Best Universities in Italy for International Students in 2025

There are around 90 universities in Italy, and most are publicly funded.

The best universities in Italy combine good global rankings with affordable tuition and a wide range of English-taught programs. In 2025, 42 Italian universities are listed in the QS World Rankings, including top names for engineering, business, and design.

Italy’s higher education system follows the Bologna model with a 3-year bachelor’s degree (laurea triennale) and a 2-year master’s degree (laurea magistrale). Most institutions are public, and many offer scholarships to international students.

If you're planning to study in Italy as an Indian student, this guide highlights the top-ranked public and private universities, application routes, and key cities to consider.

Looking to study in Italy? Explore top bachelor’s programs abroad, master’s degrees overseas, or discover globally ranked universities offering English-taught programs in Italy.

Medicine topped Italy’s 2023/24 enrollment charts with 270,000 students—over 60% of them women.

Not sure if Italy is the right fit? These are the top reasons to study in Italy.

Thinking about medicine or business? Get detailed insights on MBBS in Italy, MBA in Italy, and the IMAT exam for medical studies.

What Is the Bologna System Followed by Italian Universities? Italy follows the Bologna Process, a Europe-wide standard for higher education that ensures degree recognition across 49 countries. Students typically pursue a three-year bachelor’s degree (Laurea Triennale), followed by a two-year master’s degree (Laurea Magistrale). Credit-based courses (25 hours = 1 ECTS credit) allow international transfers and flexibility. Medical and law programs follow a longer, unified cycle—5 to 6 years. This structure makes it easier to study in Italy and later continue education or work across Europe.

Best Universities in Italy: Public Universities for International Students

The best universities in Italy include several public institutions with global recognition, affordable tuition, and a strong intake of international students. These public universities are known for high-quality education in engineering, medicine, architecture, and humanities.

Most public institutions participate in Erasmus+ programs, offer English-taught courses at master’s level, and maintain research collaborations with EU partners. If you're planning to study in Italy as an Indian student, these are also among the most affordable universities in Italy for international students.

Best Public Universities in Italy 

University (City)	QS Rank 2025	Annual Tuition
Politecnico di Milano, Milan	111	€3,500–€3,900 (₹3.15L–₹3.51L)
Sapienza University of Rome, Rome	132	€1,000–€2,500 (₹90K–₹2.25L)
University of Bologna, Bologna	=133	€2,000–€3,000 (₹1.8L–₹2.7L)
University of Padova, Padova	236	€2,500–€3,000 (₹2.25L–₹2.7L)
Politecnico di Torino, Turin	241	€2,800–€3,200 (₹2.52L–₹2.88L)
University of Milan, Milan	285	€2,000–€2,500 (₹1.8L–₹2.25L)
University of Naples Federico II, Naples	347	€1,000–€2,000 (₹90K–₹1.8L)
University of Turin, Turin	371	€2,000–€2,800 (₹1.8L–₹2.52L)
University of Florence, Florence	375	€2,000–€2,500 (₹1.8L–₹2.25L)
University of Pisa, Pisa	382	€2,500–€3,000 (₹2.25L–₹2.7L)

Why consider public universities in Italy?

• Recognized globally for research and academic excellence
• Offer low tuition fees for Indian and other non-EU students
• Easy access to scholarships for international students in Italy 2025
• Ideal for those looking at English-taught bachelor’s programs in Italy or Bologna-aligned master’s routes

Planning your budget? Here’s the real cost of living in Italy and how it compares to other top countries.

Best Universities in Italy: Private Universities Open to International Students

The top private universities in Italy focus on business, fashion, art, and design—areas where Italy leads globally. Although tuition is higher, they remain popular for those looking for career-ready degrees with a practical edge.

If you’re exploring private universities in Italy for MBA, fashion, or communication, these schools rank among the best for global exposure. They also tend to have flexible intakes and dedicated services for international students in Italy.

Best Private Universities in Italy

University (City)	QS Rank 2025	Annual Tuition
Bocconi University, Milan	–	€14,000–€18,000 (₹12.6L–₹16.2L)
LUISS Guido Carli University, Rome	–	€12,000–€15,000 (₹10.8L–₹13.5L)
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan	442	€10,000–€14,000 (₹9L–₹12.6L)
Domus Academy, Milan	–	€16,000–€20,900 (₹14.4L–₹18.8L)
Istituto Marangoni, Milan	–	€17,000–€21,000 (₹15.3L–₹18.9L)
NABA – Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, Milan	–	€15,000–€19,500 (₹13.5L–₹17.5L)

Why consider private universities in Italy?

• Known globally for design, business, and innovation degrees
• Offer industry-aligned courses with strong hiring networks
• Preferred by international students seeking private universities in Italy for MBA or creative disciplines
• Many provide scholarship opportunities and career placement support

Targeting master’s programs? Explore everything you need to know about masters in Italy, including scholarships and admissions.

Looking for aid? Start with available scholarships for studying in Italy and financial support offered to international students.

Eligibility and Document Checklist for Best Universities in Italy

To study at the best universities in Italy, Indian students must meet academic and language requirements. Public universities are affordable and usually accept direct applications, while some private and competitive programs may require entrance exams. English-taught programs need IELTS or TOEFL. Those applying for Italian-taught courses must show Italian language proof.

UG vs PG Admission Requirements in Italy

Criteria	UG Programs	PG Programs
Academic Qualification	Class 12 with 65–75% (PCB/PCM)	Recognized bachelor’s degree with 65%+
English Proficiency	IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 78+	IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 90+
Italian Language (if needed)	A2–B1 CEFR level	B1–B2 CEFR level
Entrance Exams	Needed for MBBS, design, architecture	Some MBAs and design PGs
Visa Documents	Passport, offer letter, funds proof, insurance	All UG docs + accommodation proof, CV

For those applying to top universities in Italy for international students, it’s important to check deadlines and upload translated documents during application.

Applying soon? Don’t miss this guide on crafting your SOP for Italy that gets noticed by top Italian universities.

Popular English-Taught Programs at Italian Universities

Italy offers a wide range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs. These degrees are ideal for Indian students who want a global education without a language barrier. You’ll find top-ranked courses in business, design, engineering, and medicine.

English-Taught Courses in Italy for International Students

Program	Level	University
International Economics	Bachelor’s	University of Bologna
Global Fashion Management	Master’s	Politecnico di Milano
Computer Engineering	Bachelor’s	Sapienza University of Rome
Architecture and Urban Design	Master’s	Politecnico di Torino
International Relations	Bachelor’s	University of Milan
Global MBA	Master’s	Bocconi University, Milan
MBBS (English-medium)	Bachelor’s	University of Pavia, University of Milan

These programs are offered by affordable universities in Italy for international students and are part of the QS World Ranking of Italian universities 2025. Most have September intake, but some MBA or PG programs offer January options too.

Want to study in public institutions? Here’s what you should know about public universities in Italy and how to apply.

Intakes at Italian Universities for International Students

Most top universities in Italy for international students follow two main intakes. The Fall intake (September–October) is the primary one, especially at public universities. A limited Spring intake (February) is available at select institutions, primarily for master’s or business courses. Indian students must apply early, as non-EU deadlines close 3–6 months in advance.

University Intakes in Italy for Indian Students

Intake Month	Application Period	Applicable Degrees
September / October	January to April (most courses)	Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBBS, Engineering
February / March	September to November (limited)	Select Master’s and MBA programs

Most English-taught bachelor’s programs in Italy and engineering degrees at QS-ranked Italian universities begin in the Fall. Students should check university-specific portals for exact dates.

Scholarships at Top Universities in Italy

Indian students applying to the best universities in Italy can access several funding options. These include Italian government scholarships, regional DSU grants, and university-level merit waivers. Scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Applications usually open early in the year, so planning is key.

Scholarships for International Students in Italy 2025

Scholarship Name	Funding Type	Application Deadline
Italian Government Scholarships	Full/partial tuition + stipend	April – May 2025
DSU Regional Scholarships	Need-based, living support	June – August 2025
Bocconi Merit Awards	Tuition waiver (full/partial)	February – April 2025
Politecnico di Milano Scholarships	Tuition + allowance	March – May 2025
University of Bologna Unibo Action	€11,000 grant or tuition waiver	March 2025

These scholarships are available at both public and private universities in Italy with low tuition or global prestige. Many are open to Indian students applying for bachelor’s or master’s programs in 2025.

Still deciding on a country? Compare your options with this guide on the best countries to study abroad for Indian students.

Application Process for Universities in Italy

Indian students applying to the best universities in Italy must complete a multi-step process involving both online and consular steps. Applications typically go through the Universitaly portal or individual university websites. After receiving a conditional offer, students must pre-enroll at the Italian consulate in India before applying for the student visa.

How to Apply to Universities in Italy as a Foreign Student

Step	Mode	Timeline
Choose university and program	Online	October – February
Apply via Universitaly or direct university portal	Online	January – April (Fall)
Upload documents (marksheets, passport, SOP)	Online	With application
Receive conditional admission offer	Online	3–6 weeks after applying
Pre-enrollment at Italian consulate	Offline	March – May
Get “Dichiarazione di Valore” (DoV) issued	Offline (via consulate)	Same as pre-enrollment
Prepare for visa process	Online + Offline	After DoV & LOA

This process applies whether you're applying to public universities in Italy with low tuition, or private universities offering MBAs or design programs.

Student Visa Process for Studying in Italy

To study at the top universities in Italy for international students, Indian applicants must apply for a Type D long-stay visa. Once you have your admission letter and Dichiarazione di Valore, book a VFS appointment. Visa approval depends on showing funds, insurance, housing proof, and intent to return.

Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students

Step	Documents Required	Timeline
Visa application via VFS Italy	Filled D visa form, passport, 2 photos	At least 3 months prior
Proof of admission (LOA)	University acceptance or conditional offer letter	Mandatory
Financial documents	Minimum €6,500 (₹5.8L) in bank account, income proof from parents/sponsors	Last 3–6 months history
Health insurance	€120–€150 (₹11,000–₹13,000) yearly coverage in Italy	Valid through study term
Housing proof	Dorm booking, rental agreement, or sponsor letter	Required
“Dichiarazione di Valore” (DoV)	Issued by Italian consulate in India based on verified Indian academic records	Needed for final visa
Visa interview	Why Italy, course choice, career goals, finances	At VFS or embassy

Pre-enrollment and DoV are extra steps for Indian students and must be done before the visa appointment. Start at least 3 months in advance to meet timelines.

Work Opportunities and EU Mobility After Studying at Universities in Italy

Graduating from the best universities in Italy opens pathways to work across Europe. Italy allows non-EU graduates, including Indian students, to stay back for 12 months on a post-study work permit to search for a job. After securing full-time employment, you can switch to a residence permit for work purposes or apply for a job seeker visa in select EU countries.

Popular job sectors for international graduates include fashion, automotive, engineering, tourism, life sciences, and tech. Degrees from top universities in Italy for international students—especially in business, design, and engineering, are widely recognized across the EU under the Bologna framework.

Job Sectors and Starting Salaries After Studying in Italy

Sector	Average Starting Salary (Annual)	Visa Option After Study
Fashion & Design	€22,000 – €28,000 (₹19.5L – ₹25L)	12-month stay-back, EU Blue Card
Hospitality & Tourism	€20,000 – €24,000 (₹17.7L – ₹21L)	Work permit or seasonal visa
Automotive & Engineering	€30,000 – €35,000 (₹26.7L – ₹31L)	Job seeker visa, intra-EU transfer
Information Technology	€28,000 – €32,000 (₹25L – ₹28.5L)	Tech-skilled job visas in EU
Business & Finance	€27,000 – €34,000 (₹24L – ₹30L)	Work permit after job offer
Life Sciences & Pharma	€25,000 – €30,000 (₹22L – ₹26.5L)	Employer-sponsored work visa

International graduates from affordable universities in Italy for international students or private universities offering MBAs often find jobs through on-campus recruitment, internships, or Erasmus+ mobility networks. Once employed, EU mobility becomes easier under EU Blue Card or ICT permit options.

Need help shortlisting the best universities in Italy for your goals? Get free counseling from expert advisors.

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