Find the best public universities in Italy for international students in 2025. Affordable tuition, top global rankings, and a vibrant student life await!
Italy, a country with beautiful landscapes, arts, and cultures, is gaining attraction for international students. Boasting 61 public universities, many of which are ranked around the world, Italy offers perfect quality education mixed with an affordable cost of living. Historic or innovative research-based opportunities will attract you to these public universities.
Let’s look at the best public universities in Italy for international students in 2025, their ranking, and why they are a cut above the rest.
Why Public Universities in Italy?
Public universities in Italy offer numerous benefits to international students, making it an attractive choice:
- Affordable or Free Tuition: Public universities in Italy have minimal or no tuition fees, especially for international students.
- Scholarship Scheme: There are generous scholarships offered to cover the tuition and cost of living.
- Learning Italian: Institutions offer free classes in Italian for students to get into the culture.
- Hands-on Learning: Public universities tend to focus more on practical experience, with internship opportunities, project work, and on-campus employment.
- Affordable Living: The cost of accommodation and living at public universities is way lower than it is at private institutions.
Studying in Italy is a perfect combination of world-class education with a cultural experience that’s hard to match.
Best Public Universities in Italy for International Students
Here is the list of the best public universities in Italy for 2025, according to QS and THE (Times Higher Education) global rankings:
| University | QS Ranking 2025 | THE Ranking 2025 |
| Politecnico di Milano | #111 | 201-250 |
| Sapienza University of Rome | #132 | #185 |
| University of Bologna | #133 | #146 |
| Politecnico di Torino | #241 | – |
| University of Naples Federico II | #347 | 351-400 |
| University of Turin | #371 | 401-500 |
| University of Florence | #375 | 351-400 |
| University of Pisa | #382 | 351-400 |
| University of Rome Tor Vergata | #393 | 301-350 |
| University of Pavia | #440 | 301-350 |
These universities are not only excellent in academics but also offer a diverse and friendly environment for students from all over the world.
In-Depth Look: Top 5 Public Universities in Italy
1. Politecnico di Milano
Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s leading institution for engineering, architecture, and design, located in the heart of Milan.
Why Choose Politecnico di Milano?
- Consistently ranked among the top universities in the world, especially in engineering and design.
- Offers cutting-edge research facilities and industry collaborations.
- Multicultural campus with students from over 100 countries.
Popular Programs:
Aerospace, Computer Science, Industrial Design, Architecture, and Biomedical Engineering.
For more details, visit Politecnico di Milano.
2. Sapienza University of Rome
One of the oldest universities in the world, Sapienza University is known for its rich history and academic excellence.
Highlights:
- Established in 1303, offering centuries of educational expertise.
- Strong rankings both globally and nationally.
- Comprehensive programs in humanities, sciences, medicine, and engineering.
Career Support:
Strong industry links and career support prepare students for the job market.
Check out their programs at the University of Bologna.
3. University of Bologna
The University of Bologna is the oldest continuously operating university in the world, with a great place in the history of academia.
Why It’s Special:
- Founded in 1088, blending historic charm with modern innovation.
- Scholarships and low tuition fees for international students.
- Hosts a broad range of programs in humanities, sciences, and law.
Know more about the University of Bologna.
4. Politecnico di Torino
Politecnico di Torino is famous for its engineering, architecture, and design courses.
Key Highlights:
- Founded in 1859, it is one of Italy’s oldest technical universities.
- Research and collaboration with the world’s industries.
- Headquartered in Turin, an automotive and industrial innovation center.
Know more at Politecnico di Torino.
5. University of Naples Federico II
This university is located in the ancient city of Naples, combining academic excellence with a vibrant cultural experience.
Academic Strengths
- Engineering, medicine, and humanities programs
- Opportunities for hands-on research
Check their programs at the University of Naples Federico II.
Admission Process and Costs
Steps to Apply
- Select your program and check the eligibility criteria on the university’s website.
- Gather necessary documents, including transcripts, a statement of purpose, and language proficiency certificates (if required).
- Submit through the university portal or the university platform.
- Wait for admission confirmation and apply for the visa.
Costs:
Tuition: €0-€3,000 per year. This depends on the course taken and the scholarships offered.
Living: €700-€1,000 per month, which covers accommodation, food, and transport.
For detailed procedures, visit the Study in Italy portal.
Conclusion
Italy’s public universities provide an experience that is second to none: high-quality education in a rich cultural environment. Whether you’re interested in engineering, design, or humanities, these institutions have something for everyone. The affordable tuition, international recognition, and lively student life make Italy the perfect destination for international students.