25 Best Universities In Italy For International Students 2024

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 85 universities and colleges in Italy, you’ll surely have a wide range of choices.

Out of 85 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.

Rank University Founded Year City Type
1 University of Bologna 1088 Bologna Public
2 Sapienza University of Rome 1303 Rome Public
3 University of Padua 1222 Padua Public
4 Scuola Normale Superiore 1810 Pisa Public
5 Polytechnic University of Milan 1863 Milan Public
6 University of Milan 1924 Milan Public
7 Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati 1978 Trieste Public
8 University of Naples Federico II 1224 Naples Public
9 University of Pisa 1343 Pisa Public
10 Vita-Salute San Raffaele University 1996 Milan Private
11 University of Trento 1962 Trento Public
12 University of Rome Tor Vergata 1982 Rome Public
13 University of Turin 1404 Turin Public
14 University of Florence 1321 Florence Public
15 University of Pavia 1361 Pavia Public
16 Polytechnic University of Turin 1859 Turin Public
17 University of Genoa 1481 Genoa Public
18 Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies 1987 Pisa Public
19 University of Milano-Bicocca 1998 Milan Public
20 Catholic University of the Sacred Heart 1921 Milan Private
21 Polytechnic University of Bari 1990 Bari Public
22 University of Perugia 1308 Perugia Public
23 University of Modena and Reggio Emilia 1175 Modena Public
24 University of Bari Aldo Moro 1925 Bari Public
25 University of Verona 1982 Verona Public

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 300,000 Euros , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 0 Euros to 300,000 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

1 University of Bologna

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#1 in Italy
#67 in Europe
#154 in World
Percentage of International Students
8%
Total Number of students - 90,291
International Number of students - 7,062

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.

Agricultural Technologies
Economics of Tourism
Social Work
European Studies
Communication Sciences

2 Sapienza University of Rome

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#2 in Italy
#70 in Europe
#159 in World
Percentage of International Students
9%
Total Number of students - 117,000
International Number of students - 10,000

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.

Applied Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
Food and Industrial Biotechnology
Law and Public Administration
Philosophy and Artificial Intelligence
Civil Engineering

3 University of Padua

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#3 in Italy
#92 in Europe
#202 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 59,317

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.

Agricultural Science and Technology
Archaeology
Educational Sciences
Chemical and Materials Engineering
Dietistic

4 Scuola Normale Superiore

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#4 in Italy
#117 in Europe
#263 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 290

Scuola Normale Superiore is one of the most prestigious universities in Italy. Its admission process will require prospective students to undergo an admission competition or call, and only a select number of qualified students will be admitted yearly. The quality of training and research is first-class and unlike anything else. And graduates of the institute have occupied or are currently occupying high positions and have become global leaders, experts, and innovators.

Physics
History and Paleography
Philosophy
Chemistry and Geology
History of Art and Archaeology

5 Polytechnic University of Milan

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#5 in Italy
#123 in Europe
#276 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 42,496

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.

Aerospace Engineering
Architectural Design
Chemical Engineering
Communication Design
Interior Design

6 University of Milan

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#6 in Italy
#125 in Europe
#278 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 61,547

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.

Biotechnology
Chemistry
Podiatry
Speech and Language Therapy
Viticulture and Enology

7 Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati

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#7 in Italy
#135 in Europe
#301 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 287

Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati (SISSA) is a research higher education school popular among professionals and PhD-seeking students. The main areas of study currently offered are doctoral programs in Physics, Neuroscience, and Mathematics. SISSA students and researchers are among the best in Europe. Most of their scientific works have been internationally acknowledged and are printed in major publications.

8 University of Naples Federico II

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#8 in Italy
#166 in Europe
#367 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 80,000

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.

Hospitality Management
Innovation and International Management
Industrial Bioengineering
Food Technology
Mediterranean Gastronomic Sciences

9 University of Pisa

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#9 in Italy
#168 in Europe
#369 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 46,000

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.

Agricultural Sciences
Chemical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Social Work
Tourism Sciences

10 Vita-Salute San Raffaele University

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#10 in Italy
#173 in Europe
#374 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 2,199

Vita-Salute San Raffaele University is a top-ranked university that best trains students that want to pursue a career in psychology, medicine, and philosophy. More than its outstanding facilities, the university also provides intensive supervision to hone students’ skills and mindsets. It also collaborates with other educational institutions, allowing its instructors to simulate real-life scenarios and level up their course offerings.

Philosophy
Dental Hygiene
Physiotherapy
Political Sciences and Global Strategies
Obstetrics

11 University of Trento

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#11 in Italy
#174 in Europe
#379 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 16,058

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.

Business Management
Civil Engineering
Cultural Heritage
Historical and Philological Studies
Modern Languages

12 University of Rome Tor Vergata

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#12 in Italy
#180 in Europe
#390 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 35,000

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.

Business Administration and Economics
Sport and Exercise Sciences
Energy Engineering
Mathematics
Philosophy

13 University of Turin

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#13 in Italy
#181 in Europe
#392 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 81,200

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.

Agricultural Science and Technology
Audiometric Techniques
Biological Sciences
Biotechnology
Business and Management

14 University of Florence

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#14 in Italy
#183 in Europe
#395 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 51,000

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. 

Agricultural Sciences
Statistics
Management Engineering
History
Natural Sciences

15 University of Pavia

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#15 in Italy
#188 in Europe
#403 in World
Percentage of International Students
7%
Total Number of students - 26,000
International Number of students - 1,800

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.

Artificial Intelligence
Corporate Administration, Control and Finance
Biotechnology
Economy
Industrial Engineering

16 Polytechnic University of Turin

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#16 in Italy
#194 in Europe
#418 in World
Percentage of International Students
19%
Total Number of students - 37,000
International Number of students - 7,030

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.

Architecture
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Design and Communication
Physical Engineering
Computer Engineering

17 University of Genoa

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#17 in Italy
#223 in Europe
#488 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 40,000

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.

Economics
Electrical engineering
History
International and diplomatic sciences
Computer science

18 Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies

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#18 in Italy
#226 in Europe
#492 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 315

Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies is a public institute that provides higher education in the field of applied sciences. It has collaborated with some renowned universities in Italy and other foreign institutions to offer unique educational programs. With this kind of curriculum, the university has attracted countless local and international students. However, stiff competition among prospective students can be expected as the university only has limited seats offered to students.

19 University of Milano-Bicocca

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#19 in Italy
#238 in Europe
#522 in World
Percentage of International Students
6%
Total Number of students - 32,841
International Number of students - 1,900

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.

Economics and Business
Statistical and Economic Sciences
Educational Sciences
Intercultural Communication
Legal Services

20 Catholic University of the Sacred Heart

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#20 in Italy
#245 in Europe
#537 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 39,000

The Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (UCSC) is a private research university in Milan, Italy. Other campuses can be found in Brescia, Cremona, Piacenza, and Rome. It was founded in 1921, but its history dates back to around 1870. The university grants Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in a variety of fields of study. Legal studies, economics, agriculture, accounting, and business are among the top disciplines at UCSC.

Communication and Society
Cultural Heritage
Media Languages
Finance
Legal Services

21 Polytechnic University of Bari

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#21 in Italy
#261 in Europe
#576 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 10,000

The Polytechnic University of Bari is a comprehensive university that caters best to aspiring engineers. It is equipped with the tools and resources needed to fulfill the students’ learning process as they strive to provide solutions for complex problems in the industry. The university also collaborates with corporations and other educational institutions to participate in exchange programs and offer high-quality internships to students.

Industrial Design
Building Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Management Engineering
Medical System Engineering

22 University of Perugia

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#22 in Italy
#273 in Europe
#596 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 25,000

The University of Perugia, more commonly known by its Italian name Università degli Studi di Perugia is an outstanding public institution that provides high standards of teaching and research. It was initially established to offer law and arts programs which over the years has since expanded to offer various academic disciplines, including natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences. In addition, internationalization plays a big part in the university’s success. Since it is dedicated to providing internationally acknowledged programs, the institute has made long-term partnerships with higher education schools across the globe to collaborate and give countless opportunities to its students.

Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Cultural Heritage
Economics of Tourism
Legal Services
Speech and Language Therapy

23 University of Modena and Reggio Emilia

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#23 in Italy
#280 in Europe
#611 in World
Percentage of International Students
10%
Total Number of students - 21,000
International Number of students - 2,000

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.

Digital Education
Communication Sciences
Computer Engineering
Chemistry
Physiotherapy

24 University of Bari Aldo Moro

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#24 in Italy
#290 in Europe
#635 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 60,000

The University of Bari is among the prominent universities in the country and has 13 faculties in various disciplines. The university provides highly-interactive research centers where students can connect and collaborate with other intelligent individuals. It maintains a productive academic community, enabling students to achieve their dreams and career ambitions in science and technology.

Chemistry
Dietetics
Business Administration
Business Economics
Physics

25 University of Verona

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#25 in Italy
#291 in Europe
#637 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 22,000

The University of Verona is n institution that deeply focuses on the social and economic development of a country. Because of this, its goals and objectives are aligned with producing competent individuals that are willing to serve the Italian community. Over the years, the university has been successful with its international collaborations and interdisciplinary research programs.

Bioinformatics
Business Administration
Communication Studies
Computer Science
Cultural Heritage

We know that choosing your dream school in Italy not an easy task. After all, you need to consider other factors like the cost of your education, school background, and population, as it can be overwhelming on your part.

So, to help you out further in weighing your school options for studying in Italy, make sure to visit our list of the best public and private universities in Italy! These articles will surely help you in deciding your next study destination!