Summary
- The average cost of living in Italy is around €700 and €1,000 a month, even in top-tier cities.
- Post-study options like the one-year Permesso di Soggiorno enable graduates to work or establish a business in Italy.
- With its combination of rich culture, global university rankings, and affordable tuition, Italy is becoming a top destination for Indian students.
In recent years, Italy has become a popular study destination for international students. This is largely due to its rich cultural heritage along with an excellent academic reputation. It provides the perfect blend of history, food, art, and immigrant-friendly education policies.
Italy is home to 40+ universities ranked in the QS World University Rankings (2024). The country offers more than 500 undergraduate and postgraduate English-taught programs. Globally, it ranked 7th in the Higher Education Systems in QS Higher Education System Strength Rankings (2023).
According to the Italian Ministry of University and Research, more than 100,000 international students are currently enrolled in Italian universities. Reports indicate that this number is steadily rising every year. Its growing appeal for international students is due to its increasing global standing. Low tuition, easy scholarships, and flexible work options also attract students to Italy.
Note: With its combination of rich culture, global university rankings, and affordable tuition, Italy is becoming a top destination for Indian students. But as interest grows, so does the need to make smarter choices—about which program to pick and how to pay for it wisely.
That’s where GradRight comes in.
Use GradRight’s university search platform to go beyond QS rankings and find programs in Italy that align with your goals—whether that’s strong ROI, career outcomes, post-study work rights, or English-taught flexibility. It shortlists options based on your profile, budget, and aspirations, so you can make informed choices—not just popular ones.
At the same time, education in Italy still comes with living expenses. With GradRight’s loan-search platform, you can compare offers from 15+ Indian lenders—including no-collateral loans and low-interest options. You get expert help, transparent terms, and zero paperwork until you’re ready.
Why Italy is a popular destination for international students
The number of international students in Italy has continuously increased over the years. The country hosted 109,681 international students in the year of 2021/2022. Students primarily come from Romania, Albania, China, Iran, and India.
- Romania: 11,239 students
- Albania: 8,357 students
- China: 8,053 students
- Iran: 7,224 students
- India: 5,260 students
There are a couple of factors that make Italy a preferred international study destination. Indian students especially benefit from the value proposition offered in Italy.
- Public Universities in Italy have an average tuition fee between €900 and €4,000 per year. Compare that to the USA or the UK, where tuition fees alone exceed more than €11,700 – €30,420 per year.
- The average cost of living in Italy is around €700 and €1,000 a month, even in top-tier cities. This is much lower compared to other popular study destinations like the UK or the USA.
- Italy offers quite a few English-language degree programs in popular fields that attract international students, like:
- Engineering
- Data science
- Design
- Business
- Architecture
- International Relations
- Italy also offers comprehensive financial assistance to international students, such as:
- The Invest Your Talent in Italy initiative offers program-specific financial waivers along with a monthly stipend.
- Regional and university-specific scholarships additionally subsidise living, transport, and accommodation expenses.
- Post-study options like the one-year Permesso di Soggiorno enable graduates to work or establish a business in Italy.
- Italy also enjoys a central location within Europe, making it easier to travel and network all over the EU.
- Indian students also benefit from bilateral agreements. These agreements facilitate streamlined admissions by recognising Indian academic credentials.
- A GlobalData report states that Italy’s NRRP projected 240,000 additional jobs by 2026. This further adds to the value proposition for international students.
Best cities in Italy for international students
Italy has numerous cities ideal for international students that offer world-class education. Besides having globally-ranked universities, these cities offer scholarships, English courses, and support for international students. These cities provide high-quality global programs at comparatively low costs.
| Cities | Notability | Top universities | QS World Rankings | Advantage for Indian students | Cost of living |
| Milan | 1. Italy’s financial and industrial hub.
2. Home to global fashion and business schools |
1. Bocconi University
2. Politecnico di Milano 3. University of Milan |
Bocconi ranks 1st in Italy for business; Politecnico ranked 123rd globally in 2024 | English-taught STEM and MBA programs
Active Indian student communities |
Approx. €1,000–€1,200/month (₹89,000–₹1.06 lakh) |
| Rome | 1. Combines ancient heritage with modern academia.
2. Humanities, law, and political science programs are strong here. |
1. Sapienza University,
2. University of Rome Tor Vergata. |
Sapienza University ranks 134th globally | Public universities with low fees and scholarships | Approx. €900–€1,100/month (₹80,000–₹97,000) |
| Florence | 1. A UNESCO World Heritage city and cradle of Renaissance art.
2. Perfect for design, art, and architecture students |
1. University of Florence,
2. Istituto Marangoni (Design and Fashion) |
NA | Affordable rent compared to Milan and Rome.
Strong arts and culture exposure |
Approx. €800–€1,000/month (₹71,000–₹89,000). |
| Bologna | 1. Home to Europe’s oldest university, a vibrant student city
2. Known for law, medicine, and philosophy |
University of Bologna | Ranked 154th globally in 2024 | Offers Invest Your Talent in Italy programs and Erasmus+ exchange | Approx. €750–€950/month (₹66,000–₹84,000) |
| Padua | 1. One of Italy’s oldest academic centres with a modern scientific edge
2. Strong in medicine and engineering |
University of Padua | Ranks 236th globally | Lower living costs and a welcoming student environment with growing South Asian communities. | Approx. €700–€900/month (₹62,000–₹80,000) |
Milan: A top choice for international students
Milan stands out to be one of the best cities in Italy. The city is the financial, fashion, and innovation capital of the country. It offers globally recognised programs, an integrated job market, and exceptional career prospects.
Milan combines academic rigour with diverse industrial exposure. It is a hub for business, engineering, design, and technology fields. The city boasts of several globally recognized universities.
- Bocconi University is a top choice amongst students pursuing finance, economics, and management. It is ranked 1st in Italy for Business & Management (QS 2024).
- Politecnico di Milano is ranked 123rd in the world. It is among the top 20 in Italy for engineering and technology (STEM-related fields).
- The University of Milan is also a reputable institution. It is known for research in the sciences and humanities.
Milan offers more than 100 English-language programs. Hence, international students do not need to be proficient in the Italian language to get admission. Enrolled students can take advantage of the Invest Your Talent in Italy program. They can also access regional scholarships and university-sponsored financial aid, based on merit.
Milan indeed is one of the more expensive cities in Italy. But the high living expense (€1,000–€1,200/month) is offset by a high return on investment. Milan has the highest graduate employability rate in Italy. The city hosts global firms like Accenture, Unicredit and Armani, among others. Students can opt for part-time or internship positions while studying. Post-graduation work permits allow a 12-month stay to seek a job and work in Milan.
Rome: The heart of Italian education and culture
Rome is a prime study destination and includes a growing number of Indians in its student community. Known as the Eternal City, it blends ancient historical appeal with modern academic excellence. Rome combines a student-centric modern lifestyle with cultural immersion.
- Sapienza University of Rome is one of the oldest and largest universities in Europe. With more than 100,000 enrollments every year, it is an educational hub for advanced degrees. The university is known for its programs in the humanities. It also offers courses in engineering, medicine and social science.
- LUISS University and Roma Tre University are other prominent universities in Rome. They offer specialised degrees in business, law, economics, and international relations.
All universities provide numerous English language courses, making it more accessible for international students.
Rome provides an engaging academic atmosphere that combines history, art and culture. It offers an enthralling amalgamation of age-old traditions and contemporary advancement. Rome’s rich history and politics, combined with its robust economy, make it a vibrant place to work. The city offers great internship and networking opportunities in fields like international relations, arts and governance policy.
Rome is relatively more expensive compared to the rest of Italy. However, its cost of living is quite reasonable compared to other European capitals such as Paris and London. International students usually spend around €800 and €1,200 per month on living expenses. Students are provided with subsidised accommodation, which helps them cut costs. They also get discounts at eateries, museums, public transport, and other utilities.
Florence: The ideal city for studying abroad
Florence is the birthplace of the European Renaissance. Hence, its appeal to arts, history, design, and humanities students comes as no surprise. Few places are as captivating as Florence, especially if you are seeking educational opportunities steeped in art and history.
- The University of Florence is among the largest institutions in Italy. It offers courses in the humanities, social sciences, law, natural sciences, and more. It has a steadily increasing international student community that thrives in the city’s iconic heritage.
- Florence also hosts other reputable design and art schools like The Florence Academy of Art. Polimoda International Institute of Fashion Design is also highly sought after by students pursuing creative degrees.
Florence’s compact size is a defining characteristic of the city. It greatly facilitates easy navigation of the city’s cultural landmarks. The city boasts several iconic sites like the Uffizi Gallery, the Florence Cathedral, and the Ponte Vecchio.
Florence does have a welcoming international community. There has been a steady increase in international students pursuing higher studies in the city. This is mainly due to the excellent academic programs and its lively culture.
International students in Florence, on average, spend between €700 to €1,000 per month. Students get discounts on accommodation, transport, and cultural activities, reducing the living costs.
Affordable cities in Italy for international students
Major Italian cities may be popular study destinations, but they can be expensive. On the contrary, cities like Bologna, Padua and Pisa offer superb education at a more reasonable tuition fee. These cities are known for their student-friendly infrastructure. They combine excellent academic opportunities with affordable living costs.
Students studying in Bologna, Padua, and Pisa can access subsidised housing and student discounts. Most of the universities provide a dorm option, which is cheaper than rental housing. These cities also offer discounts on transportation, museum entrance fees, and cultural events.
Bologna
Bologna’s population is approximately 80,000, out of which 15% are students. The city blends multiculturalism and low-cost living with quality education.
The University of Bologna is the oldest in the West. It has maintained a strong reputation in the humanities, law, and scientific disciplines.
Students can expect to spend €700 to €900 per month on living costs. This includes rent, which ranges from €300 to €500 for shared apartments and university dorms. Grocery shopping is reasonably priced, costing between €150 to €200 a month.
Eating out is also affordable at student-friendly restaurants, costing €10 to € 15 per meal. Expenses for Bologna’s public transport are also student-friendly. Monthly passes cost €35 to €50, significantly cheaper than Milan and Rome.
Padua
Padua is another Italian city that stands out for its affordability and educational excellence. It is home to the University of Padua, one of Italy’s top-ranked universities. It is widely known for its deep-rooted history and immense contributions towards higher education.
For Indian students, Padua offers a more economical option compared to other cities. The average monthly living expenses in Padua are between €700 and €900. Shared accommodation costs around €250 to €450. Eating at student-friendly restaurants costs €8 to €12. Monthly travel passes for public transport are €35 to €45.
Pisa
Known for its Leaning Tower, Pisa is another good option for students looking for an affordable international study destination. The University of Pisa is quite reputable, offering programs in science, engineering, and research. Being a small city, it offers an intimate student experience without the high cost of metros.
The living expenses in Pisa are subsidised for students, ranging between €600 to €800 per month. Rent is cheaper in shared apartments, around €250 to €400.
Grocery expenses in Pisa are economical too, averaging €150 to €200. Students can dine at local trattorias and cafes for €8 to €12. This city is very affordable for dining. Public transportation in Pisa charges €25 to €35 for monthly passes.
Cost of living in Italy’s major cities
Still confused about which Italian city best suits your budget? The cost of living in Italy is mostly dictated by the city of choice, spending patterns, and lifestyle. A comparative breakdown of rent, food, transportation, and other essentials will help you make an informed choice.
Cost of Living in Milan for Students: €1,200 – €1,500/month
Accommodation: Shared rents go for €500–€800 per month. Single leases go beyond €1000 monthly.
Food: Groceries can cost between 150€ to 200€ per month. Dining out costs around €10–€15 per meal. University cafeterias are cheaper, costing around €4–€6 per meal.
Transport: Public transport is quite efficient in Milan. You can get a monthly pass at around €35–€55. You can also opt for a bike or scooter as a cheap alternative.
Books and Supplies: The average cost of books and supplies is around €50-€100 per semester. Costs can be reduced by using digital books, second-hand copies, and university libraries.
Medical and Insurance: Italy’s public healthcare system does offer free and low-cost health services. Students are required to have an international health insurance policy. This usually costs €100–€200 per year, depending on the provider.
Social Activities and Entertainment: Milan has relatively high prices for entertainment compared to other places. Movie tickets are around €10–€15. Going out with friends could cost you €20–€30 on the lower end, depending on the location.
Cost of Living in Rome for Students: €1,000–€1,300/month
Accommodation: Shared apartments can go for €400–€700 per month. Private rent costs €700-€1,000 monthly.
Food: Groceries can cost around €150–€200 per month. Dining out ranges around €8–€15 per meal at student-friendly places. University cafeterias are cheaper, with meals starting from €5.
Transport: A Monthly pass for public transport is around €35-55. Rome has a large student population, so there are plenty of bike-rental services.
Books and Supplies: Books and supplies average €50–€100 per semester. Costs can be reduced by using digital books, second-hand copies, and university libraries.
Medical and Insurance: Italy has a universal medical insurance scheme, which covers some medical expenses. International students need medical insurance to access Italy’s public healthcare facilities. Typically, health insurance costs around €100–€150 per year.
Social Activities and Entertainment: Socialising in Roma is more affordable. Movie tickets are priced around €8-€10. A typical night out costs around €15-€25, depending on the location.
Cost of Living in Florence for Students: €900-€1,200/month
Accommodation: Shared apartments are priced at €350-€600 monthly. Private apartments could go as high as €900 a month.
Food: Groceries cost €150–€200 per month on average. Dining out at restaurants costs €8-€12/meal. University cafeterias serve meals at far more affordable prices, at €4-€6 per meal.
Transport: Monthly travel passes cost around €30–€50. The city is quite compact and walkable, which can further reduce travel expenses.
Books and Supplies: Students spend roughly €50 to €80 per semester on books and materials.
Medical and Insurance: Medical insurance is mandatory for international students. It usually costs around €100 to €150 per year.
Social Activities and Entertainment: A night out in Florence costs around €15–€20. Movie tickets are around €8. Other social events usually provide discounts to students.
Cost of Living in Bologna for Students: €800–€1,000/month
Accommodation: Shared accommodation is around €250–€500 a month. A private apartment can cost more than €700 per month.
Food: The average student spends €150-200 on groceries each month. Dining out at inexpensive eateries will set you back €8-€12 per meal. University cafeterias cost €4-€6 per meal.
Transport: A monthly travel pass for public transport is around €35-€45.
Books and Supplies: Estimated to be about €50 to €100 per semester.
Medical and Insurance: Average health insurance is priced between €100 to €150 per year.
Social Activities and Entertainment: An evening out costs around €15-€20. Socialising events may offer student discounts.
Cost of living in Padua/Pisa for students: €700–€900/month
Accommodation: Shared apartments cost around €250–€450 per month. Private rentals may cost about €500–€800 per month.
Food: Groceries average €150–€200 per month. Dining out costs €7–€10 per meal. University cafeterias offer meals at €3–€5 per meal.
Transport: Monthly travel pass costs €25–€35. However, the city is walkable, reducing the need to go for public transport.
Books and Supplies: €50–€80 per semester
Medical and Insurance: Health insurance for international students costs around €100–€150 per year.
Social Activities and Entertainment: Movie tickets cost about €7–€10. A night out will set you back by about €10–€15.
Student life in Italy’s top cities
Studying in Italy is truly a captivating experience for an international student. Italy offers a unique lifestyle that blends academics with cultural and social life. Knowing the way of life in major cities can streamline your transition and add value to your education.
Milan is not just the financial centre but also the centre of fashion. Students attending universities in Milan can attend numerous international galas. Events like Milan Fashion Week and the Salone del Mobile design fair can boost their experience. The city boasts a vibrant nightlife and plenty of internship opportunities.
Rome, the eternal city, is filled with historical attractions. The Colosseum, Vatican City, and the picturesque alleys of Trastevere are some parts that blend ancient history with modern-day urban culture. Students attending college in Rome actively participate in excursions organised by the university. There are also language exchange meetings and lively parties in the student community.
Florence is a masterpiece of art and culture, and a Renaissance heritage. The city also has international exhibitions, classical music festivals, and culinary events. There are few places as small as Florence, and therefore easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle.
Referred to as the “college town” of Italy, Bologna has a strong student culture. It is home to the oldest university in the world. The city is known for its political activism, underground music scene, and affordability. For Indian students on a budget, the inexpensive meals and housing make Bologna particularly appealing.
Padua and Pisa are quieter cities and offer more academic rigour. They allow for focused study while still offering museums and cosy cafés. The two cities are quite affordable, providing low-cost amenities to students.
Top universities in Italy by city
Italy blends affordable tuition and exceptional education with culturally rich experiences. Students can explore modern Milan, historic Rome, or the artistic Florence. All of these cities provide academic excellence combined with priceless life experiences.
Italian universities offer numerous undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Most of the programs are taught in English and recognised globally. Here are some of the best universities in Italy by city.
| City | University Name | QS World University Ranking 2025 | Top Courses |
| Milan | Bocconi University | #12 (Social Sciences & Management) | Economics, Business, Finance |
| Milan | Politecnico di Milano | #111 | Engineering, Architecture, Design |
| Milan | Università degli Studi di Milano | Ranked in 38 subjects | Medicine, Science, Humanities |
| Rome | Sapienza University of Rome | #132 | Engineering, Humanities, Natural Sciences |
| Rome | LUISS University | #862 | Political Science, Law, Business |
| Rome | Roma Tre University | #901-950 | Engineering, Architecture, Humanities |
| Florence | University of Florence | #375 | Arts, Humanities, Architecture |
| Bologna | University of Bologna | #133 | Law, Medicine, Humanities |
| Padua | University of Padua | #236 | Medicine, Engineering, Psychology |
| Pisa | University of Pisa | #382 | Physics, Mathematics, Engineering |
FAQs:
1. What are the best cities in Italy for international students?
Milan, Rome, Bologna, Florence, Padua and Pisa are the best options for international students. These cities offer world-class education with a culturally immersive student life.
2. Which cities in Italy are the most affordable for students?
Bologna, Padua and Pisa are cheaper than other popular cities. They provide affordable housing, living expenses, meals, transport plans, and discounted transport.
3. What is the cost of living in Milan and Rome for international students?
In Milan, students can expect to spend €1,200–€1,500 monthly on average. In Rome, students will spend around €1,000–€1,300 monthly. This includes housing, meals, transportation, books, and leisure activities.
4. Where can I study abroad in Italy at the best universities?
Top Italian universities are the University of Bologna, Bocconi University, and Sapienza University.
5. What are the most popular student cities in Italy?
The best student cities in Italy include Milan, Rome, Florence, Bologna and Padua. These cities are known for their educational standards, international programs and active cultural and student life.
