Tuition in the U.S. keeps climbing. For many students, a bachelor’s degree can easily cost more than $120,000.

What a lot of families don’t realize is that you can earn a fully accredited degree abroad, in English, for much less.

And Rome stands out for a few reasons. The city has respected universities, an incredible cultural scene, and admissions systems that are often straightforward and merit-based.

This guide covers what U.S. students actually need to know about studying in Rome including universities, English-taught programs, costs, student life, and how the application process works.

Why Study in Rome?

Rome offers more than just history and sightseeing. It’s a place where students can earn full degrees in English while living in one of Europe’s most influential cities.

Programs are available in areas like history, art, business, and political science. Admissions are usually transparent and based mainly on grades and academic qualifications, which many students find refreshing compared to the more unpredictable U.S. admissions process.

Cost is another major factor. Public universities in Italy can cost 60–80% less than private colleges in the U.S. At the same time, students still have access to strong academics and internationally recognized degrees. Private and U.S.-accredited schools in Rome also offer smaller class sizes and more personalized support.

A lot of people assume “studying in Rome” means a semester abroad. In reality, students can complete entire undergraduate or graduate degrees there.

Top Universities in Rome

Rome and the surrounding region have several highly ranked universities with English-language programs for international students. Many also offer research opportunities, certifications, and hands-on training.

Sapienza University of Rome

• Founded: 1303 (originally Studium Urbis)
• Students: ~115,000 (5,000 international)
• Programs: 250+ undergraduate and postgraduate degrees
• Highlights: Huge campus in central Rome, scholarships and financial aid, one of the largest universities in Europe

University of Rome II – Tor Vergata

• Founded: 1982
• Students: ~25,000 (4,000 international)
• Programs: Undergraduate, postgraduate, and research-focused degrees
• Highlights: Large modern campus, strong internship connections, Italian Space Agency and university hospital located on-site

Roma Tre University

• Founded: 1992
• Students: ~32,000 (1,600 international)
• Programs: Undergraduate, postgraduate, and research-centered programs
• Highlights: Known for research in the social sciences and multiple specialized research centers

University of L’Aquila

• Founded: 1964
• Students: ~17,500 (1,000 international)
• Programs: Undergraduate and graduate degrees, plus language courses in several languages including English
• Highlights: Large campus about 1.5 hours from Rome with partnerships across more than 60 universities worldwide

University of Naples Federico II

• Founded: 1224
• Students: ~50,000 (1,000 international)
• Programs: Undergraduate, postgraduate, and international outreach programs
• Highlights: Historic university with multiple campuses and global initiatives, including medical training programs in Africa

Australian Catholic University (Rome Campus)

• Founded: [Year of Rome campus establishment, if needed]
• Students: Varies (international-focused programs)
• Programs: Theology, Philosophy, History, and Liberal Arts
• Highlights: Central Rome location that combines Australian academic standards with cultural immersion in Italy

Latest Rankings for Universities in Rome

Here are some of the top universities in Rome and nearby regions based on the 2026 QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education rankings:

University	QS World Ranking 2026	Times Higher Education 2026
Sapienza University of Rome	128	=170
University of Rome II – Tor Vergata	=355	301–350
Roma Tre University	901–950	801–1,000
University of L’Aquila	–	601–800
University of Naples Federico II	801–1,000	601–800

Other Top-Ranked Colleges & Universities in Rome

• John Cabot University
• The American University of Rome
• Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome
• Guglielmo Marconi University
• Rome Business School
• University Niccolò Cusano
• The International Telematic University
• Swiss School of Management
• National Academy of Santa Cecilia
• Pontifical Gregorian University
• European University of Rome

English-Taught Programs in Rome

Rome has a wide range of full-degree programs taught entirely in English, which makes the transition much easier for U.S. students.

Popular fields include:

• Business & Management – MBA, International Business, Finance
• Engineering & Technology – Civil, Mechanical, Biomedical
• Social Sciences & Humanities – Political Science, History, Philosophy
• Arts & Design – Architecture, Visual Arts, Music
• Healthcare & Life Sciences – Medicine, Psychology

How to Study in Rome

Step 1: Choose a Program
Start by deciding whether you want a public Italian university or a private/U.S.-accredited program taught in English.

Step 2: Check Admissions Requirements

Most schools will ask for:

• Academic transcripts
• Proof of language proficiency (usually English, sometimes Italian)
• Entrance exams for certain selective programs

Step 3: Apply and Secure Funding

Students can apply directly to universities or work with educational advisors like Beyond The States.

It’s also worth looking into scholarships, grants, and European funding options early. Timelines in Europe are usually more predictable than in the U.S., which helps with planning.

Step 4: Student Visa & Logistics

Before arriving, students typically need to:

• Apply for an Italian student visa
• Arrange health insurance
• Secure housing

Step 5: Arrival & Orientation

Most universities offer orientation programs for international students. Joining student communities early can make the adjustment much smoother.

Cost of Living in Rome as a Student

Living in Rome is often more affordable than people expect, especially compared to major U.S. cities or private colleges.

Accommodation

• Dorms: €400–€600/month
• Shared apartments: €500–€800/month
• Private rentals: €700–€900/month

Transport

• Monthly passes for buses, trams, and the metro usually cost €35–€45
• Walking and biking are common, especially in central neighborhoods

Food

• Groceries: €150–€200/month
• Casual dining: €10–€20 per meal
• Tip: Local markets and university cafeterias help reduce costs

Typical Annual Costs

Expense	Public University	Private / U.S.-Accredited
Tuition	€900–€3,000/year	€12,000–€18,000/year
Accommodation	€400–€700/month	€600–€900/month
Food & Essentials	€200–€300/month	€250–€400/month
Health Insurance	€200–€300/year	€500–€800/year
Total Annual Cost	€10,000–€15,000	€20,000–€25,000

Even private universities in Rome are usually cheaper than private colleges in the U.S., while still giving students a full international experience.

Life & Culture in Rome for Students

Rome gives students a mix of academics, culture, and everyday life that’s hard to replicate anywhere else. Outside class, students can visit museums, historic landmarks, parks, restaurants, and sporting events often all within the same week.

Must-Visit Landmarks

• Colosseum
• Pantheon
• Roman Forum
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• Sistine Chapel
• Spanish Steps
• Borghese Gallery & Museum
• Altar of the Fatherland
• Villa Borghese
• Palatine Hill
• Capitoline Museums
• Arch of Constantine
• Stadio Olimpico
• Marcello Theatre
• Bioparco di Roma

Experiences & Opportunities

• Weekend trips: Quick flights to Paris, Madrid, and other European cities are easy to find. You can even reach the Italian mountains in just a few hours.
• Sports & entertainment: The city always has something going on, from football and tennis matches to concerts and theater performances.
• Professional growth: Students can access internships with major companies and international organizations, making it possible to build real work experience while studying.

What makes studying in Rome different is that it goes beyond the classroom. You’re not just earning a degree. You’re living in a city filled with history, meeting people from around the world, and gaining experience that can help professionally later on.

Who Is This a Good Fit For?

Rome is a strong option for students who:

• Want to earn a full degree abroad rather than do a short exchange program
• Feel comfortable living in another country
• Care about affordable tuition and a straightforward admissions process
• Prefer programs taught fully in English
• Want both cultural experiences and professional opportunities

Common Misconceptions

• Myth: You need to speak Italian to study in Rome.
  Fact: Many degree programs are taught entirely in English. Knowing Italian helps in daily life, but it’s not required.
• Myth: Degrees earned abroad aren’t recognized in the U.S.
  Fact: Accredited programs are internationally recognized, and U.S. employers and graduate schools accept them.
• Myth: Living in Rome is always expensive.
  Fact: Costs depend on your lifestyle. Public universities and shared apartments can make studying there surprisingly affordable.
• Myth: Rome is only a good choice for history or art students.
  Fact: Universities also offer programs in business, science, engineering, social sciences, and more.
• Myth: International students have limited internship or career opportunities.
  Fact: Many universities in Rome have strong industry connections that help students gain internships and professional experience.

Final Thoughts

Studying in Rome offers more than just the experience of living abroad. It’s also an opportunity to earn a fully accredited degree within an internationally recognized education system.

Beyond The States helps U.S. students navigate applications, scholarships, and student life, so the process feels a lot less overwhelming.r outcomes.

You can explore programs, compare countries, or start with a strategy session if you want help figuring out the right path.

If you’d prefer more hands-on support our Platinum Admissions Package offers a more guided approach.