Italy’s public universities offer world-class education at affordable tuition fees (avg. €1,000–€4,000/year), with globally recognized degrees and a vibrant cultural life. Top picks include the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico di Milano, each excelling in different academic fields. Most offer English-taught programs, EU exchange opportunities, and scholarships for international students.
Italy has always been a dream destination for students who want high quality education, deep-rooted history and a rich cultural life. In recent years, it has also emerged as one of the most affordable study abroad destinations in Europe for international students. These universities are known for low tuition fees, globally recognized degrees and diverse programs taught in Italian and English.
Italy currently hosts over 90 public universities spread across iconic cities like Rome, Milan, Florence and Bologna. Many of these universities are ranked among the best in Europe. Also offering research opportunities, world class professors and strong links to industries. Tuition fees at public universities in Italy are much lower compared to private universities. And it is ranging from €1,000 to €4,000 per year for non-EU students.
Why Choose Public Universities in Italy?
- Low tuition fees compared to many Western countries.
- High global rankings in subjects like architecture, engineering, arts and humanities.
- English taught programs are available for masters degrees.
- Scholarship opportunities from universities and the Italian government.
- Vibrant student life in culturally rich and historic cities.
Top Public Universities in Italy for International Students (2025)
| University | Location | QS 2025 Ranking | Specializations | Average Tuition (Intl) |
| University of Bologna | Bologna | 154 | Arts, Humanities, Sciences | €2,000 – €3,000 |
| Sapienza University of Rome | Rome | 134 | Engineering, Medicine, Humanities | €1,500 – €3,000 |
| University of Milan | Milan | 276 | Life Sciences, Law, Economics | €1,500 – €3,500 |
| University of Padua | Padua | 219 | Science, Medicine, Agriculture | €2,500 – €4,000 |
| Politecnico di Milano | Milan | 123 | Engineering, Architecture, Design | €3,500 – €4,000 |
| University of Florence | Florence | 395 | Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences | €1,500 – €3,000 |
| University of Pisa | Pisa | 349 | Engineering, Natural Sciences | €2,000 – €3,500 |
| University of Turin | Turin | 486 | Law, Economics, Humanities | €1,500 – €3,000 |
| Ca’ Foscari University of Venice | Venice | 661-670 | Economics, Humanities | €1,500 – €3,000 |
| University of Trento | Trento | 440 | Computer Science, Social Sciences | €2,000 – €3,500 |
1. University of Bologna
University of Bologna was founded in 1088, it is the world’s oldest university and a leader in research and education. Offers a wide range of English-taught master’s programs, strong international exchange agreements and low tuition fees for merit-based students.
Highlights:
- Over 200 degree programs, including several in English.
- Strong focus on research and innovation.
- Active Erasmus+ exchange opportunities.
2. Sapienza University of Rome
One of Europe’s largest universities with over 115,000 students. It is known for engineering, architecture and medicine. Sapienza offers several master’s programs in English and is located in Italy’s vibrant capital city.
Highlights:
- Leading programs in engineering, architecture, and medicine.
- Situated in the heart of Rome, offering endless cultural exposure.
- Affordable tuition with multiple scholarships for non-EU students.
3. University of Milan
University of Milan is a prestigious research institution, especially strong in life sciences, law and economics. Offers competitive tuition and strong industry connections, particularly in fashion and business sectors.
Highlights:
- Strong research focus, particularly in medical and pharmaceutical fields.
- Located in Milan, Italy’s business and fashion capital.
- Over 20 English-taught master’s programs.
4. University of Padua
Founded in 1222, University of Padua is famous for medicine, science and agriculture programs. It offers a multicultural student community and several master’s programs entirely in English.
Highlights:
- Renowned for medicine, science and agriculture.
- Offers 40+ English-taught programs.
- Active collaboration with global research institutions.
5. Politecnico di Milano
Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s top-ranked engineering and architecture university. Known for innovation, it attracts students worldwide for its master’s and PhD programs taught entirely in English.
Highlights:
- Ranked among the world’s top 10 for architecture and design.
- Over 40% of master’s students are international.
- Strong industry partnerships for internships.
6. University of Florence
University of Florence is located in the birthplace of the Renaissance, this university excels in arts, humanities and social sciences, offering both Italian and English-taught courses.
Highlights:
- Strong in arts, humanities, and social sciences.
- Located in the birthplace of the Renaissance.
- Affordable fees and vibrant student life.
7. University of Pisa
Home to the Leaning Tower, the University of Pisa is known for strong engineering and natural sciences faculties, along with affordable tuition fees.
Highlights:
- Home to the prestigious Scuola Normale Superiore research institute.
- Offers both bachelor’s and master’s programs in English.
- Competitive tuition fees for non-EU students.
8. University of Turin
Rich in history and culture, University of Turin is strong in law, economics and political science, offering a variety of English-taught programs.
Highlights:
- Leading programs in law, economics and political science.
- Located in an affordable yet modern Italian city.
- Scholarships available for Indian and non-EU students.
9. Ca’ Foscari University of Venice
Located in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Ca’ Foscari is famous for economics, languages and humanities programs, many taught in English.
Highlights:
- Strong in economics, languages and humanities.
- Offers several master’s programs in English.
- Affordable cost of living compared to major capitals.
10. University of Trento
University of Trento is a modern university with a strong focus on computer science, social sciences and research collaborations with international institutions.
Highlights:
- Focus areas: computer science, social sciences, engineering.
- Small but strong academic community.
- Strong collaborations with international universities.
Conclusion
Studying at a public university in Italy means you get high-quality education at a fraction of the cost compared to countries like the US or UK. Whether you’re after engineering excellence at Politecnico di Milano, a research-rich environment at Bologna, or the cultural charm of Florence, Italy has an option for every budget and interest. For international students, this mix of affordability, culture, and academic reputation is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are public universities in Italy free for international students?
No, but they are very affordable compared to other European countries, with fees averaging €1,000–€4,000/year.
2. Can I study in English at public universities in Italy?
Yes, especially at the master’s level, where many programs are fully taught in English.
3. Which is the No. 1 public university in Italy?
The University of Bologna is ranked as one of Italy’s top institutions globally.
4. Do public universities in Italy offer scholarships for international students?
Yes, many provide merit-based and need-based scholarships, plus regional grants.
5. What are the admission requirements for public universities in Italy?
Requirements vary but generally include academic transcripts, proof of English or Italian proficiency, and entrance exams for some programs.
6. How much does it cost to live in Italy as a student?
Average living costs in Italy range from €700–€1,200/month, depending on the city.
7. Which city in Italy is best for international students?
Bologna, Milan, Rome, and Florence are popular choices due to their academic reputation and lifestyle.
8. Do public universities in Italy accept international students from outside the EU?
Yes, they actively welcome students from all over the world.
9. What is the QS ranking of the University of Bologna?
It is ranked around 154 in QS World University Rankings 2025.
10. Are Italian public universities recognized worldwide?
Yes, their degrees are recognized globally and respected in academic and professional fields.
11. Do I need IELTS to study in Italy?
IELTS or equivalent English proficiency proof is required for English-taught programs.
12. Can I work while studying in Italy?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
13. Which Italian public university is best for engineering?
Politecnico di Milano is globally recognized for engineering and architecture.
14. Can I apply to multiple public universities in Italy?
Yes, you can apply to several universities at the same time.
15. Are Italian public universities good for research?
Yes, many are leaders in research, especially in medicine, engineering, and humanities.