Italian Education
Explore educational opportunities in Italy
Capital
Rome
Population
59.2 Mn
Language
Italian
International Students
98,600
GDP
€ 1.90 Trillion
Dialing Code
+39
Currency
Euro
Universities
97
Why Study in Italy?
Italy offers a rich educational experience with a blend of historical academic tradition and modern innovation. Home to the oldest university in the western world, Università di Bologna (founded in 1088), Italy has been at the forefront of higher education for centuries. Italian universities are renowned for their excellence in fields like architecture, design, fine arts, fashion, engineering, and humanities. The country's strong emphasis on academic research combined with practical experience makes it an ideal destination for affordable study abroad programs in Italy.
For Pakistani students, studying in Italy means accessing high-quality education through budget-friendly education in Italy, with numerous scholarships in Italy for Pakistani students and simplified admission processes tailored to international applicants.
Benefits of Italian Education
- • Prestigious universities with centuries of academic tradition
- • Lower tuition fees compared to UK, US, and other EU countries
- • World-leading programs in design, architecture, and arts
- • Immersion in Italian culture, language, and lifestyle
- • World-leading programs in design, architecture, and arts
- • Strategic location for travel throughout Europe
- • Growing number of tuition-free universities in Europe for Pakistani students
- • Strong and evolving education system in Italy for international students
Top Universities
Università di Bologna
87,760 students
Sapienza Università di Roma
112,740 students
Politecnico di Milano
45,100 students
Università degli Studi di Padova
65,000 students
Università degli Studi di Milano
61,180 students
Italian Education System
Laurea Triennale (Bachelor's)
3 years - 180 ECTS
Laurea Magistrale (Master's)
2 years - 120 ECTS
Dottorato di Ricerca (PhD)
3-4 years
Admission Requirements for Italy Study Abroad
Here are the major requirements to study in Italy which you need to ensure while applying to an Italian university:
Admission Timeline
Key information for Italian university admissions
How to Apply
Apply directly to universities or through the Universitaly portal for most public universities. This is the first step in your step-by-step guide to studying in Italy from Pakistan.
Key Dates
December-January
Pre-enrollment applications open
March-April
Main application deadlines
July
Acceptance notifications
Admission Success Rates
Note: Success rates in Italy vary based on the program's competitiveness, entrance exam performance, and language proficiency. Medical and architecture programs typically have the most selective admission processes.
Cost Estimate
Requirements
- Valid passport
- Italian language certificate (B1/B2)
- High school diploma
- Dichiarazione di Valore (DoV)
- Entrance exam (for competitive programs)
Popular Programs
Popular Universities
Università di Bologna
Politecnico di Milano
Sapienza Università di Roma
Università Bocconi
Università degli Studi di Padova
Politecnico di TorinoPost Admission Experience
Visa for Italy
Type D - Study Visa
Type: StudyRequired for non-EU students planning to study in Italy for more than 90 days. This is the primary Italian student visa for Pakistani nationals, allowing for later application for a residence permit.
Weather in Italy
Cost Of Living in Italy
Italy has a moderate cost of living compared to other Western European countries. Cost of studying in Italy for Pakistani students varies by city, with Milan and Rome on the higher end and southern cities offering more budget-friendly education in Italy options.
Monthly Living Expenses in Italy
Rent
€300 – €900
Food
€150 – €300
Transport
€20 – €55
Miscellaneous
€100 – €200
Work While Studying in Italy
Italy offers international students a unique opportunity to combine affordable study abroad programs in Italy with real-world experience. Working part-time allows students to gain practical experience, develop language skills, and support themselves financially.
Work Regulations for International Students
Italy allows international students to work part-time during their studies, with specific conditions based on nationality and residence status:
Non-EU Students
20 hours per week
With valid residence permit (permesso di soggiorno)
EU Students
No hour limits
Same rights as Italian students, but academic studies must remain the primary focus
PhD Students
Flexible hours
Work should not interfere with research commitments
Important Notes
Work regulations in Italy have some specific considerations for international students:
- You must have a valid residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) to work legally
- Your primary purpose for being in Italy must remain studying
- Self-employment requires additional authorization and documentation
- You must register for an Italian tax code (codice fiscale) before starting work
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about studying in Italy. Our comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your educational journey.
Italy offers relatively affordable higher education. Public universities range from €1,500–€4,000 per year for non-EU students. Private options are higher but include some of the most affordable Italian universities for Pakistani students. Living costs range from €700–€1,500 per month.
Many programs are taught in English, especially at the Master's level. However, learning basic Italian will help with part-time jobs and cultural integration. Some fully funded scholarships to study in Italy in 2025 include free language courses.
Yes. With a valid student visa, Pakistani nationals can work up to 20 hours/week. Many find jobs in tourism, food service, or tutoring.
You’ll need a completed secondary school certificate or undergraduate degree, transcripts, language proof, and possibly an entrance exam. Refer to our step-by-step guide to studying in Italy from Pakistan for a full checklist.
Italy has several prestigious institutions including Politecnico di Milano, Università di Bologna (the oldest university in Europe), Sapienza University of Rome, and Bocconi University. Italy excels in Design, Architecture, Engineering, Fashion, Arts, and Culinary Studies. Milano is renowned for fashion and design, while Florence and Rome are excellent for arts and humanities. For business studies, Bocconi University in Milan is highly regarded internationally.
Non-EU applicants must apply for a Type D visa through the consulate. Required documents include admission letter, accommodation proof, financials, and insurance. Learn more from study abroad consultants for Italy in Pakistan for guided support.
Yes, including MAECI scholarships, DSU grants, Erasmus+, and university-specific aid. Many of these are ideal scholarships in Italy for Pakistani students and can significantly reduce costs.
Students can choose dorms, shared apartments, or homestays. University housing is limited, so early planning is advised. Private shared options are the most common among Pakistani students in Italy.