Top Public Universities in Italy for International Students (2025 Guide)

There are nearly 90 universities in Italy, and most of them are publicly funded. These public universities in Italy offer high-quality education at affordable tuition rates. Known for their academic history, global rankings, and research strengths, these institutions also participate in the Bologna system, which ensures global recognition of degrees across Europe.

For Indian students, public universities in Italy with English-taught programs provide bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields like engineering, architecture, economics, and medicine. Some even allow students to study in Italy without IELTS, depending on the medium of instruction during previous education.

This blog explains how to apply to public universities in Italy in 2025, the tuition fees for foreigners, available scholarships, and a list of NARIC-recognised universities.

Considering Italy for your degree? Take a look at top global universities, or explore bachelor’s and master’s courses available across Italy’s top-ranked institutions.

Here’s the graph showing the number of bachelor’s and master’s graduates in Italy for 2022.

These reasons to study in Italy explain what sets it apart — from world-class education to rich culture.

If you're budget-conscious, the cost of living in Italy is something you’ll want to factor in early.

 

Top Public Universities in Italy for International Students with Fees

For Indian students planning to apply to public universities in Italy in 2025, the main advantage is cost. Most public universities charge between €1,000 to €4,000 per year (₹88,000 to ₹3.6 lakhs)—much lower than other EU countries. 

Below is a table with some of the best public universities in Italy for Indian students, showing tuition fee ranges and city locations:

University Name (City)	QS Ranking 2025	Tuition Fees (EUR/year + INR)
Politecnico di Milano (Milan)	111	€3,500 – €4,000 (₹3.1L – ₹3.6L)
Sapienza University of Rome (Rome)	132	€1,000 – €2,500 (₹88K – ₹2.2L)
University of Bologna (Bologna)	133	€2,000 – €3,000 (₹1.7L – ₹2.6L)
University of Padua (Padova)	236	€2,500 – €3,000 (₹2.2L – ₹2.6L)
Politecnico di Torino (Turin)	241	€2,800 – €3,500 (₹2.4L – ₹3.1L)
University of Milan (Milan)	285	€1,800 – €2,500 (₹1.6L – ₹2.2L)
University of Florence (Florence)	375	€1,200 – €2,300 (₹1.05L – ₹2L)
University of Pisa (Pisa)	382	€2,400 – €3,000 (₹2.1L – ₹2.6L)
University of Turin (Turin)	371	€2,000 – €2,800 (₹1.7L – ₹2.4L)
University of Naples Federico II (Naples)	347	€1,500 – €2,500 (₹1.3L – ₹2.2L)

These universities offer engineering, science, economics, architecture, and MBBS (in select colleges). Most accept Indian students without IELTS if the medium of instruction is English in Class 12. Each university has a different DSU office that handles fee waivers and hostel allocations.

Looking for the cheapest public universities in Italy? Focus on regions like Puglia, Calabria, or Sicily, where tuition and living costs are lower.

Want a university that fits your goals? Start here: best universities in Italy — a curated list with academic focus, rankings, and highlights.

Prefer a government-funded option? Here’s what you should know about public universities in Italy and the benefits they offer for international students.

Eligibility for Public Universities in Italy

Admission to public universities in Italy depends on your academic background, course type, and language of instruction. Italian public universities follow strict but transparent criteria. Here’s what you need to qualify:

For Undergraduate Courses (Laurea Triennale):

• Completion of Class 12 or equivalent with science or relevant subjects
• Minimum 60% for most STEM and healthcare-related programs
• Valid passport and completed pre-enrollment via Italian embassy

For Postgraduate Courses (Laurea Magistrale):

• Recognized 3- or 4-year bachelor’s degree
• Minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by university)
• Some courses may require subject-specific entrance exams or portfolios

Language Requirements:

• For English-taught programs: IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL iBT (80+), or equivalent
• For Italian-taught programs: B2 level Italian (CEFR) + PLIDA, CELI, or CILS certificates
• Some universities offer language exemption for students with English-medium education

Entrance Tests (if required):

Exam Name	Course Type	Notes
TOLC	Engineering, Science, Tech	Conducted by CISIA – test logic, maths, verbal reasoning
IMAT	Medicine in English	Required for MBBS, veterinary, dental programs
Internal Test	Some PG or design courses	Portfolio review or interview may be needed

Thinking about a master’s in Italy? Find the right fit by checking out master’s programs in Italy — including admissions, tuition, and top majors.

If you're leaning toward medicine or business, these focused guides on MBBS in Italy, MBA in Italy, and the IMAT medical entrance exam will help you take the next step.

Application Process for Public Universities in Italy

Indian students applying to public universities in Italy must follow a multi-step application process that involves both the university and the Italian consulate. Here's how it works:

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply to Public Universities in Italy

Step	Mode	Approximate Timeline
Course and University Shortlisting	Online	Nov–Jan (for Sept intake)
Pre-application via Universitaly or university website	Online	Jan–March
Upload documents (transcripts, ID, SOP, resume)	Online	Feb–April
Receive Conditional/Unconditional Offer	Email	April–May
Pre-enrollment at Italian Consulate + Get Dichiarazione di Valore	Offline	May–July
Apply for Visa (D Type)	VFS Italy	June–August

Documents Required to Study at Public Universities in Italy:

• Academic transcripts (translated in Italian if needed)
• Valid passport (min. 6 months validity)
• Letter of acceptance (conditional or full)
• Proof of language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Italian test)
• Financial proof (approx. €7,000–€10,000 per year expenses)
• Health insurance valid in Italy
• Accommodation proof
• Passport-size photographs (as per embassy guidelines)

Tip: Most public universities accept applications for only one intake—Fall (September/October). Early application increases chances for scholarships and visa approval.

Scholarships can make a huge difference — here are scholarships for Italy you should apply for as an international student.

Working on your application? A well-written SOP for Italy can make your profile stand out to top universities.

English-Taught Courses at Public Universities in Italy

Public universities in Italy with English-taught programs are expanding every year, especially for STEM, business, and social sciences. These programs are ideal for Indian students who want international degrees without learning Italian. Most programs at bachelor’s and master’s levels follow the Bologna credit system and are recognized by NARIC.

Popular Fields with English-Taught Courses at Public Universities in Italy

• Engineering (Computer, Mechanical, Environmental)
• Economics and Finance
• Business Management
• International Politics
• Data Science and AI
• Architecture and Urban Planning

Examples of English-Taught Courses at Public Universities in Italy

Course	Degree Level	University
Artificial Intelligence and Automation	MSc	Sapienza University of Rome
International Business	BSc	University of Padua
Architecture - Built Environment Interiors	MSc	Politecnico di Milano
European and International Politics	MA	University of Siena
Data Science	MSc	University of Bologna

These universities offer courses starting from September. Some allow direct UG entry, others may ask for basic math/logic tests. IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80 is usually accepted. Some programs offer conditional admission if you complete a bridge year or take internal tests.

Still deciding if Italy’s right for you? Get clarity by comparing with other top countries to study abroad — based on cost, language, culture, and future opportunities.

Scholarships for International Students in Italian Public Universities

Scholarships at public universities in Italy can cover up to 100% of tuition and part of living expenses. Indian students with strong academic records or low-income backgrounds have access to both government and regional grants.

Scholarships for Public Universities in Italy

Scholarship	Type	What It Covers
DSU Regional Scholarship	Need-based	Free tuition, hostel, €5,000–6,000 living grant
MAECI Scholarship	Govt-funded	Tuition + €9,000 yearly stipend (PG/PhD only)
University Fee Waivers	Merit-based	50–100% tuition cut, awarded automatically in many cases
Invest Your Talent in Italy	Merit-based	€8,100/year + internship options for Indian PG students

Where to Apply for Public Universities in Italy Scholarships

• DSU: Apply via the university after admission.
• MAECI: Apply via the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Fee Waivers: Available directly from universities like Pisa, Milan, and Turin during early admission rounds.

These are competitive, so Indian students applying to public universities in Italy for 2025 should prepare documents by March–April. Proof of income, academic transcripts, and early admission letters are mandatory.

Post-Study Opportunities After Graduating from Public Universities in Italy

Graduates from public universities in Italy can stay back for up to 12 months using the permesso di soggiorno (stay permit) to search for jobs. During this period, Indian students can apply for internships, entry-level roles, or long-term contracts in Italy and across the EU.

Italy’s job market welcomes international talent in specific sectors that value English proficiency, especially when the degree is from a recognised public institution.

Industries Hiring International Graduates in Italy & EU 

Industry	Entry-Level Job Roles	Average Salary (EUR)
Engineering	Junior Mechanical Engineer, Project Analyst	€30,000–€38,000 (₹27,00,000 – ₹34,20,000)
IT & Data	Software Developer, Data Analyst	€32,000–€42,000 ( ₹28,80,000 – ₹37,80,000)
Fashion & Design	Assistant Designer, Brand Coordinator	€28,000–€35,000 (₹25,20,000 – ₹31,50,000)
Business & Finance	Financial Analyst, Marketing Executive	€30,000–€40,000 (₹27,00,000 – ₹36,00,000)
Hospitality	Front Office, Operations Coordinator	€25,000–€32,000 (₹22,50,000 – ₹28,80,000)

Graduates can also apply for a job-seeker visa (valid for 6–12 months) after the stay permit. With an EU degree, it's easier to migrate to countries like Germany or the Netherlands under Blue Card or EU Mobility frameworks.

Are Public Universities in Italy Worth It for International Students?

Public universities in Italy offer globally recognised degrees at a fraction of the cost compared to the US, UK, or Australia. For Indian students aiming to study abroad affordably, they provide high return on investment if you use scholarships and plan your career pathway well.

Benefits

• Low tuition fees (as low as ₹1.5L/year for international students)
• Access to QS-ranked institutions
• Wide range of English-taught programs
• Easy access to DSU and government scholarships
• EU post-study work and mobility options

Challenges

• Most admin work handled in Italian (especially at UG level)
• Need for early deadlines and visa paperwork
• Some public universities have limited international support services

Verdict: Public universities in Italy are 100% worth it if you want affordable education, global exposure, and post-study work rights in the EU. Apply early, plan your finances, and explore regional scholarships to make the most of this opportunity.

Need expert advice to shortlist Italian universities? Speak to an advisor — book free counseling now.

Want to build your profile before applying? Explore free courses that add real value to your application.