Italy has been a popular destination among international students because of its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class education. Recent statistics reveal that Italy boasts over 102,354 international students, a figure that is increasing year after year due to affordable tuition fees, scholarship options, and the appeal of its stunning landscapes and historic cities. Looking at this statistic, it is no surprise that so many students dream of study in Italy. However, there’s a difference between dreaming and making it a reality since there are several factors that you need to consider before starting your journey. One of the most important factors is choosing the right place or city; which is why we have curated a well-thought list of Italian cities for you!
This comprehensive guide includes the 10 best places to study abroad in Italy, mentioning the appeal of each place, well-known educational institutions, and the cost of living and studying in each location.
Why choose Italy as your study abroad destination?
Italy’s educational system is widely recognized around the world, with some universities ranked among the best. The country’s emphasis on the arts, humanities, and sciences provides a diverse range of academic opportunities. Furthermore, Italy’s low living costs and diversified culture make it an appealing choice for international students.
List of best places to study abroad in Italy
From Rome to Trento, below are the 10 best places to study abroad in Italy. Each of these cities provides a unique opportunity and experience, ensuring students receive quality education and memorable life experiences.
1. Rome
Rome is the capital city of Italy and it is considered one of the most historically rich cities in the world. As the capital of Italy, Rome is often called the Eternal City which combines the spirit of the ancient world and the life of the present day. Rome as a city offers students a perfect blend of cultural history and modern city life which is why it is often considered as one of the best places to study abroad in Italy.
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- History: Rome is one of the oldest cities in the world that has been in existence for over 2,500 years and some of the major attractions in the city include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Vatican City among others.
- Cost: The cost of tuition per year could be anywhere between €1000 and €4000 while living expenses could be anywhere between €1000 and €1500 per month.
- Top universities:
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- Sapienza University of Rome
- University of Rome Tor Vergata
- Roma Tre University
2. Milan
Milan is one of the largest cities in Italy and is referred to as the fashion and financial hub of the country, which creates a vibrant atmosphere for learning. It is famous for its standard education requirements mostly in business, design, and engineering disciplines.
- History: Milan has been an important commercial and artistic city since the Romans and today is famous for sites such as the Milan Cathedral and Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper’.
- Top universities: Education in Milan is perfect for students who want to get the best quality of education in business, fashion, and technology, with famous universities like Bocconi University and Politecnico di Milano.
- Cost: Tuition fees start from €1,500 and can reach €4,500 per year; living expenses are about €1,200 to €1,800 per month.
3. Florence
Florence is a city that represents the spirit of the Renaissance period. Famous for art and architecture, this city offers a beautiful backdrop for students interested in arts, humanities, and social sciences.
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- History: Renaissance art and architecture are the major attractions of Florence, which houses masterpieces including Michelangelo’s David and Brunelleschi’s Dome.
- Cost: Annual costs of tuition fees are between €1,000 and €3,500 and living expenses are between €900 and €1,500 per month.
- Top universities:
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- University of Florence
- Florence Academy of Fine Arts
4. Bologna
Bologna is one of the most famous cities as it is recognized as the oldest university city globally. Being one of the best places to study abroad in Italy, it provides a stimulating environment for learning and personal development with diverse cultural and social opportunities that attract students from all over the world.
- History: The city has a long history of academic achievement; the University of Bologna was established in 1088 and is the oldest university in the world that is still operating.
- Top study destination: The educational institutions in Bologna are recognized for research and academic achievements in different fields.
- Cost: The fees vary from €1500 to €3500 per year for the tuition and the cost of living is about € 800 – €1200 per month.
5. Turin
Turin is an industry city that has a rich history and is also quite progressive, which makes it a good representation of the fusion between the two concepts. It is a place where many famous universities are located and many students live.
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- History: Turin is an industrial city that became one of the main centers of Italy’s industrial revolution, it has baroque architecture and developed culture.
- Cost: The tuition fee stands between €1000 and €3500 per year while the living cost is between €900 and €1400 per month.
- Top universities:
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- University of Turin
- Politecnico di Torino
6. Venice
Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its canals and centuries-old buildings that create a specific atmosphere for learning. Being a city with a rich history and traditions in art, it is a dream to study in Venice.
- History: Venice has always been a great sea power and culture hub which has canals, St. Mark’s Basilica, and Venice Biennale.
- Top study destination: Ca’ Foscari University of Venice has a good reputation in humanities, social sciences, and environmental sciences.
- Cost: The annual tuition fee varies between €1000 and €3000 and the living expenses are approximately €900 to €1500 per month.
7. Naples
Naples is an Italian city that is situated in the southern part of the country and is famous for its rich culture, architecture, and beautiful landscapes. It provides a wonderful learning environment with a distinct flair for Southern Italy, making it one of the best places to study abroad in Italy.
- History: Naples is one of the oldest cities in the world and is famous for its historical center, Pompeii, and the Vesuvius volcano.
- Top universities: University of Naples Federico II is one of the oldest universities which is a state university in Italy that offers various courses.
- Cost: The tuition fee per year is € 900 – € 3000, while the cost of living per month is € 800 – € 1200.
8. Pisa
Pisa is famous for the Leaning Tower and its rich history. It provides a dynamic learning environment with a focus on science and technology subjects.
- History: Pisa is a city with a long and glorious history of a medieval seaport republic that is now famous for the Leaning Tower and other architectural monuments.
- Top universities: The University of Pisa and Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies are considered as one of the best universities in terms of research and education.
- Cost: The cost of tuition for undergraduate programs is between €1,000 and €3,500 per annum while living expenses are €900 to €1,400 per month.
9. Padua
Padua is famous for its ancient university and rich student life. It provides a cultural experience and good academic results.
- History: The University of Padua was established in 1222 and is one of the oldest universities globally, as well as one of the most renowned universities in the fields of science and philosophy.
- Top universities: The University of Padua offers a wide range of study programs in many disciplines and many students come there to study and to do research.
- Cost: The tuition fees vary between €1,500 to €4,000 per year while the living cost is €800 to €1,300 per month.
10. Trento
Trento is a city in northern Italy that successfully blends modernity with breathtaking landscapes. It is well known for its quality education and research infrastructural facilities.
- History: Trento itself has a long history and is associated with the Council of Trent and the nearby stunning Dolomite mountains.
- Top universities: The University of Trento is particularly famous for its research and innovation in the science and engineering fields.
- Cost: The cost of studying is between €1,500 and €4,000 per year for tuition fees and €800 to €1,300 per month for living expenses.
Conclusion
Italy’s world-class education, rich cultural legacy, and low living costs make it a popular destination for international students. Whether you select the bustling metropolis of Milan, the historic streets of Rome, or the intellectual superiority of Bologna, studying in Italy will be gratifying and unforgettable.
By thoroughly analyzing your alternatives and budgeting for the costs of studying and living in Italy, you can make the most of your academic experience in one of Europe’s most enticing countries. Italy is an accessible and desirable location for students from all over the world, with a variety of scholarships and support options available.
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