Best Public Universities in Italy for International Students 2025
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Home to 61 public universities, Italy is one of the most preferred countries for international students because of their reputation and cheap rates for study. Out of the 61 public universities in Italy for international students, around 20 of them rank globally. Italy public universities attract students from all across the world annually. One of the oldest public universities in Italy is the University of Bologna. Read on for more details on Italy's public universities for international students.
Italy, a country renowned for its rich history, art, and culture, has emerged as a popular destination for international students. With its world-class universities, affordable tuition fees, and vibrant cities, Italy offers a unique and enriching educational experience. In this article, we delve into the world of Italy's public universities. We'll explore why these institutions are attractive to international students, highlight some of the top-ranked universities, and provide insights into the admission process and costs.
Why Study in Public Universities in Italy?
Wish to study in Italy as an international student, and then go to public universities for the following reasons:
- Free education in Italy at public universities.
- Good level of scholarship availability for international students in Italy’s public universities.
- Universities in Italy which are public, offer free Italian language classes for international students.
- Some public universities in Italy may charge a minor fee for extra Italian language classes.
- There are ample opportunities on-campus at specifically public universities in Italy for students to gain hands-on experience.
- Finally, accommodations at public universities in Italy are cheaper in comparison to private universities in Italy.
Overall, it is a lucrative option to study at public universities in Italy gain hands-on experience and moreover, get cheaper rates for study and accommodation.
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Best Public Universities in Italy 2025
Top-ranked public universities in Italy as per QS and THE for recent years are as follows:
| Public Universities in Italy |
QS Ranking 2025 |
THE Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| #111 | 201-250 | |
| #132 | #185 | |
| #133 | #146 | |
| Politecnico di Torino |
#241 | - |
| #347 | 351-400 | |
| University of Turin |
#371 | 401-500 |
| University of Florence |
#375 | 351-400 |
| #382 | 351-400 | |
| #393 | 301-350 | |
| #440 | 301-350 |
The list of public universities in Italy is though long but only a couple of them have been ranked for the year 2025.
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About the Top 5 Public Universities in Italy
Based on 2025 rankings, the following public universities in Italy have been ranked, check out everything about these universities before choosing admission:
1. Politecnico de Milan
Founded in 1863, Politecnico de Milano is a prestigious public university in Italy renowned for its excellence in engineering, architecture, and design. Located in the heart of Milan, Italy, it offers a world-class education experience that blends academic rigour with practical application. Some of the reasons why international applicants should take admission at Politecnico de Milano are the following:
- Politecnico de Milano ranks consistently among the top universities globally, particularly in engineering and design fields.
- Renowned professors and researchers who are experts in their respective fields.
- Diverse student body from around the world, fostering a multicultural learning experience. Plus, Politecnico de Milano collaborates with leading universities and industries worldwide.
- Some of the popular courses offered at Politecnico de Milano include - Aerospace, Biomedical, Civil, Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Architecture, Industrial Design, Design and Communication. and others.
2. Sapienza University of Rome
Sapienza University of Rome, officially known as Università degli Studi di Roma "La Sapienza," is one of the largest and oldest universities in the world. Founded in 1303, it has a rich history and a strong reputation for academic excellence. Why international students should consider taking admission at Sapienza University of Rome for the following reasons:
- As one of the world's oldest universities, Sapienza offers a unique educational experience. Plus, it is renowned for its academic excellence and contributions to various fields of study.
- Why international students consider this renowned public university in Italy because Sapienza University of Rome ranks among the top 500 universities globally and in the top 10 nationally.
- Courses at Sapienza University of Rome are offered across undergraduate and postgraduate levels in various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, engineering, medicine, and law.
- Also, Sapenza has strong ties with industry partners, offering internships and job opportunities. And there are also career counselling and job placement services to help students transition into professional life.
3. University of Bologna
The world's first university and most renowned public university in Italy is The University of Bologna (UNIBO) or Alma Mater Studiorum. The University of Bologna is a prestigious public research university in Bologna. It holds the distinction of being the oldest university in continuous operation in the world, tracing its origins back to 1088. There are various reasons why international applicants want to take admission at University of Bologna, some of them are as follows:
- University of Bologna ranks among the top public universities in Italy and the best 10 universities in Italy and globally.
- Courses at the University of Bologna are given a wide variety of options for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels in the fields of - humanities, sciences, engineering, law, medicine, and economics.
- The UNIBO offers good scholarships and the tuition fee charged is next to NIL for international students, which is a plus point.
- Finally, the University of Bologna has historic buildings and modern facilities and some of the oldest buildings that are over 930+ years old.
4. Politecnico di Torino
Politecnico di Torino, often referred to as the Polytechnic University of Turin, is a prestigious institution with a rich history dating back to 1859. It was founded as a technical school for engineers and has since evolved into one of Italy's leading universities for engineering, architecture, and design. Politecnico di Torino is a university renowned for its excellence in engineering, architecture, and design. It is also one of the oldest technical universities in Italy. Applicants should consider studying at Politecnico di Torino for the following reasons:
Q: What is the acceptance rate for Istituto Marangoni Italy?
According to a few unofficial sources, Istituto Marangoni acceptance rate is around 80%. This means that the institute is not too selective at the time of granting admissions. As per an unofficial source, about 67% of BA students at Istituto Marangoni are international. If the acceptance rate is considered to be around 80%, then it means that students having a good academic background and meeting all the requirements have a higher chance of getting admission.
Q: Why do Indian students choose to study at Istituto Marangoni - Italy?
Indian students choose to study at Istituto Marangoni in Italy for several reasons. With a broad choice of undergraduate and graduate executive programs in business, fashion, and design offered by Istituto Marangoni, students have the chance to collaborate on industry projects with renowned businesses and establish high-level connections with the fashion and luxury sectors. Students who wish to work in the fashion and design industries find the school's approach appealing as it combines the newest trends, industry advancements, and practical skills. The possibility to work on real-life industrial projects and the association with the prominent fashion company N21 are other factors that make Istituto Marangoni a desirable option for Indian students.
Q: How can I get admission to the Sapienza University of Rome?
Sapienza University of Rome offers a number of certificates, diplomas and degree programmes at the undergradaute and postgradaute levels .To get Sapienza University, international students must meet the course-specific and general admission requirements. Check below the general admission requirements for international students are:
- International applicants must have a high schoolDiplomaearned after at least 12 years of study for a Bachelor’s program
- International applicants must have at least a 3-year bachelor’s degree from arecogniseduniversity in a relevant discipline for a Master’s program
- Students must have at least an upper-intermediate knowledge of English or Italian (B2 level), depending on their chosen program
- Proficiency in the English language
Q: Is the Sapienza University of Rome good?
Yes, the Sapienza University of Rome is one of the finest and among the best universities in the world. Sapienza University of Rome rankings consistently puts Sapienza University among the top universities globally and nationally. The QS World University Rankings 2024 ranked the Sapienza University of Rome #134 in the world. Meanwhile, the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024 ranked the Sapienza University of Rome in the range of #181 in the world. Also, the U.S. News and World Report 2023 ranked the university #125 among the global universities
Q: What is the ranking of the Sapienza University of Rome for MBA?
The Sapienza University of Rome offers a variety of MBA programs to international students. Sapienza University of Rome programmes in the business and management are recognised all over the world. The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2023 ranked Sapienza University in the range of #201-250 for its business and economics programmess. Sapienza University has improved its rankings significantly from last year’s #251-300 in the same category.
Q: Which university is better to study as an international student in Italy, University of Pavia or the University of Bologna?
University of Pavia or the University of Bologna offer unique campus cultures and academic programs. While they share a great reputation, there are subtle differences between the two universities. The below table compares the rankings, fees and acceptance rates of University of Pavia or the University of Bologna . Overall this information could be useful for students who are considering them.
Here is the comparison highlighting the differences between the Universities:
Name of The University | Ranking | Acceptance Rate | 1st Year Tuition Fee |
University of Pavia | #469 | 50% | INR 36K |
University of Bologna | #154 | 73% | INR 54K- 1L |
Q: What are the documents required in the visa process for indian students at Bocconi University, Italy?
The documents required for Indian students in the visa process for Bocconi University, Italy, include the following:
- Original certificate of high school/bachelor's degree
- Documented guarantees regarding the applicant's study curriculum
- Acceptance of enrollment by Bocconi University
- Receipt of full payment of the first part of tuition fees
- Application form downloaded from the Italian Consulate Webpage
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Passport with a validity of 90 days from the date of expiry of the visa and at least 1 blank page
- "Dichiarazione di Valore" (Declaration of Value) of the applicant's educational certificates
- Permit of Stay for study purposes, once in Italy
The official Acceptance Letter issued by Bocconi University is also required for the visa application. The visa application process involves completing a 2-step application, pre-registering, and submitting the application on the Universitaly portal. Once in Italy, all non-EU students will have to obtain a "Permesso di Soggiorno" (Permit of Stay). It is important to apply for the appropriate visa at the Italian diplomatic authority of the country of residence and to follow the instructions provided on the website of the relevant consulate.
Q: What are the documents required at Milano?
International students who wish to study Masters Programs at MFI must submit the below documents:
· Application form
· Copy of degree certificate
· Copy of ID card or Passport
· A CV in European format
· Passport-size photos
· Motivation letter
· Copy of official transcript
- Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and world-class faculty, Politecnico di Torino consistently ranks among the top universities in Italy and Europe.
- Politecnico di Torino boasts modern laboratories, workshops, and libraries, equipped with cutting-edge technology to support research and innovation.
- The university also maintains close ties with industry leaders, providing students with practical experience through internships and research projects.
- Applicants can gain high-quality education plus, gain valuable skills and knowledge to excel in various engineering and design fields.
5. University of Naples Federico II
The University of Naples Federico II is a prestigious public research university in Italy. Founded in 1224 by Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, it holds the distinction of being the oldest state-supported university in the world. What makes it special is that it is the oldest public university in Italy and the following reasons why Indian students thrive to study here:
- A wide range of courses is offered at University of Naples Federico II in various fields of - humanities, sciences, engineering, medicine, law, and economics.
- There are student exchange programs and study abroad opportunities at the University of Naples Federico II.
- University of Naples Federico II ranks among the popular universities in Italy and also among the oldest universities in the world and Italy.
- Compared to many other universities, especially in English-speaking countries, tuition fees at the University of Naples Federico II are relatively affordable.
Admission Requirements at Public Universities in Italy
The following admission requirements are required for public universities in Italy:
- Secondary school qualification and a minimum of 12 years of schooling
- GPA of 6.5 or higher
- Successfully pass the admission test for a bachelor’s degree for postgrad admissions
- Standardised test scores of either:
Additional Documents Required
- Transcripts
- Proof of financial support, certification of finances, and bank statements
- Copy of passport
- Statement of Purpose
- Letter of Recommendation
Please note that some documents may vary with each of the public universities an international applicant is applying to for admission.
Cost of Studying at Public Universities in Italy
The cost of studying at public universities in Italy is quite cheap, Check out the lowest possible tuition options offered at these universities for international students in the table below:
| Public Universities of Italy |
Average Annual Tuition (UG Courses) |
Average Annual Tuition (PG Courses) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Pavia |
€5,000 |
€10,000 |
| University of Padua |
€3,000 |
€15,000 |
| University of Milan |
€4,000 |
€12,000 |
| University of Genoa |
€3,000 |
€24,000 |
| Sacred Heart University |
€15,800 |
€11,000 |
| Sapienza University |
€1,000 |
€32,000 |
| The Polytechnic University of Milan |
€4,000 |
€15,000 |
| Ca’ Foscari University of Venice |
€2,000 |
€45,000 |
| University of Trento |
€4,000 |
€25,000 |
Applicants can also study for free in Italy in terms of tuition fees only at selective public universities. However, applicants will have to pay for the living costs and bear personal costs as well. Check out: Cost of Studying in Italy
Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class universities, offers a unique and enriching study-abroad experience. Public universities in Italy, particularly those mentioned above, provide international students with affordable, high-quality education and a chance to immerse themselves in Italian culture. By considering factors such as academic reputation, program offerings, and cost of living, international students can make informed decisions about their study abroad journey in Italy. Have more queries? Write to us in the comments below or sign up for free Shiksha Abroad Counselling.
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Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae