Top Public Universities in Italy for International Students

Did you know that Italy has one of the largest economies in the world and provides ample job opportunities for graduates?

Studying in Italy allows students to learn Italian, a language spoken by over 85 million people worldwide.

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According to the QS World University Rankings of previous years, 21 Italian universities are ranked among the top 1000 universities in the world. 

Italy has a strong focus on research and development, with significant investment in innovation and technology. 

Italy is the third most popular study-abroad destination for Indian students after the US and Canada, with over 4,000 Indian students studying in Italy in previous years.

Why study in Italy?

With over 80,000 students choosing Italy as their study-abroad destination, it is clear that Italy is a popular choice among students worldwide.

These universities not only provide high-quality education but also offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture and history. 

Here are a few reasons why Italy can be your top choice for studying abroad: 

Rich Cultural Experience: Italy has a rich history and culture that dates back centuries, and studying there will give Indian students a chance to immerse themselves in this unique experience.

High-Quality Education: Italy has some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, offering high-quality education that is recognised globally.

Affordable Tuition and Living Expenses: Compared to other popular study-abroad destinations, Italy’s tuition and living expenses are relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for Indian students.

Job Opportunities: Italy is home to many international companies, and graduates from Italian universities have ample job opportunities in various industries, including fashion, design, and tourism.

Language Learning: Studying in Italy provides Indian students with the opportunity to learn Italian, a language that is spoken by over 85 million people worldwide and can be a valuable asset in the job market.

Top 10 Public Universities in Italy

Italy is a popular destination for students from all over the world looking for high-quality education and a culturally rich experience, with approximately 61 public universities. 

The country boasts numerous prestigious universities that provide a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities. 

Here is a list of Top Public Universities in Italy: 

Also Read: Study in Italy 2024 for Indian Students 

Here’s an overview of the Top 5 Public Universities in Italy: 

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Politecnico di Milano

Politecnico di Milano, founded in 1863, is one of Italy’s most distinguished public universities for overseas students. 

It is the biggest technical university in Italy, with roughly 42,000 students engaged in various fields such as engineering, architecture, and design. Politecnico di Milano has two primary campuses in Milan and five other campuses in different areas.  

University of Bologna

Public universities in Italy have faced many challenges over the centuries, with the rise and fall of empires. 

However, the University of Bologna has managed to maintain its position as the oldest university in continuous operation in the world, providing high-quality education to thousands of students since 1088. With 11 schools and approximately 86,500 students, this university is widely regarded as a centre of excellence.

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Sapienza University of Rome 

Sapienza University of Rome or the University of Rome is ranked among the top Italy public university list. It is a public research university and one of the largest European Universities by enrollment. 

Established in 1303, it is one of the ancient universities in the world!! Sapienza University has educated many Nobel laureates.

University of Padua

The University of Padua is one of the best public colleges in Italy. Established some 800 years ago in 1222 by a group of students and teachers from Bologna, the university is the second oldest university to study in Italy and the world’s fifth oldest surviving university. 

Nicholaus Copernicus, the man who placed the Sun at the centre of the Solar system, is probably the most celebrated alumni of the university.

University of Milan

In Italy, public universities have emerged rather recently and have grown to great success. Such is the University of Milan established in 1924. 

Only a century old, this university has around 60,000 students and a huge fraction of international learners. Colloquially known as UniMi, the University of Milan offers 140 undergraduate, 32 doctoral, and 65+ specialisation courses. 

Top Courses to Study in Italy 

Studying in Italy can offer students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a lively and dynamic academic community while experiencing the beauty and charm of Italian culture.

Here is a list of top courses for studying in Italy: 

Intakes in Italy 

In Italy, universities generally offer two major intakes for international students – February and September. 

The February intake is usually smaller and more competitive, while the September intake is larger and more popular. 

Both intakes offer a wide range of courses in various fields and provide opportunities for students to pursue their academic and career goals.

Documents Required to Study in Italy for Indian Students 

• A valid passport
• Proof of financial resources
• Proof of admission to an Italian university
• High school diploma or equivalent transcripts for undergraduate programs
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent transcripts for graduate programs
• English Language Proficiency Exams: IELTS (6.5-7.0) TOEFL (100)
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• Medical certificate and health insurance

Note: It is essential to check with the specific university you are applying to as the documents required may vary depending on the program and level of study.

Visa Requirements For Indian Students

Here are the visa requirements for Indian students To study in Italy:

• A valid passport
• Letter of acceptance from an Italian university
• Proof of financial support for the duration of the study program
• Health insurance coverage
• A completed visa application form
• Recent passport-sized photographs

It is recommended that Indian students who want to study in Italy opt for a Type-D visa, which is also known as a National visa. 

With this visa, students can stay in Italy for the entire duration of their study program, which is usually more than 90 days.

Note: If you plan to study in Italy for less than 90 days, you will need to apply for a C-VISA. It is crucial to understand the type of visa required for your course and apply for it in advance.

Cost of Studying in Italy 

You can find more information about the average tuition fees for public and private universities in the table provided below:

Cost of Living in Italy 

Living expenses for Indian students in Italy may vary based on their location and lifestyle. Typically, larger cities such as Milan and Rome have higher living costs than smaller towns or cities. 

Nevertheless, Italy provides various affordable accommodation and dining options for budget-conscious students. Moreover, students can take advantage of discounts on transportation, cultural events, and entertainment.

Here is the breakdown of the average cost of living in Italy for Indian and International students:

Scholarships in Italy for Indian Students 

Italy offers various scholarships to international students, including Indian students, to help them pursue their academic dreams. 

These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance and other costs associated with studying abroad. 

In previous years, Italy offered over 9,000 scholarships to international students, making it an attractive destination for students seeking financial aid.

Below is the list of scholarships available for Indian students in Italy: 

• Accademia del Design e della Moda (IUAD)
• Accademia di Belle Arti di Sanremo – Istituto “I. Duncan”
• Accademia di Costume e Moda
• Accademia Italiana di Arte, Moda e Design
• Accademia Nazionale di Arte Drammatica “Silvio D’Amico”
• Centro di Lingua e Cultura Italiana “Torre di Babele”
• Conservatorio di Musica “Arrigo Boito” di Parma
• Conservatorio di Musica “Giacomo Puccini”
• Conservatorio Statale di Musica “Arcangelo Corelli”
• Conservatorio Statale di Musica “G. Verdi”

Also Read: Top 10 Italy Scholarships for Indian Students 2024

Eligibility Criteria For Italian Scholarships

Here are the eligibility criteria that you need to pass to get scholarships: 

• Applicants should be international students.
• Must have academic achievements and GPA.
• Applicants must provide a well-written motivation letter.
• After attending for at least two years, applicants must have a degree from an external institution or an Italian one outside the country.

Career Opportunities after studying in Italy 

An Italian degree opens doors! Italy’s STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) are booming, with more universities offering programs in English. Over 70% of graduates with Italian degrees find jobs within a year, and a 1-year job seeker visa lets you land your dream Italian career!

Part-Time Jobs In Italy For Indian Students 

Like many other Western countries, international and Indian students studying in Italy are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week. 

The average hourly wage can vary between INR 630 and INR 912, which can result in a weekly income ranging from INR 12,775 to INR 18,250. Some jobs may also offer a higher hourly wage of up to INR 1,368.

Below is the list of top part-time jobs in Italy for Indian and International students:-

Top Recruiters In Italy For Indian And International Students

Top recruiters in Italy provide ample job opportunities for Indian students. The country is home to many international companies and prestigious universities.

Gi Group and Adecco are two such recruiters who help with job search, applications, and career development, increasing students’ chances of landing their dream job in Italy.

Here’s a list of Top recruiters in Italy: 

Wrapping It Up

Italy is a top choice for Indian students seeking high-quality education, rich cultural experiences, and affordable tuition and living expenses. 

Italian universities offer a wide range of academic programs and research opportunities in various fields, including art, design, engineering, fashion, and business.

Compared to other popular study-abroad destinations, Italy’s tuition and living expenses are relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for students.

With various scholarships and job opportunities available, Italy provides a promising career path for Indian students, making it an excellent option for those seeking academic and professional growth.

Feeling overwhelmed by study abroad choices? Take a breath! Our counsellors at LeapScholar, with 50+ years of experience, can personalise your journey and make it smooth sailing.

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