental health services are available for international students
• Religious freedom and LGBTQ+ inclusivity are respected in most urban centres

📱 Useful Apps for Students in Italy

• Uniwhere / Esse3 – Track your courses and university exams
• Trenitalia / Italo – Train travel
• Moovit – Local public transport navigation
• Satispay / Revolut – Digital payments
• Too Good To Go – Save on food while fighting waste
• Google Translate – Useful for translating Italian signs, menus, and admin documents

💼 Internships & Jobs for International Students in Italy

Gaining work experience while studying in Italy is both possible and encouraged. Although regulations vary depending on your nationality, most international students — including those from non-EU countries — are allowed to work part-time during their studies and take internships that align with their academic goals.

💡 Working during your degree can help you develop language skills, build a European CV, and explore long-term career opportunities in Italy or the EU.

🏫 Part-Time Student Jobs

International students holding a Type D visa and a valid Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) are allowed to work:

• Up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester
• Up to 40 hours per week during vacations or breaks
• Annual maximum: 1,040 hours

Common student jobs include:

• Barista, waiter, or cashier
• English tutor or babysitter
• Library or department assistant at a university
• Freelance roles (if legally registered with a tax code)

📍 Note: Work contracts in Italy must comply with local labour laws — always request a formal contract (contratto di lavoro).

🔄 Internships (Tirocini / Stage)

Internships (called tirocini or stage in Italian) are widely integrated into academic programs and can be:

• Curricular – Mandatory as part of your degree
• Extracurricular – Voluntary, but recognised with credits or certification
• Paid or unpaid, depending on the host institution and region

🔍 Universities often have internship offices or career centres (e.g., Ufficio Tirocini) that help students find placements in companies, research institutes, or public agencies.

Some programs (especially master’s degrees) include a mandatory internship component, either in Italy or abroad.

🎯 Post-Graduation Work Options

After completing your degree, you may be eligible to extend your residence permit for 6 to 12 months to seek employment or start a traineeship (Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione).

• During this time, you can work full-time and search for a long-term job
• If hired, your employer can convert your permit into a work visa (permesso di lavoro)

🧪 If you are in a STEM-related field or studying business, design, or engineering, Italy’s industrial regions (Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto) offer strong employment potential, especially through university-industry partnerships.

🔍 Finding Internships & Jobs

Popular platforms and tools:

• Universitaly & AlmaLaurea – National databases for internships and jobs
• Jobiri, InfoJobs, and LinkedIn Italy – For part-time and graduate opportunities
• Career services at your university – Often provide job boards and company contacts
• ErasmusIntern.org – For international internships in Europe
• Cliclavoro.gov.it – Official portal for job seekers in Italy

🎯 After Graduation: Stay, Work & Settle in Italy

Graduating from an Italian university doesn’t mean the end of your journey in Italy. International students — especially non-EU citizens — have options to remain in the country after graduation to work, gain experience, or even settle long-term. Italy supports international talent through post-study work permits, job-seeking visas, and eventually, residency and citizenship pathways.

💡 Italy offers a relatively clear path from international student to skilled worker — particularly in sectors like STEM, architecture, design, fashion, and business.

✅ Step 1: Post-Graduation Stay Permit (Job-Seeking Visa)

After completing your degree, non-EU students can apply to convert their Permesso di Soggiorno per Studio into a Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione (residence permit for job-seeking or entrepreneurship):

• Valid for 6 to 12 months
• Allows full-time work and job searching
• Must apply before your student permit expires
• Proof of graduation and financial means required

🎯 This permit gives you time to find employment or launch a startup in Italy.

💼 Step 2: Convert to a Work Permit (Permesso di Lavoro)

Once you secure a job offer, your job-seeking permit can be converted into a work residence permit, such as:

• Lavoro Subordinato (Employee Work Permit) – For salaried employment
• Lavoro Autonomo (Self-Employed Permit) – For freelancers or entrepreneurs
• Requires an employer contract, a quota slot (if applicable), and regional approval

Some professional roles (researchers, highly skilled workers, intra-company transfers) are exempt from immigration quotas.

📍 The process is done through the “click day” system or direct employer sponsorship via the immigration portal.

🧪 Step 3: EU Blue Card for Highly Skilled Workers

If you have a university degree and a high-salary job offer, you may qualify for the EU Blue Card, which allows:

• Residence and work in Italy (and potentially other EU countries)
• Initial validity: 2 years, renewable
• Faster path to long-term EU residence
• Family reunification rights

📌 Requires a minimum annual salary (approx. €25,000–30,000+) and a valid work contract.

🏡 Step 4: Permanent Residency & Citizenship

After working and legally residing in Italy, you can pursue longer-term settlement options:

• Permanent Residence Permit (Soggiorno di Lungo Periodo):
  → Available after 5 years of legal residence
  → Requires Italian language certificate (A2 level), income proof, clean record
• Italian Citizenship by Residency:
  → Possible after 10 years of continuous residence
  → Reduced to 5 years for recognised refugees, 2 years if of Italian descent
  → Requires integration, language proficiency, and no criminal record