University in Italy: English-Taught Programs and Deadlines

In short

• In Italy, undergraduate degrees usually take 3 years and master's programs 1 or 2 years.
• Most teaching is in Italian, but more than 300 programs are taught in English.
• Undergraduate applications run November–May; master's applications run January–April.
• You can choose public universities or private universities recognised by YÖK.
• Master's applications require an English certificate of at least B1.

Studying at university in Italy is a realistic option even if you want to study in English: more than 300 programs are taught in English, and applications follow a clear calendar. In this post, EFC Education sums up how long bachelor's and master's degrees take, when to apply, which documents you need and how to learn Italian before you start. Durations and dates vary by university and can change, so always check the latest details before you apply.

Why study at university in Italy?

With its long history, world-famous art and historic cities, Italy offers a rich cultural experience outside the classroom as well as inside it. It is strong academically too: most Italian universities rank in the world's top 500.

• Scholarships: You can apply for scholarships during the admission process.
• Affordable living costs: A real advantage when you plan your budget.
• Job prospects: A globally recognised degree and internship opportunities open doors to a career in Europe.

Together, these make Italy one of Europe's most popular study destinations. Muhammed Ali Biçer, who studied engineering in Italy with EFC Education's guidance, now works in his field in Europe.

How long is a bachelor's degree in Italy, and can I study in English?

Undergraduate degrees usually take 3 years. Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine take 5–6 years.

Most programs are taught in Italian, but more than 300 are taught in English, so students who don't speak Italian can still find a suitable English-taught bachelor's program. You can choose between public universities and private universities recognised by YÖK; if you plan to work in Türkiye later, YÖK recognition is worth checking. Weighing the language of teaching, the length of the degree and the admission method together makes the choice easier.

How do I apply for a bachelor's degree in Italy?

Undergraduate applications run from November to May. Admission differs by program: some admit students by exam or interview, others accept applications without an exam. The process usually looks like this:

1. Choose your program and university
2. Apply between November and May; sit an exam or interview if required
3. After acceptance, complete pre-enrolment and the visa process
4. Apply for scholarships in the same period

Because pre-enrolment, the visa and scholarship applications fall in the same period, preparing your documents early makes things much easier.

When are master's application deadlines in Italy?

Master's programs in Italy usually last 1 or 2 years and are completed with 60 or 120 credits. One-year programs include industry training and an internship, and a thesis or internship is required to graduate.

• Applications: January–April, for programs starting in September or October
• Final registration: June–July, for accepted students
• Tip: Apply early, as preparing documents takes time

A rich cultural heritage and experienced faculty are among the strengths of a master's in Italy. One-year programs with industry training and an internship can suit students who want to move into work quickly; whether a one-year or two-year program is right for you depends on your field and career goals.

To compare with one-year programs in the UK, see our master's degree abroad page.

Which documents do I need?

Master's applications usually ask for:

• University and high school diplomas
• Transcript
• CV
• Motivation and reference letters
• Language certificate (at least B1 for English)
• Passport and photo
• Portfolio (for architecture and design)

Undergraduate document requirements vary by university and program. Your EFC Education advisor can prepare the exact list with you.

Want to learn Italian first?

Since most programs are taught in Italian, a language school in Italy is a good start if you are considering an Italian-taught degree or simply want to feel at home in daily life. Learning the language while living in a historic city also brings you closer to the culture. EFC Education helps with school selection, applications, visas and accommodation for language schools in Italy, with courses from 4 to 40 weeks. See our language schools page for details.

EFC Education supports students studying abroad with:

• Research of suitable schools and application support
• Visa applications
• Accommodation and flight arrangements
• Orientation and technical support

If you are aiming for a bachelor's or master's in Italy, start planning early so you don't miss the application window. Explore our university in Italy page or contact EFC Education to choose the right program and timeline together.