If you want to study economics in Italy, you can choose between bachelor's and master's degrees at public and private universities. Many programmes are open to international students, and some are taught fully in English. The exact rules, fees and deadlines depend on the university, so always check the programme page and the official admissions office before you apply.
What levels are available
In Italy, economics is usually offered at two main levels.
- Bachelor's degree - often called Laurea. This is usually a 3-year programme.
- Master's degree - often called Laurea Magistrale. This is usually a 2-year programme after a bachelor's degree.
Some universities also offer single-cycle or special tracks, but most students start with one of these two levels. You should check if the programme is in economics, business economics, finance, political economy, or a related field, because admission rules can differ.
Typical entry requirements
Admission requirements are set by each university. For bachelor's programmes, you usually need a secondary school diploma that gives access to university in your home country. For master's programmes, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree.
Common requirements include:
- School or university transcripts
- Proof of graduation or expected graduation
- Passport or ID
- CV or motivation letter for some programmes
- English or Italian language proof, if required
Some universities may ask for an entry test, an online interview, or extra documents. A few programmes use the TOLC or a similar test for bachelor's admission. Others assess your grades and documents only. Check the university's admissions page for the exact rule.
English-taught options and language
Italy has a growing number of economics programmes taught in English, especially at master's level and at some large universities. Bachelor's options in English also exist, but they are less common than master's programmes.
If the programme is in English, you may still need proof of English level. Common proof is an IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge certificate, or another test accepted by the university. The required level is often around B2 or higher, but the university decides the exact standard.
If the programme is in Italian, you may need Italian language proof. Even if your course is in English, learning some Italian helps with daily life, part-time work, and local services.
Tuition fees and other study costs
Tuition in Italy varies a lot by university type, your citizenship, family income, and the programme. Public universities are usually cheaper than private ones.
Typical yearly tuition ranges are:
- Public universities - often from a few hundred euros to around 4,000 euros per year
- Private universities - often several thousand euros per year, and sometimes much more
Some public universities use income-based tuition, so students from lower-income families may pay less. Some also offer fee reductions, scholarships, or exemptions. Non-EU students should also check if the university applies a flat fee, a different fee band, or a fee based on family income. Always confirm on the university fee page.
Besides tuition, plan for extra costs such as:
- Application fee, if the university charges one
- Visa fee and residence permit costs, if you need them
- Books and study materials
- Health insurance, if required
- Travel and arrival costs
Living costs in Italy
Living costs depend on the city. Milan, Rome, Bologna and other large cities are usually more expensive than smaller university towns. Your biggest costs are rent, food and local transport.
A realistic monthly budget for a student is often in the range of:
- Smaller cities - about 700 to 1,000 euros per month
- Large cities - about 900 to 1,400 euros per month or more
Student housing can lower costs, but rooms are limited in some cities. Shared flats are common. Before you commit, check whether the university offers housing support, and compare private rentals carefully.
Application timeline and visa steps
Start early. Many students begin preparing 6 to 12 months before the programme starts.
A practical timeline looks like this:
- 9 to 12 months before start - choose programmes and check entry rules
- 6 to 9 months before start - prepare documents, language proof and translations if needed
- Spring to early summer - many universities open applications, but dates vary
- After admission - follow the steps for enrolment, pre-enrolment if needed, and visa application
If you are a non-EU student, you may need to apply for a study visa and later a residence permit. Rules can change, and the process depends on your country and the university. Check the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Italian embassy or consulate in your country, and the university's international office.
How universities find candidates
Italian universities usually expect you to apply yourself through their admissions portal. They do not usually search random websites. But some programmes also use international student databases and fairs to find candidates who match their needs.
That means your profile should be clear and complete. The most useful details are:
- Your intended field, such as economics, finance, or business economics
- Your current education level
- Your grades or expected graduation
- Your English level
- Your documents, if you already have them
When your information is easy to understand, admissions teams can see faster whether you fit the programme.
Common questions
Do I need Italian to study economics in Italy?
Not always. Many master's programmes and some bachelor's programmes are taught in English. But if the course is in Italian, you will need Italian proof. Even for English-taught study, basic Italian is very useful in daily life.
Is economics in Italy affordable?
It can be. Public universities are often much cheaper than private ones, and some schools use income-based tuition. Still, you should budget for rent and daily living, especially in large cities. Check the university fee page and student support page for the best estimate.
Can I get a scholarship?
Maybe, but never assume it. Scholarships depend on the university, region, and your profile. Check the scholarship's own site and the university's financial aid page. Read the rules carefully, because deadlines and documents are often separate from admission.
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.
This can save time when you are comparing economics programmes and want universities to reach out to you directly.
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.