Top Universities in Italy for International Students: Top Business Schools in Italy

Dreaming of turning pizza-making into a thesis topic? Perhaps the thought of sitting in a historic Italian cafe as you sip espresso and chat with friends sparks your academic curiosity. If Italy means books stacked beside plates of pasta and cultural integration, then we’ve got what you need!

Italy, a country that seamlessly blends academia with culture, is home to globally recognised universities. Its architecture is considered one of the best in the world, and its history is endless and breathtaking.

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In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, 6 Italian institutions secured spots among the world’s top 300 universities. This academic excellence is attracting a growing international student population. According to the latest data from the Ministry of University and Research, 5,260 Indian students are pursuing higher education at top universities in Italy.

Students’ needs are at the forefront for universities in Italy because they focus on giving students the exact skills, knowledge, and academic experience that they need to excel in their respective fields,

This comprehensive guide will introduce you to the best universities in Italy and discuss their admission criteria, intakes in Italy 2024, scholarships, and more.

Key Highlights:

From great institutions like the Sapienza University of Rome to the cost of studying in Italy and scholarship opportunities, get a broad overview of what awaits you on your higher education journey in Italy.

Please note: Eligibility criteria, test requirements, and costs can vary depending on the university and program. Always refer to the official university website for the latest information. This table provides estimated costs; actual expenses may differ.

Also read: Study In Italy 2024 For Indian Students

Why Choose Italy for Higher Studies?

Italy is renowned for its “la dolce vita” – the sweet life. Pursuing your studies in this vibrant country offers many benefits that extend far beyond the classroom. Italy is an educational hub with 61 public and 30 private universities offering more than 500 English-taught study programs.

Here is a deeper dive into the advantages that international students in Italy are awaiting.

World-Class Education

Top universities in Italy consistently rank high in global listings, boasting a prestigious academic history. From the venerable University of Bologna, the oldest in the Western world, to cutting-edge institutions like Politecnico di Milano, you will gain access to top-notch faculty, innovative research opportunities, and a rigorous curriculum that prepares you for success on the global stage.

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A Diverse Range of Programs

Italian universities offer a vast array of programs across various disciplines. Whether you are passionate about engineering, design, medicine, law, the humanities, or anything else, you will find a program that aligns with your academic aspirations.

Gateway to Europe

Italy’s geographical location makes it an ideal base for exploring Europe. During breaks or weekends, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like France, Switzerland, or Austria, experiencing diverse cultures.

Some other benefits of studying at the top universities in Italy for international students include:

• Lively Student Life: Italian universities foster a vibrant student life. From participating in student clubs and organisations to visiting libraries and study centres on university campuses, you will connect with a diverse international community and create lasting memories.

• Thriving Job Market: A degree from a top Italian university is regarded highly by employers worldwide. Additionally, Italy has a growing job market in various sectors, including engineering, business, design, and fashion. Accenture, Amazon, Armani and Pirelli are some of the top companies that hire graduates from Italian universities.

• Quality of Life: Italy is ranked among the top 40 countries in the world by the Quality of Life Index. The emphasis on leisure, good food, and social connections contributes to a high quality of life.

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List of 6 Top Universities in Italy

Italy boasts a network of top universities, consistently ranking high in various fields.

From engineering giants like Politecnico di Milano, ranked 23 among the best universities globally in Engineering and technology, to the historic University of Bologna, ranked 41 in the World University Rankings, known for its prestigious law school and focus on sustainability, Italy offers options for all.

Here is a closer look at six top universities in Italy, each offering unique strengths and program offerings.

Please note: Tuition fees may differ depending on the specific program and level of study (e.g., Bachelor’s vs. Master’s). 

Also read: Top Public Universities in Italy for International Students.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the top universities in Italy and briefly discuss student life, admission criteria, and available scholarships for Indian students.

Politecnico di Milano (Milan Polytechnic)

Ranked 123 among the top 150 universities in the world, Politecnico di Milano is a leader in engineering, architecture, and design. It is one of the largest technical universities in Italy, with more than 42,000 students studying on the campus. Its advanced research facilities and strong industry partnerships equip graduates with the latest knowledge and skills for professional success.

For those interested in the intersection of food and technology, Politecnico di Milano offers a unique “Master of Science in Food Design and Engineering” program.

Student Life: Milan pulsates with a dynamic and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Students can choose from 60+ postgraduate programs. The city offers a thriving fashion scene, world-class museums, and a focus on innovation, creating a vibrant backdrop for student life.

Alumni: Giuseppe Di Franco, Director of the Lutech Group, CEO of Lutech Advanced Solutions, Alumnus of the Politecnico in management engineering

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the Politecnico di Milano:

Here is the table highlighting the admission criteria at the Politecnico di Milano:

Sapienza University of Rome (Sapienza Università di Roma)

Founded in 1303, Sapienza University of Rome is renowned for its prestigious medical school and offers various programs across diverse fields. It is the oldest university in Rome and the largest university in Europe. Offering more than 50 postgraduate programs, the university is home to 1,956 international students from 87 countries. It is one of the top universities in Italy for master’s degrees.

Student Life: Imagine strolling through the historic streets of Rome, exploring world-class museums like the Vatican Museums, and savouring authentic Italian cuisine – that is the student life experience waiting for you at Sapienza. The University also offers a rich campus experience with events like Sapienza International Student Welcome Week. The university also provides library access and student and counselling services.

Alumni: Serge Haroche, 2012 Nobel Prize in Physics, Fermi Chair of Physics at Sapienza 2022

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the Sapienza University of Rome:

Here is the table highlighting the admission criteria at the Sapienza University of Rome:

University of Padua (Università degli Studi di Padova)

Founded in 1222, the University of Padua boasts a rich history in medicine and scientific research. Ranked eighth among the top 10 universities in Europe, the university has an international community of over 4,103 international students. It offers a comprehensive range of humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences programs.

Student Life: Padua offers a welcoming student life experience. The university offers many facilities within walking distance, such as libraries, study centres, and canteens. The campus also provides access to the University sports centre, where students can practise sports like rugby, basketball, volleyball, etc. Students also explore the city’s mediaeval architecture, indulge in local delicacies like “Bigoli in salsa” (thick spaghetti), and connect with fellow students.

Alumni: Federica Bevilacqua, Alumna of Pharmacy at the University of Padua

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the University of Padua:

Here is the table highlighting the admission criteria at the University of Padua:

University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bologna)

Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna holds the prestigious title of the oldest university in the Western world. It is a leader in fields like law, medicine, agriculture, and humanities. The University of Bologna boasts a profound dedication to sustainable development and contributes to attaining all 17 sustainable development goals defined by the UN 2030 Agenda.

The university is home to over 6,502 international students from across the world and offers more than 150 postgraduate English-taught courses.

Student Life: Bologna offers a charming student life experience with exhibitions, concerts, lectures, reviews, scientific popularisation, and activities for its students across its five campuses (in Bologna, Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna and Rimini). The well-preserved mediaeval city centre, with iconic landmarks like the Asinelli Towers, lively student organisations, and vibrant cafe culture, creates a welcoming and engaging atmosphere.

Alumni: Giulia Bosi, a law graduate from the University of Bologna

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the University of Bologna:

Here is the table highlighting the admission criteria at the University of Bologna:

University of Milan

Established in 1924, the University of Milan is one of the top universities in Italy. Often referred to as “la Statale, it is a top-tier research-focused university ranked 14th among the top universities in Europe. It offers many programs across diverse fields, including over 83 graduate courses and 111 postgraduate programs.

Student Life: Students can explore the iconic Duomo Cathedral, delve into the world of fashion at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and enjoy the city’s vibrant city life. Connect with a diverse student community and participate in cultural events and activities such as theatre, music, exhibitions and other festivals.

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the University of Milan:

Here is the table highlighting the admission criteria at the University of Milan:

University of Pisa

Founded in 1343, the University of Pisa is a public institution boasting a rich history and a distinguished reputation. The university is ranked 18th among the top universities in Europe and offers more than 71 master’s degree programmes.

The university offers 20 departments covering various disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, computer science, medicine, veterinary medicine, physics, and humanities.

Student Life: Pisa is a vibrant student city with a rich cultural scene, historical landmarks, and a lively atmosphere. The university provides excellent student support services, housing assistance and student organisations. Students also participate in exciting university associations such as the Student Web Radio Association, the University racing team and more.

Here is the table highlighting the top courses at the University of Pisa:

Here is the table highlighting the admission criteria at the University of Pisa:

Popular Courses at Top Universities in Italy

Top universities in Italy offer diverse programs and consistently rank high in global listings across various disciplines. The University of Milan and the University of Bologna are ranked among the 100 best universities in the world in the field of Medicine.

Fine Arts is one of the most popular courses for international students in Italy, with 5,356 foreign students enrolled in the subject.

Additionally, Sapienza University of Rome offers popular subjects in Arts and Humanities. It is ranked 14th among the top 20 universities in the world in the subject of History of Art.

Top 5 Master Courses in Italy 

Top universities in Italy offer a variety of high-quality master’s programs, with a notable presence in arts, architecture, business, and engineering. The University of Bologna, The University of Padua and Sapienza University of Rome are among the top universities that offer popular master’s courses to international students. 

Italy attracts students from all over the world by offering more than 700 master courses across different disciplines, all of which are entirely taught in English.

Job Opportunities and Salaries in Italy

Another reason to choose Italy as a study abroad destination is its growing job market, particularly in sectors such as engineering, business, fashion and design. Companies such as Accenture, Amazon, Armani Group and Pirelli are among the major firms hiring graduates from top universities in Italy.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular courses for international students in Italy that can help you get high-paying jobs.

Please note: The salary figures above are rough estimates and may vary by location and currency exchange rates.

Scholarships for Indian Students in Italy

For Indian students, the prospect of studying at one of the top universities in Italy is made even more attractive by the availability of various scholarships. These scholarships can significantly offset the cost of education, making it more accessible.

Here are some of the popular scholarships available for Indian students aspiring to study in Italy.

Italian Government Scholarship

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) offers scholarships to foreign students, including those from India. These scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses of up to INR 8.1 Lakhs for deserving international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or research degrees in Italy. 

The winners of the MAECI scholarship receive grants in three separate instalments:

• INR 4 Lakhs for the first
• INR 2.2 Lakhs for the second
• INR 1.8 Lakhs for the last
• The scholarship also covers the students’ collective health and medical insurance.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be enrolled in or planning to attend a university in Italy.
• Proficiency in the Italian language is often required, IELTS (5.5-6.5), TOEFL (80-99)
• Academic merit and the relevance of the study program to the applicant’s career goals are considered.

Also read Government of Italy Scholarship for Indian Students 2024 – Eligibility, How to Apply, Benefits.

International Talents @Unibo Scholarship

Deserving international students will be able to apply for 80 scholarships offered by the University of Bologna. Under this scholarship, students are awarded grants worth INR 4 Lakhs (€4500) and a full exemption from tuition fees.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent certificate.
• SAT (950) aptitude and skills assessment test score reports.
• Applicants must have an ISEE or equivalent financial status.
• Be less than 30 years old at the deadline for submitting applications.

Excellence Scholarships program

The University of Milan offers Excellence scholarships to its best new students. Any student enrolled in the first year of a Master’s degree program is eligible to apply. 

Under this scholarship, 55 scholarships worth INR 7.2 Lakhs (8,000 Euros) each are provided to students who are eligible for exemption from the all-inclusive tuition fee.

Padua International Excellence Scholarship

Fifty-nine scholarships are offered by the University of Padua to highly talented prospective students wishing to enrol in any Bachelor’s or Master’s degree entirely held in English in Padova. Successful scholars will be expected to fulfil an ambassadorial role and represent the University at a number of events.

Under this scholarship, students are awarded a fee waiver and INR 7.2 Lakhs (8,000 Euros) per academic year to cover their study and living expenses. The Padua International Excellence Scholarship has a maximum duration of 2 years for master’s programmes and three years for bachelor programmes.

Cost of Living in Italy for International Students

Understanding the cost of living is crucial for international students planning to study in Italy. They can expect to spend around INR 73K to INR 1.6 L per month on living expenses.

The cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city and lifestyle, but this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect.

Note: The costs mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary by location and currency exchange rates.

How to Get a Student Visa in Italy for International Students

The current student visa success rate of 98.2% makes Italy a promising destination for Indian students. It is essential to carefully review and prepare all the required documents, maintain a solid academic record, and follow visa guidelines.

Here’s a breakdown of the process to apply for a student visa. 

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Italy.
• Acceptance Letter: An official acceptance letter from your chosen Italian university confirming your enrollment in a recognised study program.
• Proof of Financial Means: Documentation demonstrating you have sufficient financial resources (not less than INR 5.4L/year) to support yourself during your studies in Italy. This could include bank statements, scholarship awards, or a sponsor’s letter of support.
• Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance coverage of a minimum of INR 14L (€149,77) for the duration of your stay.
• Completed Visa Application Form: You can find the latest version on the website of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
• Passport-Size Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs meeting the specifications outlined by the Italian consulate or embassy in your country.
• Proof of Accommodation: This could be a residence permit confirmation, a rental agreement, or a letter from the university confirming on-campus housing.
• Additional Documents: The Italian consulate or embassy might require additional documents depending on your specific situation. Check their website for the latest requirements.
• Student Visa Fee: INR 6,601
• Await Visa Decision: Processing times can vary, so be patient after your interview. The consulate or embassy will inform you of their decision in due time.

Intakes in Italy for 2024-2025

Now that you have narrowed your search to 6 top universities in Italy and their popular courses, you need to choose the best intake for your international study adventure. Italian universities generally follow a two-semester system, with some variations based on the institution and specific programs. 

The main intakes for international students are:

Fall Intake (September/October)

The Fall Intake is the primary intake for most top universities in Italy and offers the broadest range of courses and programs. Data from the Italian Ministry of Education shows that 70% of new enrollments occur in the Fall semester.

Key Dates and Deadlines

• Application Period: Most universities open their applications for the Fall Intake from November to April of the preceding academic year.
• Application Deadline: The application deadline typically ranges from April to July, depending on the university and program. For example, the University of Bologna has an application deadline in April for many of its programs.
• Course Commencement: Courses generally start in late September or early October. 

Spring Intake (February/March)

The spring intake is the secondary intake and offers fewer course options than the fall intake. However, it is still a popular choice for many students.

Key Dates and Deadlines

• Application Period: Applications for the Spring Intake usually open around July to September.
• Application Deadline: Deadlines typically fall between October and December. For example, Sapienza University of Rome has a December deadline for its Spring Intake programs.
• Course Commencement: Courses typically begin in late February or early March.

Short-Term Programs and Summer Schools

In addition to the main intakes, top universities in Italy also offer short-term programs and summer schools, ideal for students looking to enhance their education without committing to a full degree program.

Summing Up

Italy is a top destination for Indian students pursuing higher studies. In this guide, we have covered admission requirements, popular intakes, scholarships, living costs and all the essentials for students planning to go to Italy for higher studies.

Italian universities offer diverse programs across various fields, from engineering and medicine to fine arts and humanities. Notably, the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world, and Politecnico di Milano, a leader in engineering and design, stand out for their prestigious academic programs and vibrant student life.

With a staggering employment rate of 66.5%, Italy also offers a high quality of life, a thriving job market, and the chance to immerse yourself in a culture that values leisure and learning. 

Frequently Asked Questions