Among the various standardized tests used for testing proficiency in English, the International English Language Testing System, better known as IELTS, is one that has become popular over the years. It helps assess whether students can communicate effectively and understand study materials by testing their writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills. Additionally, universities use the test to ensure applicants have the language skills required for their selected program.
IELTS is widely accepted by many universities in Italy as part of the application procedure for international students. It is used to help confirm that students have strong proficiency in English, which is important for academic success in programs that use English as a primary medium of instruction. This article will give you an overview of popular Italian universities with IELTS band requirements.
Minimum IELTS Band Requirements for Universities in Italy
Here are the minimum IELTS band requirements for six popular Italian universities. Note that score requirements may vary by program level, discipline, and admission year. Some universities publish requirements as CEFR levels, so applicants should always check the official page for their specific program.
1. Politecnico di Milano
Politecnico di Milano is a reputed technical institute situated in one of Italy’s popular cities, Milan. It is renowned across Europe for its programs in architecture, design, and engineering. The university puts significant emphasis on innovation and research, and students are offered various networking opportunities, access to advanced facilities, and assistance from expert faculty.
The minimum IELTS score accepted at Politecnico di Milano depends on the program level. For English-taught bachelor’s programs, the university lists a minimum IELTS score of 5.0. For Laurea Magistrale, equivalent to Master of Science, programs, the university lists a minimum IELTS score of 6.0. These requirements apply to English-taught study options such as master’s programs in architecture, engineering, management, and design, as well as bachelor’s programs such as Architectural Design and Civil Engineering.
Here is what Politecnico di Milano scholars say about IELTS:
“I took the IELTS exam and scored an 8.0 overall. Although not mandatory for all programs, I took the test to improve my chances of receiving the scholarship.”
Akhil Mohan
“I submitted my IELTS score of 7.0 as proof of language proficiency.”
Sevinj Gurbanova
“Since my undergraduate program was conducted entirely in English, I submitted a certificate from my previous university confirming this, and I was exempted from taking an English language proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL.”
Sonia Pradhan
2. University of Bologna
Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is among the oldest educational institutions in the world. It is esteemed for its academic history, dynamic study environment, and rich culture. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate academic programs across a variety of fields. Additionally, students at the University of Bologna benefit from its inclusive and stimulating study environment and substantial focus on innovation and research.
The University of Bologna commonly requires English proficiency at least at the B2 level for admission to English-taught programs. In its IELTS scale, B2 corresponds to an IELTS score of 5.5 to 7.0, so applicants should treat 5.5 as a common minimum and verify the requirements of their chosen degree program. The institution offers English-taught programs at both bachelor’s and master’s levels in fields such as engineering and technology, business and economics, international relations, and political science.
3. Sapienza University of Rome
A major public university in Italy, Sapienza University of Rome is located in the heart of the iconic city of Rome. Established in 1303, the university is reputed for its cultural heritage and academic excellence. It offers a broad range of study programs, including interdisciplinary and research-oriented programs.
Many English-taught programs at Sapienza University of Rome list a B2 English requirement, with IELTS 5.5 or higher accepted as one way to meet it. Students are offered a variety of English-taught programs at both graduate and undergraduate levels, including programs in architecture, humanities, economics, civil and industrial engineering, mathematics, physics, and natural sciences.
4. University of Milan
Established in 1924, the University of Milan is an institution that is well known for its contribution to research and academics. It has established itself at the center of Italy’s cultural and intellectual scene. This university also prides itself on nurturing its students in an innovative and stimulating learning environment, in addition to offering a comprehensive range of study programs.
For the University of Milan, IELTS 5.5 to 6.5 corresponds to B2-level English proficiency on the university’s accepted language certificate scale. Some programs may require a specific CEFR level, so applicants should check the requirements for their chosen course. Popular English-taught programs at the University of Milan include bachelor’s programs in artificial intelligence, economics, international politics, law, and economics, as well as master’s programs in areas such as law, medicine, and humanities.
5. University of Padua
Founded in 1222, the University of Padua is among the world’s most ancient universities. It has a seasoned academic reputation and a rich cultural heritage. It also facilitates an intellectually stimulating and vibrant learning environment for its students, with a significant focus on interdisciplinary research and education.
The minimum IELTS score for most English-taught degree programs at the University of Padua is 6.0, which corresponds to B2-level English proficiency. English-taught programs are available at both undergraduate and graduate levels in fields such as economics, engineering, environmental sciences, medicine, and psychology. Applicants should note that some programs may require a higher level, such as C1.
IELTS Scores of Students Studying in Italy
FAQs: IELTS Acceptance in Italy
Do Universities in Italy Consider Students Who Have Not Passed the IELTS Exam?
Yes. Some universities in Italy may consider applicants who have not taken IELTS or who use another accepted proof of English proficiency. Alternatives can include TOEFL, Cambridge English B2/C1 certificates, PTE Academic, Trinity ISE, approved university language-center tests, or proof of previous English-medium study, depending on the university and program.
For instance, the University of Bologna lists English proficiency options that include accepted external certificates and University of Bologna Language Centre options. Meanwhile, other universities may accept students who completed previous studies in English, but this is not universal. For the most accurate information, always check the official page for your target university and program.
What IELTS score is typically required in Italy?
Many Italian universities listed here use B2-level English proficiency as a common baseline. Depending on the university, this may correspond to IELTS 5.5 or 6.0. For example, the University of Padua lists IELTS 6.0 for most English-taught degrees, while the University of Bologna lists IELTS 5.5 to 7.0 as B2. Politecnico di Milano lists IELTS 5.0 for English-taught bachelor’s programs and 6.0 for master’s programs. The University of Turin is program-specific, so applicants should check the official Apply@UniTo page for their chosen course. As an example of a successful applicant, Sandra reported IELTS 8.0 at Padua.
Can IELTS be waived with a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter?
Sometimes. Programs may accept an MOI letter or another official document if your previous degree was fully taught in English, but policies vary by university and program. Sonia Pradhan shared that Politecnico di Milano accepted her MOI letter, so she did not need IELTS or TOEFL. However, not every university accepts MOI letters in the same way; for example, the University of Padua states that proof of previous studies in English will no longer be valid for admission from academic year 2027/28. Always check your specific program’s page.
Are alternatives to IELTS accepted in Italy (e.g., TOEFL, Cambridge, Duolingo)?
Yes, many universities accept alternatives such as TOEFL, Cambridge English certificates, PTE Academic, Trinity ISE, or internal university language-center options, depending on the institution and program. For example, the University of Bologna lists TOEFL iBT scores by CEFR level, with B2 corresponding to 72–94, and Politecnico di Milano lists TOEFL iBT as an accepted option for master’s applicants. However, Duolingo is not universally accepted; the University of Padua and University of Turin state that Duolingo is not accepted. Always check your target program’s accepted proofs before applying.
Most Italian universities offering English-taught degree programs accept IELTS exam scores as a means of proving proficiency in English. However, minimum IELTS band requirements among Italian universities can vary depending on the program level, institution, and specific course. Thus, make sure to check with your target university and program before applying.
We hope this article has helped you understand what IELTS score you may need to apply to Italian universities. If you want to know what programs you can pursue in Italy, visit the Available Courses for International Students and Study in Italy Pages!
