Pisa is a small university city in Tuscany with a strong academic tradition and a busy student scene. It is a good place to look at if you want a classic Italian city, many students, and access to well known universities and research schools. Costs are usually lower than in Milan or Rome, but housing can still be hard to find near the centre.
Universities and colleges in Pisa
Pisa is known for a group of higher education institutions, not just one university. The most famous is the University of Pisa, which offers a wide range of subjects and is one of the oldest universities in Europe. It is strong in many fields, from humanities to science, engineering, medicine and law.
Other important institutions include the Scuola Normale Superiore and the Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies. These are highly selective schools with a strong research focus. There is also the IMT School for Advanced Studies in nearby Lucca, which some students in the region also consider when comparing options.
- University of Pisa - broad range of subjects and degree levels
- Scuola Normale Superiore - advanced study and research, very selective
- Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies - advanced study with a strong research profile
Always check each institution's official admissions page for the exact programmes, entry rules and language of teaching.
English-taught study
In Pisa, you can find some courses taught in English, especially at master's level and in selected international tracks. The number of English-taught options changes from year to year, so do not rely on old lists or third-party sites only.
To check what is available, look at the university's official programme page and search for the language of instruction. If you want a bachelor's degree in English, keep in mind that this is less common than at master's level in Italy.
- Master's programmes often have more English-taught options
- Some schools offer international tracks or joint degrees
- Language requirements may include proof of English and sometimes Italian too
If a programme is partly in Italian, ask the admissions office how much Italian you need before classes start.
Costs, rent and everyday spending
Pisa is usually cheaper than the biggest Italian cities, but student housing can still take a large part of your budget. Rent depends a lot on location, room type and whether bills are included. A room in a shared flat is often the most realistic choice for many students.
Typical living costs include rent, food, local transport, study materials and phone bills. Supermarket prices and meals out are often moderate by Italian city standards, but they can still add up quickly if you live alone.
- Shared room: often the lowest-cost option
- Private studio: usually much more expensive
- Bills: check if heating, internet and utilities are included
- Food and daily life: usually manageable if you budget carefully
For the most accurate and current rent picture, compare university housing pages, local student residences and regular rental platforms. Prices change by season, and the start of the academic year can be busy.
Student housing and transport
Pisa is compact, so many students walk or cycle. The city is flat in many areas and easy to cross by bike. Local buses also connect the station, university areas and neighbourhoods outside the centre.
Student housing may come from private landlords, shared flats, residences or housing services linked to the university or regional support system. Some places are close to campus, while others are cheaper but farther away. It is smart to ask how far the flat is from your faculty before you sign anything.
- Walking and cycling are common and practical
- Buses help if you live farther from the centre
- Train links make day trips and travel around Tuscany easy
If you are renting, read the contract carefully. Check the deposit, notice period, cleaning rules and whether you need an Italian tax code or other local documents.
Part-time work and student life
International students often look for part-time work, but rules depend on your nationality and residence status. If you are from outside the EU, check the Italian national immigration authority and your local prefecture or police office for the rules that apply to your permit. If you are an EU student, you usually have more freedom to work, but you still need to follow tax and registration rules.
Common student jobs may include hospitality, tutoring, language help, retail or campus-related work. Italian language skills can help a lot in the local job market. Some universities also offer student jobs, tutoring schemes or assistant roles, but these are competitive and not guaranteed.
- Check permit rules before you start any job
- Italian helps a lot for local part-time work
- University job opportunities are usually posted on official channels
Student life in Pisa is active but relaxed. Many students spend time in cafes, libraries, riverside areas and local events. Because the city is small, it is easier to see the same places and people often, which can make it feel friendly.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
If you want universities in Pisa to find you, make your profile clear and complete. Admissions offices usually search for students by subject, level, grades, language and document status, so the more accurate your details are, the easier it is for them to contact you.
- List your field of interest clearly
- State your current education level and grades
- Add your English level and any Italian level you have
- Upload key documents if you already have them
- Keep your information up to date
Also check the official admissions pages of each university or school. They explain the real entry rules, document lists, selection steps and programme deadlines for the current year.
Common questions
Is Pisa cheaper than other Italian university cities?
Usually yes, compared with places like Milan, Bologna or Rome. But housing near the centre or close to popular faculties can still be expensive, so it is wise to compare several areas and room types.
Can I study in English in Pisa?
Yes, but the number of English-taught programmes depends on the institution and the level of study. Master's programmes usually have more options than bachelor's programmes. Check the official programme page for the exact language of instruction.
Can I work while studying in Pisa?
In many cases, yes, but the rules depend on your nationality and residence status. Always check the Italian national immigration authority and your university guidance before you start work.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, so universities can understand what you are looking for. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
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.