How to get into the University of Padua?

Why choose the University of Padua?

The University of Padua (Università di Padova) is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. Founded in 1222 by a group of students and scholars who left the University of Bologna, it was born out of a desire for greater academic freedom and better learning conditions.

From its very beginnings, the University of Padua attracted great minds and quickly gained a reputation as one of Europe’s leading centres of learning. Today, it educates around 76,000 students.

Among its most renowned figures is Galileo Galilei, who taught mathematics at the university for 18 years. He described his time in Padua as the happiest and most productive period of his life. Other famous alumni include Nicolaus Copernicus, Andreas Vesalius — the founder of modern human anatomy, Giacomo Casanova, and Francis Walsingham.

The city of Padua, known for its 13th-century basilica, Giotto’s frescoes, and Renaissance architecture, offers a safe and vibrant cultural environment. It’s an ideal setting for academic life and everyday student experience.

What degree programmes are available at the University of Padua?

Before choosing your programme at the University of Padua, make sure you meet the general English language requirements. The university requires an IELTS score of at least 6.0.

Bachelor’s degree programmes in English at the University of Padua:

• Animal Care
• Psychological Science
• Information Engineering
• Italian Medieval and Renaissance Studies
• Biology of Human and Environmental Health
• Earth and Climate Dynamics

Master’s degree programmes in English at the University of Padua:

At master’s level, the selection of English-taught programmes is much broader:

• Biotechnologies for Food Science
• Applied Economics
• Human and Multi-Level Governance
• Aerospace Engineering
• Chemical and Process Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• ICT for Internet and Multimedia
• Local Development
• Medicine and Surgery (six-year programme; IMAT exam required)
• Astrophysics and Cosmology
• Cybersecurity
• Mathematics
• Physics of Data
• Sustainable Chemistry and Technologies for the Circular Economy

How long do studies at the University of Padua last?

Bachelor’s degrees last three years, while master’s programmes usually take two years to complete.

How to apply to the University of Padua?

Applying for a bachelor’s degree at the University of Padua

The first step is to register on the university’s website and upload the required documents:

• High school diploma
• Copy of passport
• CV
• Motivation letter

You can apply for up to three programmes.

Once you receive an offer, you will be asked to pay an application fee and complete a pre-enrollment form.

NOTE: Some programmes require an entrance exam, such as the TOLC-I for Information Engineering. Be sure to check entry requirements for each course before applying.

Applying for a master’s degree at the University of Padua

The application process is similar. After creating an account on the university portal, upload the required documents:

• Bachelor’s degree diploma
• CV
• Motivation letter
• Copy of passport

If you are applying for the single-cycle Medicine and Surgery programme, you must take the IMAT exam—your admission depends on your exam result.

What is the acceptance rate at the University of Padua?

The University of Padua is ranked No. 1 in Italy for the quality of its teaching and maintains strong international networks and collaborations. Unsurprisingly, competition for places is fierce, with an acceptance rate averaging around 40%.

How much does it cost to study at the University of Padua?

As a public institution, the University of Padua offers relatively affordable tuition fees.

• Bachelor’s programmes: €2,700–2,900 per year
• Master’s programmes: €2,800–3,000 per year

Does the University of Padua offer scholarships?

Yes, international students can apply for various forms of financial support:

• University of Padua Excellence Scholarship – for students enrolled in English-taught bachelor’s or master’s programmes; includes full tuition waiver and €8,000 per year.
• Tuition fee waivers – 100 full waivers available for English-taught programmes.
• Scholarships from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – for international students studying in Italy.
• Regione Veneto Scholarships – regional support for students from low-income backgrounds.

In addition, students can apply for ISEE Parificato, a document that certifies the financial, family, and asset situation of international students, allowing them to apply for reduced tuition.

What are the living costs in Padua?

Average monthly living expenses in Padua (excluding rent) are around €700.

EU students are allowed to work part-time during their studies, but no more than 20 hours per week. A valid residence permit confirming student status in Italy is required.

Does the University of Padua offer student housing?

Yes. The University of Padua has a dedicated Housing Office for international students and reserves places in university residences specifically for non-Italian students.

How much does accommodation in Padua cost?

• University dormitories: €250–330 per month
• Shared two-room flats in the city centre: €500–1,000 per month, depending on size, location, and amenities

University of Padua – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the University of Padua a good university?
Yes, it is one of the oldest and most highly regarded universities in Italy. It is consistently ranked in international rankings for academic quality, research, and English-taught programmes.

Is it hard to get into the University of Padua?
It depends on the programme. English-taught programmes are often selective and based on academic records, entrance exams, or interviews. Many Polish applicants successfully gain admission each year.

Does the University of Padua offer programmes in English?
Yes, the university offers a wide range of bachelor’s and master’s programmes in English, particularly in science, engineering, medicine, and social sciences.

What is ISEE Parificato?
ISEE Parificato is a document required from international students seeking tuition reductions or scholarships. It certifies financial and family status based on documents from the student’s home country.

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