University of Florence
Florence, Italy
University of Florence
Florence, Italy
Founded
1321
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
51,000+
Schools
10
Discover the University of Florence: A Legacy of Renaissance Learning
Discover the University of Florence: A Legacy of Renaissance Learning
The University of Florence (Universita degli Studi di Firenze, UNIFI) is one of the oldest and most prestigious public research universities in Italy, tracing its origins to the Studium Generale established by the Florentine Republic in 1321. With around 1,800 faculty members and researchers, over 1,600 technical and administrative staff, and more than 1,600 doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, it is one of the largest and most productive public research systems in the country.
Spread across multiple campuses throughout the historic city of Florence and beyond, the university offers a unique academic experience embedded in one of the world's most culturally rich environments. Its campuses include the Polo delle Scienze Sociali in the Novoli district, the scientific campus in Sesto Fiorentino, the Careggi medical district, and several historic buildings in the city center near landmarks such as the Accademia di Belle Arti.
The university is organized into 21 departments and 10 schools, offering over 127 bachelor's degrees, 57 master's degrees, 9 long-cycle degrees, and 24 PhD programs. Its research strengths span arts and humanities, life sciences, medicine, environmental studies, and heritage conservation, making it a leading destination for international scholars seeking a rigorous academic environment in the heart of Tuscany.
Key Milestones
- 1321: The Studium Generale was established by the Florentine Republic, teaching civil and canon law, literature, and medicine.
- 1349: Pope Clement VI officially recognized the Studium, authorizing it to grant degrees and establishing the first Italian Faculty of Theology in Florence.
- 1364: Under Emperor Charles IV, the Florentine Studium became an Imperial University, solidifying its international prestige.
- 1923: The Italian Parliament officially designated the Istituto di Studi Superiori Pratici e di Perfezionamento as the University of Florence.
Academic Structure and Schools
Academic Structure and Schools
The University of Florence is organized into 21 departments grouped under 10 schools, covering a comprehensive range of disciplines from the humanities and social sciences to engineering, medicine, and the natural sciences. The university offers programs taught in both Italian and English, with approximately 15 degree courses available in English for international students.
School of Medicine and Surgery
One of the university's most historic schools, affiliated with the Careggi University Hospital, offering cutting-edge medical training and clinical research opportunities in a renowned healthcare setting.
- Medicine and Surgery (Single-Cycle)
- Nursing Sciences
- Biomedical Laboratory Techniques
School of Engineering
Located at the S. Marta Institute, this school provides rigorous training in civil, mechanical, electronic, and environmental engineering, with strong ties to industry and European research frameworks.
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electronic and Telecommunications Engineering
School of Economics and Management
Based at the Polo delle Scienze Sociali in the Novoli district, this school offers programs in economics, business, and management with an international outlook and strong research in economic policy.
- Economics and Business
- Management Engineering
- Development Economics
School of Humanities and Education
Situated in the historic center of Florence, this school draws on the city's unparalleled cultural heritage to deliver outstanding programs in literature, philosophy, history, and education sciences.
- History and Philosophy
- Italian Studies and Linguistics
- Education and Training Sciences
School of Architecture
Located in the heart of Florence, this school provides students with an extraordinary learning environment surrounded by centuries of architectural masterpieces, offering programs in design, urban planning, and heritage conservation.
- Architecture (Single-Cycle)
- Landscape Architecture
- Industrial Design
School of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences
Primarily located at the scientific campus in Sesto Fiorentino, this school is a major research hub in physics, chemistry, biology, geology, and mathematics, with strong participation in European research programs.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics and Astrophysics
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary school diploma equivalent to the Italian diploma di maturita (12 years of schooling minimum)
- Language ProficiencyItalian language test required for Italian-taught programs; IELTS 5.5-6.5 or TOEFL equivalent for English-taught programs
- Credential RecognitionDichiarazione di Valore (Declaration of Value) or CIMEA certificate of comparability required
- Entry TestsRequired for restricted-access programs such as Medicine, Architecture, and Engineering
- Application PortalNon-EU students apply via the Universitaly platform; EU students apply directly through the university portal
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRecognized bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field
- Language ProficiencyB2 level in Italian or English depending on program language; IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE accepted for English-taught programs
- Academic ReferencesLetters of recommendation and academic transcripts required for most master's programs
- Credential RecognitionDichiarazione di Valore or CIMEA certificates of comparability and verification
- Additional MaterialsCV, motivation letter, and portfolio (for Architecture and Design programs); GRE for select programs
First admission round for international master's degree applicants typically closes in early February. Results are communicated by mid-March.
Second admission round for international applicants closes in mid-April, with outcomes notified by mid-May.
A third intake round open to EU citizens and non-EU citizens already residing in Italy, closing at the end of August.
The academic year begins in mid-September. All enrollment procedures and credential verifications should be completed before this date.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
The University of Florence offers highly affordable tuition compared to universities in the UK or USA. Fees are calculated on a sliding scale based on the student's family income (ISEE indicator), nationality, and program of study. International students residing abroad are assigned a notional ISEE based on their country's income classification.
| Fee Component | EU Students (per year) | Non-EU Students (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (All-Inclusive Contribution) | EUR 200 - EUR 2,600 (income-based) | EUR 200 - EUR 2,600 (income-based) |
| Regional Tax | EUR 140 | EUR 140 |
| Stamp Duty | EUR 16 | EUR 16 |
| Estimated Living Expenses | EUR 8,000 - EUR 12,000 | EUR 8,000 - EUR 12,000 |
| Total | Contact the university for exact totals based on ISEE | Contact the university for exact totals based on ISEE |
DSU Tuscany Regional Scholarships
The Azienda per il Diritto allo Studio Universitario (DSU) of Tuscany offers need-based scholarships that can cover tuition fees, provide a monthly living allowance, and include free meal vouchers and housing assistance for eligible students.
- Eligibility: Based on income (ISEE) and academic merit
- Coverage: Tuition waiver, living allowance, meal vouchers
- Application: Apply through the DSU Toscana portal annually
University of Florence Merit Scholarships
The University of Florence offers merit-based scholarships and fee reductions for outstanding international students, particularly at the master's and PhD levels. Additional scholarships are available through the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic record and research potential
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition waiver; some include stipends
- Application: Apply via the university scholarship portal or Italian government programs
Campus and Facilities Across Florence
Campus and Facilities Across Florence
Unlike many traditional universities, the University of Florence does not have a single enclosed campus. Instead, its buildings, libraries, and laboratories are distributed across the historic city of Florence and surrounding areas, offering students a uniquely immersive academic experience within one of the world's greatest cultural capitals.
The modern social sciences campus in the Novoli district houses the Schools of Economics, Law, and Political Sciences.
The Schools of Humanities, Architecture, and Arts are located in historic buildings in the heart of Florence near iconic landmarks.
The scientific campus houses the School of Mathematical, Physical and Natural Sciences with advanced research laboratories.
Housing and Student Services
Accommodation
While the university does not operate traditional on-campus dormitories, the DSU Toscana agency provides student housing options and assistance for eligible students. Private apartments and shared housing are widely available throughout Florence.
- DSU Toscana student residences
- Private apartment rental assistance
- Shared housing and flatmate matching services
Campus Facilities
The university provides a range of facilities including libraries, canteens, sports centers, and language learning resources. Students have access to the university's renowned Natural History Museum, one of the oldest and most important in the world.
- University library system with multiple branches
- Four sporting facilities including the Palazzetto dello Sport
- Centro Linguistico di Ateneo for language courses
Student Life at the University of Florence
Student Life at the University of Florence
Student life at the University of Florence is enriched by the city's extraordinary cultural offerings, from world-famous museums and galleries to vibrant cafes, markets, and festivals. The university supports a diverse international community with dedicated services, student organizations, and cultural programs that help students integrate and thrive.
Florence: The Cradle of the Renaissance
Florence: The Cradle of the Renaissance
Living and Studying in Florence
Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most culturally significant cities in the world. Home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci, the city offers students an extraordinary environment where centuries of art, architecture, and intellectual tradition intersect with modern Italian life, excellent cuisine, and a welcoming international community.
Cultural Capital
Florence houses iconic landmarks including the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Accademia Gallery, providing students with daily inspiration and unmatched cultural immersion.
Strategic Location in Tuscany
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Florence offers easy access to Pisa, Siena, and the Tuscan countryside, as well as excellent rail connections to Rome, Milan, and Venice.
Vibrant Student Community
With over 51,000 university students and thousands of international study-abroad participants, Florence has a dynamic, youthful atmosphere with abundant social and networking opportunities.
Quality of Life
Florence offers a high quality of life with renowned Italian cuisine, outdoor markets, scenic riverside walks along the Arno, and a mild Mediterranean climate ideal for year-round enjoyment.
Career Outcomes and Distinguished Alumni
Career Outcomes and Distinguished Alumni
Notable Alumni and Career Paths
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The university provides a dedicated PER-Universita Desk to assist non-EU students with residence permit applications, postal kit procedures, and required documentation. Non-EU students must apply for pre-enrollment via the Universitaly platform.
The Centro Linguistico di Ateneo offers free Italian language courses for international students with study grants, PhD students, and exchange program participants, helping you integrate and succeed in your studies.
The university organizes orientation sessions, open days for international students, and provides Unibuddy chat access to connect with current student ambassadors who share firsthand insights about studying and living in Florence.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Florence: Worldwide Rankings
University of Florence: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Florence consistently ranks among the top universities globally, with particular strengths in arts and humanities, life sciences, medicine, and law. It is recognized across all major international ranking systems as one of Italy's leading public research universities.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | Times Higher Education | #201-250 |
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS World University Rankings | #87 |
| Law | Times Higher Education | #201-250 |
| Biology and Biochemistry | US News Best Global Universities | #208 |
Features
Strong research activity: The university is very active in research, with many inter‑departmental and inter‑university research centres and participation in national & EU‑funded projects.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
November - July
Location
Università degli Studi di Firenze\nPiazza di San Marco, 4\n50121 Firenze (Florence)\nItaly
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
