Study in Italy

Praising Italy might be the most complicated thing in the world: where do you even start?. Do you mention a bunch of famous Italians, like da Vinci, Borgia, Versace, and Vivaldi? Or just mention the fields they revolutionised, like Architecture, Music, Engineering, and Fashion?

I could just focus on the brilliant landscapes and the UNESCO World Heritage sites, or how awesome Italian people are, with their pastas, wines, and signature hand gesture, but it would be redundant.

Bottom line is simply: Italy is awesome!

Why Study in Italy?

1. Italian universities are affordable

When compared to their Western counterparts, Italian public universities are incredibly affordable. If you come from an EU/EEA country, you won’t pay more than 4,000 EUR per year, and you can easily find much cheaper study programmes.

Non-EU/EEA citizens enjoy the same tuition rates in some cases, but in others they do pay more — which is why you should always check what tuition applies to students from your country.

2. Impressive higher education experience

The University of Bologna is the oldest university in Europe, having been established in 1088. That means it is almost 1,000 years old and still alive and kicking today!

Bologna is also the name of the process used by the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) to create a more coherent, uniform, and attractive education system.

Many European countries follow this system. If you study at one university implementing it, your diploma will be recognised in any other country that’s part of the programme.

All in all, we’d say that Italy knows a thing or two about higher education and has a long and rich experience in this field.

3. Italy is at the forefront of fashion and architecture

One visit to Italy is enough to understand why it is considered a leader in terms of fashion, arts, and architecture. Milan is the stand out city, as one of the 4 fashion capitals of the world.

As for architecture, going through the charming Italian cities will reveal to you the beauty and unique style of buildings, which seem to have been lost in the process of developing the modern architecture.

4. Enjoy the Mediterranean climate

The warm sun, the sea breeze, the tasty fruits and vegetables — all are essential elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle, which is highly regarded for its health and wellness benefits.

Sardinia, for example, is one of the few “Blue Zones” in the world, where people often reach over 90 years of age.

5. Visit amazing and time defying historic sites

When you’re not in classes, take the time to visit some of the oldest and most impressive historic sites in Europe. From the Colosseum to the Pantheon, from the Valley of the Temples to Ostia Antica — all these places still carry their aura of former glory, an aura that can still be felt and explored nowadays.

Which universities to attend in Italy

If you’re the type of student who wants to go only to the best universities, disregarding the city you’re going to or the province best suited for you, you can always check out these highly-recommended universities:

What is it like to study in Italy?

Everybody who gets to study in Italy says the same thing about the universities here: the professors and fellow students are friendly and helpful, the cultural landscape is very diverse, and the architecture of the universities is exquisite.

However, it might help if you study a bit of Italian before coming here: although they are warm and kind, it may be difficult to talk to them, because not everyone is fluent in English.

Also, although the tuition fees are rather low, you should check out scholarships in Italy: there are a lot of chances of discovering one that suits you and your study option.

What to study in Italy

Italy can be easily compared to that annoying colleague from high school who excelled at everything he or she did. Considering how many pioneers Italy has produced, there’s no wonder the list of “most sought-after” fields is so vast and comprehensive. Still, the most popular study options in Italy are:

Major cities in Italy

The greatest universities in Italy are usually located in the bigger cities. If you’re not sure which are those, or you’re simply searching for details about living costs and geography, you can always check out these cities in Italy:

How to apply

The application process in Italy can be complicated, but we’re here to help and trace the major lines.

First of all, you should contact the university you’re interested in and check if your qualifications are eligible. This is represented by a prior assessment, after which the university will give you feedback and tell you if you meet all the standards.

After, you will have to submit a pre-application request at your Italian embassy or consulate, and let them manage your application afterwards.

By the end of August, students will find a list of admitted candidates on the embassy’s or consulate’s page.

Some of the documents you will need to deliver with your application are:

Your ID
A passport-type photograph
Your academic transcripts
Your university application form
A detailed study programme or course description, which must contain the number of hours of the courses or training activities that you have completed, according to your academic curriculum
Your CV
A letter of recommendation
A letter of motivation
Language proficiency certificate (English or Italian)
Your portfolio, if you’re applying to Architecture, Urban Planning, or Design programmes
Official SAT or ACT scores

Helpful ways to make sure you qualify for an Italian university

Take Preparation Courses

These kinds of courses enable degree-seeking students to get an extra educational boost just before they start their Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree programmes.

Try a pre-M.B.A., pre-Law, or pre-Medicine programme, as well as any other foundation or preparation courses that will allow you to study in the degree programme of your choice.

Improve your English through an English-language prep course

If you’re attending a degree programme in Italy, you will need to prove that your language skills are good enough to participate in the classes and understand the lectures; some schools will require strong English or Italian skills. These courses will also prepare you for any of the English-language tests that universities require.

English-language tests

Italian universities have programmes that are taught either in English or in Italian. That’s why, in order to be accepted at one of their programmes, you will need to provide proof of either English or Italian proficiency.

The language tests accepted by Italian universities for English are:

PTE Academic
TOEFL
IELTS
C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency

Masters in Italy – A Guide for 2022

Studying a Masters in Italy is an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your education and career. You’ll have the opportunity to attend historic universities, benefit from cutting edge modern research and, of course, enjoy the chance to explore one of the most beautiful parts of Europe during your degree.

This page covers everything you’ll need to know about postgraduate study in Italy, with information on Italian universities, courses and fees as well as advice on applications, visas and student funding. We’re also keeping an eye on the effect of coronavirus on students in Italy.

Postgraduate opportunities in Italy – what’s on offer for 2022?

A Masters degree in Italy means studying in one of the most prestigious traditions of higher education in the world. Universities in Italy have existed for centuries: the oldest university in the Western world is the University of Bologna.

It’s this venerable institution that has given its name to the Bologna Process – a means through which higher education systems across Europe have come together to develop a common framework for university education.

Here are some reasons why you should consider a Masters in Italy:

Affordable tuition fees – Public universities in Italy take great pride in their efforts to make tuition fees affordable, both for domestic and international students.
Heritage – Italy embodies some of the proudest traditions in European higher education and the driving force behind modern developments in the quality and value of European university degrees.
Research opportunities – As a key member of the European academic community, the Italian university system has excellent links with other institutions across the continent (and beyond).
Location – Italy’s position as a gastronomic, cultural and sartorial centre is no secret, and it’s a great place to expand your horizons as an international student.

Masters Study in Italy – Key Details
Universities	96
Oldest University	University of Bologna (1088)
International Students	54,855
Course Length	2 years
Typical Fees (Domestic / EU)	€1,630 (average)
Academic Year	September to July

Coronavirus updates for international students at Italian universities

For the latest information on the impact of coronavirus on studying a Masters in Italy, please read the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation’s COVID-19 guidance page. Here you can find updates regarding travel restrictions for foreigners arriving in Italy.

Italian universities

Italy introduced the three-cycle structure found throughout European higher education in 1999. This system, called the Bologna process, aims to create a common higher education area in Europe, allowing for an easier credit transfer (called ECTS) and qualification recognition framework within Europe and beyond.

There are several different kinds of higher education institutions in Italy where you can do a Masters degree. It’s also worth bearing in mind that other ‘non-university’ institutions also offer postgraduate study in Italy (for example, design and art schools).

State universities – Most universities in Italy are research-focussed public universities. There are 67 of these, ranging from very large institutions hosting around 100,000 students to much smaller specialist institutions of a few thousand students. Public universities are all autonomous and decide their own priorities and administration.
Private universities (with state recognition) – There are 29 private universities in Italy. If you opt for a private university, make sure it is accredited by the Italian Ministry of Education. State-recognised private universities offer the same standard of education and their qualifications carry the same weight as those from the public universities. The main difference is in the way these institutions are funded and, as a consequence, the tuition fees they charge tend to be higher – see the tuition fee information below.
Universities for foreigners (Università per Stranieri) – These universities are oriented towards study by foreign students of Italian language and culture. There are two of these universities (the oldest in Perugia, founded in 1921, and the other in Siena). Their other responsibility is to administer the two Italian language tests (CILT and CELI).
Higher schools (Scuole Superiori) – These institutions have a unique legal status which allows them to specialise solely in postgraduate university studies.
Technical universities (Politecnici) – Technical universities are very similar to state universities but they focus exclusively in two fields: Engineering and Architecture.
Online/distance universities – These universities deliver state-accredited courses by e-learning.

Italian university rankings

Italy’s status as a major European higher education hub is reflected by its performance in the three main ranking systems, with a clutch of institutions among the top 300 in the world.

View a more detailed guide to Italian postgraduate rankings.

University	THE 2022	QS 2022	ARWU 2021
University of Bologna	=172	=166	201-300
Sapienza University of Rome	=197	171	151-200
Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa	=197	–	401-500
University of Padua	201-250	–	151-200
Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies – Pisa	201-250	–	–
Vita-Salute San Raffaele University	201-250	390	401-500
Information in this table is based on the latest Times Higher Education World University Rankings, QS World University Rankings and Academic Ranking of World Universities. Visit their websites for more information.

Italian university cities

Italian university cities Italy has a great deal to choose from when it comes to picking a location to study in. Whether you’re looking for a historic university town like Padua, a modern metropolis like Milan or the ancient landmarks of Rome, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice.

Course types

The Italian higher education system benefits from very strong engagement with European institutions and partners, which means that Italian universities have numerous exchange and double degree agreements with other universities in Europe. A Masters from Italy can open the door to other high-quality European institutions.

An Italian Masters takes two years and is awarded after obtaining 120 ECTS, made up of ECTS for core courses, electives, seminars and the dissertation (which represents 30 ECTS by itself). Masters degrees are split into four semesters with a summer holiday between year one and year two.

The majority of your Masters will be based on lectures, tutorial, group work and coursework (if you are in the sciences or engineering, then it is likely you will have practical sessions too). The aim is to give enhanced knowledge of your subject as well as technical, interpersonal, and research skills.

Semester four will be dedicated to your dissertation which could be based on theory, a placement or a research project.

Academic calendar

The academic year in Italy starts from the end of September or beginning of October until July. Generally, a semester system is followed by universities; semester one starts in September/October and ends in January/February. The second semester starts in February and ends in July.

Search for a Masters in Italy

Ready to start looking for your ideal study abroad opportunity? Browse and compare Masters degrees in Italy on FindAMasters.com

Masters fees and funding

Many of the universities and other higher education institutions in Italy establish their own fee structure and fee levels vary from university to university. However, there is a legal minimum fee for enrolment and maximum level for student contributions to costs and services, which cannot exceed 20% of state funding.

Public university tuition fees (tasse) for domestic and EU students average at €1,630 per year. You might have to pay an application fee of around €30, depending on the institution.

Private universities will be much more expensive than the state-funded universities and may charge fees anywhere between €6,000 and €20,000. You may also have to pay an application fee of around €100, and if you are taking the national entrance examination, there will be an additional fee.

Scholarships and financial support

Generous support is provided to both international and Italian students, in the form of scholarships, student loans, housing assistance, university restaurant meal tickets and fee waivers. Financial assistance is means-tested and you will have to provide bank statements or tax returns to demonstrate your financial needs.

Bursaries from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for overseas students.
Bursaries from universities – check the websites of individual institutions for more details.
The Council on International Educational Exchange has grants available for American students to study abroad, both need-based and merit-based.
The Fulbright Commission has several funding opportunities for American citizens who want to study in Italy.
Fund for Education Abroad

Applying for a Masters in Italy

Within the Bologna three-cycle framework, a bachelor (or an international equivalent) is required to undertake a Masters degree.

You may also have to sit an entrance exam to gain admission into university in Italy. If you are applying for Masters degrees in the area of economics, management, finance and business studies, for example, you are likely to be asked for a GMAT or GRE.

If you want to do a Masters in Italian, you will have to demonstrate a good command of the language and universities will probably ask for an Italian proficiency certificate.

Application procedure

It is advisable to start your search for a Masters programme in Italy at least 12 months before your proposed start date. The documentation required generally includes:

All transcripts and diplomas (and translations, if applicable).
A full CV.
Two to three references.
A personal statement covering your attributes, why you are the best candidate for the programme and what your career aspirations are.
A health insurance certificate, if you are from outside the EU.

Evidence of previous qualifications (diplomas and transcripts) will need to be submitted with an Italian translation, although some universities accept documents in English and French. Additionally, you may have to submit these documents after converting the marks or grades obtained in your home country in accordance with the grading system that is followed in Italy. NARIC can help with degree and grade equivalences.

If you’re from outside the EU, you will need to submit a pre-enrolment application for your degree programme at the nearest Italian embassy or consulate.

Masters student visas in Italy

Visa information for UK students in Italy

UK students will no longer be EU citizens from the 2021-22 academic year onwards. This means you may be considered as an international student when studying in Italy. You may be subject to different visa requirements and fee rates, unless otherwise stated.

If you are from the European Union, then you can stay in Italy without any restrictions and without the need to get a student visa. You will, however, need to hold a valid identity card or passport and to register your residency with your local police station or town hall once you have an address in Italy.

If you are from outside the EU, you will need to apply for a student visa. This can be done at an Italian embassy or consulate in your home country. Considering the length of time needed to get your visa (a minimum of three months), you are advised to apply as soon as you have received and accepted your offer of admission, which is required for the visa application.

Student visas carry an administrative fee of €50. You will need:

Visa application form
Recent passport-style photo
Passport or travel document valid for at least three months after the visa expiry date
An admission letter from your university in Italy
Proof of financial support for the duration of your studies amounting to €448.07 per month
Health insurance certificate
Proof of your accommodation in Italy

If you are in receipt of a bursary, scholarship or grant from any organisation, you’ll need to supply proof of this award.

Once in Italy, holders of study visas must register with the local authorities (at a police station or town hall) within eight days of arrival to obtain a permit of stay for study purposes (permesso di soggiorno). You’ll need to submit a complicated application form at your local post office and pay a fee of €30, along with:

A copy of your admission letter
A copy of your student visa
Proof of your financial means – there may be a small fee to photocopy and certify this document at the post office
An Italian stamp worth €16 (marca da bollo)
A receipt of payment for the Electronic Permit of Stay, which costs €30.46

Next steps

Employability has always been high on the Italian government’s agenda and higher education institutions are expected to prepare their graduates for the job market.

Italy is also home to world-renowned arts institutions, multi-nationals and well-known research institutes and companies (notably in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry).

Masters degrees are considered an asset by many employers, as is international experience (and language skills) – not just in Italy but also the world over.

universities in italy for masters