The top universities in Italy for international students in 2026 include the University of Bologna, Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza University of Rome, University of Padua, Bocconi University, University of Milan, University of Turin, University of Pisa, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, and Politecnico di Torino. These universities offer affordable tuition fees, English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs, strong global rankings, and scholarships for non-EU students, making Italy a popular study destination.
Italy is one of Europe’s most attractive study destinations, offering globally recognised universities, affordable tuition fees, English-taught programs, and a rich cultural experience. For international students planning to study in Europe in 2026, Italy combines academic excellence with reasonable living costs and strong post-study career opportunities.
This guide lists the top 10 universities in Italy for international students in 2026, based on global rankings, course quality, affordability, English-taught programs, and international student support.
Why Study in Italy as an International Student?
- Public universities with low tuition fees
- Increasing number of English-taught programs
- Globally ranked institutions
- Scholarships for non-EU students
- Affordable cities compared to other European countries
- Strong programs in engineering, business, medicine, arts and sciences
Top Universities in Italy for International Students (2026)
1. University of Bologna
Location: Bologna
Best for: Business, Law, Computer Science, Medicine, Humanities
The University of Bologna is Italy’s oldest university and one of the most prestigious in Europe. It offers a wide range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs and has a strong international reputation.
Why choose Bologna:
- High global ranking
- Large international student community
- Strong academic tradition
2. Politecnico di Milano
Location: Milan
Best for: Engineering, Architecture, Design, Technology
Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s top technical university and a leading institution in Europe for engineering and design education.
Why choose Politecnico di Milano:
- Strong industry connections
- Excellent employability outcomes
- Many English-taught master’s programs
3. Sapienza University of Rome
Location: Rome
Best for: Arts, Humanities, Engineering, Economics, Sciences
Sapienza is one of the largest universities in Europe, known for its academic diversity and affordable education.
Why choose Sapienza:
- Wide course selection
- Affordable tuition
- Strong research output
4. University of Padua
Location: Padua
Best for: Medicine, Biotechnology, Engineering, Psychology
The University of Padua consistently ranks among Italy’s top universities and is well known for scientific research and medical programs.
Why choose Padua:
- Strong STEM programs
- Good international student support
- Affordable living costs
5. Bocconi University
Location: Milan
Best for: Business, Economics, Finance, Management
Bocconi is Italy’s leading private university and one of Europe’s top business schools, offering highly competitive English-taught programs.
Why choose Bocconi:
- Global business reputation
- Excellent placement outcomes
- Strong international exposure
6. University of Milan
Location: Milan
Best for: Life Sciences, Medicine, Law, Economics
The University of Milan is a major public university with strong research facilities and English-taught master’s programs.
Why choose Milan University:
- Research-focused education
- Metropolitan study environment
- Strong academic credibility
7. University of Turin
Location: Turin
Best for: Data Science, Biotechnology, Political Science, Economics
The University of Turin is one of Italy’s oldest public universities, known for affordable fees and growing English-taught program options.
Why choose Turin:
- Moderate acceptance rate
- Affordable cost of living
- Strong science and social science programs
8. University of Pisa
Location: Pisa
Best for: Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering
The University of Pisa is well respected for science and technology programs and has strong research output.
Why choose Pisa:
- Academic excellence in STEM
- Historic academic environment
- Lower living costs
9. Ca’ Foscari University of Venice
Location: Venice
Best for: Economics, Languages, International Relations, Business
Ca’ Foscari is highly popular among international students due to its English-taught courses and strong humanities and business programs.
Why choose Ca’ Foscari:
- International focus
- Strong language and economics programs
- Unique study environment
10. Politecnico di Torino
Location: Turin
Best for: Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Architecture
Politecnico di Torino is one of Italy’s best engineering universities with close links to the automotive and manufacturing sectors.
Why choose Politecnico di Torino:
- Strong technical education
- Industry-oriented programs
- Good job prospects
Tuition Fees in Italy for International Students (2026)
| University Type | Annual Tuition Fees |
| Public Universities | €900 – €4,000 |
| Private Universities | €8,000 – €20,000 |
Many universities offer income-based fee reductions and scholarships for non-EU students.
Conclusion
Italy offers a strong mix of academic excellence, affordability and cultural richness, making it one of the best study destinations for international students in 2026. With globally ranked universities like Bologna, Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza and Padua, along with affordable tuition fees and scholarships, Italy provides excellent value for students seeking quality education in Europe. Whether your goal is engineering, business, medicine or humanities, Italian universities offer diverse pathways and strong global recognition.
Read related blogs:
- Cost of Living in Italy for International Students
- Master’s in Italy for Indian Students: Programs, Costs, Scholarships & Admission Guide
- Universities in Italy That Accept International Students Without IELTS
- Tuition-Free Public Universities in Italy for International Students
- Intakes in Italy for International Students 2025–2026
- Top 10 Public Universities in Italy for International Students
FAQs
1. Which is the best university in Italy for international students?
The University of Bologna and Politecnico di Milano are considered among the best due to rankings, course quality and international recognition.
2. Are there English-taught programs in Italy?
Yes. Many Italian universities offer English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs, especially in engineering, business and sciences.
3. Is Italy affordable for international students?
Yes. Italy is more affordable than many European countries, with low public university fees and reasonable living costs.
4. Do Italian universities offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Scholarships include Italian government grants, regional scholarships and university-specific awards.
5. Can international students work in Italy while studying?
Yes. International students can work part-time up to 20 hours per week.
6. Which Italian university is best for engineering students?
Politecnico di Milano and Politecnico di Torino are the best choices for engineering students due to strong industry links and global rankings.
7. Which university in Italy is best for business and management studies?
Bocconi University is the top institution for business, economics and management studies in Italy with excellent global recognition.
8. Are Italian public universities good for international students?
Yes. Public universities in Italy offer high academic standards, low tuition fees and a wide range of English-taught programs.
9. Which Italian universities offer the most English-taught programs?
University of Bologna, Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza University of Rome and University of Padua offer the largest number of English-taught programs.
10. Is Italy a good study destination for Indian students?
Yes. Italy offers affordable education, scholarships, English-taught courses and reasonable living costs, making it popular among Indian students.
11. What is the average cost of studying in Italy for international students?
Total annual costs, including tuition and living expenses, typically range from €8,000 to €15,000, depending on the city and lifestyle.
12. Do Italian universities accept students without IELTS?
Yes. Many universities accept alternatives like Duolingo, PTE or proof of English-medium education.
13. Which city in Italy is cheapest for international students?
Turin, Padua and Pisa are among the most affordable student cities in Italy.
14. Do Italian universities offer scholarships for non-EU students?
Yes. Scholarships include Italian government grants, regional funding and university-specific merit scholarships.
15. Can international students stay in Italy after graduation?
Yes. Graduates can apply for a post-study residence permit to search for work or start employment in Italy.