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Founded in 1806 — A Mediterranean Hub of Culture, Research, and Innovation
The University of Palermo (Università degli Studi di Palermo / UniPA) is one of southern Italy’s leading public universities, located in the historic and coastal city of Palermo, Sicily.
With a legacy spanning over two centuries, UniPA is known for its academic excellence, strong research focus, and commitment to internationalization.
Combining the best of Italian culture, Mediterranean hospitality, and world-class education, UniPA offers a wide range of English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in science, engineering, medicine, architecture, law, and humanities.
🌍 Why Choose the University of Palermo?
🏛 Established in 1806, one of Italy’s oldest and most respected southern universities.
🌐 Diverse academic offerings with over 100 degree programs, including English-taught options.
💶 Affordable tuition fees — among the lowest in Italy, with both fixed and income-based options.
🎓 Scholarships for international students, including programs for refugees and students from developing nations.
🔬 Research excellence in renewable energy, marine sciences, biotechnology, and digital innovation.
🏖 Located in Palermo, a UNESCO heritage city by the sea — famous for its architecture, cuisine, and Mediterranean lifestyle.
🏫 Academic Structure
The University of Palermo is organized into 16 Departments across a broad spectrum of disciplines, integrating traditional academics with cutting-edge research.
| Faculty / Department Group | Example Departments | Fields of Study |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture, Design & Urban Planning | Department of Architecture | Architecture, Design, Urban and Landscape Planning |
| Engineering, Mathematics, Computer & Earth Sciences | Engineering; Mathematics & Informatics; Physics & Chemistry; Earth & Sea Science | Civil, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering, Earth Sciences, Physics |
| Economics, Business, Law & Statistics | Economics, Business & Statistics; Legal, Society & Sports Science | Economics, Business Administration, Law, Political Science |
| Humanities, Education & Psychology | Humanities; Psychological, Pedagogical, Exercise & Education Sciences; Culture & Society | Literature, Psychology, Education, Cultural Studies |
| Life, Biomedical & Pharmaceutical Sciences | Biomedical, Neurosciences & Advanced Diagnostics; Biological, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Sciences | Medicine, Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Health Sciences |
| Agricultural, Food & Forestry Sciences | Agricultural & Forestry Sciences; Earth & Sea Science | Agriculture, Food Technology, Forestry, Environmental Science |
💶 Tuition Fees for International Students
UniPA offers two tuition fee options for non-EU students residing abroad:
| Fee Option | Annual Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Option 1 – Fixed Fee (by Country Group) | List A: €206 (includes €156 regional tax) List B: €256 Others: €356 | Simplified, low fixed rate depending on home country. |
| Option 2 – Income-Based Fee | Variable | Based on “ISEE parificato” (income declaration for students with family abroad); includes €156 fixed portion (regional tax + stamp duty). |
💡 EU students and non-EU residents in Italy pay tuition based on standard ISEE income assessments. Both payment methods are designed to ensure affordability and access for all students.
🎓 Scholarships & Financial Aid
| Scholarship / Grant Name | Eligibility / Target Group | Amount / Benefits | Details / Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| ERSU Regional Scholarships (Right to Study) | Students with financial need or merit | Tuition waiver + housing + meals | Provided by Sicily’s regional agency (ersupalermo.it). |
| UNIPA “Special Grants” for International Students | Non-EU or developing country students | Full/partial tuition waiver + living allowance | Merit-based scholarships for foreign students. (unipa.it) |
| “Progetto UNICORE” Scholarships | Students from conflict or developing regions | €4,200/year | For English-taught Master’s programs. (unipa.it) |
| “Just Peace” Scholarship | Students from Palestine, Ukraine, and war-affected countries | Full scholarship | Promotes international cooperation and peace. (unipa.it) |
| CRUI–Ministry of Interior Refugee Scholarships | Refugees and students under international protection | 100 full scholarships | Covers tuition, accommodation, and meals. (unipa.it) |
| Erasmus+ & Mobility Grants | Exchange and internship students | Variable | Support for international mobility and study abroad. (unipa.it) |
🔬 Research & Innovation
The University of Palermo is a vibrant research hub active in Horizon Europe, Erasmus+, and PNRR programs.
Its research centers and laboratories contribute to Italy’s advancement in technology, health sciences, and environmental sustainability.
Main research strengths include:
Renewable Energy & Smart Materials
Marine and Earth Sciences
Biomedical & Neuroscience Research
Cultural Heritage and Tourism
Food and Agricultural Innovation
Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
UniPA also promotes entrepreneurship and innovation through its Technology Transfer Office and Incubator for Startups supporting student-led ventures.
🏡 Student Life in Palermo
Palermo, the capital of Sicily, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty — ideal for students seeking both academic and personal growth.
Students enjoy:
✅ Low cost of living and affordable housing
✅ Welcoming and diverse international community
✅ Mediterranean climate and seaside recreation
✅ Rich artistic and culinary heritage
✅ Proximity to archaeological sites, beaches, and nature reserves
🛫 Admission & Application
Applications are managed through the University of Palermo International Portal.
General Requirements:
High school or bachelor’s degree (depending on program level)
English or Italian language certificate (IELTS / CILS / CELI)
Passport and official academic transcripts
Motivation letter or reference (for some programs)
Application Periods:
November – April: Most English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs (for September intake)
Throughout the Year: For PhD programs and scholarships (varies by department)
📞 Need Assistance Applying?
Our consultancy team provides comprehensive support for your UniPA journey — from course selection and application submission to visa guidance and student housing assistance.
Study in one of the Mediterranean’s most historic and welcoming cities —
Discover your future at the University of Palermo! 🌊
