MS in Computer Science in Italy: Top Universities, Fees & Requirements

A Master’s in Computer Science in Italy gives you affordable, high-quality technical education at globally recognised public universities, with many programmes taught in English. 

Here are the key reasons to consider Italy for MS in CS:

• Income-Scaled Tuition: Public universities in Italy often set tuition fees based on family income through the ISEE system, so many students may pay less than the standard fee, with some fees starting around €1,000 per year.
• English-Taught Programmes: Many postgraduate Computer Science programmes are taught fully in English, so you can study specialisations such as AI, data science, and cybersecurity without needing Italian proficiency.
• Globally Ranked Universities: Universities such as Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza University of Rome, and the University of Bologna rank among the world’s leading institutions for Computer Science and Information Systems.
• Access to Scholarships: International students can apply for government and regional scholarships, including need-based and merit-based schemes such as DSU and Laziodisco.
• Quota-Free Work Permit Conversion: Students who study in Italy can convert their study permit into a work permit at any time of the year, without waiting for the annual Decreto Flussi quotas that limit work permits for other non-EU workers.

Italian universities use different names for the MS programmes in computing, but Informatica generally refers to Computer Science, while Computer Engineering combines computer science with a stronger engineering focus. Understanding these names can help you choose the right programme when comparing universities in Italy.

We have curated this list based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Computer Science and Information Systems, programme strength, and availability of programmes for international students.

• Politecnico di Milano
• Sapienza University of Rome
• University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum)
• Politecnico di Torino
• University of Pisa
• University of Trento
• University of Padua
• University of Milan
• Bocconi University
• University of Genoa

Below, we cover each university in detail, including its QS 2026 rank, average tuition fee, and Master's programmes related to Computer Science.

Politecnico di Milano

Politecnico di Milano offers its Master’s in Computer Science through the MSc in Computer Science and Engineering, a two-year programme taught in English at the Milano Leonardo campus. 

The programme covers areas such as artificial intelligence, big data, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, and advanced hardware architectures, making it a strong choice for students seeking advanced training in computer science and engineering.

Sapienza University of Rome

Sapienza University of Rome offers a two-year MSc in Computer Science taught fully in English. The programme provides broad training in Computer Science while allowing students to specialise in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, networks, security, software engineering, and multimedia computing.

University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum)

The University of Bologna offers its Master’s in Computer Science through the MSc in Computer Science and Engineering, with international curricula covering data, software, systems, intelligent embedded systems, and artificial intelligence. 

The programme combines computer science and engineering with applied learning, while its Department of Computer Science and Engineering (DISI) has strong research in software systems and networks.

Politecnico di Torino

Politecnico di Torino offers a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering with seven specialist tracks, including Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, Computing and Network Infrastructures, Embedded and Smart System Design, Human-Computer Interaction, and Software. 

The programme combines computer architecture, system programming, databases, software engineering, networks, and IT security, with some specialist tracks taught in English.

University of Pisa

The University of Pisa offers a two-year MSc in Computer Science taught entirely in English, with four specialisation tracks in Artificial Intelligence, Big Data Technologies, Foundations of Software, and ICT Solutions Architect. The programme combines strong theoretical foundations with advanced training in information technologies, making it a strong choice for students seeking specialised Computer Science training.

University of Trento

The University of Trento offers a two-year MSc in Computer Science taught entirely in English, with specialisation areas including Computational Foundations, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Bioinformatics, Software and Service Architectures, and Systems and Networks. The programme combines theoretical foundations with practical laboratory learning and also includes an ICT Innovation pathway with areas such as Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Financial Technology.

University of Padua

The University of Padua offers a two-year MSc in Computer Science taught in English, with three main study tracks: Artificial Intelligence, Internet, Mobile and Security, and Programming Languages, Systems and Algorithms. 

The programme combines foundational Computer Science with advanced topics such as machine learning, cybersecurity, distributed systems, data mining, and natural language processing, while international students can also apply for the university's full tuition fee-waivers.

University of Milan

The University of Milan (La Statale) offers its Master's in Computer Science through the MSc in Computer Science, with study areas covering algorithms, information systems, intelligent systems, and multimedia data processing. 

Its ISEE-based tuition system includes a no-tax bracket for students with an ISEE of up to €30,000, making it one of the most accessible MS technical programmes in Italy. The department also offers a separate English-taught MSc in Computer Science and Engineering at the Leonardo campus for students seeking a more applied, industry-focused option.

Bocconi University

Bocconi takes a different approach from the other universities on this list. Instead of an ISEE-based Computer Science degree, it offers a Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence at a flat tuition rate, designed for students with a strong background in mathematics and computer science who want to specialise in AI and machine learning. 

The programme offers two tracks, with the Milan Track based in Milan and the Industrial Track moving to Turin in the second year for an internship at the Italian Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence for Industrial Impact (AI4I). Up to 50% of students enrolled in the programme can receive an AI scholarship or fee waiver based on merit and other eligibility criteria.

University of Genoa

The University of Genoa offers its Master's in Computer Science through two specialised curricula: Data Science and Engineering and Software Security and Engineering. Both combine theoretical learning with practical laboratory work, while the programme prepares students for advanced roles in areas such as large-scale data processing, artificial intelligence, software development, and cybersecurity. 

The programme also uses an ISEE-based fee system, allowing students to have their contribution adjusted according to their financial situation.

Below we have listed the key eligibility requirements for a Master’s in Computer Science in Italy.

• Bachelor’s Degree: A Bachelor’s degree (EQF Level 6) or 180 ECTS credits from an accredited university, preferably in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Curricular Credits: Required CFU/ECTS in Computer Science, mathematics, physics, or related subjects. The University of Pisa may require up to 72 specific credits depending on your academic background.
• Academic Grades: A strong academic record, with some universities requiring an equivalent of around 6.5 to 7.5 out of 10.
• English Proficiency: B2-level English proof, such as IELTS or TOEFL, for English-taught programmes.
• Italian Proficiency: B2-level Italian and English for programmes taught in Italian.

Here is the checklist of documents required during the application process for an MS in CS in Italy.

• Bachelor’s Degree Certificate: Official degree certificate or a university document confirming your expected graduation date.
• Marksheets: Complete semester-wise academic transcripts from your Bachelor’s programme.
• Syllabus or Course Descriptions: Detailed undergraduate course modules to verify required CFU/ECTS credits.
• Updated CV: Education, technical skills, projects, internships, and relevant work experience.
• Statement of Purpose: Interest in the Master’s programme and career goals.
• Letters of Recommendation: Usually 1 to 2 letters from professors or academic supervisors.
• Language Certificate: IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent B2-level English proof, unless an accepted English-medium degree exemption applies.
• Passport Copy: Clear copy of the valid passport information pages.
• Official Translations: Certified translations for documents not issued in Italian, English, French, or Spanish.
• CIMEA Statement of Comparability: Foreign qualification verification, which may be optional during application but required for final enrolment.

Applying for an MS in Computer Science in Italy involves shortlisting universities, submitting direct applications, completing national pre-enrolment, and securing your student visa. 

Follow these steps to apply for an MS in CS in Italy:

• Step 1 - Shortlist universities: Compare universities based on QS Computer Science rankings, programme specialisations such as AI, data science, and cybersecurity, location, tuition fees, and language of instruction. Check whether the programme is fully taught in English.
• Step 2 - Check entry requirements and application calls: Review each university's academic requirements and application deadlines. Autumn intake applications may have multiple calls, with some opening as early as September and continuing until March.
• Step 3 - Prepare your application package: Gather the required documents, including course syllabi used to verify your curricular credits. Most universities accept clearly scanned documents in English or Italian at the initial application stage.
• Step 4 - Submit university applications: Apply directly through each university's admissions portal, such as Apply@Unipd or PoliMi's Online Services. Some universities charge an application evaluation fee of around €20/₹2200 to €50/₹5500. If accepted, you will receive an admission letter or confirmation of eligibility.
• Step 5 - Complete national pre-enrolment via Universitaly: After receiving your admission letter, submit a pre-enrolment application through the Universitaly portal. The university will review and validate it before forwarding the application to the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
• Step 6 - Complete qualification verification: Obtain a CIMEA Statement of Comparability or Declaration of Value if required by your university for final enrolment.
• Step 7 - Apply for your Type D student visa (2 to 3 months before): Book an appointment with your Italian Embassy, Consulate, or authorised visa centre. Submit your University pre-enrolment summary, admission letter, accommodation proof, health insurance, and proof of financial means.

Many public universities in Italy use the ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator) to calculate tuition based on your family’s financial situation rather than charging every student a flat international fee. This means your actual tuition can be much lower than the headline fee of up to €4,000 (₹4.4L) or more quoted for some universities. 

International students with income or assets outside Italy may need an ISEEU Parificato, which checks their financial situation for fee calculation. For example, Sapienza University of Rome offers tuition from €300 (₹33K) to €1,500 (₹1.7L) per year for eligible students based on financial and other criteria. 

ISEE rules vary by university and student category, so check the fee structure of your chosen university before estimating your total tuition.

The following table will help you give a practical estimate of the cost of studying an MS in CS in Italy for international students:

Italy offers scholarship routes for a Master’s in Computer Science, ranging from regional need-based grants to university-specific merit awards and government funding. 

Here is a table of the top scholarships in Italy for an MS in CS:

Graduates with a Master’s in Computer Science from Italy can stay in the country for up to 12 months on a job-seeker residence permit to look for employment or complete an internship. 

Below are some details around post-study work options and visa conversion after an MS in CS in Italy:

• Job-Seeker Stay-Back Permit: Stay in Italy for up to 12 months after graduation to search for employment or complete a formal internship (tirocinio).
• Visa Conversion: Once you secure a suitable job, convert your temporary residence permit into a standard work permit, subject to the applicable requirements.
• EU Blue Card: Highly skilled graduates with an eligible high-paying job offer qualify for an EU Blue Card, which fast-tracks residency for highly skilled workers.
• Permanent Residency: Apply for long-term residency after five years of qualifying legal residence in Italy, subject to the eligibility requirements.

An MS in Computer Science in Italy opens up roles like Machine Learning Engineer and Data Scientist, with average annual salaries ranging from €38,500 (₹42.4L) to €50,000 (₹55L). 

The table below gives the average annual salary across the top career paths for Computer Science graduates in Italy:

A Master's in Computer Science in Italy gives you a rare mix of globally ranked technical education, income-based tuition that keeps real costs below headline figures, and a growing tech and AI ecosystem across cities like Milan, Turin, and Bologna. Choosing the right university goes beyond rankings, as your fee category, programme specialisation, and language of instruction can shape your study experience and career options.

Yocket Premium helps you compare universities, fee structures, and programme tracks based on your academic profile and budget. Our experts can guide you through ISEE documentation, scholarship applications, and the visa process so you make informed decisions at every stage of your journey to Italy.