Università degli Studi di Messina

The Italian higher education system is aligned with the Bologna Process, ensuring uniformity and high standards across Europe. 

The degree structure at the University of Messina is organized into three main cycles:
 

1. First Cycle: Corsi di Laurea (Bachelor’s Degree)

Duration: 3 years

Credits: 180 ECTS/CFU

Admission Requirements: Requires an Italian high school diploma (after 13 years of schooling) or an equivalent foreign qualification. Some programs may also require passing an entrance examination.

Outcome: The Laurea degree offers foundational education in scientific methods, content knowledge, and professional skills. It qualifies graduates to pursue specialized 2nd cycle programs.

2. Second Cycle: Corsi di Laurea Magistrale (Master’s Degree)

Duration: 2 years (for most programs)

Credits: 120 ECTS/CFU. Certain single-cycle programs like Medicine or Law may require 300 ECTS/CFU over 5 to 6 years.

Admission Requirements: Completion of a Laurea (Bachelor's degree) or an equivalent qualification. Specific courses may have additional requirements.

Outcome: The Laurea Magistrale degree provides advanced education for specialized careers and serves as a prerequisite for doctoral studies or other advanced academic programs.

3. Third Cycle: Dottorato di Ricerca (PhD)

Duration: Minimum of 3 years

Admission Requirements: A Laurea Magistrale degree or an equivalent qualification is required. Admission is competitive and based on examination.

Outcome: The PhD program is designed to provide in-depth scientific research training, advanced technological skills, and hands-on laboratory experience. It concludes with the completion and defense of an original research project.

Additional Study Programs

Corsi di Specializzazione: These are post-Laurea Magistrale programs, particularly in medical and clinical fields. Admission is highly competitive, and the program duration ranges from 2 to 6 years, depending on the specialization.


For comprehensive information on the Italian Education system, exams, grading please visit this link 


 

If you're planning to start or continue your studies in Italy, we suggest reaching out to Uni-Italia, national body for the promotion of Study in Italy. With Uni-Italia’s help, you’ll get support through every step of orientation phases and administrative procedures, making sure all the documentation required is ready and compliant for your visa application. Want to know where Uni-Italia operates? Click here

Here are the Bachelor's Degree programs we currently offer:

• Bachelor's Degree in Data Analysis
• Bachelor's Degree in Political Sciences and International Relations
• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering
• Bachelor's Degree in Marine Biology and Blue Biotechnologies
• Bachelor's Degree in Business Management
• Bachelor's Degree in Transnational and European Legal Studies
• Single Cycle Degree in Medicine and Surgery (6-year long program)

For more detailed information about these programs, visit UniMe English Programmes and connect with our student ambassadors through Chat with Our Students.

Here are the Master's degree programs we currently offer:

• Master's Degree in Data Science
• Master's Degree in Computer Science and Engineering
• Master's Degree in International Management
• Master's Degree in Physics (Condensed Matter Physics)
• Master's Degree in Geophysical Sciences for Seismic Risk
• Master's Degree in Cognitive Science and Theory of Communication

For more detailed information about these programs, visit UniMe English Programmes and connect with our student ambassadors through Chat with Our Students.

Yes, the University of Messina offers a range of doctoral programs across various disciplines. Our PhD programs provide  training and  research opportunities. 

For detailed information on the available doctoral programs and their specializations, please visit UniMe PhD Programmes.

 

Bachelor's Degree Courses:

To qualify for admission, you need a high school diploma that corresponds to 12 years of schooling, a standard requirement across most universities. If your educational system provides less than 12 years of pre-university education, the University of Messina allows alternative qualifications:

• A certificate proving that you have successfully completed all required exams in the first year of university studies.
• A certificate from any Italian university confirming the successful completion of a Foundation Programme designed to bridge the gap.

For a detailed breakdown of the entry requirements, please refer to the document List of Required Documents by Country 2024-2025.

Master's Degree Courses:

The entry requirement is typically a Bachelor’s degree, which must reflect a cumulative educational duration of at least 15 years (including your time in school and university). If you are in the final year of your Bachelor’s degree and haven't yet graduated, you can submit a provisional certificate issued by your university to demonstrate that you are on track to complete your degree.

For a detailed breakdown of the entry requirements, please refer to the document List of Required Documents by Country 2024-2025.

For more information, Visit the Applications and Admissions page.

For English-taught programs, proficiency in English is crucial, and you must provide evidence through standardized English language tests like TOEFL or IELTS. 

The specific scores required can vary depending on the program, but generally, a minimum level of B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is expected. 

It's important to check the program-specific requirements on the university's language requirement page to ensure you meet the exact criteria.

Yes, different programs may have unique prerequisites beyond the general admission requirements. These could include:

• Specific courses or subjects taken during your previous studies that are essential for the advanced study of your chosen field.
• Practical or work experience related to the field, particularly for professional or vocational courses.

For more information regarding the prerequisites study programs, please read this document and get in touch with our student ambassadors via Chat with Our Students.

1. Choose Your Program:

Start by reviewing the available programs and their specific requirements on the University of Messina’s website via UniMe English Programmes. Ensure the program aligns with your academic background and career goals.

2. Check Language Requirements:

Determine if you need to provide proof of proficiency in Italian or English, depending on the language in which the program is taught. Check the specific language requirements for the program you are interested in via UniMe Language Requirements.

3. Prepare Your Documents:

Gather all required documents. If some of your documents are not in Italian or English, you may need to get them officially translated.

For Bachelor’s Degree Applicants:

• High School Diploma: Obtained after 12 years of education. This is a standard requirement for university entry. 
  If you do not have your diploma yet, you can upload an official provisional certificate issued by your School (Course Completion Certificate). If your High school diploma is less than 12 years, you can submit: either a) an academic certificate stating that you have passed all the required exams of the first year of University studies; or b) certificate from any Italian University regarding the successful completion of a Foundation Program.
   
• University Entrance Exam Certificate: If required by your national education system. Check the specific requirements for each country via this link.
• Transcript of Records
• Copy of a Valid Passport
• English Proficiency Certificate 
  If you're applying for a program taught in English, provide proof of language proficiency. More details and the list of accepted tests can be found here.

For Master’s Degree Applicants:

• High School Diploma: Must verify completion of at least 12 years of education.
• Bachelor’s Degree Diploma 
  If you haven’t received your diploma yet, a provisional certificate issued by your university is acceptable. Ensure that your total education (including school and university) amounts to at least 15 years.
• Transcript of Records.
• Copy of a Valid Passport: Required for identification and visa application purposes.
• English Proficiency Certificate: Necessary for programs taught in English, the requirements can be viewed on the dedicated page.

Notes on Document Preparation:

• Translations: If your original documents are not in English or Italian, get them translated by a certified translator. Check with the admissions office if translations need to be officially notarized.
• Verification: Some countries and programs might require your educational documents to be verified or recognized by a local embassy or an international education recognition authority.

4. Register on the UniMe Applicant Portal:

Create an account on the UniMe Applicant Portal, UniMe Applicant Portal, where you will submit your application and required documents.

5. Complete the Application:

Fill out the application form on the portal. Double-check all entered information for accuracy to ensure there are no delays in processing your application.

6. Upload Required Documents:

Upload all the necessary documents to the portal. Ensure that scans are clear and all documents are complete.

7. Submit the Application:

Review your application and submit it before the deadline. Make sure to keep a copy of the confirmation for your records.

8. Follow Up:

After submitting, monitor the status of your application through the portal. Evaluation of applications will take around 4-6 weeks. If your application is successful, you will receive an admission letter with further instructions.

9. Visa Application:

As an international student, you will need to apply for a student visa. Once you receive the admission letter, proceed with your visa application via Universitaly.

The University of Messina offers multiple application windows for both EU and Non-EU students interested in Bachelor's and Master's Degree Programs. 

There are multiple calls for applications, with specific periods during which prospective students can apply. These application windows are available for various programs, including Bachelor's and Master's degrees, as well as Single Cycle Degrees in Medicine and Surgery and Vocational Masters.

For programs taught in Italian, applicants are encouraged to send their applications to studiainitaliano@unime.it

For more information regarding the application calls and deadlines, visit the dedicated page

If you have any doubts or need further information, don’t hesitate to contact the admissions team and student ambassadors via Chat with Our Students at the University of Messina.

For Bachelor’s Degree Applicants:

• High School Diploma: Obtained after 12 years of education. This is a standard requirement for university entry. 
  If you do not have your diploma yet, you can upload an official provisional certificate issued by your School (Course Completion Certificate). If your High school diploma is less than 12 years, you can submit: either a) an academic certificate stating that you have passed all the required exams of the first year of University studies; or b) certificate from any Italian University regarding the successful completion of a Foundation Program.
   
• University Entrance Exam Certificate: If required by your national education system. You can check the specific requirements for each country via this link.
• Transcript of Records: This should detail all the courses and grades obtained during your high school education.
• Copy of a Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least the duration of the visa application process and initial period of your study.
• English Proficiency Certificate: If you're applying for a program taught in English, you'll need to provide proof of language proficiency. More details and the list of accepted tests can be found here.

For Master’s Degree Applicants:

• High School Diploma: Must verify completion of at least 12 years of education.
• Bachelor’s Degree Diploma: If you haven’t received your diploma yet, a provisional certificate issued by your university is acceptable. Ensure that your total education (including school and university) amounts to at least 15 years.
• Transcript of Records: This should include all the exams taken during your undergraduate program, along with the grades achieved.
• Copy of a Valid Passport: Required for identification and visa application purposes.
• English Proficiency Certificate: Necessary for programs taught in English, the requirements can be viewed on the dedicated page.

Applying to the University of Messina through the Universitaly Portal involves multiple steps.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

Part 1: Registration

1. Go to the UNIVERSITALY website: Choose to register. For the identity document section, select 'PASSPORT'.
2. Email Confirmation: After registering, you will receive an email from universitaly@cineca.it. Follow the instructions in the email to finalize your registration by creating a password.
3. Complete Your Registration: Enter the password you chose to complete your registration process. After this step, you will receive another email confirming your registration. This confirmation ensures that your personal data has been successfully saved.
4. Start Pre-enrolment: Log into the UNIVERSITALY portal and click on the "INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS + PRE-ENROL NOW" button. This button is typically located in the center-right of the homepage.

Part 2: Pre-enrolment

This part of the process is divided into three main steps:

Step A: Personal Information

• Input your personal data, including your home address and contact details. Ensure that all information matches exactly what is on your passport. Note that all fields are required, even if they don’t have an asterisk (*).

Step B: Passport and Visa Details

• Upload a passport-sized photo and a copy of your valid passport.
• Specify the Italian Embassy or Consulate where you intend to apply for your study visa. Select "I want to spend a period of mobility for study” as the reason for your visa application.
• For course information, choose 'Università' as the institution type, and enter the name and details of the course as specified in your admission letter.

Step C: Qualifications

• Upload your high school diploma and your highest degree.

Finalize and Submit:

• Review your application by clicking on "SUMMARY" to ensure all data is correct and complete. Proceed by clicking "SUBMIT".

Next Steps After Submission

Confirmation Email:

• You'll receive a confirmation email from no-reply@cineca.it indicating that your application was received by the University.

Review Process:

• The university will review your application, which may take a few days. If additional documents or information are needed, you’ll be contacted via email.

Forwarding to Consulate:

• Once your application is deemed complete, it will be forwarded to the consulate you specified for your visa application. You'll receive a confirmation email with details.

Access Your Application:

• Use the link provided in the confirmation email to access your personal area on the portal where you can download and print the summary of your pre-enrolment application.

Following these steps will ensure that your pre enrollment application to the University of Messina via the Universitaly portal is complete and submitted correctly.

If you encounter any issues or have questions during the process, don't hesitate to reach out to the support provided by Universitaly or the university's admissions office for guidance via foreignstudents@unime.it.

At the University of Messina, we believe in making education accessible and affordable for everyone. To achieve this, our tuition fees are tailored to each student's financial situation.

Here's a detailed overview of how tuition fees are calculated and the payment options available:

Calculation of Tuition Fees

For Students from Italy: Tuition fees are based on the ISEE University value (ISEE-U), an indicator of economic condition specifically for university students. This considers the income and assets of the student’s household if their permanent residence is in Italy.

For International Students and Italians Living Abroad: If you reside outside Italy, or if your family lives abroad while you study in Italy, tuition fees are calculated based on the Equivalent ISEE (ISEE parificato). This considers the income and assets of your household outside of Italy.

Understanding Tuition Fees at the University of Messina: At the University of Messina, tuition fees are calculated on a sliding scale based on the ISEE (Indicatore della Situazione Economica Equivalente). The ISEE ensures that tuition fees are equitable and reflect a family's ability to pay.

Here's how the fees are structured for the academic year 2024/2025:

Payment Options

During the enrolment process, students can choose between two payment methods:

Option 1: One Single Payment

Fixed Rate: €156.00 (€140.00 Regional tax for the Right to Education, except in cases of exemption, + €16.00 stamp duty).

Payment Deadline: December 31, 2024 (without extra fee).

Yearly All-Inclusive Tuition Fees: Calculated according to the sliding scale. This option offers a 20% reduction on the total tuition fees.

Payment Deadline for Yearly Fees: January 31, 2025.

Option 2: Payment in Instalments

Fixed Rate: €156.00 (€140.00 Regional tax for the Right to Education, except in cases of exemption, + €16.00 stamp duty).

Payment Deadline: December 31, 2024.

First Instalment: Due January 31, 2025.

Second Instalment: Due March 31, 2025.

Third Instalment: Due June 27, 2025.

Important Notice:

An extra fee of €14.00 is applied for late payments.

Scholarship holders are required to pay the fixed rate of €156.00 but will be reimbursed €140.00 (Regional tax for the Right to Education).
 

For International Students: International students must present a document issued by the Italian diplomatic/consular authorities in their country of origin, certifying their family/personal income. This document is essential for the calculation of fees to access service facilities such as the canteen.
 

 For more details on how to apply and begin your journey with us, please visit our tuition fees page or contact our admissions office.

At the University of Messina, we understand that students come from diverse economic backgrounds and may need financial assistance to pursue their academic goals.

To support our international students, we offer various scholarship opportunities in partnership with the Regional Agency for the Right to Study (ERSU). 

ERSU Scholarships

• Financial Award
  The ERSU scholarship provides a comprehensive financial package that can significantly assist in managing the costs associated with higher education, disbursed in two installments—once in December and again in June.
• Tuition Fee Waiver
• Accommodation
• Meal Plans
  The scholarship includes one or two free meals daily at any university canteen, helping to cover the essential costs of daily living.

Eligibility and Allocation

First-Year Students: For new students, the scholarship is primarily awarded based on family income. Successful applicants receive 40% of the scholarship amount upfront, with the remaining 60% disbursed after securing a designated number of academic credits within the year.

Second-Year Students and Beyond: For students in their second year or higher, the scholarship allocation considers a combination of family income, academic performance (average score in exams), and the total number of credits earned. After a thorough evaluation, applicants are ranked and scholarships are awarded based on these criteria.

Application Process

How to Apply: Interested students can find more information and apply for the ERSU scholarship by visiting the dedicated link. It's important to apply within the designated application periods and meet all the specified requirements to qualify.


 

Casa UNIME programme

The 'Casa Unime' programme is an innovative initiative  that assists qualified students, enroled at UniME who out of Messina with their rent payment.  UniME  distributed 1.8 million euros over the last three years for this purpose.

Students residing in other municipalities in Italy and abroad who have a registered 10 month (or more) rental contract in the Municipality of Messina may apply. Every year, UniME awards 350,000 euros to students who qualify.

The winners will receive reimbursement of up to a maximum of 2,000 euros for their rent per year, on the basis of the personal / family income.

Further information

Exploring the Cultural Scene

Messina is rich in history and culture, offering numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in its unique heritage. 

Explore the city's history by visiting iconic landmarks like the Messina Cathedral with its famous astronomical clock and the Sanctuary of Montalto. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and showcase stunning architecture. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Regional Museum of Messina, which houses masterpieces by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina.

Throughout the year, Messina hosts various cultural events and festivals celebrating local traditions and arts. These events are excellent opportunities to meet new people, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the vibrant culture firsthand.

Messina's scenic coastal location offers plenty of outdoor activities. You can hike and cycle in the nearby hills or relax on beautiful beaches. Messina's nightlife features lively bars and clubs where you can relax and socialize with fellow students.

Messina enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

In spring (March to May), the weather is generally mild, with temperatures gradually rising. This season is marked by blossoming flora, making it a beautiful time of year. During summer (June to August), temperatures often climb above 30°C (86°F), and the weather is typically hot and dry. 

In autumn (September to November), temperatures are mild to warm but gradually decrease as winter approaches. Rainfall increases during these months. Winter (December to February) in Messina is mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). However, the humidity can make it feel colder, and rainy days are common.