Comparing Top Italian Universities in 2025: Tuition, Programs, and More

Rome, Italy

Italy remains a popular destination for international students, offering a blend of rich cultural heritage and high-quality education. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison of several prominent Italian universities, focusing on tuition fees, major programs, course durations, and additional details to assist prospective students in making informed decisions.​

University Comparison Table (2025 Entry)

University	Tuition Fees (Int’l Students)	Popular Majors	Course Duration	Notes
University of Bologna	€2,700–€2,900/year	Engineering, Medicine, Humanities	3 years (Bachelor), 2 years (Master)	Oldest university in the Western world; diverse program offerings.
Sapienza University of Rome	€1,600–€2,924/year	Business, Computer Science, Engineering	3 years (Bachelor), 2 years (Master)	One of Europe's largest universities; wide range of programs.
University of Padua	€2,700–€2,900/year	Medicine, Engineering, Economics	3 years (Bachelor), 2 years (Master)	Offers programs in both Italian and English; strong research focus.
Politecnico di Milano	€3,500–€9,800/year	Architecture, Design, Engineering	3 years (Bachelor), 2 years (Master)	Renowned for engineering and design; high employability rate.
University of Milan	€3,000–€6,000/year	Medicine, Law, Social Sciences	3 years (Bachelor), 2 years (Master)	Research-intensive institution; diverse academic offerings.

Tuition Fees Overview

In 2025, tuition fees for international students at Italian public universities vary based on the institution and program:​

• Undergraduate Courses: €900–€4,000/year

• Postgraduate Courses: €1,500–€5,000/year

• Private Universities: €6,000–€20,000/year

• Doctoral Programs: Often free or minimal (€300–€600/year), with many PhD programs including research grants or scholarships. ​

Some universities offer reduced fees for students from developing countries. 

Financial Considerations

While tuition fees are relatively affordable, students should budget for living expenses, which can vary depending on the city:​

• Accommodation: €250–€1,200/month

• Food and Miscellaneous: €200–€500/month​

Major cities like Rome and Milan may have higher living costs compared to smaller towns. ​

Choosing the Right University

When selecting a university in Italy, consider the following factors:

• Program Offerings: Ensure the university offers the course and specialization you're interested in.

• Tuition and Living Costs: Evaluate the total cost, including living expenses, especially in cities like Rome or Milan.

• Course Duration and Structure: Bachelor's programs typically last 3 years, while Master's programs are usually 2 years.

• Language of Instruction: Many programs are offered in English, but some may require proficiency in Italian.

• University Reputation and Rankings: Research the university's reputation in your field of interest, as well as overall rankings and student satisfaction scores.​

Final Thoughts

Italy offers a combination of high-quality education and affordable tuition fees, making it an attractive destination for international students. Prospective students should conduct thorough research and consider reaching out to university admissions offices for the most current information.​