Sapienza, founded in 1303, is one of the oldest and largest universities in Europe, hosting over 113,000 students, including nearly 9,000 international students. Its main campus, close to Termini station, is like a “city within a city,” with libraries, museums, canteens, and student facilities. Make sure to download the International Student Guide.
Accommodation in Rome
- Sapienza does not directly provide student housing but offers affiliated housing options and guidance. Students can rent private rooms (€350–550) in shared flats, or entire apartments if preferred. University residences are limited but managed by Laziodisco, the regional student welfare agency.
- Sapienza Guest House (Foresteria). The guest house is available to lecturers, reseachers, visiting professors and scientists, scholarship recipients, research fellows, PhD students, students and technical administrative staff from Italian and International universities provided they are invited by one of Sapienza’s Faculties or Departments
- Find more about housing here.
Living Costs
- Rome is more expensive than smaller Italian cities, but still cheaper than many European capitals.
- Approximate monthly student budget: €800–900 (housing, food, transport, leisure).
- Meals in university canteens (mensa) are affordable, and a pizza with a drink costs about €10–12.
Healthcare & Well-being
- EU students: access healthcare with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
- Non-EU students: must obtain private health insurance before arrival; alternatively, they can register with the Italian National Health Service (SSN) for ~€150/year.
- Sapienza offers psychological counselling, nutritional advice, and wellness programmes (e.g., anti-smoking, lifestyle support).
- For emergencies, dial 112 or visit the pronto soccorso (emergency room).
- Find more about healthcare services offered by La Sapienza here.
Language Support
- The Sapienza Language Centre (CLA) provides Italian language courses for international students, from beginner to advanced.
- Language Courses for incoming students. For incoming students (EU and Non-EU), Sapienza offers Italian courses for all levels; you can find more information at the links below:
- ForErasmus students.
- For International students.
- If you want a certificate for your Italian level, Sapienza is an authorised exam centre of DITALS, so you can take the test in Sapienza.
- Language exchange and cultural workshops are also available.
- Courses are located at the Marco Polo building on the main campus.
Campus & Cultural Life
- Sapienza has a great campus, with historical buildings and many green areas. Here spaces are designed for people to enjoy being together. Find more about the university’s canteems and café’s here.
- Sapienza offers a lively cultural scene:
- MuSa orchestras and choirs (classical, jazz, vocal).
- Theatron Ancient Theatre Group.
- Sapienza Web Radio.
- Over 18 museums and 54 libraries open to students.
- Student organisations include ESN (Erasmus Student Network) and various cultural/religious associations.
- Students benefit from discounts for museums, concerts, transport, and leisure activities in Rome.
Living in Rome
The following links provide practical information on living in Rome.