University of Pavia
Pavia, Italy
University of Pavia (Università degli Studi di Pavia)
Pavia, Italy
Founded
1361
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
26,000+
Departments
18
Discover the University of Pavia: One of Europe's Oldest Universities
Discover the University of Pavia: One of Europe's Oldest Universities
The University of Pavia (Alma Ticinensis Universitas) is one of the oldest academic institutions in the world, with roots tracing back to 825 AD when Emperor Lothair I established a school of rhetoric. It was officially founded as a Studium Generale in 1361 by Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, and it remained the sole university in Milan and the greater Lombardy region until the 20th century.
Today, the University of Pavia is a research-intensive institution offering 85 degree programs across 18 departments and 2 faculties, with campuses in Pavia and Cremona. The university serves over 26,000 students, including approximately 1,500 international students each year, and maintains more than 400 international partnerships and over 700 Erasmus exchange agreements worldwide.
The university is renowned for its unique collegiate system — comparable to Oxford and Cambridge — featuring 21 university colleges where students live, study, and participate in academic and cultural life. Three Nobel Prize winners have taught at Pavia: physician Camillo Golgi (1906), chemist Giulio Natta, and physicist Carlo Rubbia, reflecting its enduring tradition of scholarly excellence.
Key Milestones
- 825: Emperor Lothair I established a school of rhetoric in Pavia, marking the earliest origins of higher education at the institution.
- 1361: Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV officially founded the Studium Generale, granting teaching privileges in law, philosophy, medicine, and liberal arts.
- 1769: Empress Maria Theresa of Austria launched sweeping reforms that elevated the university to one of the foremost in Europe, attracting scholars like Alessandro Volta.
- 1906: Professor Camillo Golgi was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his groundbreaking research on the structure of the nervous system.
Academic Structure and Departments at the University of Pavia
Academic Structure and Departments at the University of Pavia
The University of Pavia covers all major subject areas through 18 departments organized into its faculty structure. It offers over 80 undergraduate programs, more than 42 master's programs, and approximately 20 doctoral programs, with 27 programs taught entirely in English. The university is recognized for its strong research output in medicine, physics, engineering, law, and the humanities.
Medicine and Surgery
One of the most prestigious medical faculties in Italy, featuring the renowned Harvey Medical Course taught in English and closely linked to the advanced San Matteo Research Hospital.
- Medicine and Surgery (Harvey Course, English-taught)
- Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics
- Biomedical Sciences
Engineering
Offering programs in civil, electrical, industrial, and computer engineering, with a strong legacy rooted in Alessandro Volta's foundational work in electrical science and modern research in structural risk mitigation.
- Civil Engineering for Mitigation of Risk from Natural Hazards
- Electronic and Computer Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
Sciences (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
A comprehensive science faculty with departments in physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and earth sciences, known for strong research output and international subject rankings.
- Physics
- Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Molecular Biology and Genetics
Law and Political Sciences
The Faculty of Law has been central to the university's identity since its founding in 1361, educating generations of legal scholars, politicians, and statesmen including Cesare Beccaria and Carlo Goldoni.
- Law (Giurisprudenza)
- World Politics and International Relations
- Social Sciences for Global Challenges
Economics and Management
Programs in economics, business, and management with a focus on international entrepreneurship and development, preparing graduates for careers in global business and finance.
- International Business and Entrepreneurship (MIBE)
- Economics, Finance and International Integration
- Management and Business Administration
Humanities and Musicology
Departments of humanities, philosophy, linguistics, and the internationally unique Department of Musicology and Cultural Heritage based at the Cremona campus, offering interdisciplinary programs in arts and culture.
- Modern Languages and Cultures
- Musicology and Cultural Heritage
- Philosophy
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Education RequirementSecondary school diploma with minimum 12 years of total education
- Italian Language (Italian-taught)Minimum B2 level certificate (CILS, CELI, Roma3, or PLIDA)
- English Language (English-taught)IELTS 5.0+ or equivalent TOEFL/CEFR score
- Application PortalOnline application via apply.unipv.eu (up to 3 programs)
- Additional RequirementsSome programs require entrance exams (e.g., IMAT for Medicine)
Graduate (Master's) Admission
- Degree RequirementRecognized bachelor's degree in a relevant field
- Minimum GPAContact the university for program-specific GPA requirements
- English ProficiencyIELTS or TOEFL required for English-taught programs
- Documents RequiredTranscripts, diploma, CV, motivation letter, and reference letters
- Selection ProcessSelective interview or evaluation of academic portfolio, varies by program
The first call for master's program applications typically opens in mid-November for the following academic year.
A second round of applications opens in early spring for remaining available spots in master's programs.
A final application round may be available depending on program capacity and remaining seats.
Deadlines for undergraduate programs and the Foundation Year vary; Italian language tests are typically held in July and September.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of Pavia
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of Pavia
The University of Pavia offers highly affordable tuition fees compared to many European institutions. Fees are calculated based on the student's family income and country of origin, making quality education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.
| Fee Component | EU / Italian Students | Non-EU International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (annual range) | EUR 156 - EUR 4,500 | EUR 400 - EUR 4,500 |
| Enrollment Tax (Regional Tax + Stamp) | EUR 156 | EUR 156 |
| Student Services Fee | Included in tuition | Included in tuition |
| Estimated Living Costs (annual) | EUR 7,000 - EUR 10,000 | EUR 7,000 - EUR 10,000 |
| Total | EUR 156 - EUR 4,500 per year | EUR 400 - EUR 4,500 per year |
International Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarships
The University of Pavia offers approximately 150 tuition fee waiver scholarships for international students to strengthen its global community. Recipients pay only the EUR 156 enrollment tax.
- Number of Awards: Approximately 150 per year
- Coverage: Full tuition fee waiver (enrollment tax of EUR 156 still applies)
- Duration: First year only; not renewable
EDiSU Pavia Regional Scholarships
EDiSU Pavia provides need-based scholarships for Italian, EU, and international students covering financial support, free daily meals, and housing assistance based on family income.
- Award Amount: Up to EUR 7,000 per year
- Additional Benefits: One free meal per day, regional tax reimbursement
- Eligibility: Based on family income (under EUR 23,000/year) and academic merit
Campus and Facilities at the University of Pavia
Campus and Facilities at the University of Pavia
The University of Pavia operates as a unique city-campus, with buildings and facilities spread throughout the historic city of Pavia rather than on a single enclosed campus. This integrated model means students experience academic life woven into the fabric of a charming Italian city, with medieval courtyards, Renaissance architecture, and modern research facilities all within walking distance.
The historic central building on Via Strada Nuova houses administrative offices, lecture halls, and the University History Museum with Alessandro Volta's instruments.
Home to the Natural History Museum and the Camillo Golgi Museum, this historic palace hosts scientific collections dating back centuries.
The university maintains 37 specialized libraries housing over 1,250,000 books and journals, providing extensive resources for research and study.
Housing and Dining
University Colleges (Collegi)
Pavia's collegiate system, unique in Italy, consists of 21 university residences hosting approximately 2,000 students in a vibrant community life combining academics, culture, and sport.
- 4 merit-based colleges including historic Collegio Borromeo (1561) and Collegio Ghislieri (1567)
- 12 state-funded and 4 private residential colleges managed by EDiSU
- College life includes academic seminars, cultural events, parties, and sporting competitions
Dining and Student Services
EDiSU operates university canteens offering affordable meals for students, with scholarship recipients entitled to one free meal per day. The city itself is filled with student-friendly restaurants and cafes.
- University canteens with subsidized meals for enrolled students
- 19 museums and cultural collections across campus
- Language center, counseling services, and career guidance office
Student Life at the University of Pavia
Student Life at the University of Pavia
Student life at the University of Pavia blends centuries of academic tradition with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. The city's compact size and high student-to-resident ratio create a vibrant community where academic achievement, cultural engagement, and social life are deeply intertwined.
Pavia: A Historic City-Campus in the Heart of Lombardy
Pavia: A Historic City-Campus in the Heart of Lombardy
Life in Pavia, Italy
Located in the Lombardy region only 30 km south of Milan, Pavia offers a safe, affordable, and culturally rich environment with a population of around 72,000 residents. The city's medieval streets, ancient churches, and elegant buildings create a charming atmosphere, while its proximity to Milan provides easy access to one of Europe's most dynamic metropolitan areas via frequent 25-minute train connections.
Proximity to Milan
Trains run to Milan every 10 minutes, making it easy to access Italy's fashion and financial capital for internships, cultural events, and weekend exploration.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Pavia features historic landmarks including the Certosa di Pavia monastery, San Michele Maggiore basilica, the medieval towers, and the Visconti Castle with its surrounding park.
Affordable Student Living
Compared to Milan, Pavia offers significantly lower living costs for accommodation, dining, and daily expenses, making it one of Italy's most affordable university cities.
Vibrant Events and Festivals
The city hosts numerous events throughout the year including the historic Pavia regatta, cultural festivals, exhibitions, concerts, and welcome events for international students.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Sectors Where Graduates Excel
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The dedicated international admissions team guides prospective students through the application process, visa documentation, credential evaluation, and enrollment procedures via the apply.unipv.eu portal.
The university offers Italian language courses and a full Foundation Year preparatory program for students who need to meet language or academic requirements before entering degree programs.
International student ambassadors and comprehensive orientation programs help new arrivals settle into life in Pavia, covering academic guidance, housing assistance, and cultural integration.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Pavia: Worldwide University Rankings
University of Pavia: Worldwide University Rankings
The University of Pavia consistently ranks among the top universities in Italy and is recognized globally for its research excellence and academic heritage. It holds positions in all major international ranking systems and is particularly noted for its strengths in medicine, physics, engineering, and law.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | EduRank | #253 World, #10 Italy |
| Biology | EduRank | #328 World, #11 Italy |
| Physics | EduRank | #380 World, #11 Italy |
| Chemistry | EduRank | #373 World, #10 Italy |
Features
Aligning with the path taken by the best international universities, the Rector of the University of Pavia, on February 25, 2020, established OSA – Office for Sustainable Actions, the working group on sustainability, with the aim of supporting and disseminating the University's strategies in this field. This is achieved through the collection, development, and implementation of existing best practices as well as the promotion of new initiatives, the drafting of programmatic documents and reporting, and their dissemination within the university community, the city, and the region, making clear the principles of social responsibility that govern UniPv's strategic vision.\n\n
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 - September
Location
Piazza Botta Adorno Antoniotto, 6, 27100 Pavia PV, Italy
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