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Study in Italy

Explore universities, scholarships, and practical guidance for studying in Italy.

Use this hub to explore courses, scholarships, and universities in Italy. From historic universities to English-taught master's programs, Italy combines academic heritage with an unmatched quality of life.

Why Italy?

Rich Cultural Heritage

Immerse yourself in art, architecture, and history that shaped Western civilization.

Heart of Europe

Travel easily across the Schengen area while studying in world-famous cities.

Learn Italian

Study in Italian or choose from a growing number of English-taught programs.

Quality of Life

Enjoy renowned cuisine, Mediterranean climate, and a relaxed lifestyle.

Diverse Landscapes

From the Alps to Sicily's coast — experience Italy's natural variety.

Affordable Education

Public universities offer competitive tuition compared to the UK or US.

Quality Education

Italy boasts some of the oldest universities in the world, offering excellence across arts, engineering, medicine, and business.

  • Historic Excellence

    Home to the University of Bologna (1088) — nearly a millennium of academic tradition.

  • Global Recognition

    Italian degrees are recognized across the EU and internationally.

  • Diverse Programs

    From fine arts and design to engineering and medicine.

  • English-Taught Programs

    Especially at master's level — language need not be a barrier.

  • Research Opportunities

    Strong links between universities and European research networks.

  • International Community

    Multicultural campuses with students from across the globe.

Notable Italian Universities

  • University of Bologna
  • University of Padua
  • University of Florence
  • Sapienza University of Rome
  • University of Milan
  • Politecnico di Milano
  • University of Turin
  • University of Pisa
  • Bocconi University

Admission Procedure & Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Requirements

General Requirements

  • High school diploma (minimum 12 years of education)
  • Academic transcripts
  • Italian or English proficiency (program-dependent)
  • Valid passport
  • Pre-application via Italian embassy/consulate

Application Timeline

  1. 1
    Pre-enrollment (May–June)

    Submit at Italian diplomatic representation in your country.

  2. 2
    Documentation (June–July)

    Prepare and authenticate required documents.

  3. 3
    University Application (July–August)

    Apply directly to chosen universities.

  4. 4
    Entrance Tests (Aug–Sep)

    Take admission exams if required by your program.

Application Support

LetsTern can guide you through document preparation, university selection, and communications with Italian institutions.

Fee Structure

Public Universities

Income-based state institutions

€800 – €3,500

per academic year

Private Universities

Independent institutions

€6,000 – €20,000

per academic year

Specialized Programs

Medicine, design, business

€4,000 – €25,000

per academic year

Payment Information

Payment Methods

  • Bank transfer
  • Online payment portals
  • Credit/debit card (some institutions)
  • In-person at university office

Installment Options

Most universities allow 2–3 installments per year:

  • First: at enrollment (Sep–Oct)
  • Second: January–February
  • Third: April–May (if applicable)

Visa Process

Non-EU students need a National Visa for Study Purposes (Visto Nazionale per Studio) before arriving in Italy.

Step-by-step visa application

  1. 1
    University Acceptance

    Secure admission and receive an official acceptance letter.

  2. 2
    Pre-enrollment at Consulate

    Complete pre-enrollment at the Italian embassy or consulate.

  3. 3
    Document Preparation

    Gather passport, financial proof, accommodation, health insurance, and photos.

  4. 4
    Visa Application

    Submit application and attend interview if required.

  5. 5
    Residence Permit

    Apply for permesso di soggiorno within 8 days of arrival in Italy.

  • Minimum financial proof: approximately €6,000–€8,000 per year.
  • Processing time: typically 4–8 weeks — apply early.

Part-time Job Opportunities

International students may work up to 20 hours per week during term time with a valid student residence permit.

Typical student jobs & wages

Job Type Hourly Wage (€) Language
Hospitality (waiter/barista) €8 – €12 Italian + English
Retail Sales Assistant €8 – €11 Italian + English
Tour Guide €10 – €20 English + others
Language Tutor €15 – €25 Native language
IT Support / Developer €12 – €25 English

At 20 hrs/week, students can earn roughly €640–€1,000/month depending on role and city.

Monthly Expenditures

Costs vary by city — Milan is the most expensive; southern cities are generally more affordable.

Select a city

Monthly expenses in Milan

Typical student budget (excluding tuition)

  • Shared room

    Student apartment

    €450 – €650
  • Groceries
    €200 – €280
  • Transport

    Monthly pass

    €39
  • Mobile & internet
    €25 – €35
  • Miscellaneous
    €100 – €150

Estimated total: €850 – €1,150 / month

Path to Long-term Residency

After five years of legal residence, non-EU nationals may apply for an EU long-term residence permit.

  • Student permits count at 50% — two study years equal one residence year.
  • Work permits count at 100%.
  • EU Blue Card holders may qualify in as little as two years.

Courses in Italy

Browse programs from Italian universities — filter by field, level, and language of instruction.

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Universities in Italy

Discover verified institutions on LetsTern and connect directly with admissions teams.

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