Florence is a small city with a big student scene. It is best known for art, design, history and architecture, but you can also find business, economics and some science study options. Costs are usually higher than in many other Italian cities, especially for rent, so it helps to plan early and check each university's official pages.
Main universities and colleges in Florence
Florence has a mix of public and private institutions. What they are known for can change by programme, so always check the exact course page.
- University of Florence - the main public university in the city. It offers a wide range of subjects, including humanities, law, economics, engineering, medicine and sciences.
- Florence Institute of Design International and other private schools - often linked to design, fashion, interior design and visual arts.
- Art and language schools - useful if you want short courses, Italian language study, or creative fields.
If you want to compare options, look at the university's admissions page, the programme page and the international office page. Those pages usually explain entry rules, language needs, and whether the course is open to non-Italian students.
English-taught study
Some programmes in Florence are taught in English, especially at master's level. At bachelor's level, many courses are still in Italian. That means you should check the language of instruction before you apply.
- Look for the programme language on the official course page.
- Check if you need IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, or another test.
- Ask if the university accepts a school certificate or previous degree taught in English.
Even if your course is in English, basic Italian helps a lot in daily life, housing, and part-time work. It can also make it easier to settle in and speak with landlords, shops and local offices.
Costs and rent in Florence
Florence is usually more expensive than many smaller Italian student cities. Rent is the main cost, and prices near the centre or near popular universities are often higher. Living costs can be closer to Milan, Bologna or Rome than to cheaper southern cities, but exact prices change a lot by area and type of room.
- Rent: a room in a shared flat is often the most common choice for students.
- Food: supermarket shopping is usually cheaper than eating out often.
- Transport: local buses and walking are common because the city is compact.
- Extra costs: books, health insurance, residence permit fees and deposits can add up.
Before you commit to housing, compare the price, contract length, deposit and bills. Check student housing pages on the university site, and use trusted housing services rather than random social media ads.
Student housing and where to look
Finding housing in Florence can be difficult at busy times, especially before the academic year starts. If you can, start your search early and ask the university if it has accommodation support.
- University residences: sometimes available through regional or university housing services. Spaces can be limited.
- Shared flats: common for students and often cheaper than living alone.
- Private residences and hostels: may work as a short-term first step while you look for a longer stay.
When you contact a landlord or housing office, be ready with your ID, proof of study, budget and move-in date. Read the contract carefully. If something is not clear, ask before you sign.
Transport, part-time work and daily life
Florence is a walkable city, and many students get around on foot or by bus. If you live outside the centre, public transport may matter more. Check the local transport company's official site for routes, tickets and student passes.
- Walking: often the easiest way to move around the centre.
- Buses: useful for longer trips across the city.
- Trains: helpful if you travel to nearby towns or visit other Italian cities.
For part-time work, rules depend on your nationality and residence status. In Italy, non-EU students usually need to follow work limits set by immigration rules, so check the national immigration authority and your university's international office before you start. Jobs in cafes, shops, tourism, tutoring and student services may be possible, but language skills often matter.
Daily life in Florence is social and busy. You can find museums, libraries, cafes and student events, but the city also gets crowded with visitors. That means housing and central services can feel tight at peak times, so planning ahead helps.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
Admissions teams can only contact you if they can find you and understand your profile. Make your application documents clear and complete, and use the same name on every file.
- Add your field of interest, current education level and grades.
- State your English level and any Italian level.
- Upload transcripts, diploma, passport and language proof if you have them.
- Write a short note about the programme type you want, such as bachelor's, master's or exchange.
Then check the university's admissions page for the exact entry route, document list and deadlines. Some programmes have extra steps, like portfolios, entrance tests or interviews, so always follow the official instructions.
Common questions
Is Florence good for international students?
Yes, especially if you want art, design, humanities or a city with a strong cultural life. It is also a good choice if you like a compact city, but rent can be high, so budget carefully.
Can I study in Florence in English?
Yes, some programmes are in English, mainly at master's level. The exact choice depends on the university and subject, so check the programme page for the teaching language.
Is student life expensive in Florence?
It can be. Rent is often the biggest cost, and central housing is usually more expensive. Food, transport and leisure costs depend on your habits, so compare your total budget before you move.
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 help you get noticed by universities that match your goals without applying for you.
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.