IELTS Score for Italy: Minimum Band Requirements

To study in Italy, most universities require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.5 for postgraduate programs. Top universities in Italy or specialized courses may demand higher scores. Language proficiency is crucial for admission and visa processing.

Studying in Italy is an attractive option for international students, not only due to its rich cultural heritage but also because of its high-quality education system. Currently, QS World University Rankings 2025 ranked 42 top universities of Italy. The success rate of Italy student visa is also comparatively high, it is around 98%. Hence, the students desirous of opting for the study in Italy for their higher studies must have understanding of the basic admission process. 

Many Italian universities offer programs in English, making it accessible for non-Italian speakers. However, proficiency in English is often required, typically demonstrated through standardized tests.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is widely accepted by Italian universities as proof of English proficiency. Most universities in Italy require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 - 6.5 to ensure students can effectively engage with their studies and communicate in an academic environment. One can check the IELTS score requirements for Italy's top universities and popular courses.

IELTS Score Requirements in Italy

The IELTS score for Italy will range around 6.0 to 6.5 depending on the university or the course one is applying for. Aspirants seeking details on degree-wise IELTS required for Italy can check the table below. 

Degrees	IELTS requirement
IELTS score for Italy for Bachelor’s	6.0 (with no band less than 5.5)
IELTS score for Italy for Master’s	6.5 (with no band less than 6.0)

Top Universities in Italy and Their IELTS Requirements

Students can check the top universities in Italy along with their IELTS score requirements below:

University	Minimum IELTS Score
Politecnico di Milano	6.0
Sapienza University of Rome	6.0
University of Bologna	6.0
Università di Padova	6.0
Politecnico di Torino	6.0
University of Milan	6.5
University of Naples - Federico II	6.5
University of Pisa	6.5
University of Florence	6.5
University of Turin	6.5

Popular Courses in Italy and Their IELTS Requirements

The Italian universities offer a wide variety of courses for international students seeking their higher education in any field. Some of the top popular courses offered at Italian universities are, Business & Management, Fashion & Design Courses, Hospitality & Tourism, Social Science & Humanities. 

Different courses may have varying IELTS requirements based on their academic requirements and language demands. Below are some popular fields of study in Italy along with their general IELTS score requirements:

Popular field	Bachelor's Programs (Minimum IELTS)	Master's Programs (Minimum IELTS)
Business & Management	6.0	6.5
Fashion & Design	6.0	6.5
Hospitality & Tourism	6.0	6.5
Social Sciences & Humanities	6.0	6.5

Is IELTS Required for Italy Student Visa 2024?

To study in Italy, international students must apply for a student visa, which requires proof of English proficiency through tests like the IELTS. However, it is not mandatory the only with IELTS, you will be able to apply in Italian universities

The IELTS Requirement for Italy Student Visa largely depends on the language of instruction of the chosen program and the specific university's policies.

Students are typically required to demonstrate their proficiency in English if their course is taught in English. This can be done through standardized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or other recognized tests.

Types of Student Visas in Italy 

1. Type C Visa: Short-stay visa valid for up to 90 days.
2. Type D Visa: Long-stay visa valid for more than 90 days.

Alternative Proofs of English Proficiency to Study in Italy 

If you do not have an IELTS score, consider these alternatives:

• Previous Education: If your prior education was conducted in English, you can provide documentation from your school or university as proof.
• Other Language Tests: Some universities may accept other language proficiency tests such as TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge exams.
• Personal Statement or Interview: Demonstrating your English skills through a well-written personal statement or during an interview can also strengthen your application.

How to Prepare for IELTS to Study in Italy?

• The IELTS consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section has a unique format and types of questions, so understanding these is crucial for effective preparation.

• Create a realistic study plan that allocates time for each section of the test. Aim to study regularly rather than cramming.
• Assess your current English proficiency to focus on areas needing improvement, such as reading speed or writing clarity.

• Utilize IELTS practice tests and materials from official IELTS resources to familiarize yourself with the question types and test conditions.
• Practice under timed conditions to improve time management skills during the actual test.
• Listen to a variety of English audio sources (podcasts, news, lectures) to enhance comprehension skills.
• Read different texts daily (newspapers, articles, books) to improve vocabulary and comprehension. Practice skimming and scanning techniques to locate information quickly.
• Familiarize yourself with different question types in the reading section, such as multiple-choice and true/false/not given questions.

• Practice writing IELTS essays within the word limits (150 words for Task 1 and 250 words for Task 2) to develop clarity and coherence in your writing.
• Focus on structuring your essays effectively by addressing all parts of the prompt and using appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
• Engage in regular conversations in English with friends or language partners to boost fluency and confidence.
• Practice answering common speaking test questions aloud, focusing on clarity, pronunciation, and relevance of answer.