University of Pavia
Pavia, 🇮🇹 Italy Public
#10 National #423 QS World
#10 National #423 QS World #351 THE #401 ARWU
23,849 students 11% international Multiple Campuses €2.1k - €4.2k/yr
About University of Pavia
The University of Pavia, established in 1361, is one of the world's oldest academic institutions, blending a rich historical legacy with a modern, research-intensive approach. Located in Pavia, Italy, it is a comprehensive public university with a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary teaching and an international outlook. The university attracts a diverse scholarly community, with approximately 24,000 students, including around 1,500 international students from over 80 countries.
The University of Pavia excels in diverse academic domains, including life sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, law, and economics. It offers a wide variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary programs across 18 departments, ranging from Bachelor's to Doctoral degrees. The teaching approach encourages cross-faculty collaboration and problem-based learning, preparing students for contemporary challenges. Notable programs include those in medicine, neuroscience, genomics, and bioengineering, and the university has a strong tradition of research, counting Nobel laureates among its former professors.
The University of Pavia is deeply committed to internationalization, offering 27 English-taught programs across various levels, including Bachelor's and Master's degrees. The university provides comprehensive support services, language courses, and mentoring programs to foster personal and academic growth for its international student body. With over 400 partnerships with universities worldwide and more than 700 ERASMUS exchange agreements, it offers numerous opportunities for international experiences. Student life is enriched by over 100 student clubs and societies, promoting cultural integration and a strong sense of belonging.
Pavia, located in the Lombardy Region just 30 kilometers south of Milan, offers a lively, safe, and high-quality environment for students. The city, with its maze of narrow streets, ancient churches, and elegant buildings, retains its historic charm, and the university's buildings are integrated throughout the city, creating a "city campus" feel. Pavia is well-connected by public transport, with frequent train services to Milan, and its compact size allows for easy navigation on foot or by bicycle. Students can enjoy a vibrant cultural life with museums, theaters, and various events, and the city is also close to major tourist attractions in Northern Italy.
The University of Pavia boasts a high graduate employment rate, with 91% of its graduates finding employment within one year of graduation, compared to a national average of 85%. Master's degrees in science, engineering, medicine, and pharmacology show an even higher post-graduation employment rate of 95%. The Career Service provides extensive support to students and alumni, including online tools for internship and job searches, career fairs, CV checks, and networking events. The university also fosters strong industry connections through collaborations with various institutional and industrial partners, promoting technological development and innovation.
Academics
The University of Pavia excels in diverse academic domains, including life sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, law, and economics. It offers a wide variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary programs across 18 departments, ranging from Bachelor's to Doctoral degrees. The teaching approach encourages cross-faculty collaboration and problem-based learning, preparing students for contemporary challenges. Notable programs include those in medicine, neuroscience, genomics, and bioengineering, and the university has a strong tradition of research, counting Nobel laureates among its former professors.
International Students
The University of Pavia is deeply committed to internationalization, offering 27 English-taught programs across various levels, including Bachelor's and Master's degrees. The university provides comprehensive support services, language courses, and mentoring programs to foster personal and academic growth for its international student body. With over 400 partnerships with universities worldwide and more than 700 ERASMUS exchange agreements, it offers numerous opportunities for international experiences. Student life is enriched by over 100 student clubs and societies, promoting cultural integration and a strong sense of belonging.
Campus & Location
Pavia, located in the Lombardy Region just 30 kilometers south of Milan, offers a lively, safe, and high-quality environment for students. The city, with its maze of narrow streets, ancient churches, and elegant buildings, retains its historic charm, and the university's buildings are integrated throughout the city, creating a "city campus" feel. Pavia is well-connected by public transport, with frequent train services to Milan, and its compact size allows for easy navigation on foot or by bicycle. Students can enjoy a vibrant cultural life with museums, theaters, and various events, and the city is also close to major tourist attractions in Northern Italy.
Career Outcomes
The University of Pavia boasts a high graduate employment rate, with 91% of its graduates finding employment within one year of graduation, compared to a national average of 85%. Master's degrees in science, engineering, medicine, and pharmacology show an even higher post-graduation employment rate of 95%. The Career Service provides extensive support to students and alumni, including online tools for internship and job searches, career fairs, CV checks, and networking events. The university also fosters strong industry connections through collaborations with various institutional and industrial partners, promoting technological development and innovation.
Highlights
- One of Europe’s oldest academic institutions
- Renowned center for medicine and science
- Historic campus with iconic neoclassical courtyards
- Former home to physicist Alessandro Volta
- Member of the prestigious Coimbra Group
- Extensive network of merit-based residential colleges
Subject Areas
MedicineEngineeringLawEconomicsMusicology
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available
Photos








Programs Offered at University of Pavia (3)
Bachelor Programs (1)
Bachelor's Degrees
Bachelor's Degrees
bachelorbachelor'sdegreesitaly
36 months English Full-time
View details →
Master Programs (1)
Master's Degrees
Master's Degrees
degreesitalymastermaster'spavia
24 months English Full-time
View details →
PhD Programs (1)
University of Pavia Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
5+ IELTS
72+ TOEFL
2.4+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Moderate (40-60%)
Intakes Fall
Application Deadline March 18, 2026
Tuition (per year) €2.1k - €4.2k/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$300
Application Fee $35
Teaching Language English, Italian
Accreditation
Ministero dell'Università e della Ricerca (Ministry of University and Research)
Ready to apply to University of Pavia?
Abroadly helps you manage applications, track deadlines, and get matched to programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Pavia
Common questions from international students considering University of Pavia.
What is the acceptance rate at University of Pavia?
University of Pavia is classified as "Moderate (40-60%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.
How much does University of Pavia cost for international students?
Tuition at University of Pavia ranges from €2.1k - €4.2k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately €300/month), books, and living expenses.
What is University of Pavia ranked globally?
University of Pavia holds the following rankings: QS World #423, Times Higher Education #351, ARWU #401, #10 in Italy. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.
What English language requirements does University of Pavia have?
University of Pavia typically requires IELTS 5+ or TOEFL 72+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.
Are scholarships available at University of Pavia?
Yes, University of Pavia offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.
When does University of Pavia start its semesters?
University of Pavia has intakes starting in Fall. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.
How many English-taught programs does University of Pavia offer?
University of Pavia offers 3+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.
Where is University of Pavia located?
University of Pavia is located in Pavia, Italy 🇮🇹. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What are the admission requirements for University of Pavia?
For specific details about University of Pavia, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
What programs does University of Pavia offer?
For specific details about University of Pavia, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
More Universities in Pavia
View all →Need help applying?
AI-powered tools to manage applications, track deadlines, and get matched.