11 best universities in Rome 2025

Italian higher education, particularly in Rome, presents numerous opportunities for international students. This includes entry requirements, affordable tuition fees, and a variety of programs taught in English. Most universities in Rome require only a high school diploma for enrollment, simplifying the application process for foreign students.

One of the most attractive aspects of choosing Rome as a study destination is the affordability of tuition. Many public universities charge between 800 and 1,000 euros annually, while private institutions also maintain competitive fees. Moreover, scholarships and grants are accessible, especially for academically strong students or those from low-income backgrounds.

English-Taught Programs in Rome's Universities

International students can enroll in higher education in Rome without fluency in Italian; however, the variety of available subjects may be limited. To help international students, universities in Rome offer preparatory courses that make it easier to understand lectures in Italian.

A Hub for Creative Fields in Rome

The higher education landscape in Rome is recognized for nurturing many renowned designers, sculptors, artists, and musicians, making it an attractive choice for those pursuing careers in creative industries.

Flexible Education System in Roman Universities

Students have the advantage of customizing their academic plans in Rome, selecting from essential and optional courses and determining which exams to take each semester. This level of independence promotes responsibility and self-discipline, as learners primarily guide their learning.

Work Opportunities While Studying in Rome

Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week in Rome, providing them with the opportunity to earn additional money during their studies.

Benefits and Discounts for Students in Rome

With an ISIC card, students can get discounts at numerous museums, exhibitions, and attractions across Italy and beyond, enriching their experiences while studying abroad.

Universities in Rome maintain high educational standards through a credit system that provides flexibility for students wishing to transfer between institutions. The academic year usually begins in September or October and ends in late spring or early summer. A key feature of the Italian higher education framework is student independence, characterized by unmonitored attendance and personalized study programs. Students are permitted to retake exams without extra fees and can select from various assessment formats.

Rome, along with the rest of Italy, presents a wide array of higher education institutions, including universities, high schools for language mediators, specialization institutes for psychotherapists, and higher art and music schools. These institutions provide a broad variety of courses, from design and music to drama and dance, catering to diverse interests and professional goals.

The admission criteria across universities in Rome differ; some programs requiring entrance exams and others offering open admission. Medical and architecture programs tend to be more selective, whereas fields like mathematics and engineering may have no admission limits.

Higher Education in English in Italy

Rome offers a growing number of university programs taught in English, drawing an increasing number of international students. Applicants are generally required to demonstrate an upper-intermediate level of English to qualify for admission.

Public universities in Italy, including those in Rome, are known for their affordability, with annual tuition fees usually ranging between €3,500 and €4,000. Private institutions, however, charge significantly higher fees, ranging from €8,000 to €30,000 per year, depending on the program. Financial aid options, such as merit-based or need-based scholarships, are widely available, with certain programs even offering scholarships through lottery-based selection.

Scholarship Opportunities for University Students

Italy provides diverse scholarship opportunities, including those funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, university-specific scholarships, and grants from companies or non-profit organizations.

Prospective students must submit a detailed set of documents, including a high school diploma, university transcripts, standardized test results, language certificates, and additional supporting materials. Early preparation is key to ensuring a smooth application process.