University of Palermo
Palermo, Italy
University of Palermo (Università degli Studi di Palermo)
Palermo, Italy
Founded
1806
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
44,600+
Departments
20
Discover the University of Palermo: A Historic Hub of Learning in Sicily
Discover the University of Palermo: A Historic Hub of Learning in Sicily
The University of Palermo (UNIPA) is a public research university officially founded in 1806 by Ferdinand III of Bourbon, though its academic roots trace back to 1498 when courses in medicine and law were first taught in the city. It is among the largest and oldest academic institutions in Sicily, offering programmes at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels through its network of departments and research centres.
Headquartered in the historic Palazzo Steri on Piazza Marina since 1984, UNIPA encompasses multiple campuses across Palermo as well as decentralized locations in Agrigento, Caltanissetta, and Trapani. The university's 5 Schools and 20 Departments cover the most important domains of contemporary scientific and technological knowledge, from information technology and engineering to medicine, social sciences, and cultural heritage preservation.
In the academic year 2024/2025, UNIPA enrolled over 44,600 students, including more than 760 international students. The university is a member of the FORTHEM European University Alliance and participates in over 1,000 Erasmus agreements, underscoring its commitment to internationalization and cross-border academic collaboration.
Key Milestones
- 1498: Higher education origins in Palermo with courses in medicine and law.
- 1806: Ferdinand III officially transforms the Palermo Academy of Studies into a university.
- 1860: Major modernization following Italian unification under the influence of Stanislao Cannizzaro.
- 1984: Administrative seat moves to the historic Palazzo Steri, a landmark of Palermo.
Academic Structure and Departments
Academic Structure and Departments
The University of Palermo is organized into 5 Schools and 20 Departments that coordinate teaching and research activities. UNIPA offers approximately 146 degree courses at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, with several master's programmes delivered entirely in English to attract international students.
School of Medicine and Surgery
Integrates clinical training with the University General Hospital (Policlinico Paolo Giaccone), covering biomedicine, neurosciences, and advanced diagnostics across multiple departments.
- Medicine and Surgery (Single-Cycle)
- Nursing (BSc, English-taught)
- Neurosciences (MSc, English-taught)
School of Engineering and Architecture
Located at the Viale delle Scienze campus, this school houses advanced laboratories for robotics, AI, and telecommunications research, including a pioneering hybrid 5G private network.
- Management Engineering (BSc, English-taught)
- Electronic Engineering (MSc)
- Building Engineering-Architecture (Single-Cycle)
School of Economics, Law, and Political Sciences
Encompasses the departments of Economics, Law, and Political Sciences. The Department of Law was awarded the Italian Ministry label of Excellent Department with over EUR 8 million in funding.
- Business and Economic Sciences (MSc, English-taught)
- Law (Single-Cycle)
- Cooperation, Development and Migrations (MSc, English-taught)
School of Humanities and Education
Covers cultural heritage, literature, philosophy, education, and linguistic studies. The school hosts the Centre of Sicilian Philological and Linguistic Studies and the peer-reviewed journal Mythos.
- Cultural Heritage Studies (BA)
- Educational Sciences (BA)
- Modern Languages and Translation (MA)
School of Sciences
Spans mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, earth sciences, and agricultural and food sciences. Home to the historic Orto Botanico di Palermo and the Astronomical Observatory where Ceres was discovered in 1801.
- Mediterranean Food Science and Technology (MSc, English-taught)
- Biology and Biodiversity (MSc)
- Physics (BSc)
School of Pharmacy
Focuses on pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, and nutritional research. The school conducts research in medical treatments and hosts the Institute of Human Physiology and Nutrition.
- Pharmacy (Single-Cycle)
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology (MSc)
- Nutritional Sciences (MSc)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate (Laurea Triennale)
- Secondary EducationCompletion of at least 12 years of schooling with a qualifying diploma
- Language ProficiencyB2 level in Italian (for Italian-taught programmes) or English (for English-taught programmes)
- Pre-Enrollment (Non-EU)Pre-enrollment via the Italian Embassy or Consulate and Universitaly portal
- Entrance ExamRequired for regulated programmes such as Medicine and Architecture
- Italian Language TestMandatory for Italian-taught courses; multiple test dates available (July-August)
Graduate (Laurea Magistrale)
- Bachelor's DegreeRelevant undergraduate degree from a recognized institution
- Language ProficiencyB2 level in the language of instruction (Italian or English)
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts and degree certificate with translation if applicable
- Curriculum VitaeUpdated CV and possibly a motivation letter depending on the programme
- Programme RelevanceMaster's programme must be related to the completed undergraduate field of study
First call for admission to Master's degree programmes typically opens in mid-April for the following academic year.
First available date for the Italian language proficiency test required for Italian-taught bachelor's programmes.
Additional test dates in August for students who could not attend the July session.
Final deadline to complete enrollment procedures, pay fees, and submit all required documentation before the academic year begins.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
The University of Palermo offers highly affordable tuition compared to many European institutions. Fees are income-based under the ISEE system, and first-year extra-EU Master's students may pay only registration fees. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedules.
| Fee Component | EU / Italian Students | Non-EU Students |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fee (Fixed) | EUR 156 (regional tax included) | EUR 156 - 378 (regional tax included) |
| Variable Tuition (Income-Based) | EUR 0 - 4,500+ | EUR 0 - 5,000+ |
| First-Year Master's (Extra-EU) | N/A | Registration fee only (approx. EUR 356) |
| Student Services & Insurance | Included in fees | Included in fees |
| Total | EUR 156 - 4,500+ per year | EUR 356 - 5,000+ per year |
ERSU Regional Scholarship
A fully funded regional scholarship offered to bachelor's, master's, and doctoral students with a family annual income below EUR 24,300. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, and free meals in university canteens.
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, meals, and additional benefits
- Eligibility: Family income below EUR 24,300 per year
- Level: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD
Italian Government Scholarships
Grants provided by the Italian government available to both foreign and Italian citizens for study and research at Italian universities. These scholarships support tuition and living costs.
- Type: Government grant for international students
- Coverage: Tuition fee waivers and monthly stipend
- Application: Via the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Study in Italy portal)
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Palermo spans multiple sites across the city, combining historic buildings in the city center with a modern scientific campus. Its main campus at Viale delle Scienze houses over 20 buildings for scientific and engineering disciplines, while the historic Palazzo Steri serves as the administrative heart near the waterfront.
The historic 14th-century palace serves as the university's main administrative seat and rectorate since 1984.
Founded in 1790, the university's botanical garden is one of the oldest and most important in Europe.
The modern scientific campus houses engineering, architecture, and natural science departments with advanced research laboratories.
Housing and Dining
Student Housing
UNIPA offers student residences managed by ERSU Palermo, with additional support for finding private accommodation in the city.
- 3 university residence halls
- ERSU housing assistance for scholarship recipients
- Affordable private rentals in Palermo (lower cost of living than northern Italy)
Dining Services
University canteens are located on the main campus and at various department sites across the city, offering affordable meals to all enrolled students.
- Multiple university canteens across campus locations
- Free meals for ERSU scholarship recipients
- Affordable local restaurants and street food culture in Palermo
Student Life at UNIPA
Student Life at UNIPA
Student life at the University of Palermo is enriched by the vibrant culture of Sicily's capital city. The university hosts a wide range of student associations, cultural events, and sports activities, while the city itself offers a rich tapestry of history, cuisine, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
Palermo: A Mediterranean Jewel
Palermo: A Mediterranean Jewel
Living in Palermo
Palermo is one of Italy's most ancient and culturally rich cities, blending Roman, Greek, and Arabic influences in its architecture, cuisine, and daily life. The cost of living is significantly lower than in northern Italian cities, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking an affordable yet culturally immersive experience.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Sicily boasts seven UNESCO sites, including the Arab-Norman itinerary of Palermo, Monreale, and Cefalù, and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
Mediterranean Climate
Palermo enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate with average temperatures of 14°C in winter and 26°C in summer, ideal for outdoor living year-round.
Renowned Cuisine and Street Food
Palermo is famous for its vibrant street food culture, including arancine, panelle, and sfincione, alongside world-class Sicilian gastronomy.
Cultural Landmarks
Home to Teatro Massimo, Italy's largest opera house, the Politeama Garibaldi theater, and countless churches, museums, and baroque architecture.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Notable Alumni and Affiliations
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Relations Office organizes dedicated welcome days where new international students meet administrative and academic staff, learn key procedures, and connect with peer mentors and student association members.
Dedicated support is available for housing, visa issues, health insurance, and residence permit applications. Non-EU students should begin the pre-enrollment process through the Italian Embassy or Consulate in their home country.
UNIPA offers Italian language courses for international students through its Language Centre (CLA), as well as courses in Arabic, English, French, German, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Palermo: Worldwide Rankings
University of Palermo: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Palermo is consistently featured among the top 1,000 universities globally across major international ranking systems. Its research output, particularly in fields such as medicine, public health, and engineering, contributes to its growing international reputation.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Public, Environmental and Occupational Health | US News | Top subject area with high citation impact |
| Gastroenterology and Hepatology | US News | Among top cited fields globally |
| Engineering | UNIPA | 31 programmes across the department |
| Arts and Humanities | QS | #251-300 (QS by Subject 2026) |
Features
The University of Palermo is a large, historic public research institution in Sicily. It offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, many faculties including Medicine, Law, Humanities, Engineering, etc. It supports international students via exchange programs (Erasmus etc.), has some degree courses offered fully in English, and multiple libraries and campus facilities.
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
September - June
Location
Piazza Marina, 61\n90133 Palermo PA\nItaly
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