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A bachelor degree in Italy is one of the most affordable ways to earn a globally recognised undergraduate qualification in Europe. Whether you want to study in English, in Italian, or even online, Italy's university system gives international students several routes in — each with its own fees, entry rules, and paperwork. This guide breaks down exactly what a bachelor degree means in the Italian system, which universities offer it, what it costs, and how to apply.
Why Study for a Bachelor Degree in Italy?
- Low tuition, high recognition — public university fees are a fraction of the US, UK or Australia, yet degrees are accepted worldwide
- Multiple language tracks — choose English-taught, Italian-taught, or blended programs depending on your goals
- Work while you study — international students can work up to 20 hours/week
- Stay-back visa — up to 12 months after graduation to search for a job
- Culture and location — study in cities like Milan, Rome, Bologna, Padua and Turin, each with strong industry links (fashion, design, engineering, finance)
Bachelor Degree in English in Italy
Most large public and private universities now offer bachelor programs entirely in English, aimed at international applicants who don't yet speak Italian. Common English-taught fields include:
You'll typically need IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+ to be admitted, since coursework, exams and theses are all conducted in English — no Italian is required for these tracks.
Bachelor Degree in Italian Language in Italy
If you'd rather study in Italian — or your course is only offered that way — you'll need a recognised language certificate before enrolment, usually CILS or CELI at B2 level. Programs commonly taught only in Italian include:
- Medicine and Surgery (at most universities)
- Law
- Many regional public university courses outside major English-medium hubs
Universities that teach in Italian often charge lower tuition than English-medium private institutes, and studying in Italian also opens up a wider range of scholarships tied to Italian-language proficiency.
Bachelor Degree in Italian Language Online
A lesser-known option is completing your bachelor degree fully online through Italy's Università Telematiche — MUR-recognised online universities. Institutions such as Pegaso, eCampus, and Uninettuno offer Laurea Triennale programs delivered entirely in Italian over a virtual platform, with:
- Flexible, self-paced study (useful if you're working or based outside Italy)
- The same legal recognition as a traditional Laurea Triennale
- Lower tuition than most on-campus private universities
- A requirement to sit some exams either online or at an approved regional exam centre
This route suits students who already have Italian language proficiency but want flexibility over relocating immediately.
Top Universities for a Bachelor Degree in Italy
- University of Bologna
- Sapienza University of Rome
- Politecnico di Milano
- University of Padua
- Bocconi University
- University of Milan
- University of Pisa
- University of Turin
- University of Naples Federico II
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
- Istituto Europeo di Design (IED)
- Accademia del Lusso (School of Fashion & Design)
Eligibility Criteria for a Bachelor Degree in Italy
- 12 years of schooling (10+2 or equivalent), generally with 60%+ marks
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation
- English proficiency (IELTS 6.0+ / TOEFL 80+) for English-taught courses, or CILS/CELI B2 for Italian-taught courses
- Portfolio for design, fashion or architecture programs
- Entrance exam where required — TOLC for engineering/science tracks, IMAT for Medicine
Admission Process for a Bachelor Degree in Italy
- Shortlist your course and university based on language track and budget
- Check eligibility — academic score, language test, entrance exam requirements
- Pre-apply via the Universitaly portal, which most non-EU applicants must use for visa and enrolment clearance
- Apply directly to the university with your documents and application fee (€30–€100)
- Sit any required entrance exam (TOLC, IMAT, or a portfolio review)
- Receive your admission letter
- Apply for your Type D student visa through the Italian embassy or consulate
A Cosa Corrisponde il Bachelor Degree in Italia?
In Italy, a "bachelor degree" is officially called a Laurea Triennale (first-cycle degree). It is the direct equivalent of a bachelor's degree and follows the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS):
- Duration: 3 years (up to 6 for Medicine)
- Credits required: 180 ECTS credits (60 credits per academic year)
- Level: First-cycle degree, comes before a Laurea Magistrale (master's degree)
- Recognition: Issued by both public and private universities recognised by Italy's Ministry of University and Research (MUR)
So when a course listing says "bachelor degree," in Italy it will appear on your transcript as Laurea Triennale — the two terms are used interchangeably by universities and consulates.
Cost of a Bachelor Degree in Italy
Tuition fees
Monthly cost of living
Scholarships for a Bachelor Degree in Italy
- Invest Your Talent in Italy — tuition waiver + monthly stipend for select nationalities
- Italian Government Scholarships — for applicants under 28
- DSU Regional Scholarships — need-based tuition waiver + living support
- University of Bologna Study Grants — up to €11,000/year for non-EU undergraduates
- Bocconi Merit Awards — up to a full tuition waiver for top academic profiles
Student Visa Requirements for a Bachelor Degree in Italy
Non-EU applicants need a Type D (long-stay) student visa. Core documents:
- University admission/pre-enrolment letter
- Proof of funds (roughly €6,000/year)
- Health insurance covering at least €30,000
- Proof of accommodation in Italy
- Valid passport and passport photos
After arrival, you must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) within 8 days.
Career Opportunities After a Bachelor Degree in Italy
FAQs
A cosa corrisponde il bachelor degree in Italia?
It corresponds to a Laurea Triennale — a 3-year, 180-ECTS first-cycle degree recognised by Italy's Ministry of University and Research.
Can I do a bachelor degree in Italian language online?
Yes, through MUR-recognised Università Telematiche such as Pegaso, eCampus and Uninettuno, which offer fully online Laurea Triennale programs in Italian.
Is a bachelor degree in English available in Italy?
Yes, most major public and private universities offer English-taught bachelor programs across business, engineering, design and social sciences, usually requiring IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+.
Do I need to know Italian for a bachelor degree in Italy?
Only if you choose an Italian-taught program — English-medium courses don't require it, though basic Italian helps with daily life and part-time work.
How long does an Italy student visa take?
Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks after your visa interview, depending on your consulate and season.
Ready to Start Your Bachelor Degree in Italy?
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