Study in Italy: admission and English-language requirements

IELTS, PTE and TOEFL: selected current requirements

Checked on 5 October 2026. Padua scores below are its B2 thresholds; a higher required level changes the score. Polimi rows concern the foreign-qualification master's route, not its bachelor's rules. Bologna must be checked degree by degree.

On a small screen, scroll the table sideways to compare all columns.

Padua's new exemption list: do not reuse old MOI advice

The September 2026 exemption PDF lists specific countries and entry qualifications. A degree taught in English in Pakistan is not automatically an exempt qualification. Check the linked PDF and obtain confirmation where your qualification is unclear.

Keep admission-language proof separate from consular visa requirements. A university exemption does not override the competent mission's checklist.

Bachelor's and master's academic admission

A bachelor's or single-cycle application with a foreign qualification normally requires a school history equivalent to at least 12 years, subject prerequisites and any course-specific test or ranking. Applicants from shorter school systems should read the university's permitted compensating study or foundation routes.

A master's application is assessed against the prior degree, subjects, credits, academic performance and any portfolio or programme-specific evidence. Polimi tells foreign-degree applicants to check country-specific qualification and GPA requirements before submitting its master's application.

Application documents to prepare

Use the selected programme's checklist. Common items include passport, qualification or current enrolment evidence, transcript, grading information, language proof, translations and programme-specific statements or portfolio. A positive initial evaluation can still require original, verified or recognition documents for enrolment.

Names and dates should match the passport. Upload complete scans in the required format and keep originals available. Never edit a transcript or create a replacement certificate yourself.

• Passport
• Final or provisional qualification
• Transcript and grading scale
• Accepted language evidence
• Certified translation where required
• Programme-specific CV, statement or portfolio
• Recognition or authenticity evidence requested for enrolment

Universitaly pre-enrolment comes after the university route

Universitaly explains that applicants first choose a programme and contact or apply to the higher education institution. After the university process, eligible non-EU applicants living abroad complete online pre-enrolment and upload the records required for the institution's validation.

The validated pre-enrolment supports the visa application but does not create a right to a visa. Follow the competent embassy or consulate for the current appointment, financial, accommodation, insurance and document requirements.

A six-stage application tracker

Give each stage its own status and deadline so one completed form is not mistaken for the whole process.

• 1. Programme and qualification fit
• 2. University admission application
• 3. Scholarship or fee-support application
• 4. Admission decision and conditions
• 5. Universitaly pre-enrolment where applicable
• 6. Visa, travel and final enrolment

Ask admissions a precise question

State your programme, intake, qualification country, test name or proposed alternative and certificate issue date. Ask whether it meets the requirement and when it must be uploaded. Save the written response with the call; it is more useful than a general claim that the university accepts MOI.

Your working checklist

Turn the English-language rule into an application decision

Once you identify the accepted proof for a specific Italian degree, record the minimum overall score, any section minimum, the waiver evidence and the last test date that can reach the university before its deadline. This keeps a general language policy from becoming a late application blocker.