How competitive are Italian universities?
Italian universities are becoming more competitive every year, especially as more international students apply for English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. However, compared to countries like the USA, UK, Canada, and Germany, the admissions process in Italy is still more flexible, affordable, and accessible.
Whether a university in Italy is competitive depends on the program, the university’s ranking, and the number of seats offered for international students.
Are Italian Universities Highly Competitive?
Overall, Italian universities are moderately competitive, not extremely difficult.
Most international applicants get admission if they meet the academic requirements and submit complete documents.
However, certain factors influence competitiveness:
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Limited seats for English-taught programs
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High demand from international students
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Competitive fields like Medicine, Engineering, and Design
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Certain universities with strong global rankings
Public universities tend to receive large numbers of applications, while private institutions may have more structured selection processes.
Most Competitive Universities in Italy
Some institutions receive thousands of applications for a limited number of seats:
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Politecnico di Milano – Engineering, Architecture, Design
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Politecnico di Torino – Engineering and Technology
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University of Bologna – Economics, STEM, Humanities
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Sapienza University of Rome – Medicine and Engineering
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Bocconi University – Business, Finance, Management
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LUISS University – Economics and Political Science
These universities have more competitive admissions than others.
Which Courses Are the Most Competitive?
Admissions competitiveness varies by field. The following programs are often the most competitive:
1. Medicine (IMAT)
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Extremely competitive
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Limited seats for international students
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Entrance exam required (IMAT)
2. Engineering & Technology
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Strong demand at Politecnico di Milano and Torino
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Some programs may require internal tests or high GPAs
3. Architecture & Design
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Portfolio or entrance exam often required
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Highly selective at Polimi and IUAV
4. Economics & Management
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Competitive at Bocconi, LUISS, and University of Bologna
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GMAT/GRE may be recommended (but not required)
5. Fashion, Art & Creative Programs
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Portfolio evaluation
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Strong competition at top design institutes
Which Courses Are Less Competitive?
Programs that are usually easier to get admission into include:
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Humanities
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Social Sciences
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Languages and literature
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Tourism, hospitality, and related fields
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Many Master’s programs at public universities with broad intake
These degrees typically have simpler entry requirements and more available seats.
Why Italian Universities Are Becoming More Competitive
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Growing interest from international students due to low fees and global recognition
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More English-taught programs compared to earlier years
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Attractive scholarship opportunities, especially DSU
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Simple visa processes for students from many countries
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Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe
Italy is now one of Europe’s fastest-growing study destinations, increasing both demand and academic competition.
Do Italian Universities Require Very High Grades?
Most Italian universities have moderate academic requirements, but top institutions look for:
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Strong high school performance for Bachelor’s
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Good GPA for Master’s
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Relevant academic background
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Well-written motivation letter
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Strong portfolio (for design/architecture)
Even competitive universities often accept students with average percentages if the profile is strong.
Do Italian Universities Require Entrance Exams?
Not for all programs. However:
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Medicine requires IMAT
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Architecture may require an aptitude exam
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Engineering at Politecnico may require TOLC exams
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Some programs have their own tests or interviews
Many programs – especially in business, humanities, arts, and science – do not require any entrance exam.
Acceptance Rates in Italy (Approximate)
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Public universities (general programs): 50–90% acceptance
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Top engineering/design universities: 15–40% acceptance
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Medicine IMAT: <10% for international seats
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Private universities (Bocconi/ LUISS): Competitive but manageable
These numbers vary each year but reflect general trends.
How to Increase Your Chance of Admission
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Apply early (Italian universities process on a rolling basis)
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Provide a complete application with no missing documents
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Write a strong motivation letter
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Prepare a good portfolio for design/architecture
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Apply to multiple universities to maximize chances
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Aim for programs with more seats or less demand
Conclusion
Italian universities are moderately competitive, with some programs highly selective while others are easier to enter. Students with strong academic records, complete documents, and early applications usually secure admission without difficulty.
Whether you want a top engineering school, a business university, or a creative arts program, Italy offers options for every level of competitiveness.
