Italy is a country rich in history and delicious food that has attracted visitors for centuries. From the snowy mountains of the Dolomites in the North to the warm Mediterranean culture of the South, Italy's regions are diverse and exciting. For international students looking for excellent yet affordable education, along with plenty of social and leisure activities, Italy is an exciting choice.

Italy's cultural significance dates back to ancient times, and reminders of its past can be found everywhere. Rome, known as the Eternal City, was once the heart of a vast empire that stretched across Europe, from rainy Britannia to the deserts of Syria, and included Egypt and North Africa. The ancient Roman monuments in Italy are impressive, but they only tell part of its story.

During the Renaissance period from the 14th to 17th century, known as the Rinascimento in Italian, Italy sparked a revolution in art, architecture, philosophy, religion, and sciences across Europe. This era saw a flourishing of intellectual activity and creativity, bringing ancient and medieval ideas into the modern world.

This article explores the top universities in Italy, highlighting their benefits, application processes, specific university requirements, top courses, and more.

Why Should You Study in Italy?

Italy is famous among students for all the following reasons: 

1. Experience Italian Culture: Immerse yourself in Italy's rich cultural heritage, from art and architecture to cuisine and music. Studying in Italy provides a unique opportunity to broaden your cultural perspective and appreciate the country's historical significance.
2. Diverse Study Programmes: Italy is renowned for its diverse study programmes, including fashion, creative writing, visual arts, and more. Whether you choose a programme in Florence, Rome, or another city, you'll find courses that develop your academic interests.
3. High-Quality Education: Italy boasts a longstanding tradition of academic excellence, with institutions like the University of Bologna, the world's oldest university. Students benefit from top-notch education in fields ranging from humanities to sciences.
4. Learn Italian Language: Studying in Italy offers a chance to learn Italian in an immersive environment, beneficial for enhancing communication skills and broadening career prospects in fields like tourism and foreign relations.
5. Affordable Travel: Italy's efficient rail network, including Eurail Italy, makes exploring the country affordable and convenient. Whether visiting historic cities or scenic countryside, students can easily travel and expand their cultural experiences.
6. Historical Cities: Italy's cities, such as Florence, Venice, and Rome, showcase a blend of ancient and modern architecture, vibrant plazas, and world-renowned museums. Each city offers a unique glimpse into Italy's rich history and artistic legacy.

Everything You Need to Go to Italy

The requirements to study in Italy may vary depending on the university, degree level, and programme you are applying for. However, below are some general requirements to consider when studying in Italy:

1. Eligibility: Applicants must be over 17 years old and have graduated from high school.
2. Language requirements: Depending on the degree level and programme, some proficiency in Italian may be required.
3. Prior academic achievement: Some universities in Italy may require a minimum GPA from previous education.
4. Visa obligation: Non-EU students applying for any degree level must obtain a visa to study in Italy.
5. Financial security: Proof of sufficient funds may be required by some universities to ensure students can support themselves in Italy.

What Documents Do I Need to Study in Italy?

When applying for admission, providing the required documentation is essential. These documents serve as identification and demonstrate the applicant's background, academic experience, achievements, skills, and other relevant information.

Common documents required by most Italian universities include:

• Application form: Often available online, universities provide applicants with an application form.
• CV and portfolios: Required by many graduate and postgraduate programmes to assess applicants' backgrounds, skills, extracurricular activities, and voluntary work.
• Previous academic achievements: Degrees, certificates, and transcripts from high school or university.
• Cover letters or essays: Typically required to understand applicants' motivations and aspirations.
• Declaration of value (Dichiarazione di Valore): Ensures the validity of previous diplomas based on the Italian education system.
• Recognition of qualifications: Some applicants need certification of passing an entrance examination in their home country.

Which Language is Required to Study in Italy?

Language requirements depend on the university, degree programme, and course of study:

• Italian language proficiency: Required for undergraduate programmes, unless exempt (e.g., Italian high school diploma).
• English language proficiency: Required for some graduate or postgraduate programmes if taught in English.

For English-taught courses, accepted proofs of proficiency include:

• B2 level or higher certificate in English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).

For Italian-taught courses, students typically need:

• B1 or B2 level certificate in Italian.

What Does the Visa Requirement to Study in Italy Include?

Non-EU students must obtain a student visa to study in Italy, requiring several essential documents:

• Passport valid for at least three months beyond the intended stay, with recent photographs.
• Cover letter.
• Visa application form.
• Proof of financial support (e.g., bank statements).
• Health insurance.
• Proof of tuition fee payment.
• Copy of scholarship (if applicable).

How Much Money Do I Need As a Student in Italy?

Higher education in Italy is affordable for international students, with tuition fees ranging from €500 to €3,000 per year, depending on the institution.

Additionally, many universities offer scholarships based on academic excellence. Some may request proof of financial security as part of the admission process to assess whether students can support themselves in Italy.

Universities You Should Go to in Italy

Highest Ranking Universities in Italy
University Name	Times Higher Education (National Ranking)	Times Higher Education (Global Ranking)	U.S. News (Global Ranking)
University of Bologna	1	=155	=130
Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa	2	=168	451
Sapienza University of Rome	3	181	140
University of Padua	=4	201-250	=130
Politecnico di Milano	=4	201-250	317
Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies – Pisa	=4	201-250	822
Humanitas University	=7	251-300	421
Vita-Salute San Raffaele University	=7	251-300	209
Catholic University of the Sacred Heart	=9	301-350	341
University of Pavia	=9	301-350	306

1. University of Bologna

The Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna is the oldest university in the Western world. It has led the way in innovation with a rich programme catalogue, advanced research, and a growing international outlook. 

Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna focuses on students and offers a wide range of courses across its five campuses in Bologna, Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini, as well as its Buenos Aires branch. 

The university provides over 250 degree programmes within its 31 departments and 5 schools. With more than 90,000 students, it is one of the largest universities in Italy. It ranks first in Italy for the number of students in exchange programmes abroad and is among the top five universities in Europe for exchange students. It is also among the top five Italian universities in major international rankings such as Shanghai, Times Higher Education, and GreenMetric.

The University of Bologna is dedicated to sustainable development and supports the 17 sustainable development goals of the UN’s 2030 Agenda. It invests in a multidisciplinary and cross-cultural approach to research and teaching. 

In Europe, the University of Bologna is a key player in research and academic cooperation. It maintains partnerships with industries, and public and private organisations, and has strong connections with America, Africa, Asia, and Australia, as well as Europe. It is one of the founding members of the prestigious Una Europa alliance, which aims to create an integrated university for the future.

International students can explore the University of Bologna through the podcast Unibo Global - LifeBites, which shares their experiences, memories, and thoughts. The stories of international Student Ambassadors offer further insights into the university and its community.

University of Bologna
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
70%	74,105	11%	24.7	57:43

 

University of Bologna
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Gastroenterology and Hepatology	Agricultural Sciences	Space Science	Marine and Freshwater Biology	Physics
Subject Ranking	31	42	52	60	73

 

University of Bologna
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
27	2.5	60%	550	5.5	80

2. Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa

The Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa is a public institute for higher education. Student selection is based solely on merit, ensuring a high standard of academic excellence. Lessons are conducted on a seminar basis, promoting interaction and discussion. 

Teaching and research are closely connected, creating an integrated academic environment. The institute encourages international exchanges, following the best European models of higher education.

Located in Pisa, the Scuola Normale houses lecturers, researchers, and students in the same spaces. Teaching and laboratory activities, cultural events, and experimental initiatives all occur within a single area. 

Two types of courses are offered: the undergraduate course and the PhD course. Teaching is organised across three academic structures: the Faculty of Humanities, the Faculty of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, and for the PhD course, the Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences situated in Palazzo Strozzi in Florence.

Students at the Scuola Normale are selected through a rigorous examination process, based on merit. They live in a fully-funded college system and follow a study programme that combines experience, research, in-depth study, and moments of inspiration. The quality of its students is a great resource for the Scuola Normale.

The institute offers a variety of programmes in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Alumni of the Scuola Normale often achieve significant success in their fields, contributing to its reputation. State-of-the-art laboratories provide students with hands-on experience in their studies. With a vibrant student community, the Scuola Normale fosters both academic and personal growth.

Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
23%	614	11%	7.4	29:71

 

Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Physics	Space Science	Mathematics	Physical Chemistry	Chemistry
Subject Ranking	91	161	216	598	743

 

Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
27	2.5	60%	Not Specified	5.0	74

3. Sapienza University of Rome

The Sapienza University of Rome, originally named Studium Urbis, was founded in 1303 by Pope Boniface VIII. As Rome’s oldest university, its motto ‘Il futuro è passato qui’ translates to ‘the future was here’. 

In 1660, the university moved to a new building and became known as Sapienza due to the inscription on its main gate, ‘Initium Sapientiae Timor Domini’ (the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord). Located in the centre of Rome, Sapienza is within walking distance of the main rail station, Termini.

Sapienza is the largest university in Europe, supporting over 115,000 students, including 5,500 international students, and almost 4,000 academic staff. It offers 250 degree programmes and 200 specialist courses across 63 departments. Students have access to 59 libraries, which is the largest number of any Italian university, as well as 21 museums.

The university participates in the Erasmus exchange programme and is partnered with at least 400 other universities, maintaining a strong international presence. Tuition fees at Sapienza are relatively low compared to most European universities. 

The School for Advanced Studies provides training in specific courses to gifted high school students and offers free accommodation and tuition.

Subsidised tuition fees are available for students from developing countries. Financial support is provided for projects designed to improve academic and student movement to and from developing countries. Funded projects are located in countries such as Benin, Chad, Ethiopia, Kenya, Palestine, Tanzania, and Yemen.

The university counts six Nobel Prize winners among its faculty and alumni, contributing to its prestigious reputation.

Sapienza University of Rome
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
39%	60,522	9%	22.2	61:39

 

Sapienza University of Rome
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Physics	Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging	Neuroscience and Behavior	Endocrinology and Metabolism	Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Subject Ranking	29	48	62	70	72

 

Sapienza University of Rome
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
30	2.8	70%	Not specified	6.0	74

4. University of Padua

Established in 1222, the University of Padua (Padova in Italian) is the second oldest university in Italy, after Bologna, and one of the earliest universities in the world. Originally founded as a school of law by a group of scholars and students who came from Bologna seeking greater academic freedom. Today, Padua remains one of the most prominent universities in Italy and Europe.

The university consists of 32 departments and eight schools, which coordinate the courses managed by each department. It also includes 49 specialisation schools and 43 research and service centres. 

Schools of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Economics and Political Science, Law, Engineering, Medicine, Psychology, Science, and Human and Social Sciences and Cultural Heritage are part of the university. Various centres, research organisations, and science and technology hubs are affiliated with Padua. The campus houses a university hospital, one museum, a library, a school of excellence, and 14 halls of residence.

Around 60,000 students are enrolled at Padua, including 40,000 undergraduates and 20,000 postgraduates. These students share the university’s medieval buildings with more than 20,000 professors and research staff. A strong commitment to academic innovation continues to define Padua’s tradition.

The university’s total budget exceeds €600 million, with about €60 million spent annually on research. Padua is part of a network of historical research universities known as the Coimbra Group. This network includes prestigious institutions like the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Heidelberg, Salamanca, Jena, Leuven, and Leiden.

University of Padua
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
40%	44,401	7%	26.5	56:44

 

University of Padua
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Space Science	Gastroenterology and Hepatology	Psychiatry/Psychology	Endocrinology and Metabolism	Biology and Biochemistry
Subject Ranking	24	36	57	66	80

 

University of Padua
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	GRE	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
24	2	300	600	6.0	70

5. Politecnico di Milano

Established in 1863 and located in the heart of Milan, Politecnico di Milano (Polimi) provides high-quality education in Engineering, Architecture, and Design at undergraduate, graduate, and higher education levels. With over 45,000 students, it is the largest technical university in Italy.

Politecnico di Milano offers a wide range of graduate programmes taught in English and hosts more than 7,000 international students from over 100 different countries. Over the past century and a half, Polimi has focused on science, technology, and innovation. 

By placing these core values at the centre of its research and academic offerings, Polimi is now considered among the most outstanding universities in Europe and enjoys an excellent reputation among employers.

Cutting-edge technologies and state-of-the-art laboratories drive the success of this institution. Many ongoing projects have made Politecnico di Milano a valuable resource to the city of Milan and to Italy as a whole. 

Research during the global pandemic has highlighted Polimi's role in designing medical equipment, analysing data, and producing disinfectants for local health and civil agencies.

Milan, recognised as one of the world's fashion capitals, hosts international events and fairs, such as Milan Fashion Week and the Salone Internazionale del Mobile. The city will also host the 2026 Winter Olympics, leading to significant investments in infrastructure and services. Milan offers a lively cultural environment and is a perfect starting point to explore Italy, a country rich in historical landmarks, art, and beauty.

Polimi has produced many notable alumni, including Giulio Natta, the 1963 Nobel Prize winner for chemistry, and Renzo Piano, winner of the 1998 Pritzker Architecture Prize and architect of iconic buildings like the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris and the Shard in London. 

The campus continues to improve architecturally with projects based on Renzo Piano's ideas, adding over 8,000 square metres of green areas, and 4,200 square metres of laboratories, classrooms, and study rooms.

Politecnico di Milano
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
28%	44,401	7%	26.5	56:44

 

Politecnico di Milano
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Mechanical Engineering	Engineering	Civil Engineering	Mathematics	Optics
Subject Ranking	31	44	62	66	67

 

Politecnico di Milano
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
27	2.5	60%	650	6.0	78

6. Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies

Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, established in 1987, is a public university institute in Pisa with special autonomy, focusing on applied sciences such as Economics and Management, Law, Political Sciences, Agricultural Sciences and Plant Biotechnology, Medicine, and Industrial and Information Engineering. 

The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including Master of Science, PhD programmes, and Seasonal Schools. It is known for fostering talent and merit through dynamic and innovative education and research.

The university addresses strategic global issues such as climate change, environmental sustainability, social justice, health, and big data through its research and training programmes. Its goal is to create value for the community and contribute to scientific development and the common good.

Sant’Anna School plays a crucial role in community education, offering avant-garde training in four main areas: undergraduate and postgraduate courses, interdisciplinary Seasonal Schools, advanced MSc and PhD programmes, and Higher Education.

Research at Sant’Anna School focuses on interdisciplinary solutions to complex global challenges, aiming to drive innovation and change. The school actively engages in public outreach, supporting social, economic, cultural, and technological development aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

The school promotes international mobility for students, teachers, and researchers, building partnerships with foreign universities and research institutes to enhance academic cooperation. Sant’Anna School is a partner of the EELISA project, which aims to create a new model of European engineers prepared for a diverse and global environment.

Located in an ancient monastery in Pisa, Sant’Anna School boasts over 30 facilities for training and research, providing a residential environment where students form lifelong bonds and support each other in their academic pursuits.

Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies – Pisa
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
39%	718	20%	7.4	37:63

 

Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies – Pisa
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Engineering	Clinical Medicine	-	-	-
Subject Ranking	592	808	-	-	-

 

Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies – Pisa
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
27	2.5	60%	550	6.0	69

7. Humanitas University

Humanitas University, based in Milan, Italy, is an international institution dedicated to Life Sciences. Education and training are fully integrated with the Scientific Research Centre and Humanitas Hospitals. Built in 1996, IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas is the first Italian hospital to be quality-certified as an Academic Hospital by the Joint Commission International. 

It leads a group of hospitals in Milan, Bergamo, Castellanza, Turin, and Catania and is known for its advanced technology and research on immune system diseases.

An international outlook defines Humanitas University, with 40% of its students being non-Italian and a visiting faculty of renowned researchers. The university focuses on the growth of its students, their training, and their clinical and research careers, both in Italy and abroad.

The educational offerings at Humanitas University include various degree courses:

• Physiotherapy: a 3-year degree course in Italian, hosting 50 students per year.
• Biomedical Laboratory Techniques: a 3-year degree course in Italian, hosting 25 students per year.
• Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy Techniques: a 3-year degree course in Italian, hosting 25 students per year.
• Medicine and Surgery: a 6-year degree course in English, hosting 130 EU students and 50 non-EU students per year.
• MEDTEC School: a 6-year double degree in Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, in collaboration with Politecnico di Milano, taught in English, hosting 60 EU students and 10 non-EU students per year.
• Nursing: a 3-year degree course in Italian, hosting 140 students per year.

The educational offer is completed by a master's degree course in Nursing and Midwifery Sciences, 21 postgraduate schools, 2 PhDs, and several master's courses. Lessons take place on a modern campus designed for technology and environmental comfort, promoting interactions among teachers, researchers, and students worldwide. 

A key feature of the campus is the Simulation Centre, a high-tech space of over 2,000 square metres, among the largest in Europe, used for training students, postgraduates, and health professionals.

In September 2018, Humanitas University opened the new Student House, providing on-campus accommodation. Applications are welcomed from talented students worldwide for various courses throughout the year. To attract motivated candidates, Humanitas University offers merit-based scholarships ranging from €5,000 to €20,000 per year.

Humanitas University aims to prepare students for the challenges of a globalised European society while maintaining strong ties to tradition. Exchange programmes, including Erasmus+ and Travel Grants, offer students opportunities to study abroad, experience different cultures, and develop a global perspective.

Humanitas University
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
90%	1.988	18%	17.9	59:41

 

Humanitas University
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Gastroenterology and Hepatology	Surgery	Immunology	Oncology	Clinical Medicine
Subject Ranking	14	73	137	196	196

 

Humanitas University
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
24	3.2	83%	Not specified	6.0	78

8. Vita-Salute San Raffaele University

The Vita-Salute San Raffaele University (UniSR), a private university in Milan, began in 1996 with a department of psychology. Today, it has faculties of Medicine and Surgery, Psychology, and Philosophy, all following cognitive and experimental approaches. The courses often have an interdisciplinary focus.

Affiliated with the nearby San Raffaele Hospital (OSR), UniSR offers undergraduate degrees in Philosophy, Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Psychological Sciences and Techniques. Master's courses include Dentistry and Dental Implantology, Molecular and Cellular Medical Biotechnology, Medicine and Surgery, and Psychology.

In 2010, an English-language medical course was introduced with an innovative curriculum designed to develop doctors with strong human, cultural, and professional values. Half of the places are reserved for EU citizens and half for non-EU citizens. PhD courses are available in Philosophy, Molecular Medicine, and Cognitive Psychology in Health Communication, with the latter taught in English.

The Library of Philosophy contains classical philosophical texts, many in their original languages, and subscriptions to over 50 philosophy journals in both electronic and printed form. Count Andrea Emo donated his private library, which includes many first editions of major Italian philosophers of the 19th century. 

The Reale Fund, donated by Professor Giovanni Reale, comprises 2,300 original philosophical works and critical studies on ancient philosophy and early Christian writers. The Biomedical Library began as the San Raffaele Library in the late 1970s, as part of the OSR.

Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
10%	4.087	5%	13.9	62:38

 

Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Surgery	Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems	Endocrinology and Metabolism	Immunology	Oncology
Subject Ranking	17	53	75	80	90

 

Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
24	2	55%	Not specified	6.5	72

9. Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

Founded in 1921, the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Italy has more than 30,000 students across 12 schools. The university offers over 200 programmes in Italian, alongside undergraduate, graduate, summer, and semester programmes in English. 

The strong interdisciplinary approach includes fields such as philosophy, psychology, Italian literature, banking and finance, international business, international relations, agricultural economics, management, and medicine and surgery.

The main campus is located in Milan, with additional campuses in Brescia, Piacenza, Cremona, and Rome. Students can access state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, research centres, and modern classrooms. Campus life includes various student organisations, sports facilities, and cultural activities, providing a well-rounded university experience.

Alumni of Università Cattolica include prominent figures in various fields such as economics, politics, and arts. The university prides itself on fostering a community of successful graduates who make significant contributions to society. Notable alumni include former Italian Prime Minister Amintore Fanfani and economist Luigi Einaudi.

The university’s commitment to research and innovation is evident through its numerous research projects and collaborations with international institutions. Students are encouraged to engage in research activities, which helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 

The diverse range of programmes and the emphasis on interdisciplinary learning prepare students for various career paths in an increasingly globalised world.

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
66%	28,830	7%	39.1	71:29

 

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging	Gastroenterology and Hepatology	Surgery	Food Science and Technology	Endocrinology and Metabolism
Subject Ranking	54	67	70	82	106

 

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	GRE	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
24	2	300	400	6.0	84

10. University of Pavia

Founded in 1361, the University of Pavia in Italy stands as one of the oldest higher education institutions globally. Located 35 kilometres from Milan, it historically served as the sole university in Milan and the broader Lombardy region until the 20th century. Today, it accommodates up to 24,000 students from Italy and many other countries worldwide.

The university offers over 80 undergraduate programmes, more than 42 master’s programmes, and around 20 doctoral programmes spread across 18 departments. These academic offerings are supported by the university’s 30 libraries. Approximately 1,500 international students attend the university, with courses available in English.

Pavia prides itself on its international outlook, boasting over 400 partnerships with universities and institutes globally, along with more than 700 ERASMUS exchange agreements. Since 1987, through the CICOPS initiative, Pavia has fostered collaboration with universities in developing countries, promoting joint research initiatives and innovation.

Additionally, Pavia participates in the Marco Polo programme, which facilitates an increase in Chinese students studying in Italy by providing language assistance. The university holds membership in prestigious groups like the Coimbra Group and the European.

University of Pavia
General Information
Acceptance Rate (%)	Total Students	International Students	Student to Staff Ratio	Female to Male Ratio
50%	17,701	9%	31.5	54:46

 

University of Pavia
High Ranking Courses
Course Name	Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging	Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems	Psychiatry/Psychology	Neuroscience and Behavior	Mathematics
Subject Ranking	76	148	152	171	196

 

University of Pavia
Academic Criteria
IB (International Baccalaureate)	GPA	Percentage	GMAT	IELTS	TOEFL
24	2	55%	550	6.0	78

Go to the Top Universities in Italy with CounsellingX

Italy offers something for everyone: stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious food. It's also where Europe's first university was established nearly a thousand years ago.

Today, Italy has some of Europe's top universities. From ancient institutions like the University of Bologna and Sapienza University of Rome to modern ones like Roma Tor Vergata and the University of Milan, the choices are vast.

Choosing a university in Italy can be challenging with so many excellent options available. Whether you're drawn to its historic charm or innovative spirit, studying in Italy promises a rich and rewarding experience.

Though our counsellors at CounsellingX can help you pick a university that suits you best. Keeping your interests, aspirations and career goals in mind, our counsellors will find universities in Italy with both overall high university and subject rankings.

If you want more information on how you can begin your application process, sign up today. By signing up, you can personally reach out to the counsellors you like. Plus, you will also be able to take advantage of the free consultation available with a counsellor of your choice.

Key Takeaways

• University of Bologna
  • Founded in 1088, it's the oldest university in the Western world.
  • Offers over 250 degree programmes across various campuses.
  • Strong focus on sustainability and international partnerships.
  • Top rankings in global university assessments.
• Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa
  • Public institutes focusing on merit-based education.
  • Emphasises integrated teaching and research.
  • Offers undergraduate and PhD programmes.
  • Located in Pisa with a strong academic and research environment.
• Sapienza University of Rome
  • Founded in 1303, one of Europe's largest universities.
  • Offers 250 degree programmes and 200 specialist courses.
  • Strong international presence with numerous partnerships.
  • Notable for its libraries and museums.
• University of Padua
  • Established in 1222, one of the oldest universities in Europe.
  • Offers diverse courses across 32 departments and eight schools.
  • Part of the Coimbra Group, focusing on academic excellence.
  • Strong emphasis on research and innovation.
• Politecnico di Milano
  • Established in 1863, renowned for engineering, architecture, and design.
  • Largest technical university in Italy with over 45,000 students.
  • Offers a wide range of programmes in English.
  • Known for its research contributions and state-of-the-art facilities.
• Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies
  • Founded in 1987, offers advanced courses in applied sciences.
  • Strong focus on interdisciplinary research and global challenges.
  • Promotes international mobility and academic cooperation.
  • Located in Pisa with modern facilities for research and training.
• Humanitas University
  • Located in Milan, specialises in life sciences and research integration.
  • Collaborates closely with Humanitas Hospitals for practical training.
  • Offers various undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
  • Emphasises international student participation and scholarships.
• Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
  • Private university in Milan, known for cognitive and experimental approaches.
  • Affiliated with San Raffaele Hospital, offering diverse medical and scientific programmes.
  • Strong interdisciplinary focus and international faculty.
  • Notable for its research initiatives and modern campus facilities.
• Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
  • Founded in 1921, offers over 200 programmes in multiple disciplines.
  • Campuses in Milan, Brescia, Piacenza, Cremona, and Rome.
  • Emphasises interdisciplinary learning and research.
  • Strong commitment to international partnerships and alumni success.
• University of Pavia
  • Founded in 1361, one of the oldest universities in Europe.
  • Offers a wide range of undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programmes.
  • Known for its international collaborations and exchange programmes.
  • Member of prestigious academic groups like the Coimbra Group.
• General Requirements for Studying in Italy
  • Eligibility: Applicants must typically be over 17 years old and have completed high school.
  • Language Requirements: Proficiency in Italian or English, depending on the programme's language of instruction.
  • Academic Requirements: Some universities may require a minimum GPA from previous education.
  • Visa Obligation: Non-EU students must obtain a student visa to study in Italy, requiring specific documents like a passport, financial proof, and health insurance.
  • Financial Security: Proof of sufficient funds to support oneself during studies in Italy may be required by universities.