Last Updated on July 24, 2026 by Daniel Globe
Choosing among the best universities in Italy for international students takes more than checking one ranking. You need to compare subject strength, English-taught degree availability, tuition rules, scholarships, admission requirements, and the city where you will live. The 10 universities below are strong options for the 2026–2027 academic year, but the best one for you depends on your course and budget.
Quick Answer
For 2026–2027, strong choices include Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza, Bologna, Padua, Politecnico di Torino, Milan, Pisa, Naples Federico II, Turin, and Trento. Politecnico di Milano leads Italy in QS 2027, but your best choice depends on your subject, English-taught options, tuition rules, scholarships, and preferred city.
Key Takeaways
- Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s highest-ranked university in the QS World University Rankings 2027, while Sapienza and Bologna are also in the global top 125.
- Public-university tuition is often based on income, citizenship or residence, programme type, and submitted financial documents rather than one fixed international fee.
- English-taught options are more common at master’s level, although several universities also offer bachelor’s and single-cycle degrees in English.
- Non-EU students living abroad normally apply to the university first, complete pre-enrolment through Universitaly, and then apply for a study visa.
What Makes These Italy’s Best Universities
This list balances several factors: current international standing, subject strengths, English-taught study options, tuition structure, scholarships, international admissions support, and city experience. It is not a universal league table. A university that ranks lower overall may be a better choice for your specific degree, research area, budget, or preferred learning environment.
The ranking figures below use the QS World University Rankings 2027, published in June 2026. Rankings can help you compare reputation and research visibility, but they do not show whether a particular curriculum, professor, laboratory, internship route, or city is right for you.
Note: Tuition and admission rules can change each academic year. Always open the official 2026–2027 call for your exact degree before paying an application fee or preparing visa documents.
10 Best Universities in Italy for International Students Compared
| University | QS 2027 | Strong fit for | Tuition pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Politecnico di Milano | =87 | Engineering, architecture, design | Income and study-plan based; special rules for some non-EU master’s students |
| Sapienza University of Rome | =111 | Broad disciplines, research, capital-city experience | Income and residence rules; check the current student regulations |
| University of Bologna | =123 | Comprehensive study, international mobility, humanities and sciences | Fixed first amount plus a programme- and income-based variable part |
| University of Padua | 204 | Research, science, medicine, economics | Published flat rates for many non-EU students, with waivers and reductions |
| Politecnico di Torino | =206 | Engineering, architecture, urban planning | Variable contribution with reductions and an official fee simulator |
| University of Milan | =270 | Life sciences, medicine, law, humanities, data fields | Country group and programme-area based for new international students |
| University of Pisa | 341 | Computer science, engineering, physics, agriculture | Maximum all-inclusive fee with country- and income-based reductions |
| University of Naples Federico II | 401 | Engineering, science, medicine, humanities | Programme and financial-position based; verify with the university calculator |
| University of Turin | 405 | Humanities, law, business, medicine, natural sciences | International contribution rules; confirm the final 2026–2027 schedule |
| University of Trento | =438 | Computer science, AI, economics, international studies | Some non-EU English-degree fees depend on admission score and later credits |
1. Politecnico di Milano for Engineering, Architecture, and Design
Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s highest-ranked university in QS 2027 at joint 87th worldwide. It is a focused technical university rather than a full comprehensive university, making it especially strong for engineering, architecture, urban planning, and design.
- Best for: Students seeking technical training, design-industry links, laboratories, and access to Milan’s professional network.
- English options: Many Master of Science programmes are taught in English. Language and portfolio requirements depend on the course.
- Tuition: For a standard 46–74 ECTS study plan, the published 2026–2027 annual amount can rise to €3,943.04. Certain non-EU students entering master’s programmes with a foreign qualification may owe the maximum unless they receive an eligible scholarship or benefit.
Politecnico di Milano can be a strong career-focused choice, but Milan housing can be competitive. Compare the full cost of attendance, not tuition alone. Review the university’s official tuition page before applying.
2. Sapienza University of Rome for Broad Academic Choice
Sapienza University of Rome, founded in 1303, ranks joint 111th in QS 2027. Its scale gives international students access to a wide range of subjects, research centres, libraries, student associations, and exchange opportunities in Italy’s capital.
- Best for: Students comparing humanities, social sciences, medicine, science, engineering, business, and interdisciplinary study.
- English options: Sapienza offers English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degrees, including options in technology, economics, and international fields.
- Tuition: Fees depend on the student’s financial and residency situation. Do not rely on a single online average; use the official tuition and benefits page and the current student regulations.
Sapienza suits students who want a very large academic community and the cultural opportunities of Rome. The size can also mean more administrative steps, so follow the international admissions instructions carefully.
3. University of Bologna for Comprehensive Study and International Mobility
Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is widely recognized as the oldest university in the Western world. It ranks joint 123rd in QS 2027 and offers a broad catalogue across Bologna, Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini.
- Best for: Students seeking a comprehensive university with strong options across humanities, business, law, science, engineering, health, and international studies.
- English options: The university offers English-taught degrees at bachelor’s and master’s levels, although the language of instruction varies by programme.
- Tuition: For 2026–2027, the standard fee includes a fixed €157.04 amount plus a variable part based on the programme and family finances. Eligible students from specified developing or non-OECD countries may qualify for reduced fixed fees.
Bologna is a strong all-round choice, but admission tests and deadlines differ by degree. Check the individual programme call and the official fee and exemption rules.
4. University of Padua for Research-Driven Study
The University of Padua, founded in 1222, ranks 204th in QS 2027. It is a strong option for students interested in research-led teaching across science, medicine, engineering, economics, psychology, agriculture, and the humanities.
- Best for: Research, interdisciplinary study, science and health fields, and a historic university city near Venice.
- English options: Padua offers a growing range of full English degrees. One current example is the English-taught bachelor’s in Economics, Governance and Decision-Making.
- Tuition: For 2026–2027, published all-inclusive fees for many non-EU students residing abroad are €2,790 for humanities programmes and €2,990 for scientific programmes. Lower rates and exemptions apply in defined cases.
Padua also offers international excellence scholarships and full tuition fee waivers for selected students in English-taught degrees. Read the official student-fee page and the scholarship call for your intake.
5. Politecnico di Torino for Technical Excellence
Politecnico di Torino ranks joint 206th in QS 2027 and specializes in engineering, architecture, design, and urban planning. It is a good alternative to Milan for students seeking a technical university with international programmes and industry links.
- Best for: Mechanical, electrical, civil, computer, aerospace, automotive, architecture, and planning fields.
- English options: Many master’s degrees and selected bachelor’s routes are available in English. Entrance tests and academic prerequisites depend on the programme.
- Tuition: Contributions vary by student situation, and reductions may be available. Use the university’s current tuition regulations and fee simulator rather than an unofficial average.
Politecnico di Torino is particularly useful for students who want a focused technical education while living in a major industrial city.
6. University of Milan for Research and a Wide Subject Range
The University of Milan, also called La Statale, ranks joint 270th in QS 2027. It is a comprehensive, research-intensive public university with strengths in life sciences, medicine, pharmacy, law, political science, humanities, data-related fields, and agriculture.
- Best for: Students who want a broad public university in Milan rather than a specialist engineering or design institution.
- English options: The university offers fully English-taught degrees and continues to expand its international catalogue.
- Tuition: New international students in 2026–2027 are placed into country groups and programme fee areas. The second instalment ranges from €200 to €4,101.12, with regional tax and stamp duty also due.
Because the amount depends on country group and programme area, read the official 2026–2027 fee table instead of assuming every international student pays the same amount.
7. University of Pisa for Science, Engineering, and Computing
The University of Pisa ranks 341st in QS 2027. It has established strengths in physics, computer science, engineering, mathematics, agriculture, medicine, and veterinary science.
- Best for: Students seeking a research university in a compact university city, especially in STEM fields.
- English options: Current international opportunities include master’s programmes such as Aerospace Engineering and Artificial Intelligence and Data Engineering.
- Tuition: The maximum annual all-inclusive tuition fee for 2026–2027 is €2,900 for students within the standard programme duration. Country-based and income-based reductions may lower the amount.
For bachelor’s admission, Pisa states that applicants normally need at least 12 years of previous schooling. Review the university’s international enrolment page for qualification, fee, and scholarship details.
8. University of Naples Federico II for Broad Study in Southern Italy
Founded in 1224, the University of Naples Federico II ranks 401st in QS 2027. It covers a wide range of subjects, including engineering, science, medicine, veterinary medicine, economics, law, agriculture, architecture, and the humanities.
- Best for: Students who want a large comprehensive university and access to academic life in Naples.
- English options: The university lists courses taught fully in English. For 2026–2027, it also announced new English-taught programmes in Veterinary Medicine and Electrical Engineering and Information Technology.
- Tuition: Fees depend on the programme and the student’s financial position. Confirm the amount through the university’s official fee information and simulator.
Non-EU applicants living abroad should pay close attention to the university’s pre-enrolment deadline, which may be earlier than the national visa deadline. Use the international admission regulations for the current process.
9. University of Turin for Humanities, Law, Business, and Science
Founded in 1404, the University of Turin ranks 405th in QS 2027. It is a broad university with courses across humanities, law, economics, business, medicine, natural sciences, social sciences, and languages. Engineering and architecture are mainly associated with the separate Politecnico di Torino.
- Best for: Students who want a comprehensive university in Turin and are not specifically seeking a technical polytechnic.
- English options: The university offers degrees taught fully or partly in English, particularly at postgraduate level.
- Scholarships: Current opportunities include competitive university awards such as Talent 4 UniTo for selected international master’s students.
The university’s public page indicated that final 2026–2027 tuition information was still being completed when checked, so use the official tuition page for the final amount and deadlines.
10. University of Trento for a Smaller Research-Focused Environment
The University of Trento ranks joint 438th in QS 2027. It is smaller than Bologna, Sapienza, or Milan and is known for research and international programmes in computer science, artificial intelligence, engineering, economics, management, cognitive science, and international studies.
- Best for: Students who prefer a more compact university and strong English-taught master’s options.
- English options: Examples include Artificial Intelligence Systems, Computer Science, International Management, and European and International Studies.
- Tuition: For some non-EU students in English-taught degrees, first-year tuition is linked to the admission score, while later fees may depend on credits earned. The binding call for your programme controls the final amount.
Some admission processes automatically consider eligible non-EU applicants for scholarships and subsidized accommodation. Read the exact course call and the official fee guidance for English-taught degrees because deadlines can be several months before classes begin.
Tuition Fees in Italy for International Students
Public-university tuition in Italy is often lower than at many private universities in other major study destinations, but there is no single national price for international students. Your final amount may depend on:
- Your university and degree programme
- Your citizenship, country of residence, or country-income group
- Your family’s financial documents or an ISEE/ISEE-equivalent assessment
- The number of ECTS credits in your study plan
- Your academic merit or credits earned in later years
- Scholarships, regional benefits, or tuition waivers
Tuition is only one part of your budget. You may also pay a regional right-to-study tax, stamp duty, application or admission-test fees, document-recognition costs, visa fees, health coverage, residence-permit costs, housing deposits, and daily living expenses.
Pro Tip: Prepare foreign-income and family-finance documents early. Missing a university’s financial-document deadline can move you into the highest fee band even when you would otherwise qualify for a reduction.
Scholarships and Tuition Waivers
International students can look for funding from several sources:
- Regional right-to-study benefits: Regional agencies may offer scholarships, accommodation, meal support, or fee exemptions based on income and merit.
- University merit scholarships: Examples include Politecnico di Milano merit scholarships, Padua International Excellence Scholarships, and Talent 4 UniTo.
- University tuition waivers: Some universities automatically consider eligible applicants to English-taught degrees for full or partial fee waivers.
- Italian government scholarships: The MAECI scholarship programme supports eligible foreign students for specified courses and countries.
- Invest Your Talent in Italy: The Invest Your Talent in Italy programme supports eligible students from participating countries in selected master’s and postgraduate courses, normally with an internship component.
A “100% scholarship” may mean a full tuition waiver, but it does not always include rent, food, travel, insurance, or every administrative charge. Read the award terms before treating it as full funding.
How to Apply to an Italian University
- Choose the exact degree. Confirm the teaching language, campus, duration, curriculum, entry test, available places, and application deadline.
- Check your academic qualification. Bachelor’s applicants normally need a secondary qualification based on at least 12 years of schooling. Master’s applicants need a relevant first degree and may need specific previous credits.
- Meet the language requirement. English-taught programmes often ask for proof around CEFR B2, but accepted tests and exemptions vary. Italian-taught programmes normally require proof of Italian at the level stated in the call.
- Apply through the university portal. Upload your passport, transcripts, diploma, translations, language proof, CV, motivation letter, portfolio, or test results as required.
- Accept the admission offer. Pay any required confirmation fee and follow the university’s document-verification instructions.
- Complete Universitaly pre-enrolment when required. Non-EU students residing abroad normally use the official Universitaly portal for study-visa pre-enrolment after or alongside university admission.
- Apply for the study visa. Submit the validated pre-enrolment and the documents requested by the responsible Italian embassy or consulate.
- Complete enrolment after arrival. Verify original documents, pay the required instalment, obtain a tax code if needed, arrange health coverage, and follow the residence-permit process.
Warning: For 2026–2027, the national procedures state that study-visa applications for ordinary degree courses must be submitted no later than November 30, 2026. Universities and consulates can require earlier dates, and university validation does not guarantee a visa. Follow the earliest deadline that applies to your programme and location.
Student Visa and Residence Permit Basics
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens do not follow the same study-visa process as non-EU students. Non-EU students living abroad should use the official Universitaly international-student procedures and the website of the Italian embassy or consulate responsible for their place of residence.
After arriving in Italy for a stay longer than three months, non-EU students generally need to apply for a residence permit within eight working days. The university’s international office can explain the local steps, but immigration authorities make the legal decision.
Cost of Living and City Choice
Your city can change your total study cost and daily experience as much as tuition. Before choosing, compare:
- University or regional student housing availability
- Private-room rent and required deposits
- Distance between the campus and affordable neighbourhoods
- Public transport and bicycle access
- Part-time work practicality and your Italian-language ability
- Internship access in your subject
- Climate, city size, and travel connections
Milan and Rome offer large professional networks but can have competitive housing markets. Bologna, Padua, Pisa, Turin, Naples, and Trento provide different balances of city size, transport, academic culture, and cost. Use official accommodation pages and current listings rather than relying on an old citywide average.
How to Choose the Best University in Italy for You
- Start with the programme, not the university name. Compare required courses, electives, laboratories, thesis options, internships, and accreditation where relevant.
- Check the real teaching language. A university may advertise international study while most bachelor’s courses remain in Italian.
- Calculate total annual cost. Add tuition, taxes, housing, food, transport, insurance, documents, travel, and emergency savings.
- Compare admission probability. Review limited-access places, entrance tests, minimum grades, prerequisite credits, portfolios, and language scores.
- Study scholarship conditions. Check whether funding is automatic or requires a separate application and whether renewal depends on ECTS credits.
- Look beyond overall rankings. Subject rankings, faculty research, laboratories, employer links, and graduate outcomes may matter more for your degree.
- Check support services. International offices, orientation, housing help, language courses, disability support, counselling, and career services can affect your experience.
Create a shortlist of three to five programmes and compare their official calls side by side. This gives you a more reliable decision than choosing only by global rank or city reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a 100% scholarship in Italy?
Yes. Some universities and regional agencies offer full tuition waivers or awards that also include a stipend or services. They are competitive, country and course rules vary, and “100%” may not cover every living or administrative expense.
Which jobs are in high demand in Italy?
Demand changes by region and year. Current European labour information points to recurring needs in healthcare, ICT, engineering, construction, hospitality, skilled technical work, renewable energy, and some sales and service roles. Italian ability, professional recognition, and work-permit rules can affect access.
Is university in Italy free for international students?
Not automatically. Most students pay tuition and administrative charges, but income-based reductions, regional scholarships, merit awards, and full fee waivers can reduce the cost to a small amount or, in some cases, remove tuition.
Is studying in Italy worth it for international students?
It can be worthwhile if the programme fits your goals and the total cost is manageable. Italy offers respected universities, public tuition reductions, research opportunities, and cultural experience. You should also plan for housing, administration, language learning, and the local job market.
Do I need to speak Italian to study in Italy?
You can study in English if you enter a fully English-taught programme and meet its language requirement. Italian is still valuable for housing, healthcare, administration, internships, part-time work, and daily life.
Are English-taught bachelor’s degrees available in Italy?
Yes, but they are less common than English-taught master’s degrees. Search the official programme catalogue and confirm that the entire degree, not only selected courses, is delivered in English.
Sources
- QS World University Rankings 2027 — current overall ranking positions used in the comparison.
- Universitaly international-student procedures — official pre-enrolment, entry, visa, and recognition framework for 2026–2027 and 2027–2028.
- Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs scholarships — MAECI funding for eligible international students.
- University of Bologna fees and exemptions — 2026–2027 fee structure and reductions.
- University of Padua student fees — 2026–2027 rates, exemptions, and international categories.
- University of Milan fees 2026–2027 — country groups, programme areas, and instalments.
Conclusion
The best university in Italy is not automatically the one with the highest overall ranking. Politecnico di Milano may lead for engineering, architecture, and design, while Sapienza, Bologna, Padua, Milan, Pisa, Naples Federico II, Turin, and Trento offer different strengths, costs, and study environments. Compare the exact programme, teaching language, official fee calculation, scholarship deadline, admission call, and city budget before you apply. A careful programme-level comparison will give you a better result than choosing by reputation alone.