University of Padua
Top reasons to study at University of Padua
- A broad and multidisciplinary academic offer – University of Padua offers a comprehensive portfolio of degree programmes across a wide range of disciplines. The strong connections between different academic fields create a dynamic, innovative, and stimulating learning environment.
- Excellence in education – Ranked among the world’s top universities, the University of Padua is widely recognized for the quality of its teaching and academic excellence. Students benefit from rigorous training, an interdisciplinary approach, and a strong academic foundation that prepares graduates for successful international careers.
- A leading research university – The University is internationally renowned for the quality and impact of its research. Faculty and researchers contribute to cutting-edge scientific discoveries and innovative projects addressing major global challenges, while advancing knowledge, science, and society.
- High-quality student experience – The University is strongly committed to student wellbeing and academic support, offering high-quality services, modern facilities, and a vibrant campus experience that consistently receives high levels of student satisfaction.
- One of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities – Founded in 1222, the University of Padua has played a central role in the development of academic freedom and scientific progress for over eight centuries. Its students, scholars, and alumni have made lasting contributions to culture, research, and society worldwide.
- A truly international community – Thousands of international students, researchers, and academics contribute to the University’s global outlook. International partnerships, exchange programmes, English-taught degrees, and worldwide research collaborations provide students with a highly international academic experience.
- Scholarships and financial support – The University offers competitive tuition fees compared with other leading international institutions and provides a wide range of merit-based and income-based scholarships for international students.
- A student-centered city – Padua is a vibrant university city where students represent a significant part of the local population. University buildings, departments, and research centers are integrated throughout the city, creating a unique and engaging student atmosphere.
- An exceptional Italian setting – Padua combines rich history, art, and culture with innovation, entrepreneurship, and a high quality of life. The city offers an authentic Italian lifestyle within a safe, welcoming, and internationally connected environment.
- A strategic location in Europe – Padua benefits from excellent rail, road, and air connections, allowing easy access to major Italian and European destinations, including Venice, Milan, and Bologna.
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Overview of the university
Founded in 1222 by a group of students and scholars seeking freedom in teaching and research, the University of Padua is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, consistently ranking among the top 200 universities in the world according to international rankings. Over the centuries, it has welcomed some of the most influential figures in the history of science, culture, and thought, including Galileo Galilei, Andreas Vesalius, Nicolaus Copernicus and Elena Lucrezia Cornaro Piscopia, the first woman to graduate!
Located in the heart of north-eastern Italy, the University of Padua combines a centuries-old academic tradition with a strong international outlook. Through global partnerships, participation in leading academic networks, and a growing international community, the University offers students and researchers a stimulating and inclusive learning environment.
The University continues to uphold its historic motto, Universa Universis Patavina Libertas — “Liberty of Padua, universally and for all” — reflecting its enduring commitment to academic freedom, innovation, and the open exchange of knowledge.
Today, the University of Padua is a leading European research university recognized for the quality of its teaching, research excellence, and interdisciplinary approach. With more than 70,000 enrolled students, more than 5,000 academic staff members, and over 2,300 professional and administrative staff, it is one of Italy’s largest and most respected higher education institutions.
The University offers a broad and continuously evolving academic portfolio designed to respond to the challenges of a rapidly changing global society and labour market. Its structure includes 8 Schools and 32 Departments, delivering a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and professional programmes across all major fields of study.
International education is a key strategic priority for the University. An increasing number of degree programmes are taught entirely in English, attracting talented students from around the world and fostering a highly multicultural academic community.
Research plays a central role in the University’s mission. Advanced laboratories, research centres, doctoral programmes, and specialized facilities — including a university hospital, a veterinary hospital, and experimental research facilities — contribute to scientific innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration at an international level.
Highly talented and motivated students may also apply to the Galilean School of Higher Education, the University’s excellence school, which offers selected students advanced interdisciplinary courses, mentoring opportunities, and dedicated academic support within a highly competitive and international environment.
The University of Padua also preserves an extraordinary cultural and scientific heritage. Its library system includes millions of volumes and resources distributed across numerous libraries, while its museums and historical collections reflect centuries of academic and scientific development.
The global community of graduates is represented by the University of Padua Alumni Association, which connects alumni worldwide and promotes the University’s values across generations, professions, and cultures.
The City of Padua
Padua is one of Italy’s most historic and dynamic university cities. Located less than 40 kilometres from Venice, Padua offers a unique combination of history, culture, innovation, and quality of life. With a vibrant student population, a rich artistic and architectural heritage, and numerous cultural, musical, and sporting events throughout the year, the city provides an inspiring and welcoming environment for international students and researchers.
Programs and courses at University of Padua
67 courses at University of Padua, listed alphabetically:
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Student and alumni reviews
- from Mexico
- Master’s degree in Sustainable Chemistry and Technologies for Circular Economy
Sustainability has always been important for me, and during my bachelor's degree I realized the impact and importance that science has on the environment. I really wanted to gain a better understanding and hands-on approach on this field, which sadly is not seen as a priority in my home country.
That's why I decided to study abroad, and after searching for different master's degrees in Europe, when I first read the curricula of the Master's in Sustainable Chemistry and Technologies for Circular Economy, I immediately felt that it was the perfect master for me, that's why I'm in Italy. I first learned about the University of Padua through postgraduate fairs abroad while I was still in Mexico and later deepened my understanding through online research.
Italy, and particularly Padova, is the best city to have an international experience, the city has the perfect size, not too big or too small, and is vibrant with students from all over the world. My best advice is to be open minded and ready to create new memories, don't be afraid of going out of your comfort zone and be prepared to connect with different cultures.
- from Mongolia
- Bachelor's degree in Animal Care
Hi! My name is Enkhsoyol, but people call me Elliana since it is very hard to pronounce. I come from Mongolia, the land of eternal blue skies and heaps of uninhabited steppe. Fun fact: We have more horses, sheep and cattle than there are people. I am currently studying in the first year of my Bachelor's degree in Animal Care. I adore animals and am passionate about having a good impact on their quality of life and the ecosystems they live in.
Studying abroad was always a dream of mine and I am very fortunate to be here and am loving it so far! One day, I came upon the University of Padua from an Instagram post on opportunties circle and I found out about the Animal care course. It focused more on the well-being and protection of animals, and offered specific training paths for scientific research, conservation of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife, and education and recreational activities.
I have been very happy with how inclusive and accepting the University is of international students. I appreciate how interested they are in everyone’s background and cultures. I get to meet so many different people here from all over the world. It has been a great experience to learn about different countries and people's backgrounds.
The city of Padua is perfect if you are looking for a balance between bustling city life and the calm countryside. The center of Padua has lots to offer in terms of restaurants, bars, stores and places to do fun things. It is also a great place to meet new people as the majority of the population are students from Unipd.
There are several transportation routes that you can take anywhere you want to visit Italy. Venice is a popular destination as it is only a 30 minute train ride from Padua. In terms of scenery it is very beautiful in all seasons with many trees, flowers and parks. In winter during Christmas time it is particularly magical with all the Christmas light decorations.
- from Serbia
- Master’s degree in Computer Science
My name is Emilija, and I'm from Serbia. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering and am currently pursuing a Master's in Computer Science at the University of Padua. Studying in Italy, particularly in a city as vibrant and historic as Padua, has been a transformative experience, and I'm proud to be part of this university.
I chose the University of Padua primarily because of the strength and structure of its Computer Science programme. The curriculum is modern, well-organized, and offers a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of the field. I was particularly drawn to the opportunities for research, international collaboration, and the emphasis on innovation and real-world applications.
In addition to the academic appeal, the history and tradition of the University of Padua were deeply inspiring. As one of the oldest universities in Europe, with centuries of contributions to science, culture, and human rights, Padua carries a legacy that few institutions can match. Studying in such an intellectually rich and historically significant environment is both motivating and humbling.
The idea of being part of a university that once welcomed Galileo Galilei and has a longstanding reputation for academic excellence was truly captivating.
I discovered the University of Padua while researching top European universities offering English-taught programmes in Computer Science. The university stood out not only for its academic reputation but also for the vibrant student life, international environment, and strong support system for international students.
Good things happen when you step out of your comfort zone. I was nervous at the beginning—every new start can be challenging—but trust me, it’s completely worth it. Studying in Italy, especially in a city as vibrant and historic as Padua, is an experience that will change you in the best possible way.
You’ll meet people from all over the world, learn about different cultures, and grow both personally and professionally. These connections often turn into lifelong friendships. You’ll gain not only academic knowledge but also important life skills—independence, adaptability, and confidence.
The experience will open your mind, boost your career opportunities, and help you become a better version of yourself. So don’t be afraid to take the leap. It might feel scary at first, but what comes along with it is something truly priceless.
Accommodation
- Private accommodation: either with the support of Housing Office or through the HousingAnywhere platform, the majority of students find a room in a shared flat with other students.
- Private colleges: The University of Padua signed multiple agreements with some private colleges to reserve some places for international students. Each college applies different prices, conditions and services.
- ESU halls of residence: ESU provides accommodation for about 1300 students from outside Padua in its 10 halls of residence, situated either in the city centre or near university buildings. Four university guesthouses are also available for short term stays.
Find out more about Housing and Accommodation services for students
Scholarships
Merit-based scholarships
Padua International Excellence Scholarship
The University of Padua offers merit based scholarships to highly talented prospective students wishing to pursue a Bachelor's or Master's degree completely held in English in Padua.
Fee-waivers
The University of Padua additionally offers full tuition fee waivers to students enrolling in one of its degree programs held completely in English.
Departmental scholarships
Some Departments offer additional scholarships to more talented international students of Bachelor's and Master's degrees completely held in English.
Galilean School of Higher Education Scholarships
The Scuola Galileiana di Studi Superiori (Galilean School of Higher Education) is the University of Padua’s school of excellence. It combines traditional university education with a series of special in-house courses comprising seminars and lectures by renowned international visiting professors. Up to four highly talented international students are selected each year.
Scholarships awarded by other national or international organizations
Scholarships awarded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation MAECI
Every year, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation awards scholarships for studying in Italy to both international students and Italian students who are permanent residents in countries other than Italy (IRE).
These scholarships aim to foster international cultural cooperation, spread the knowledge of the Italian language, culture, and science, as well as promote the Italian economic and technological system throughout the world.
Grants are offered to pursue study, training, and/or research programs at Italian Higher Education Institutes, both public and legally recognized.
Loans for merit
The University of Padua has signed an agreement with the bank Banca Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A, the savings bank Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Padova e Rovigo, and the Association ‘Friends of the University of Padua’. The agreement is aimed at providing EU students with a flexible borrowing option at advantageous interest rates, to be granted with no need for collateral, to bear expenses for education.
The loan will be granted following checks on the eligibility criteria of the student asking for the financing and prior approval of the lender.
Several scholarship options are available. Please visit the university website for more information.
Find out more about Funding and fees
Study abroad information
Internationally oriented and open to the world ever since its beginnings, today the University of Padua promotes collaboration and exchange with universities throughout the world, aiming at enhancing scientific progress and perfecting and sharing good practices in the field of education and teaching.
The Projects and Mobility Office is responsible for planning, managing and coordinating the international relations programmes of the University of Padua, for promoting, disseminating and running its international academic cooperation initiatives, and for setting up and coordinating the university internationalisation and cooperation programmes.
- More than 2500 Erasmus students every year
- 25 joint and double degrees
- More than 300 agreements with other Universities worldwide
- Various internship opportunities abroad
- over 600 course units held in English