Best Universities in Italy in 2024

Italy, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine, is an exceptional destination for international students. Studying in Italy offers an immersive experience in a country known for its historical significance and vibrant lifestyle. From the art-filled streets of Florence to the bustling urban life of Milan, Italy provides a diverse and enriching environment for students.

Student life in Italy is equally appealing. It is characterized by a warm and welcoming atmosphere, numerous social and cultural events, and the opportunity to explore Italy's diverse regions. Whether participating in local festivals, enjoying Italian cuisine, or travelling to iconic destinations, studying in Italy promises an unforgettable experience both inside and outside the classroom.

What's more, many Italian universities offer programmes in English, so you don't have to worry about learning Italian: 

• over 185 English-taught Bachelors in Italy    
• over 700 English-taught Masters in Italy    
• over 70 English-taught PhDs in Italy    
• over 150 English-taught distance-learning (online) courses    

Top 10 universities in Italy

Our list of the best universities in Italy is based on the Studyportals Meta-ranking for Italian universities, which combines results from several prestigious global rankings to present a comprehensive evaluation of academic institutions. Here are the top 10 you'll read about in this article:

1. Sapienza University of Rome
2. The University of Bologna
3. The University of Padua
4. Politecnico di Milano 
5. MIP Politecnico di Milano 
6. The University of Milan
7. The University of Naples Federico II
8. The University of Pisa
9. The University of Turin
10. The University of Florence

Leading the charts is Sapienza University of Rome, one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1303. Sapienza is renowned for its extensive research programmes and a wide array of disciplines, attracting students from all over the globe.  

1. Sapienza University of Rome

• Top 1% worldwide
• Number of students: 112,000
• City and population: Rome, 2.8 million people

Sapienza University of Rome, established in 1303, is the largest university in Europe and one of the oldest in the world. Its diverse programmes attract students from all over the world. Located in the heart of Rome, Sapienza's historical campus offers a unique academic atmosphere infused with the city's rich history and cultural landmarks. The university is a leader in innovation and academic excellence.

Find your Master’s at Sapienza University of Rome

2. University of Bologna

• Top 1% worldwide
• Number of students: 85,000
• City and population: Bologna, 390,000 people

The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is the oldest university in continuous operation. It is recognised for its comprehensive range of academic programmes and significant contributions to research. The university has a strong international focus, offering numerous programmes in English. Bologna, known as the "City of Learning," provides a vibrant student life with its medieval architecture, lively cultural scene, and a welcoming atmosphere for students from around the world.

Find your Master’s at University of Bologna

3. University of Padua

• Top 1% worldwide
• Number of students: 60,000
• City and population: Padua, 210,000 people

The University of Padua, founded in 1222, is one of Italy's leading academic institutions. It is known for its pioneering research, especially in Medicine, Astronomy, and Law. The university's historic Botanical Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its long-standing tradition of academic excellence make it a prestigious destination for students. Padua offers a rich cultural experience with its historical sites, art, and lively student community.

Find your Master’s at University of Padua

4. Politecnico di Milano

• Top 1% worldwide
• Number of students: 45,000
• City and population: Milan, 1.4 million people

Politecnico di Milano is Italy's largest technical university, known for its strong focus on Engineering, Architecture, and Design. Established in 1863, it is consistently ranked among the top technical universities worldwide. The university is renowned for its research output and partnerships with industry leaders, fostering innovation and practical applications. Milan, Italy's fashion and design capital, offers a dynamic urban environment and numerous cultural opportunities for students.

Find your Master’s at Politecnico di Milano

5. MIP Politecnico Di Milano

• Top 2% worldwide
• Number of students: 3,000
• City and population: Milan, 1.4 million people

MIP Politecnico di Milano is the business school of Politecnico di Milano, offering a range of MBA and executive programmes. It is known for its emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership development. The school collaborates closely with industry to provide practical, hands-on experience for its students. Located in Milan, MIP benefits from the city's vibrant business environment, providing ample opportunities for networking and professional growth.

Find your Master’s at MIP Politecnico Di Milano

6. The University of Milan

• Top 2% worldwide
• Number of students: 60,000
• City and population: Milan, 1.4 million people

The University of Milan, founded in 1924, is a major public teaching and research university. It offers a broad range of programmes across various disciplines, with a strong emphasis on scientific research. The university's central location in Milan provides students with access to a vibrant cultural scene, including art galleries, theatres, and music festivals. The University of Milan is also known for its active involvement in international academic networks.

Find your Master’s at University of Milan

7. University of Naples Federico II

• Top 2% worldwide
• Number of students: 74,000
• City and population: Naples, 970,000 people

The University of Naples Federico II, established in 1224, is one of the world's oldest public universities. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with a strong focus on research and innovation. The university is located in Naples, a city rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty. Students at Federico II enjoy a unique blend of academic rigour and lively, engaging student life.

Find your Master’s at University of Naples Federico II

8. University of Pisa

• Top 2% worldwide
• Number of students: 54,000
• City and population: Pisa, 90,000 people

The University of Pisa, founded in 1343, is renowned for its research in Physics, Mathematics, and Computer Science. The university has a strong international presence, attracting students and researchers from around the world. Pisa's historic landmarks, including the iconic Leaning Tower, and its vibrant academic community make it an attractive destination for students. The university is also part of several prestigious international research networks.

Find your Master’s at University of Pisa

9. University of Turin

• Top 2% worldwide
• Number of students: 78,000
• City and population: Turin, 870,000 people

The University of Turin, established in 1404, is one of Italy's most prestigious universities. It offers a wide range of programmes, particularly strong in Law, Economics, and Medicine. The university is known for its commitment to research and its active role in cultural and social development. Turin, a city with a rich industrial heritage and vibrant cultural life, provides a stimulating environment for students.

Find your Master’s at University of Turin

10. University of Florence

• Top 2% worldwide
• Number of students: 51,000
• City and population: Florence, 380,000 people

The University of Florence, established in 1321, is known for its excellence in Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences. It offers a diverse range of programmes and is recognised for its significant contributions to research. The university's central location in Florence, a city renowned for its art, architecture, and cultural heritage, provides an inspiring setting for students. Florence's rich history and vibrant cultural scene enhance the overall student experience.

Find your Master’s at University of Florence

Top 20 Universities in Italy

Italy offers numerous high-ranking universities with English-taught programmes. Let's explore the next 10 institutions that round out our Top 20 list.

• 11. University of Milano - Bicocca is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education and research across various scientific fields.
• 12. University of Trento is renowned for its high-quality research and teaching, particularly in the social sciences and engineering.
• 13. University of Pavia founded in 1361, offers a rich academic tradition with strong programmes in humanities and sciences.
• 14. Vita-Salute San Raffaele University is recognized for its specialized programmes in medicine and psychology.
• 15. Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore is the largest private university in Europe, known for its comprehensive academic offerings and Catholic heritage.
• 16. Tor Vergata University of Rome excels in research and offers a modern campus with a strong international focus.
• 17. University of Genoa is distinguished by its diverse range of programmes and significant contributions to maritime studies.
• 18. Politecnico di Torino is a leading institution in engineering and architecture, known for its innovative research and international collaborations.
• 19. University of Verona offers strong programmes in the arts and sciences, with a focus on research and community engagement.
• 20. University of Bari Aldo Moro is known for its comprehensive range of programmes and commitment to regional development and innovation.

Conclusion

Studying in Italy offers a unique blend of world-class education, rich cultural experiences, and the opportunity to learn in a vibrant and historic environment. With numerous high-ranking universities offering English-taught programmes, Italy is an excellent destination for international students who want to study abroad in Europe.

How we did this 

The list of best universities in Germany is based on our Studyportals University Meta Ranking, which blends the world's most prestigious international rankings.

Other Resources

• How to Apply to a University in Italy
• Top 6 Reasons to Study a Bachelor's in Italy
• Tuition and Living Costs in Italy
• Motivation Letter Example: Student Applying for a History Degree in Italy

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if an Italian university teaches in English? 

You can find out if an Italian university teaches in English by using Mastersportal, where you can filter your search by country and find only English-taught programmes. 

Is English enough to live and study in Italy? 

Yes, English is often enough to live and study in Italy, especially in larger cities and at universities offering English-taught programs. However, learning some basic Italian can greatly enhance your experience and help with everyday interactions.

Are there any affordable English-taught universities in Italy? 

Yes, there are budget-friendly options for students in Italy. You can search for affordable English-taught programmes on Mastersportal and sort them from lowest to highest tuition.

Can you find funding to study in Italy? 

There are various funding opportunities available for studying in Italy. You can search for scholarships on Mastersportal.