Living In Italy
How Expensive Is Life In Italy?
When comparing to some other European countries, Italy is not very expensive when it comes to student life. In this secttion we will address all costs you might face as a future student.
Living Expenses
Accomodation
The largest expense for students is rent. On a survey we conducted in November 2020, students spend around 491 euros per month on accommodation. This average is a guideline as prices will vary depending on the accommodation type as well as location. Bigger cities such as Milan and Rome tend to be more expensive, however, they do offer some advantages such as more housing options and an easier moving in process. On our universities page, you will be able to see the average rent in a 10km radius around the university of your choice.
Here are quick questions/tips that might ease the selection process:
Do you want to live alone or with roommates? How important is a private bathroom/kitchen to you?
Would you like to live on Campus?
How far from the city center/university do you want to be?
It’s never too early to start looking. We recommend looking for an accommodation as soon as you get your acceptance letter.
Talk to several real estate agents. Don’t be afraid to shop around and take your time.
Once decided, read your housing contract carefully before signing to make sure you won’t have any unpleasant surprises.
Groceries
According to studies done by the Istituto Nazionale di Statistica, a single household in Italy spends on average 380€ a month on food, beverages and personal care products. We find that on average students rarely spend over 35-55€ a week for grocery shopping.
Residence Permit (Non EU Students)
You have to apply for the residence permit 8 days after your arrival to Italy. The application can be made at any post office that has a “Sportello Amico” counter. The total cost is 116,46€ divided in 16€ (duty stamp), 30€ (postal expense) & 70,46€ (application to obtain the card). The residence permit for students is valid for 1 year and must be renewed 90 days before the expiry date and no longer than 60 days after the expiry date.
Health Insurance
In order to apply for a residence permit, Non EU students must show proof of health insurance. You can either:
– Have a private health insurance from your home country
– Have an Italian private health insurance
– Be covered by the Italian National Health System (SSN)
We highly recommend applying for the Italian National Health System (SSN) as you get the same medical services provided to Italian citizens meaning choosing a GP, who you can visit free of charge and who will refer you to specialists in the case of any emergency. Registration to the SSN costs 149,77€ for one calendar year (1st January – 31st December).
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees vary depending on the type of university (private or public), you can expect to pay from 137€ – 5250€ in a public university and from 12000€ – 20000€ per year in a private university. Fees are adjusted to your family’s income and net worth.
Transport
Public transport being the most convenient in Italy, most students subscribe to a monthly pass that includes bus, tram as well as metro. Price varries depending on the city as well as how far your accomodation is from the city center, on average students spend between 20€ – 60€ on the monthly pass.
For students living on or next to campus, a bicycle is also a great option to run quick errands. You can find some great deals on second hand websites.