Italy has many master's programmes taught fully or partly in English, especially at public universities and technical schools. The strongest choice is usually in STEM, business, economics, and some social science fields, but you can also find options in arts and humanities. Tuition and entry rules vary a lot, so always check the university programme page and the official national student visa and immigration sources.
How common are English-taught master's in Italy?
English-taught master's are now common in Italy, but they are not the same at every university. Big research universities and well-known technical universities usually offer more options than small local schools.
- You are more likely to find English programmes in large cities and at international universities.
- Public universities often offer a mix of Italian-taught and English-taught degrees.
- Some programmes are fully in English. Others use English for most teaching, but may still include some Italian parts.
If you want a wide choice, search by subject first. Then check whether the course is fully taught in English or only partly in English. The official university page is the best place to confirm this.
Which fields have the most options?
Some subjects have many more English-taught master's programmes than others. This is useful if you are choosing where to apply.
- Engineering and technology
- Computer science and data fields
- Business, management, finance, and economics
- International relations and policy-related subjects
- Life sciences, medicine-related research, and environmental studies
There are also English-taught options in design, architecture, and some humanities, but the number is usually smaller. If your field is less common, search wider and check more universities.
What do master's programmes usually cost?
Tuition in Italy depends on the university, the programme, and your family income. Public universities often use income-based fees, while some schools charge a fixed amount. Private universities usually cost more.
As a rough guide, annual tuition at public universities can be low to moderate for many students, but it can also rise for higher-income families or some international students. Private programmes can be much higher. The exact amount changes by institution, so do not rely on general numbers alone.
- Check the programme page for the fee table.
- Check whether fees depend on your income documents.
- Ask if the university gives early-payment discounts or merit reductions.
- Look for regional scholarships and fee reductions from the university.
For the most reliable figure, use the university's admissions or tuition page, not blogs or old forum posts.
Language requirements
For an English-taught master's, universities usually ask for proof of English ability unless you are exempt. The exact score depends on the programme. Common proofs include IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge exams, or a university-accepted equivalent.
- Some programmes ask for B2 level English.
- More selective programmes may ask for higher scores.
- Some universities accept proof that your previous degree was taught in English.
Even if the course is in English, basic Italian can still help with daily life, housing, and part-time work. For visa and residence questions, always check the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Italian consulate in your country, and the national immigration guidance.
How to find the right programme
Start with the subject, then narrow by city, university type, and fee range. Many universities publish a list of master's programmes with filters for English language and entry requirements.
- Use the university's official programme search.
- Check the curriculum, not just the title.
- Look at entry requirements for your bachelor's degree.
- Read the application section carefully, especially document rules.
Useful documents often include your diploma, transcript, passport, CV, motivation letter, and English proof. Some programmes may also ask for a portfolio, references, or specific academic background. If you studied outside Italy, the university will tell you whether it needs legalisation, translation, or a declaration of value or other recognition document. Follow the university's instructions exactly.
How to approach universities
Before you write to a university, read the programme page and FAQ. Many questions are already answered there. If something is still unclear, contact the admissions office or the programme coordinator.
- Write a short message.
- Say which programme you want.
- Ask one or two clear questions only.
- Attach only what they ask for.
Good questions are about entry requirements, whether your background fits, and which documents are needed. Avoid asking for a promise of admission. Admissions teams can explain rules, but they cannot guarantee an offer.
Common questions
Are English-taught master's easier to get into?
Not always. Some have strong competition, especially in popular fields. Admission depends on your academic background, documents, and sometimes an interview or test.
Can I study in Italy without speaking Italian?
Yes, for many master's programmes. But daily life is easier if you learn some Italian. It can help with housing, local services, and part-time jobs.
Do tuition fees mean the same thing at every university?
No. Fees can vary a lot. Public universities, private universities, and income-based systems work differently. Always check the official fee page for the exact programme.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
You stay in control, and you only hear from universities that match your profile.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.