The Best Universities for Studying Abroad in Italy

Is La Dolce Vita calling you? Does the idea of waking up surrounded by the timeless beauty of the Romans or the Renaissance make you swoon? Then studying in Italy may be the perfect place for you spend your semester (or year) abroad.

Not only is it home to some of the best food and most unique culture in the world, but Italy is also very well known for its institutes of higher education. Can’t speak Italian? Don’t fret! Whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate, or study abroad student, you’re sure to find something to suit your interests and language level. Although not all universities offer complete degree programs in English, many offer select English and Italian courses for international students.

Italy is a unique country, even within itself. Since it wasn’t unified until the mid 19th century, many regions have maintained some of their own flair, foods, traditions, and customs. With an extensive rail and bus system as well as numerous airports, you’re only a short trip away from the rest of Europe. Italy has proved timeless in its beauty and has a distinct personality unlike anywhere else in the world. You’re sure to discover something new every day along the ancient, windy streets and in the modern, cosmopolitan cities.

The first and the most daunting step is choosing a city that fits your needs). Consider what you want to study, your language proficiency, and the type of area you want to live in.

Depending on your study abroad goals, here are the top universities to study abroad in Italy, based on popular categories.

The state-run University of Milan offers a wide variety of programs for international students, including three programs entirely in English: economics, informatics, and medical school. They also offer “entry-level” programs where students take their first 45 to 60 credits in English and then the remaining courses in Italian. However, the final thesis may be written in English. At the doctoral level, the University of Milan offers 21 programs across multiple disciplines.

Additionally, this school offers many extracurricular activities, including its own amateur sports association, orchestra, choir, theater, and cultural activities.

The University of Bologna is one of the top-ranked universities in Italy, as well as the oldest university in existence, open since 1088! The University of Bologna is a leader in Europe’s push to make academic systems and qualifications more compatible across Europe. Most courses are taught in Italian, but some courses can be found in English. They also offer Italian language courses for non-native speakers.

The University of Bologna has been ranked in the top 50 for the world's best law schools, so students with a knack for the courtroom will be hard-pressed to find a better Italian university to extend their studies!

Bologna is a city that is still etched by the Renaissance with stunning towers and porticoes. Bologna considers itself Italy’s culinary capital and has the largest student population in Northern Italy. In the year 2000, Bologna was named the cultural capital of all of Europe! There's plenty to see and do there... affrettatevi!

With campuses in both Florence and Rome, the Accademia Italiana is a top fashion and design school with options for a three-year degree or short-term study options. Authorized by the Italian Ministry of Public Education. The bachelor's degrees are jointly issued from the University of Wales and the Accademia. Courses are taught in both English and Italian, with some offered exclusively in Italian. That said, all the faculty speak English. In addition to design and fashion, students can also take language classes.

Don’t know Italian but still craving the life of a Florentine? Lorenzo de’ Medici Institute may be the place for you. This is the largest international school in Florence, with students from all over the world attending for a semester, year, or for their entire degrees.

Courses are taught in English, and there are opportunities for language and culture study through unique avenues such as cooking or art courses. Though there won’t be locals in your classes, you can still connect to Italian student networks and integrate yourself into the Florence student scene. The campus is in the city center, with classes held just minutes from the Duomo and the Arno River.

Related: What to Know Before Studying Abroad in Florence

As an alternative to the traditional Italian system, John Cabot University, is an American University in Italy. Courses are taught solely in English, with both four-year degrees and study abroad opportunities. The university is small—1,200 students from 55 countries and they offer everything an American university would from dorms and meal plans to clubs and organizations.

With thirteen different degree programs, students have the opportunity to earn both an American BA and a UK BA degree. There are also numerous opportunities for language study and international internships to facilitate travel across the world.

There are programs and schools to fit everyone, spanning both the length of study and degree discipline. Whenever preparing for a study abroad opportunity, talk to your study abroad office as they are a great source of information, especially if you are looking to get course credit.

Make a plan for what you want to get out of your program and what is important to you in a school. But most of all, keep an open mind and don’t get frustrated by the process of searching. There are a lot of options, which can seem overwhelming. Stick with it, and you’ll have the best experience living the Italian life, no matter where you choose.