25 Best Universities In Italy For International Students 2026

If you are looking to study in Italy, you are surely making a great choice. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences. With more than 109 universities and colleges in Italy, you’ll surely have a wide range of choices.

Out of 109 universities in Italy, University of Bologna and Sapienza University of Rome are the top-performing schools in Italy. This list covers both public and private institutions in Italy.

To help you narrow down your school options, we’ve compiled the best universities in Italy. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Italy.

How do I get admission to the best universities in Italy?

Applying to the universities in Italy involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Italy to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Italy?

Tuition fees at Italy’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 0 Euros to 30,100 Euros , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 0 Euros to 82,000 Euros. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Italy!

As we cover the best universities in Italy for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in Italy for International Students

Known as the oldest running university in the world, the University of Bologna continues to provide high-quality education and research to local and international students. With their long history in the industry of education, they have produced graduates who greatly contributed to the advancement of science, literature, and more. Today, they are home to more than 90,000 students.

The Sapienza University of Rome is a public research university in Rome, Italy. It was founded in 1303 and is one of the oldest in history. Sapienza is one of Europe’s most prestigious universities, frequently ranking first in national rankings. Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees are available in a variety of fields, including its world-renowned Classics and Ancient History courses.

The University of Padua is a remarkable institution that has been at the forefront of offering high-quality Italian education for 800 years. The university is considered the second-oldest educational institution in the country and is among the few that remain still to this day. The legacy that the university has maintained throughout the years signifies its efficiency in providing academic programs and training to students across all disciplines.

The University of Milan is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, consistently being among the top 300 in reputable world university rankings. With over 60,000 enrollees, it is home to one of the largest student populations in Europe. Several Nobel laureates and distinguished academics are part of its faculty.

The University of Pisa is an Italian public university located in Pisa. It was founded in 1343, though some scholars believe it dates back to the 11th century. The university provides over 150 degree programs through 20 departments and 1500 faculty members. Galileo Galilei, Giosuè Carducci, Carlo Rubbia, and Andrea Bocceli are among their famous graduates.

The University of Turin is a public university that actively participates in research activities. Its effectiveness in delivering higher education showcases the talents and skills of the students, allowing them to meet leading experts in the industry. The university is among the 5 best Italian universities, which is why it continuously garners a number of students worldwide.

The University of Florence is a public research university located in Florence, University. It was established in 1321 as one of the first universities in Florence. As one of the largest and most productive public research systems in Italy, the university offers over 130 Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs through 12 schools. 

The Polytechnic University of Milan is the oldest educational institution in its region. It started as an institute that only offered courses in civil and industrial engineering. At present, the university prospered and now has 12 departments that cater to more than 40,000 students annually. The Polytechnic University of Milan is internationally-known for its comprehensive training when it comes to science and research education.

The University of Naples Federico II is a public university located in Naples, Italy. It was founded in 1224 by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II and is now one of the world’s oldest public universities. The university offers degree programs for undergraduates and postgraduates. Several of its graduates have become prominent political figures in the country, academics, and artists.

Established in 1921, the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore is a prestigious Catholic university in Europe with five campuses across Italy. It aims to provide a well-rounded educational experience to its students and impart a strong cultural foundation in addition to high-level professional skills. With 11 faculties and 8 graduate schools, the university offers numerous multidisciplinary programs meticulously designed to meet the demands of industries and society.

Turin Polytechnic University is a public university located in Turin, Italy. It is the oldest Italian public technical university, having been founded in 1859. The university offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in engineering, architecture, urban planning, and industrial design through eleven departments and several research institutes. PoliTO is consistently ranked as one of Italy’s and Europe’s best universities.

European University Institute is an international academic institution that specializes in graduate and postgraduate programs. It seeks to promote research in higher education and attract international students from all over the world to experience the academic environment in Italy. The university also offers scholarships and funding opportunities to make education accessible to talented individuals.

The University of Trento is a public university located in Trento, Itlay. It began as a Higher University Institute for Social Sciences in 1962. Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees are available at the university in a variety of fields. Trento students can also choose to study in partner institutions around the world during the second year of their studies.

The University of Pavia is an outstanding Italian university that started in 1361. This university has built its reputation for providing quality academic undergraduate and graduate programs. They have a consistent position in global rankings as an institution and for their courses as well. As they continue moving forward, they aim to produce more graduates in various academic fields.

The University of Genoa (UniGe) is a public university in Genoa, Italy. It was established in 1481. As one of the largest universities in Italy, the University of Genoa has several independent campuses in different city areas. UniGe offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in natural sciences, medical sciences, social sciences, humanities, and engineering.

The University of Milano-Bicocca is a university located in the populous city of Milan, Italy. It was established in 1998 as a cutting-edge complex with research laboratories and large study areas. Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs are available at the university. Milano-Bicocca University is ranked highly by reputable global rankings, including the Times Higher Education.

The University of Trieste, locally known as Università degli Studi di Trieste, is an outstanding public research university offering a wide range of courses and programs for people who love to learn. They believe in providing a stimulating and innovative environment for students to hone their skills. The school boasts a rich history and beautiful architecture. 

The University of Sienna is one of the longest-running institutions in Italy. This public university has built its reputation in providing quality education to undergraduate and graduate degrees as they offer various academic programs. International students in the university are given the opportunity to join activities to foster engagement in the field.

University of Catania, or Università degli Studi di Catania (UNICT) in Italian, is considered to be one of the oldest universities in the world. Since its founding in 1434, it has educated countless students who have extensively contributed to society. And because the institute is notably known for its first-class education, it has attracted numerous local and international students from across the globe.

Situated in the capital city of Italy, the University of Rome Tor Vergata is a young institution that has already made significant contributions to scientific research and innovation in the country. Since its inception, the university has always aimed to become one of the best universities in Europe. Thus, it continues to enhance the quality of education it currently provides and develop more advanced and innovative future-oriented programs.

The University of Parma has a massive academic community comprising diverse students, academic staff, and exchange students. More than 90 degree programs are offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels, and prospective students are presented with numerous options in choosing which program is best suited for them. The university is truly an excellent place to cultivate and develop students’ skills and talents, as the support needed will be mostly provided.

Established in 1175, the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia is one of the first universities in Italy. It has a long history of upholding academic excellence and is recognized as one of the best public schools in the country. The university welcomes over 21,000 students and offers degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Founded in 1806, the University of Palermo, or Università Degli Studi di Palermo in Italian, is a public academic institution for higher learning in Palermo, Italy. It has 16 faculties offering degree programs and courses in Bachelor’s and Master’s studies. The university is also globally competitive in research, with Ph.D. candidates sustaining research efforts in Engineering, Architecture, Sciences, and Management.

The Ca’ Foscari University of Venice is a public university in Venice, Italy. It was founded on August 6, 1868, as the Advanced School for Commerce. Because of its education of top managers, economists, bankers, and entrepreneurs, the university is now recognized as the most prestigious institute of higher education in commerce in the country. Ca’ Foscari University offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in business and management.

Established in 1391, the University of Ferrera is one of the oldest universities in Italy and the world. Today, they have 25,000 students on campus, and they offer 68 academic programs at undergraduate and graduate levels. Both local and international students enjoy the educational and recreational services offered by the university.