Rome is one of Italy's biggest student cities, with many public universities, art schools and private colleges. You can find English-taught programmes, but many courses are still in Italian, so it helps to check language rules early. Living costs are usually higher than in many other Italian cities, especially for rent.
Universities and colleges in Rome
Rome has a wide mix of higher education options. The city is known for large public universities, specialised art and design schools, and some private institutions with international programmes.
- Large public universities - These often have many subjects, from humanities and law to science, engineering and economics.
- Specialised schools - You may find strong options in architecture, fashion, design, music, fine arts and conservation.
- Private universities and business schools - Some offer smaller classes and more English-taught study, especially in business, international relations and communication.
Well-known institutions in Rome include Sapienza University of Rome, Roma Tre University, Tor Vergata, LUISS, and several academies and art schools. What they are best known for can change by faculty, so always check the programme page and the university's admissions page.
English-taught study
Rome has a good number of English-taught master's degrees and some bachelor's or single-cycle programmes. This is useful if your Italian is not yet strong enough for full study.
- Master's degrees are more likely to have English-taught options.
- Some universities ask for IELTS, TOEFL or another proof of English.
- For Italian-taught courses, you may need proof of Italian level.
- Some programmes use interviews, entrance tests or portfolio review.
Always check the official university admissions page for the exact language rule, documents and deadlines. These can differ a lot between faculties, even inside the same university.
Costs of living in Rome
Rome is usually more expensive than many other Italian student cities, especially for housing close to the centre or near popular campuses. Costs also depend on your room type, lifestyle and travel habits.
- Rent - Shared flats and student rooms are usually the main option. A room in a shared apartment is often cheaper than a studio.
- Utilities and internet - These may be separate from rent, unless they are included in the offer.
- Food - Supermarket shopping is usually much cheaper than eating out every day.
- Transport - Monthly public transport passes are useful if you travel often.
As a general guide, rent in Rome is often higher than in many cities in the south and in some smaller Italian university towns. For the most reliable current numbers, check housing listings, student housing pages and the university's own accommodation office.
Student housing and where to live
Finding housing in Rome can take time, so start early. Many students choose a shared flat because university dorm places can be limited.
- University residences - These can be cheaper, but places are often limited and may have their own rules.
- Private shared flats - Common for both Italian and international students.
- Short-term rooms - Useful when you first arrive, but check the total cost before you commit.
When you search, look at the district, transport links and total monthly cost. Be careful with scams. Do not pay money before you have checked the landlord, the contract and the room conditions. Your university, ESN group or student housing office may also have trusted advice.
Transport, daily life and part-time work
Rome has metro, buses, trams and suburban rail. Public transport is useful, but travel times can be long because the city is large. Many students use a mix of metro and bus to reach campus.
- Look for student discounts on transport passes.
- Plan extra time for busy routes and delays.
- Living near your campus or a metro line can make daily life easier.
Part-time work may be possible if your residence permit and study conditions allow it. Rules can depend on your nationality and permit type, so check the Italian national immigration authority and your university's international office before you apply for any job. Many students look for work in cafes, tutoring, retail, events or university support roles.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
In Rome, many universities and colleges read applications carefully, but some also search student profiles and contact candidates first. A clear profile helps admissions offices understand your level fast.
- Write your field of interest clearly, not only a broad subject.
- Add your latest education, grades or diploma type.
- State your English level and any test scores you already have.
- Upload documents that are ready to review, such as transcripts, passport copy and CV.
- Check each programme page for the exact application route, since some use online portals and some ask for extra steps.
If you are interested in more than one programme, keep your profile flexible and accurate. That makes it easier for the right admissions office to find you and start the first contact.
Common questions
Is Rome a good city for international students?
Yes, if you want a large city with many universities, cultural life and some English-taught study. It is best if you are ready for higher rent and a busy urban life.
Do I need Italian to study in Rome?
Not always. Some programmes are in English, especially at master's level. But Italian is very useful for daily life, part-time work and many bachelor's courses.
Where should I check the latest rules and costs?
Use the university's admissions page for study rules, the national immigration authority for visa and residence rules, and the scholarship's own site for funding details. For housing, check the university accommodation office and current listings.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents. 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.