IULM University
Milan, Italy
IULM University (Libera Università di Lingue e Comunicazione IULM)
Milan, Italy
Founded
1968
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
7,000+
Faculties
3
Discover IULM University: Italy's Centre of Excellence in Communication, Languages and Media
Discover IULM University: Italy's Centre of Excellence in Communication, Languages and Media
IULM University, officially known as Libera Università di Lingue e Comunicazione IULM, is a private university located in Milan, Italy. Founded in 1968 by Carlo Bo and Silvio Baridon as the University Institute of Modern Languages, it has grown into a recognized institution specializing in communication, languages, media, arts, tourism, and creative industries.
The university's mission is to train excellent professionals through an education rooted in communication strategies, foreign languages, and cultural knowledge. IULM integrates academic preparation with soft skills and professional competence, serving as a bridge between higher learning and the business world.
With over 7,000 students from more than 30 nationalities, IULM maintains a strong international profile through 166 Erasmus+ partnerships and bilateral agreements with universities worldwide. Its modern Milan campus, near the Navigli district, offers multimedia classrooms, specialized research centers, language laboratories, and a library with over 240,000 volumes.
Key Milestones
- 1968: Founded by Carlo Bo and Silvio Baridon as the University Institute of Modern Languages (I.U.L.M.)
- 1993: Main campus building on Via Carlo Bo completed, designed by Roberto and Lorenzo Guiducci
- 1998: Renamed to IULM University of Languages and Communication to reflect expanded academic scope
- 2000+: Campus expanded with seven new buildings including research departments, auditoriums, library, and student residence
Academic Structure and Faculties at IULM University
Academic Structure and Faculties at IULM University
IULM University is organized into three highly specialized faculties that offer undergraduate, master's, doctoral, and executive education programs. The academic structure focuses on communication, languages, arts, tourism, and creative industries, with several programs taught entirely in English.
Faculty of Communication
Covers corporate communication, public relations, marketing, media, advertising, and digital communication. Programs prepare students for roles in media agencies, corporate communications, and strategic marketing.
- Communication, Media and Advertising (BA)
- Corporate Communication and Public Relations (BA, English-taught)
- Strategic Communication (MA)
Faculty of Interpreting, Translation and Linguistic & Cultural Studies
Focuses on interpreting, translation, intercultural communication, and modern languages. Programs develop linguistic expertise alongside cultural and digital competencies.
- Interpreting and Communication (BA)
- Translation, Interpreting and Digital Communication (MA)
- Conference Interpreting and New Technologies (MA curriculum)
Faculty of Arts, Fashion and Tourism
Addresses arts management, cultural events, fashion communication, tourism management, hospitality, and the creative industries. Programs emphasize Made in Italy expertise and global cultural heritage.
- Arts and Cultural Events (BA)
- International Tourism and Hospitality Management (MA, English-taught)
- Tourism, Management and Culture (BA)
Postgraduate and Executive Education
Offers one-year professional master's programs and executive education courses for working professionals seeking specialized skills in communication, media, and management.
- Communication for International Relations (MICRI)
- Social Media Marketing and Digital Communication
- Food Design and Innovation
Doctoral Programs
Research-focused doctoral programs in communication, media studies, cultural studies, markets and society, providing advanced academic training for future scholars and researchers.
- Ph.D. in Communication, Markets and Society
- Ph.D. in Media Studies and Communication
- Ph.D. in Literature and Corporate Communication
Research Centres and Laboratories
IULM hosts cutting-edge research centres including the Behavior and Brain Lab, IULM AI Lab, Centre for Strategic Communication (CECOMS), and specialized labs for journalism, film/TV production, and simultaneous interpretation.
- Behavior and Brain Lab
- IULM AI Lab
- Retail Brand Communication Observatory
Admission Requirements for IULM University
Admission Requirements for IULM University
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationHigh school diploma obtained after at least 12 years of schooling
- Language (Italian programs)B2 Italian certificate (CILS, CELI, PLIDA) or IULM language test
- Language (English programs)B2 English certificate (IELTS 5.5+, TOEFL 87+) or IULM English test
- Entry TestAdmission test assessing language proficiency, general cultural knowledge, and subject-specific topics
- ApplicationOnline application via apply.iulm.it for international students
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRecognized undergraduate degree in a relevant field
- Language ProficiencyB2 English (IELTS or TOEFL) for English-taught programs
- Academic PerformanceStrong academic record during undergraduate studies is evaluated
- Supporting DocumentsCV, letter of recommendation, and transcripts required
- Application FeeContact the university for current application fee details
First round of admission tests begins for the following academic year intake
Primary application period for both bachelor's and master's programs for international students
Final deadline for most programs; some programs may accept later applications subject to availability
Start of the academic year; free Italian language course offered for international students before classes begin
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at IULM University
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at IULM University
As a private university, IULM uses a contribution band system based on family income (ISEE indicator) for Italian and EU residents. International students pay a flat tuition fee corresponding to the fifth contribution band. Fees vary by program level and type.
| Fee Category | Italian/EU Residents (per year) | International Students (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree (3-year) | EUR 4,000 - EUR 8,000 (income-based) | Approx. EUR 8,000 |
| Master's Degree (2-year, English-taught) | EUR 4,000 - EUR 9,400 (income-based) | Approx. EUR 9,400 |
| Professional Master's (1-year) | EUR 6,300 - EUR 12,672 | EUR 9,200 - EUR 16,000 |
| On-Campus Residence (monthly) | EUR 280 - EUR 470 | EUR 470 |
| Total | Contact IULM for exact totals based on ISEE band | Contact IULM for exact totals by program |
International Student Merit Scholarship
IULM offers tuition reductions of up to 50% for first-year international students enrolled in bachelor's or master's programs, based on prior academic performance.
- Amount: Up to 50% tuition reduction for the first year
- Eligibility (BA): Admission qualification equivalent to at least 80/100
- Eligibility (MA): Admission qualification equivalent to at least 90/110
Regional DSU Scholarship (Lombardy)
All students regardless of nationality can apply for regional scholarships awarded by the Lombardy region, based on merit and family economic situation.
- Grant Value: Up to approx. EUR 7,300 per year plus tuition refund
- Criteria: Merit-based and need-based (ISEE indicator)
- Application Period: Call published around mid-July each year
IULM University Campus and Facilities
IULM University Campus and Facilities
The IULM campus is located near the Navigli district in Milan, just five minutes from the Design District and served by its own M2 metro stop (IULM). Designed following an American campus model, it features modern architecture surrounded by landscaped gardens and offers a comprehensive range of academic and student life facilities.
Designed by Roberto and Lorenzo Guiducci and completed in 1993, the six-floor main building features a distinctive red brick exterior and chromatic interior design
The IULM 6 Building designed by Studio 5+1AA features two modern auditoriums and an outstanding exhibition area for cultural events
The IULM library houses over 240,000 volumes, more than 1,300 periodicals, and approximately 56,000 films, documentaries, and language courses
Housing and Dining
Student Residences
IULM offers 240 beds across two university residences (Santander and Cascina Moncucco) with double rooms featuring private bathrooms, desks, wardrobes, and satellite TV.
- Double rooms of 20 sqm with private bathroom
- Common areas with TV room, computer room, and laundry
- 14 places reserved for Erasmus and exchange students
Dining and Campus Services
The campus features four food and beverage outlets including a canteen in the residence building, plus a nearby supermarket for daily needs.
- Campus canteen seating approximately 400 people
- Four on-campus food and beverage outlets
- Campus-wide Wi-Fi coverage throughout all buildings
Student Life at IULM University Milan
Student Life at IULM University Milan
IULM University offers a vibrant student experience in the heart of Milan, combining academic rigor with cultural engagement, creative projects, and social activities. Students benefit from peer tutoring, mentoring, psychological counselling, and numerous extracurricular opportunities.
Milan: A Global Capital of Fashion, Design and Culture
Milan: A Global Capital of Fashion, Design and Culture
Living and Studying in Milan
Milan is Italy's second-largest city and its economic and cultural hub, renowned for fashion, design, art, and finance. The city offers students a stimulating environment with excellent public transport, international career networks, and a vibrant social scene. IULM's campus is located near the Navigli canal area, one of Milan's most popular neighborhoods for young people.
Fashion and Design Capital
Milan is home to global fashion houses, design studios, and creative agencies, providing IULM students with direct access to internships and career opportunities in creative industries
Cultural Richness
From La Scala opera house to world-class museums and the Triennale design museum, Milan offers endless cultural experiences for students passionate about arts and humanities
Navigli District
The Navigli area near IULM is famous for its lively restaurants, bars, art galleries, and shops, offering students a vibrant social life just steps from campus
Gateway to Europe
With two international airports and excellent rail connections, Milan provides easy access to other Italian cities and European destinations for travel and study exchanges
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Internship and Employment Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
IULM has a dedicated help desk for international students providing support with admissions, enrollment, visa guidance, and adaptation to life in Italy. Regular webinars and online events are organized for prospective international students.
IULM offers a free Italian language and culture course in September to help international students improve their language skills before the academic year begins. Optional Italian classes continue throughout the year.
International students on a study visa can legally work up to 20 hours per week in Italy. IULM assists students with part-time work opportunities within university services and provides guidance on student visa requirements.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
IULM University Worldwide Rankings
IULM University Worldwide Rankings
IULM University has achieved notable recognition in international rankings, particularly in its specialist fields of hospitality, tourism, communication, and media. The university has shown consistent improvement in recent years, reflecting its growing reputation among academics and employers globally.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitality & Leisure Management | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #51-100 (2026) |
| Gender Equality (SDG 5) | THE Impact Rankings | #8 worldwide (2025) |
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #68 in Italy (2025) |
| Business (Marketing & Advertising) | EduRank | #67 in Italy (2025) |
Features
IULM University in Milan is a private institution specializing in languages, communication, media, arts, fashion, and tourism. Founded in 1968, it blends academic research with practical training, maintaining strong links with cultural and creative industries. The university offers bachelor’s, master’s, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, many of which are available in English. Its modern Milan campus includes multimedia classrooms, language labs, research centers, and a large library, while student services support career guidance, internships, and international exchanges. With over 7,000 students and a strong international outlook, IULM provides a dynamic environment for both academic and professional growth.
Accommodation
IULM offers accommodation services. There are two university residences (Santander and Cascina Moncucco) with about 210 beds.
Work While Studying
Students can work while studying, specifically through part-time collaborations in university services.
Co-op/Internship Participation
There are internship services. The Career Service supports curricular and extracurricular internships in Italy and abroad, helps with finding offers, processing administrative procedures, recognition of internships in study plans, etc.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
July - September
Location
Via Carlo Bo, 1, 20143 Milano MI, Italy
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