Italy has been a favorite destination for a large number of international students from around the world. It has numerous world-class universities and has a great cultural heritage. In fact, the world’s oldest university still in operation, i.e., the University of Bologna (foundation year 1088), is also located in Italy. Apart from this university, there are several other universities that interest individuals. A major name in this regard is the University of Naples Federico II.
The University of Naples Federico II is also one of the oldest universities in continuous operation and was founded in 1224. Besides, it was the first university in Europe that was dedicated to training secular administrative staff. Its former name was Università di Napoli. Today, this university is also known as the University of Naples Federico II.
So, in this post, you will get some concise information about the University of Naples Federico II, which will be one of the best choices if you have decided to study in Italy.
Acceptance Rate
One of the major things to know about any university for international students is its acceptance rate. It helps them estimate how much chance they have to be accepted in a university as a student. The University of Naples Federico II acceptance rate is 31% to 60%. It depends heavily on whether the program has open or restricted access. Most of the general undergraduate and graduate courses are open, and a basic high school diploma and language criteria are sufficient for you to get admission to the university. On the other hand, in the competitive fields such as Medicine, Surgery, Pharmacy, and some Engineering branches, you need to clear some international-level entrance tests, such as IMAT for medical.
QS Ranking
In the QS World University Rankings 2027, 1504 universities have been ranked, and there are also thousands of unranked universities. The University of Naples Federico II QS ranking is #401, so this university gets the privilege of being one of the top 500 universities in the world, and it is only one rank below from becoming one of the top 400 universities in the world.
Courses
The University of Naples Federico II offers 150 degree programs in different fields. The fields in which the University of Naples Federico II courses are available are medicine, engineering, agriculture, and the humanities. The popular English-taught programs in this university are Medicine and Surgery, Economics and Finance, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, Design for the Built Environment, and Civil and Environmental Engineering.
Fees
Fees in the University of Naples Federico II differ from course to course and field to field. Besides, there are some differences in the fees for EU and non-EU students.
In general, fees for non-EU students are:
- Tuition/university fee: €0
- Regional tax: €140/year
- Stamp duty: €16
- Total compulsory amount: about €156/year
For EU students, the fees are:
- University fee: €200/year
- Regional tax: €140/year
- Stamp duty: €16
- Total: €356/year
Scholarships
The University of Naples also offers scholarships with the help of which you can save on your expenses to some extent. There are different scholarships available in the university, among which three are the prominent ones. These three major scholarships include:
- Federico II scholarships for international students
This was a scholarship offered to students of A.Y. 2024-25. In the previous call, 26 two-year scholarships of €11,059.92 gross each were provided. There is a probability that such a scholarship can be provided for students of A.Y. 2026-27. You need to check the official website of the university from time to time in order to check for similar offer in this academic year.
- Department-specific scholarships
Many department-specific scholarships are provided to international students at the University of Naples Federico II. We can take the example of the Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) Master’s, which has 10 scholarships for international students. These scholarships are worth €6,000 gross per year (€12,000 over two years). The application deadline for these scholarships for 2026-27 is 10 September 2026.
- Erasmus+ scholarships
For students who are already enrolled and participate in Erasmus+ scholarships, monthly financial support is available at the university. The 2026–27 call lists amounts depending on destination and financial circumstances, with additional support available under the MUR integration scheme.
Summing Up
The University of Naples Federico II, one of the oldest universities in continuous operation, still attracts a large number of international students. It ranks 401 in QS World University Rankings 2027, and it offers a wide range of courses with world-class education. Many English-taught programs are also available for international students at this university. The university also offers scholarships and financial aid for international students. The fees imposed by the university are affordable, and there are different fee structures for EU and non-EU students.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the University of Naples Federico II good for international students?
Yes, particularly for students seeking affordable education and scholarship opportunities.
2. What is the acceptance rate?
Estimated between 30% and 60%, depending on the program.
3. Are English-taught programs available?
Yes, several bachelor’s and master’s programs are offered in English.
4. What are the annual tuition fees?
Typically between €156 and €3,500.
5. Can Indian students apply for scholarships?
Yes, Indian students are eligible for multiple scholarship schemes.
6. Are fully funded scholarships available?
Yes, some regional scholarship packages can cover most educational and living costs.
7. Is Naples cheaper than Milan?
Generally, yes. Naples offers lower accommodation and living expenses.
8. Which courses are most popular?
Engineering, Medicine, Computer Science, Economics, and Business.
9. Can students work while studying?
Yes, subject to Italian student work regulations.
10. Is the degree recognized internationally?
Yes, the university enjoys strong international recognition.
11. What level of Italian is required?
It depends on the program. English-taught courses may not require Italian initially.
12. Is Federico II worth it in 2026?
For most budget-conscious international students, it offers one of the strongest ROI propositions in Italy.