Blog
Founded in 1321 — Tradition, Research, and Global Excellence in the Heart of Tuscany
The University of Florence (Università degli Studi di Firenze / UniFI) is one of Italy’s oldest and most renowned public universities, located in the historic and artistic city of Florence, Tuscany. With over 700 years of academic tradition, UniFI is internationally recognized for its excellence in humanities, sciences, engineering, and social studies.
Today, it is home to nearly 50,000 students, 1,800 faculty members, and a diverse range of English-taught programs designed to prepare students for global careers in academia, research, and industry.
🌍 Why Choose the University of Florence?
🏛 Historic university founded in 1321, combining centuries of scholarship with modern research innovation.
🌐 Wide range of English-taught programs across disciplines from science and engineering to arts and social sciences.
💶 Income-based tuition with flexible payment and reductions for international students.
🎓 Strong global research reputation, ranked among Italy’s top universities for scientific output and international collaboration.
🧑🎓 Vibrant student life in Florence — a UNESCO World Heritage city known for art, culture, and innovation.
🤝 Partnerships with leading international universities and participation in Erasmus+, Horizon Europe, and global mobility programs.
🏫 Academic Structure
The University of Florence is organized into 10 Schools and 21 Departments, offering a comprehensive portfolio of study programs across all major academic fields.
| Faculty / Department Group | Example Departments | Fields of Study |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture, Food & Environment | Chemistry “Ugo Schiff” (DICUS); Agriculture, Food, Environment & Forestry (DAGRI) | Agriculture, Forestry, Food Science, Environmental Sustainability |
| Architecture, Civil & Environmental Engineering | Architecture (DIDA); Civil & Environmental Engineering (DICEA); Industrial Engineering (DIEF) | Architecture, Civil, Mechanical, Industrial & Environmental Engineering |
| Economics, Law, Management & Political Sciences | Economics & Management (DISEI); Legal Sciences (DSG); Political & Social Sciences (DSPS) | Economics, Business, Law, International Relations, Political Science |
| Humanities, Education & Languages | Humanities (DILEF); Education, Languages, Intercultures, Literatures & Psychology (FORLILPSI) | Philosophy, Literature, Linguistics, Education, Psychology |
| Scientific, Mathematical & Natural Sciences | Biology (BIO); Physics & Astronomy; Mathematics & Computer Science “Ulisse Dini” (DIMAI) | Biology, Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Computer Science |
💶 Tuition Fees for International Students
Tuition at the University of Florence follows an income-based model determined by the ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator) or a notional ISEE for international students.
| Category | Annual Tuition (Approx.) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| EU and Non-EU Students (income-based) | €0 – €2,800 per year | Contribution varies by family income and country of residence. |
| Non-EU Students (from developing nations) | Reduced fees available | Based on “notional ISEE” classification by home country. |
| Additional Charges | €16 stamp duty + €140 regional tax | Mandatory administrative contributions. |
💡 Students may pay in multiple installments. Exact fees vary depending on declared income or equivalent foreign documentation.
🎓 Scholarships & Financial Aid
| Scholarship / Grant Name | Eligibility / Target Group | Amount / Benefits | Details / Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regional Scholarships (Azienda DSU Toscana) | Students with financial need and merit | Covers tuition, housing, meals, and allowance | Regional aid for eligible EU and non-EU students. (dsu.toscana.it) |
| UniFI International Scholarships | Non-EU students enrolling in international programs | Variable | Merit-based and country-specific awards. (unifi.it) |
| IUPALS Project Scholarships | Palestinian students | €5,000/year for 2 years | For English-taught Master’s programs. (unifi.it) |
| Scholarships for Students under International Protection | Refugees and protected-status students | Full coverage of fees + living support | 100 scholarships for 2025/26 academic year. (unifi.it) |
| Erasmus+ and Mobility Grants | Exchange or internship students | Variable | Financial aid for international study or traineeship mobility. (unifi.it) |
🔬 Research & International Collaboration
The University of Florence is a major research hub in Italy, active in EU-funded projects under Horizon Europe, PNRR, and Erasmus+ frameworks. It maintains collaborations with hundreds of universities and research centers worldwide.
Research strengths include:
Life sciences, biotechnology, and medicine
Agriculture and food technologies
Environmental and climate sciences
Architecture, design, and civil engineering
Humanities and cultural heritage studies
UniFI’s research centers and innovation hubs bridge academia and industry, supporting technology transfer, sustainable development, and social impact projects.
🏡 Student Life in Florence
Florence (Firenze) is a world-famous city — the birthplace of the Renaissance — offering a unique blend of history, art, and modern Italian lifestyle.
Students benefit from:
✅ Affordable living costs compared to Milan or Rome
✅ Rich cultural environment with museums, concerts, and festivals
✅ Safe, student-friendly neighborhoods
✅ Access to the beautiful Tuscan countryside
✅ Excellent public transport and university support services
🛫 Admission & Application
Applications are submitted via the University of Florence International Admissions Portal.
General Requirements:
High school diploma or bachelor’s degree (depending on level)
English or Italian language certificate (IELTS / CILS / CELI)
Academic transcripts and passport copy
Motivation letter or portfolio (for some programs)
Application Periods:
November – April: For English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs (September intake)Ongoing: For PhD and research-based programs (departmental deadlines apply)
📞 Need Assistance Applying?
Our education advisors offer step-by-step guidance for your admission to the University of Florence — including program selection, document review, visa support, and accommodation assistance.
Begin your academic journey in one of Italy’s most inspiring and historic cities —
Study at the Università degli Studi di Firenze! 🇮🇹✨
