Top 8 Universities in Italy for 2025
Italy is home to some of the world's most prestigious universities, known for their excellence in research, innovation, and academic programs. In 2025, the country's top universities continue to make their mark in global rankings. Below is a look at the best universities in Italy based on their world rankings.
1. University of Bologna
- Italy Rank: 1
- World Rank 2025: =146
- World Rank 2024: =155
- City: Bologna
The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is the oldest university in the world. It remains Italy’s highest-ranked institution, excelling in multiple disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and engineering.
2. Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa
- Italy Rank: 2
- World Rank 2025: =154
- World Rank 2024: =168
- City: Pisa
Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa is renowned for its selective admissions and rigorous academic programs. It consistently ranks among Italy's best universities, particularly in the fields of sciences and humanities.
3. Sapienza University of Rome
- Italy Rank: 3
- World Rank 2025: =185
- World Rank 2024: =181
- City: Rome
As one of the largest and most historic universities in Europe, Sapienza University of Rome is a hub for research and higher education. It offers a wide range of programs and maintains a strong reputation in multiple academic disciplines.
4. Politecnico di Milano
- Italy Rank: 4
- World Rank 2025: 201–250
- World Rank 2024: 201–250
- City: Milan
Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s top technical university, specializing in engineering, architecture, and design. It is widely recognized for its innovation and industry collaborations.
5. Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies – Pisa
- Italy Rank: 4
- World Rank 2025: 201–250
- World Rank 2024: 201–250
- City: Pisa
A highly selective institution, Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies offers top-tier programs in economics, political science, law, and applied sciences.
6. University of Padua
- Italy Rank: 4
- World Rank 2025: 201–250
- World Rank 2024: 201–250
- City: Padua
The University of Padua, founded in 1222, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. It has a strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary studies.
7. Vita-Salute San Raffaele University
- Italy Rank: 4
- World Rank 2025: 201–250
- World Rank 2024: 251–300
- City: Milan
Vita-Salute San Raffaele University is a leader in medical and life sciences education, offering cutting-edge research and academic programs in medicine, psychology, and philosophy.
8. Humanitas University
- Italy Rank: 8
- World Rank 2025: 251–300
- World Rank 2024: 251–300
- City: Milan
Specializing in medical and health sciences, Humanitas University provides a unique international education experience with a strong focus on research and clinical practice.
Italy’s universities continue to be recognized globally for their academic excellence and contributions to research. Whether in humanities, engineering, medicine, or sciences, these institutions offer world-class education and opportunities for students worldwide.
