Italy is a premier academic destination that combines centuries of educational tradition with a vibrant modern and creative life. Home to some of the oldest universities in the Western world, such as Bologna, the country offers high-quality education in areas such as Design, Fashion, Architecture, Engineering, and Fine Arts. Studying in Italy allows international students to immerse themselves in the richness of the Renaissance while accessing innovative programs in English and enjoying the unmistakable Italian lifestyle, known as La Dolce Vita. With iconic cities such as Rome, Milan, and Florence, Italy is the ideal place for those seeking a solid academic education surrounded by beauty and historical heritage.
Italy enjoys a predominantly Mediterranean climate, although it varies significantly from north to south due to its elongated geography. In the north (Milan), winters are cold and foggy (averages of 32°F to 46°F), while summers are hot and humid. In the center and south (Rome, Naples, Sicily), the climate is much milder; winters rarely drop below 8°C and summers are dry and hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. This climatic diversity allows you to enjoy both the snow-capped Alps and the sunny beaches of the Mediterranean.


The Italian economy is one of the largest in Europe and the world, notable for its strong manufacturing sector, luxury design, and machinery exports. The country is world-renowned for the "Made in Italy" label, which dominates industries such as fashion, high-end automotive, and agribusiness. Italy offers a dynamic environment for students of business, design, and technology, especially in the industrialized north. Although the job market can be competitive, the country remains a hub for innovation and industrial design, providing a prestigious platform for professional development.
Italy has the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), a public and universal healthcare system that is considered one of the best in the world. International students (non-EU) are usually required to purchase private health insurance in order to obtain their visa, or they can pay an annual fee to voluntarily enroll in the SSN and receive the same coverage as an Italian citizen. The quality of medical care is excellent, especially in the central and northern regions of the country.
Driver's licenses issued by European Union countries are valid in Italy. For citizens from outside the EU, driving with a foreign license accompanied by an International Driving Permit is permitted during the first year of residence. After one year, it is mandatory to exchange the license (if there is an agreement with the country of origin) or take the theory and practical exams in Italy to obtain a local license.

Italy is the country with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it an endless museum for curious students. From the majesty of the Roman Colosseum and the Vatican Museums in Rome to the romantic canals of Venice and the Duomo in Florence, the cultural offerings are overwhelming. Students can tour the picturesque coastline of Cinque Terre, explore the ruins of Pompeii, or lose themselves in the landscapes of Tuscany. The ease of traveling by train throughout the country allows any weekend to become a first-rate historical and artistic expedition.



Leisure in Italy is a celebration of simple pleasures, good food, and socializing, elements that form the essence of "la dolce vita." The social activity par excellence is the "Aperitivo, " where friends and students gather in the late afternoon to enjoy a drink and snacks in the city squares. Life takes place largely outdoors, with strolls through the historic center (la passeggiata), visits to local markets, and long dinners where gastronomy takes center stage. In addition, students can enjoy a rich cultural life with film festivals, opera, fashion, and an unmatched passion for soccer, creating a warm and welcoming social atmosphere.




POLIMI Graduate School of Management

Yes, under family reunification , the couple can apply for a work permit.
Yes. School-age children can access the Italian public education system, which is free of charge. For younger children, there are nurseries with a monthly fee.
Yes, it is possible through family reunification, once the student is in Italy and has a valid residence permit.
Yes. You must demonstrate an approximate amount of €6,000–€6,500 per year, either from your own resources or from a sponsor (close family members).
From the appointment at the consulate and submission of documents, the average processing time is 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the country and season.