Higher education in Rome 2024

Students from around the globe are drawn to Rome, not only for its idyllic setting, rich culture, and historical significance but also for its renowned gastronomy, making it one of Italy's most popular educational destinations. Home to many prestigious universities, Rome is globally recognized for its high-quality teaching and robust academic environment.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Rome’s academic system aligns with the European Bologna model and is structured into three cycles:

1. Bachelor's Degree: Typically a three-year program.
2. Master's Program: Ranges from 1-2 years.
3. Doctoral Studies: Lasting three years. Additionally, there are specialized master's programs and postgraduate courses unique to the Italian higher education system.

Higher Education Institutions in Rome

Rome boasts 11 universities, with four in the public sector and seven private. Foreign students can choose to study at either public or private institutions.

Among these are some of Italy’s leading universities, such as:

• La Sapienza University, founded in 1303, the oldest university in Rome and the largest in Europe. Its mission is to advance society's knowledge through research, cutting-edge experience, high-quality education, and international cooperation.
• Tor Vergata University, which includes six schools: economics, engineering, humanities and philosophy, law, medicine and surgery, and mathematics, physics, and natural sciences. Located on a sprawling 600-hectare campus, it features extensive facilities including libraries, classrooms, research spaces, reading rooms, laboratories, cafeterias, and green areas.

Advantages of Pursuing Higher Education in Rome

Rome offers a thrilling environment that attracts thousands of international students, fostering a diverse and inclusive atmosphere around its university campuses. Known worldwide, universities in Rome offer a broad spectrum of courses and are prominent participants in international exchange programs, providing students with abundant opportunities to study abroad.

The cost of higher education in Rome varies depending on the institution. While public universities may charge minimal fees, private universities tend to have higher tuition rates. However, Rome presents countless leisure opportunities; students can spend weekends exploring the Sistine Chapel, relaxing by the Trevi Fountain, or visiting city art galleries. The holidays are perfect for quick trips to nearby European countries like Spain, France, Switzerland, Austria, or Greece.

Specifics of Higher Education in Rome

Instruction in Rome's institutions may be in English or Italian. Foreign students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency through standard tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or sometimes Duolingo. For Italian proficiency, students may need to pass a CEFR test. Housing options for international students are available but limited, and application processes vary by university, with most accepting online applications for convenience.

The most competitive fields of study included:

• Medicine
• Architecture
• Engineering
• Fashion Design
• Fine Arts
• Art History
• Business Economics
• International Relations
• Law
• Linguistics
• Neuroscience
• Molecular Biology
• Nanotechnology
• Physics

Choosing to study in Rome not only means immersing yourself in a city of unparalleled historical richness but also joining an academic community known for its dedication to fostering comprehensive, globally-minded scholars.