University of Calabria 2024: Key Admission Insights

Latest Update: You can secure early admission to the University of Calabria even before getting your diploma. Just take the TOLC test by May 31, 2025, and submit your application by June 3, 2025. The test can be taken in person at Unical or remotely through CISIA

With around 30,000 students and over 700+ academic staff, the University of Calabria is Southern Italy’s largest and most modern campus, spread across 200 hectares. Ranked #44 in the best Global Universities in Italy, it has international students from 65 countries and offers 77 degree programs and 10 PhD tracks.

For 2025/26, UNICAL offers 11 Master’s degrees in English and 132 scholarships for foreign students, making it one of the best universities in Italy for International Students. This article guides you through the whole admission process, deadlines, eligibility, and top programs available.

Here’s a breakdown of what sets the University of Calabria apart for those looking to study in Italy:

Parameters	Details
Established	1972
Type of University	Public University
Campuses	Single main campus in Arcavacata, Rende (Cosenza), Italy
Annual Tuition Fees - International	UG: €600 to €2,500 (INR 57K to INR 2.36L) per year (varies by program and nationality) PG: €600 to €2,500 (INR 57K to INR 2.36L) per year (varies by program and nationality)
Top Programs	MSc in Robotics and Automation PhD in Chemistry BSc in Computer Science BSc in Environmental and Territorial Safety Engineering
Acceptance Rate	20%
Enrollment	30,000
Student-to-Faculty Ratio	5.5
International Students	800+

This overview covers key details about the University of Calabria. Understanding the application process, including important intake dates and deadlines, is essential for staying on track with your academic journey.

University of Calabria: Intakes and Deadlines

The University of Calabria conducts its admissions in multiple phases, with early admission rounds specifically for international students applying to Bachelor’s and Single Cycle degrees. For the 2025/26 intake, key dates have already been announced.

Applicants must register for the TOLC test in advance and can take it either at UNICAL or another CISIA-affiliated university (in-person or online) before May 31, 2025. Applications are submitted through the Esse3 portal after the test.

Here are the essential details:

Level of Study	Application Period for International Students
Bachelor’s Degrees	TOLC Test Dates: March 14-May 30, 2025 (Closed) Final Application Deadline: June 3, 2025
Master’s Degrees (2nd Cycle)	June - September 2025

Understanding costs is crucial in planning your education. Let's look closer at the tuition fees and scholarship opportunities offered by the University of Calabria to ease your financial planning.

University of Calabria: Fees and Scholarships

The total tuition fee at the University of Calabria typically ranges from €1,000 to €2,500 (INR 95K to INR 2.36L), depending on the student’s financial background and country of origin.

International students also benefit from study abroad scholarships and performance-based fee reductions. In addition to low tuition, the university offers merit-based and need-based scholarships and dedicated grants for international students.

Tuition Fees for the University of Calabria

Tuition at the University of Calabria is among the lowest in Western Europe, offering substantial value for international students. Annual fees range from €600 to €1,650 (INR 57K to INR 1.56L). Students from low-income countries or those awarded scholarships often pay a symbolic registration fee of just €16.50 (INR 1.6K).

Most international Master’s programs like biology begin at €1,000 (INR 95K) for non-EU applicants. Here’s a breakdown of estimated annual tuition fees across major academic fields:

Top Programs	Annual Tuition Fee (EUR)	Annual Tuition Fee (INR)
Artificial Intelligence	€1,650	INR 1.56L
Chemical Engineering	€1,000	INR 95K
Biology	€1,000	INR 95K
Finance And Insurance	€1,650	INR 1.56L

Note: Salary figures are approximate and may vary based on current exchange rate, experience, location, and job role.

Scholarships can significantly reduce study costs. Learn about the various fully funded scholarships in Italy available for international students at UNICAL to support your academic goals.

Scholarships to Study at the University of Calabria

The University of Calabria offers several financial aid options to support international students. In the 2025/26 academic year, 132 scholarships have been allocated for non-EU students enrolling in Master’s programs taught in English.

Some top Italian scholarship grants like the University of Calabria International Scholarship often include tuition waivers, free accommodation, a €3,600 (INR 3.4L) stipend that covers the cost of living in Italy, and full support with visa and travel arrangements.

Here are some key scholarship options international students can consider:

Scholarship	Type	Details
University of Calabria International Scholarship	Internal	Eligibility: For non-EU students admitted to select English-taught Master’s. Benefits: Covers tuition, housing, meals, and €3,600 (INR 3.4L) annual stipend.
Italian Government Scholarships	External	Eligibility: Open to international students at all levels. Benefits: Up to €900 (INR 85K) monthly stipend.
Regional “Right to Education” Grants (DSU)	External	Eligibility: Based on financial need. Benefits: Covers tuition, accommodation, and living costs for eligible students.
Erasmus+ Mobility Grant	External	Eligibility: For enrolled students participating in exchange programs. Benefits: €300 to €350 (INR 28K to INR 33K) per month.

The University of Calabria’s rankings reflect its academic credibility. Let’s explore how it performs globally and across key disciplines to understand the institution’s reputation.

University of Calabria: Rankings

The University of Calabria has a modest but growing international presence. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, it falls in the #901-950 bracket. It is also listed within the #601-800 range in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025.

Here’s a breakdown of recent rankings for UNICAL:

Ranking Agency	2023	2024	2025
QS University Rankings	1001 - 1200	951 - 1000	901 - 950
THE World University Rankings	401 - 600	601 - 800	601 - 800
U.S. News & World Report	N/A	N/A	844

Want to know how UNICAL excels in your field? Let’s break down the university's rankings by subject to help you identify its strengths in specific areas of study.

Subject-wise Rankings of the University of Calabria

The University of Calabria is recognized internationally for its MBA in Italy, engineering, computer science, and chemistry programmes. Several subject areas like Physics and Computer Science are ranked within the global top 500, reflecting the university’s research output and academic reputation.

Here’s how key academic fields at the University of Calabria perform in recent rankings:

Program	Ranking Body	Rank 2025
Computer Science	THE Ranking	401 - 500
Business and Economics	THE Ranking	601 - 800
Physics	US News Ranking	490
Electrical and Electronic Engineering	US News Ranking	432

With growing international interest and expanded course offerings, it's essential to know how selective the University of Calabria is. Let's take a look at its acceptance rate.

University of Calabria Acceptance Rate

The University of Calabria follows a selective enrollment process, with an estimated overall admission rate of around 20%. Although the institution has not released official acceptance statistics, this estimate reflects its selective admissions, particularly in top technical courses like Automation Engineering.

Prospective students should be prepared for a competitive application environment. Here are the acceptance rate for various programs:

Program	Acceptance Rate
Business and Economics	20%
Life and Environmental Sciences	20%
Automation Engineering	20%
Environmental and Territorial Safety Engineering	20%

Now that you know the university's acceptance rate, it's time to look at how you can apply and the variety of programs available to suit your academic goals.

University of Calabria: Admissions and Programs

The admission process and programs at University of Calabria go beyond paperwork. Studying in Italy is about meeting clear eligibility criteria and understanding each process step. With expanding English-taught programs, affordable tuition, and 800+ international students, it continues to draw students from 60+ countries.

Whether you're applying for a Bachelor's or Master's degree, the university follows a structured, online application system. Some programs, especially in STEM, require a TOLC test or other specific documents.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Requirement	Details
Academic Requirements	Bachelor’s: Secondary school diploma that allows entry to higher education in your country. Must be legalized (or apostilled) and translated into Italian/English. Master’s: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject and transcript of Records of your qualification. Must be legalized (or apostilled) and translated into Italian/English.
Proof of Eligibility	Declaration that your diploma qualifies you to apply for the chosen degree level in your home country.
Language Proficiency	English-taught programs: IELTS 6.0, TOEFL iBT 72+, or equivalent. Italian-taught programs: B2 level Italian (e.g., CILS, CELI) is typically required.
Application Portal	All applications must be submitted through the Esse3 portal. Account registration is required.
Identification	Valid passport or national ID.
Photograph	Recent, passport-style photo. Neutral background.
Miscellaneous	Depending on the course: motivation letter, resume, portfolio (for arts/design), or entrance test (e.g. TOLC).

The application process may seem complex, but breaking it down into steps makes it easier. Follow this guide to go through the admission process and programs at University of Calabria smoothly.

Step-by-Step Admission Process to Study at the University of Calabria

The Admission Process and Programs at University of Calabria are structured to be accessible, with clear digital workflows and detailed guidance for both local and international students. International applicants, especially those seeking scholarships for English-taught Master’s programs, should pay close attention to deadlines and document requirements.

Here’s how to apply for the 2025 intake:

• Check the Admission Call: Download and read the official Admission Call and Annex 1 from the University of Calabria website to verify course availability, eligibility criteria, and program-specific requirements.
• Take the TOLC Test (if applicable): If your chosen course requires the TOLC (especially for Bachelor's programs in science and engineering), register at the CISIA portal and book your test.
• Register on the UNICAL Application Portal: Create an account on the University of Calabria’s official application portal (Esse3). You’ll need to enter your personal details, email ID, and generate login credentials.
• Submit the Application Form: From the dashboard, go to Test Registration. Select your degree course (only one choice allowed) and fill in the required academic and personal information.
• Upload Required Documents (PDF format):
  • Passport
  • Academic transcripts (translated into Italian or English).
  • Diploma or school-leaving certificate (Bachelor’s) / Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s).
  • Proof of English or Italian proficiency (depending on language of instruction).
  • Any additional course-specific exams for studying abroad or documents as listed in Annex 1.
• Pay the Application Fee: If applicable, make the payment (typically €10) via the PagoPA payment portal as instructed on the portal. Fee waivers may apply based on scholarship or country of origin.
• Wait for Evaluation and Results: Your application will be reviewed after the deadline (early June). Admission decisions are posted via the same portal.
• Accept the Offer and Prepare for Enrollment: Once admitted, you can confirm your acceptance and start processing for a student visa for Italy (for non-EU students).

UNICAL offers a wide array of popular programs. Explore courses in high demand abroad that offer great opportunities for both local and international students.

Popular Programs at the University of Calabria

As part of the Admission Process and Programs at University of Calabria, students can explore over 70 courses, including several English-taught master’s options that applicants from developing countries increasingly favor. As of 2025, 11 Master’s programs are taught entirely in English.

Here are some courses offered at the University of Calabria:

• MSc in Robotics and Automation Engineering: Offers applied training in automation systems, intelligent control, and robotics applications.
• MSc in Chemistry: Combines analytical, organic, and physical chemistry with lab-intensive modules aligned with EU industry standards.
• MSc in Physics: Includes quantum mechanics, nuclear physics, and condensed matter, with access to specialized research facilities.
• MSc in Finance and Insurance: Taught in English, this program focuses on actuarial science, financial modelling, and risk analysis.
• BSc in Computer Engineering: Covers software development, embedded systems, cybersecurity, and computing infrastructure.
• BSc in Environmental and Territorial Safety Engineering: Focuses on sustainable land management, risk assessment, and geo-environmental systems.

With a wide range of study options and internationally recognized instruction, this public university in Italy is a practical choice for students seeking affordable, high-quality European education.

University life is more than just studying. At UNICAL, you’ll find a campus with various extracurricular activities, creating a well-rounded experience for all students.

Student Life at the University of Calabria

The University of Calabria offers a complete residential campus experience on a 200-hectare site. Students live and study in a self-contained university town with over 1,800 beds, 5 dining halls, and everyday essentials like cafes and water kiosks.

Here’s what student life looks like at the University of Calabria:

• Campus Life
• Residential Campus: Over 2,500 on-campus housing places in apartment-style accommodations near classrooms and labs.
• University Library System: Several departmental libraries plus the central BUN (Biblioteca Unica di Ateneo), with extended hours and quiet study areas.
• Transport: Internal shuttle services and easy connectivity to the city of Cosenza.
• Student Clubs & Culture
  • Student Associations: Active clubs in robotics, cinema, music, political debate, and international relations.
  • Cultural Events: Year-round festivals, public lectures, and exhibitions organized by students and faculty.
  • Sports Facilities: Access to a sports center with a swimming pool, tennis courts, football fields, and a gymnasium.
• Social Life
  • International Student Integration: Events for incoming students, including welcome weeks, language exchanges, and cultural tours.
  • ESN Unical: The local Erasmus Student Network chapter hosts frequent activities, travel programs, and social meetups.
• Student Support
  • Health Services: On-campus clinic providing basic medical support and referral access to Cosenza hospitals.
  • Psychological Counseling: Free and confidential stress, adjustment, or academic pressure services.
  • Career Services: Support for internships, resume workshops, job fairs, and alumni networking, all coordinated by the Career Office.

The education system in Italy is designed to offer balance, combining academic focus with a social and supportive campus community. Now let’s look at how these experiences prepare students for their careers after graduation.

Graduating from the University of Calabria opens the door to numerous career opportunities. Let’s explore how UNICAL’s industry connections help students secure career options after graduation.

Career Opportunities After Graduation from the University of Calabria

The University of Calabria has strong industry connections, especially in engineering, natural sciences, and economics. With academic partnerships and involvement in EU programs like Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe, students can access valuable internships and research opportunities.

In addition, around 70% of UNICAL graduates secure employment within a year, surpassing Italy’s national average. Here are some typical job roles and expected salary ranges for University of Calabria graduates:

Job Roles	Annual Average Salary (EUR)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Software Engineer	€25,000	INR 23.5L
Senior Portfolio Manager	€64,000	INR 60L
Doctor	€64,000	INR 60L
Chemical Engineer	€30,000	INR 28L
Data Scientist	€29,000	INR 27L

Source: Glassdoor

Explore which companies actively seek University of Calabria graduates. These employers provide excellent opportunities across a range of sectors.

Top Recruiters Hiring Graduates from the University of Calabria

The University of Calabria’s focus on research and international collaboration gives graduates intense industry exposure and practical skills. With 250+ global partnerships and 500 Erasmus+ links, students access valuable internships and projects.

Here are some top employers where UNICAL graduates have been placed:

Top Recruiter	Job Role	Average Annual Salary
ENEL	Renewable Energy Engineer	€30,000 – €38,000 (INR 28L – INR 36L)
Leonardo	Systems Engineer	€32,000 – €40,000 (INR 30L – INR 38L)
IBM	Data Analyst	€33,000 – €41,000 (INR 31L – INR 39L)
Accenture	Business Analyst	€34,000 – €42,000 (INR 32L – INR 40L)
Regional Agencies & EU Research Centers	Project Researcher	€27,000 – €34,000 (INR 25L – INR 32L)

How upGrad Helps You Apply to the University of Calabria

Studying at a public university in Italy comes with multiple steps. From course selection to visa filing, upGrad simplifies the process by offering focused support at each stage.

• Document preparation: Offers help in compiling transcripts, translation of academic documents, passport copies, and other required paperwork.
• Application guidance: Assists in filling out application forms correctly, uploading documents, and tracking deadlines.
• Scholarship information: Provides details on available scholarships and supports you in applying where you're eligible.
• Visa assistance: Helps with the Italian student visa process including document checklist, booking appointments, and interview prep.

Not sure if the University of Calabria is the right fit for you? Book a free 1:1 session with upGrad experts for guidance on programs, admissions, and scholarships.