11 best universities in Rome 2024

With a long university tradition, Italy is a member of the 1999 Bologna Declaration and the ideal of modern European education. The Italian higher education system is a system of bachelor's, master's, doctoral and other associated degrees. The education system consists of universities, academies, conservatories and colleges.

There are 47 public universities and 9 recognized non-state universities, and the vibrant nature, high quality education, and interesting curricula attract students from all over the world.

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.

Italian higher education, particularly in Rome, offers numerous benefits and opportunities for students worldwide. Among these are accessible entry requirements, affordable tuition fees, and a range of English-taught programs. Most universities in Rome only require a high school diploma for admission, making it easier for international students, including those from post-Soviet countries, to apply with just a diploma from their first year of higher education.

One of the most attractive aspects of studying in Rome is the affordability of higher education. Many public universities in Rome charge tuition fees ranging from 800 to 1,000 euros per year. In comparison, private universities in Rome also offer lower fees than many other European institutions. Additionally, scholarships and grants are available to help cover the cost of studying abroad, especially for students with good academic records or those from low-income backgrounds.

English-Taught Programs in Rome's Universities

Foreign students can pursue higher education in Rome without fluency in Italian, though the range of available subjects may be limited. Universities in Rome offer preparatory courses to help international students better understand Italian-speaking lecturers.

Creative Professions Flourish in Rome

Rome's higher education system is known for nurturing many renowned designers, sculptors, artists, and musicians, making it an ideal destination for students interested in creative fields.

Flexible Education System in Rome's Universities

Students in Rome enjoy the flexibility to tailor their study plans, choosing from a mix of compulsory and elective subjects and deciding which exams to take each semester. This autonomy encourages responsibility and self-discipline, as students are largely self-directed in their learning.

Earning Opportunities While Studying in Rome

Students in Rome are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week, providing a chance to earn extra money while studying abroad.

Discounts and Perks for Students in Rome

With an ISIC card, students can enjoy discounts at various museums, exhibitions, and attractions in Italy and some other countries, enhancing the study abroad experience.

Graduating from a university in Rome opens up numerous opportunities for employment in local and international companies. Foreign students can obtain a European diploma, significantly boosting their job prospects.

Unique Features of Higher Education in Rome

The quality of education in Rome's universities is maintained through a credit system, allowing flexibility in transferring between institutions. The academic year typically starts in September/October and ends in late spring/early summer. Student autonomy is a hallmark of the Italian higher education system, with unmonitored attendance and customizable study plans. Students have the opportunity to retake exams without additional costs and choose from a variety of assessment formats.

Rome and Italy boast a diverse range of higher education institutions, including universities, high schools for language mediators, specialization institutes for psychotherapists, and higher art and music schools. These institutions offer a variety of courses, from design and music to drama and dance, catering to a wide range of interests and career aspirations.

The admission process in Rome's universities varies, with some courses requiring entrance exams and others offering open admission. Courses in medicine and architecture are generally more competitive, while programs in mathematics and engineering may have no admission limits.

Higher Education in English in Italy

Many university courses in Rome are available in English, attracting an increasing number of international students. Prospective students are expected to have an upper-intermediate level of English proficiency.

Tuition fees at public universities in Italy, including Rome, are among the most affordable, typically ranging from 3,500 to 4,000 euros per year. Private universities charge varying fees depending on the program, averaging between 8,000 to 30,000 euros annually. Scholarships are available based on academic performance or financial need, with some specialized programs offering lottery-based scholarships.

Types of Scholarships Available During University Studies

Scholarships in Italy come in various forms, including national scholarships offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, university-specific scholarships, and private scholarships provided by companies and non-profit organizations.

Russian students may need to wait a year or two before studying in Italy due to differences in educational systems. Options include attending a vocational school, enrolling in a Russian university, or taking preparatory courses in Italy. These courses not only improve language skills but also help students adapt to living abroad.

Essential Documents for Admission to Italian Universities

To apply to Italian universities, students need to prepare a comprehensive document package, including a high school diploma, transcripts from Russian universities, standardized test scores, language proficiency certificates, and other supporting documents. Early preparation is key to ensuring a smooth application process.