Why Study in Italy?
Some of the first universities in Europe were founded in Italy during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is recognized as the oldest university to still operate. Today, Italy is the home of many prestigious institutions of higher education. Many of Italy’s institutions perform well in the QS World University Rankings, appearing in the top 200 each year.
Italy has played an important role in the recent reform of higher education. This reform is known as the “Bologna Process”. The country is one of the four countries that created the European Area of Higher Education. This was formed by signing the Sorbonne Declaration in 1998, which was to be the first step in the higher education reform. Today the Bologna Process is now being implemented throughout Europe.
Italy has around 97 universities, which are divided into several categories:
- State universities: These are state funded public institutions and make up the majority in Italy.
- Other publicly funded universities: Funded by Province rather than state.
- Private universities: Non state funded.
- Superior Graduate Schools (Scuola Superiore Universitaria): These are independent institutions that offer advanced training and research courses specialising in postgraduate studies.
Cost of Studying & Living in Italy
Tuition fees at Italian institutions vary, but they are generally lower than in other parts of Europe or North America. This makes Italian universities an enticing proposition for foreign students. International students in Italy have a chance to receive a quality higher education at an affordable cost.
The cost of tuition will vary at each institution. However, you should expect to pay more if you choose to attend a private university. A bachelor’s course will, on average, cost €900 to €4,000 per year at a public institution. Fees at a private institution usually cost, on average, €6,000 to €20,000 per year. If you are from the EU or EEA, you probably won’t pay more than Italian citizens. Other international students should expect higher course costs.