Have you ever wondered where learning began?
Universities have been around for centuries, shaping minds and promoting groundbreaking discoveries. But how far back do these institutions of knowledge actually go?
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Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey! This guide takes you deep into the history, unveiling the oldest universities in the world. Some of these institutions have been educating students for over 100 years!
So, scroll down and uncover these ancient powerhouses of knowledge!
Oldest Universities in the World
There are thousands of universities worldwide today, but only a select few have existed for centuries. These ancient institutions have stood the test of time and have been working in shaping the world we live in today.
Did you know that the oldest university in the world was founded in 1088? That’s over 900 years ago! These universities have a rich history, legacy and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Here’s a table of the top 10 oldest universities in the world:
| Universities | Founded In | Location |
| University of Al-Karaouine | 859 AD | Morocco |
| Al-Azhar University | 970 AD | Cairo, Egypt |
| University of Bologna | 1088 | Bologna, Italy |
| University of Oxford | 1096 | Oxford, England |
| University of Paris | 1160 – 1250 | Paris, France |
| University of Salamanca | 1134 | Salamanca, Spain |
| University of Cambridge | 1209 | Cambridge, England |
| University of Padua | 1222 | Padua, Italy |
| University of Naples Federico II | 1224 | Naples, Italy |
| University of Siena | 1240 | Siena, Italy |
After exploring the top 10 oldest universities in the world, it’s time to delve deeper into their key information. Let’s take a closer look!
University of Al-Qarawiyyin
The University of Al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco, boasts a rich and fascinating history. It is claimed to be the oldest continuously operating university in the world (founded in 859 AD) and has been a beacon of knowledge for centuries. Al-Qarawiyyin played a pivotal role in preserving and transmitting Islamic knowledge while also flourishing in fields like medicine, astronomy, and law.
| Top Courses | -History and Civilization of the Islamic World -Mathematics and Astronomy in Islamic Civilization -Medicine and Traditional Islamic Medicine |
| Avg Tuition Fees | NA |
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University of Bologna
The University of Bologna boasts a rich academic heritage dating back to 1088 AD. This prestigious institution has been growing for innovative thinkers and students for centuries.
The University of Bologna offers a charming glimpse into its academic history. It thrives as a modern learning centre, attracting students worldwide with its top-ranked programs and vibrant campus life.
Let’s explore some of the university’s most popular courses and see when the ideal times are to apply.
| Top Courses | -Medicine & Surgery -Law -Engineering |
| Best Intake | September |
| Avg Tuition fees | INR 2L – INR 3.5L |
University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Founded in the 11th century, it is located in Oxford, England, and is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. While the exact date of its founding is unknown, evidence suggests teaching activities existed at Oxford in 1096.
Oxford was founded by students and teachers who wanted to create a place of learning that would attract the brightest minds worldwide. It is known for its exceptional teaching and research. It is home to over 20,000 students, including many from India.
Let’s explore some of the university’s most popular courses and see when the ideal times are to apply.
| Top Courses | –BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences -MBA -MSc in Computer Science (Advanced) |
| Best Intake | -September -January |
| Avg Tuition fees | INR 10.5L (£10,000) – INR 55L (£52,500) |
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University of Paris
The University of Paris, also known as the Sorbonne, is one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in the 12th century. It has a rich academic history and has been a centre of learning and innovation for centuries. Today, the university is known for its exceptional research and teaching, attracting students from all over the world. It offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines, including science, humanities, law, and medicine.
Here’s a table of the top courses offered at the University of Paris, along with their average tuition fees and best intake:
| Top Courses | -Humanities -Law & Political Science -Economics & Management |
| Best Intake | September |
| Avg Tuition fees | INR 90,000 – INR 3.4L |
University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge, located in Cambridge, England, is the 7th oldest and most prestigious university in the world. It was founded in 1209, making it over 800 years old.
In recent years, India has emerged as one of the top countries sending students to the University of Cambridge. According to the latest figures, India ranks 5th in the total population of international students at the university, with 389 students.
Here’s a table of the top courses offered at the University of Paris, along with their average tuition fees and best intake:
| Top Courses | -BA (Hons) Computer Science -Master of Finance -MBA |
| Best Intake | Michaelmas term (Oct – Dec) |
| Avg Tuition fees | INR 27L (£25,734) – INR 72L (£69000) |
Oldest Universities in the USA
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious and oldest universities in the world. With over 4,000 colleges and universities, the USA is a hub of higher education, attracting students from all over the globe.
In fact, a significant number of Indian students go to the USA every year to pursue their education. According to US Consulate officials, over a million international students enrolled at US higher education institutions in the academic year 2022/23, out of which 268,923 students were from India.
Here’s a table of the top 5 oldest universities in the USA, along with their average tuition fees:
| Universities | Founded In | Avg Tuition Fees |
| Harvard University | 1636 | INR 33L ($54,269) – INR 53L ($ 86,145) |
| College of William & Mary | 1693 | INR 24.5L ($ 29,352) – INR 1Cr ($120,750) |
| St. John’s College | 1996 | INR 37.5L ($ 45,000) |
| Yale University | 1701 | INR 12L ($ 14377) – INR 85L ($101839) |
| University of Pennsylvania | 1740 | INR 29L ($ 34745) – INR 50L ($ 59905) |
Oldest Universities in the UK
The United Kingdom is famous for some of the most renowned and oldest Universities in the World. Boasting a rich tradition of education for over a thousand years, these institutions continue to attract students from across the globe seeking a prestigious education.
In recent years, more than 120,000 Indian students have been studying in the UK, making up the largest international student communities in the UK. The number of Indian students preferring the UK for higher education is increasing rapidly every year.
The higher education system in the UK is a vast and diverse network of universities and colleges. It offers an extensive array of programs catering to a wide range of interests and academic goals.
Here’s a table of the top 5 oldest universities in the UK, along with their average tuition fees:
| Universities | Founded In | Avg Tuition Fees |
| University of Oxford | 1096 | INR 10.5L (£10,000) – INR 55L (£52,500) |
| University of Cambridge | 1209 | INR 27L (£25,734) – INR 72L (£69000) |
| University of St Andrews | 1413 | INR 38L (£ 30,160) – INR 39L (£ 37,000) |
| University of Glasgow | 1451 | INR 11.3L (£10800) – INR 60L (£ 56,520) |
| University of Aberdeen | 1495 | INR 21L (£ 20000) |
Oldest Universities in Canada
Canada is home to over 100 universities, each offering a diverse range of programs and disciplines. The country’s oldest universities have a rich history and continue to attract students from all over the world.
The oldest university in Canada is the Université Laval, founded in 1663.
Here’s a table of the top 10 oldest universities in Canada:
| Universities | Founded In | Avg tuition fees |
| Université Laval | 1663 | INR 18L (CAD 30,000) – INR 24L (CAD 40,000) |
| University of New Brunswick | 1785 | INR 20L (CAD 33,000) |
| University of King’s College | 1789 | INR 20.5L (CAD 33,814) |
| McGill University | 1821 | INR 16.4L (CAD 27,000) – INR 37L (CAD 61,000) |
| University of Toronto | 1827 | INR 18L (CAD 29,597) – INR 50L (CAD 82,215) |
Oldest Universities in Australia
Australia is home to over 40 universities, each offering a diverse range of programs and disciplines. The country’s oldest universities have a rich history and continue to attract students from all over the world.
Recent data reveals that Australia remains a top choice for Indian students, with India being the second-largest source country for international student enrolments, contributing a significant total of 1,22,391 students to Australian universities.
Here’s a table of the top 10 oldest universities in Australia:
| Universities | Founded In | Avg tuition fees |
| The University of Sydney | 1850 | INR 16L (AUD 29,322) – INR 20L (AUD 36,652) |
| The University of Melbourne | 1853 | INR 22L (AUD 40318) – INR 25L (AUD 45815) |
| University of Tasmania | 1842 | INR 17L (AUD 31000) – INR INR 47.5L (AUD 87,000) |
| Federation University Australia | 1870 | INR 12.5L (AUD 23,000) – INR 16.3L (AUD 30,000) |
| The University of Adelaide | 1874 | INR 25L (AUD 45815) |
Top 10 High-Ranking Oldest Universities in the World
When it comes to the oldest universities in the world, many of them have also earned high rankings in global university rankings. These rankings are calculated based on factors such as research output, academic reputation, student satisfaction, and more.
The QS World University Rankings is one of the most respected and widely used university ranking systems globally.
Here’s a table of the top 10 oldest universities in the world, along with their QS world university ranking and location:
| Universities | QS World Ranking 2024 | Founded In |
| University of Cambridge | #2 | 1209 |
| University of Oxford | #3 | 1096 |
| Harvard University | #4 | 1636 |
| Yale University | #16 | 1701 |
| McGill University | #30 | 1821 |
Final Thoughts
The oldest universities in the world have a rich legacy and continue to shape the world today. From the University of Al-Karaouine in Morocco to the University of Cambridge in England, these institutions have stood the test of time and continue to attract students from across the globe seeking a prestigious education.
If you’re looking to pursue higher education in one of these historic institutions, LeapScholar can help guide you through the process of studying abroad in countries like the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada.
From IELTS preparation to visa assistance, LeapScholar is your one-stop-shop for pursuing your dreams of studying at the oldest university in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Which is the Oldest University in the World?
A. The oldest university in the world is the University of Al-Karaouine, which was founded in 859 AD in Morocco. It is one of the most prestigious universities, offering a wide range of courses in various fields.
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Q. What are the three Oldest Universities in the World?
A. The three oldest universities in the world are the University of Bologna, the University of Oxford in the UK, and the University of Salamanca in Spain. They were all founded in the 11th and 12th centuries and have a long and rich history of academic excellence.
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Q. Which is the oldest University in the USA?
A. Harvard University is the oldest university in the USA, founded in 1636. It is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts and has a rich history of academic excellence. Harvard is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world and has produced numerous distinguished alumni, including eight U.S. presidents. Its beautiful campus, iconic buildings, and rich traditions make it a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
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Q. Which is the oldest University in the UK?
A. The oldest university in the UK is the University of Oxford, which was founded in the 12th century. It is located in Oxford, England, and is one of the most highly regarded universities in the world. It is known for its academic excellence and research.
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Q. Which is the oldest University in in Canada?
A. The oldest university in Canada is the University of New Brunswick, which was founded in 1785. It is located in Fredericton, New Brunswick and is one of the oldest public universities in North America.
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Q. Which is the oldest University in Australia?
A. The oldest university in Australia is the University of Sydney, which was founded in 1850. It is located in Sydney, New South Wales, and is one of the most prestigious universities in Australia. It offers a wide range of courses in various fields.
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Q. Do the Oldest Universities in the World offer scholarships?
A. Yes, the oldest universities in the world offer scholarships to students based on academic merit and financial need. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying.
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Q. Can Indian students study at the oldest universities in the world?
A. Yes, Indian students can study at the oldest universities in the world. Most of these universities have international student programs and welcome students from all over the world.
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Q. What are the benefits of studying at the oldest Universities in the world?
A. The benefits of studying at the oldest universities in the world include access to world-class facilities, highly experienced faculty, a diverse student body, and a rich academic history and culture.
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Q. Is the University of Bologna the oldest continuously operating university?
A. Yes, the University of Bologna is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. It has been in operation since it was founded in 1088 and has a long and rich history of academic excellence.
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Q. Where is the oldest University in the World located?
A. The oldest university in the world is located in the city of Fez, Morocco. It is called the University of Al-Qarawiyyin and was founded in 859 AD. It was established by Fatima al-Fihri, a Muslim woman who wanted to create a place of learning for her community. The university has played an important role in the development of Islamic scholarship and education, and it continues to be an important institution to this day.
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