Admissions Philosophy

Our admissions philosophy is guided by a commitment to opportunity, fairness, and the holistic development of each student. We seek inquisitive, talented, and motivated individuals who will thrive in our academically rigorous and creatively rich environment. The Institute values not only strong academic performance but also personal character, a passion for one’s chosen field, and the potential to contribute to our diverse community. Whether an applicant is a young high school student or a seasoned professional pursuing postgraduate study, we evaluate the whole person in our admissions process. We are proudly inclusive and welcome students from all backgrounds and nationalities – admission is open to anyone who shares our ambition for learning and growth. Our goal is to shape each incoming class as a vibrant tapestry of perspectives and talents, ensuring that every classroom benefits from a dynamic mix of ideas and experiences.

Entry Criteria and Process

Admission to Padua Institute of Technology is selective and based on a comprehensive review of each application. While specific requirements vary by programme, some common criteria apply. Strong academic preparation is essential: applicants should have a solid record of prior study, demonstrated through grades, exam results, or teacher recommendations. We also encourage students to share their achievements and interests outside the classroom – such as involvement in music, art, dance, community service, or entrepreneurial ventures – which help us understand their passions and potential. Most programmes require a personal statement or essay, providing an opportunity for applicants to articulate their goals and fit with our institute’s values. Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors are typically required as well, offering insight into the applicant’s character and abilities.

Our admissions process is designed to be clear and supportive. Prospective students submit an online application form along with the required documents (transcripts, recommendations, etc.). Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview (in-person or online), especially for competitive programmes. For applicants to creative arts programmes such as Music, Art or Dance, auditions or portfolio reviews are conducted to assess artistic skill and potential. We strive to make the admissions timeline transparent – deadlines and decision dates are published well in advance, and our admissions team is available to guide applicants at every step. Above all, we are committed to a fair and transparent process, carefully considering each candidate on their merits and individual circumstances.

International Students

We warmly welcome international students and are proud of our globally diverse student body. For applicants coming from outside Italy, our admissions team provides dedicated support and guidance throughout the process. We accept equivalent overseas qualifications (such as GCSEs, A-Levels, the IB Diploma, American high school diplomas, and other national secondary credentials) in lieu of the local Italian secondary school requirements. Proof of English proficiency is required for non-native English speakers, since English is the primary language of instruction – typically we accept exams like IELTS or TOEFL, or evidence of prior schooling in English. However, we also offer conditional admission in some cases, accompanied by an English preparatory course, for students who show strong potential but need to improve their language skills. Once admitted, international students receive assistance with student visa documentation and are introduced to our International Office, which helps with everything from housing arrangements to orientation in Padua. Our campus culture is highly international and supportive: we run mentoring programmes pairing new international students with local “buddy” peers, and we offer Italian language classes to help students integrate and enjoy the rich cultural life of Italy.

Programme-Specific Requirements

High School (IB Diploma Programme)

Applicants for our secondary school programme should have completed lower secondary education (typically up to Grade 10 or equivalent) with strong academic results. Since the IB Diploma is a challenging programme, we look for evidence of solid academic proficiency across core subjects. An entrance assessment in mathematics and English, as well as an interview with the high school admissions panel, is usually required. Students with special talents in music, art or dance are encouraged to audition or present a portfolio during the application process, so we can understand their artistic background.

Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degrees)

Candidates for our B.A., B.Sc. and other undergraduate programmes must hold a completed high school diploma or international equivalent (such as the IB Diploma or A-Levels). We expect to see solid academic preparation relevant to the chosen field of study – for example, mathematics coursework for business or science applicants, and evidence of creative coursework or experience for arts applicants. International students should present qualifications that would allow entry to university in their home country. In addition to transcripts, undergraduate applicants provide a personal statement outlining their interests and goals. Two recommendation letters (academic or professional) are typically required. Students applying to Music and Dance programmes will need to pass an audition or submit recorded performances, and those applying to Fine Arts or Design should submit a portfolio of their artwork. We will consider standardised test scores (such as SAT/ACT) if submitted, but these are optional supplements to the application.

Postgraduate (MBA & Master’s Degrees)

Admission to our MBA and other Master’s programmes requires a recognised undergraduate degree in a related field. Candidates are expected to have maintained a strong academic record during their bachelor’s studies. For the MBA, at least two years of work experience is highly recommended (our current MBA cohort averages about five years of professional experience). Applicants should submit a detailed CV alongside their academic transcripts. A competitive GMAT or GRE score can strengthen the MBA application, though we take a holistic view and consider it alongside professional experience and interview performance. All postgraduate applicants must provide a statement of purpose explaining their motivation for advanced study and how it aligns with their career plans. Professional or academic references are required (usually two letters). Shortlisted MBA candidates will be invited for an interview to assess leadership potential, communication skills, and fit with the programme’s collaborative culture. For other Master’s programmes, additional requirements may apply – such as a portfolio for creative fields or a research proposal for research-focused degrees.

Doctoral (PhD) Programmes

Applicants interested in pursuing doctoral research must typically hold a relevant Master’s degree (or, in exceptional cases, a strong Bachelor’s degree with substantial research experience). They should submit a research proposal outlining their intended area of study, and we encourage prospective PhD candidates to contact potential faculty supervisors during the application stage. Admission to PhD programmes is highly selective; we look for candidates with a clear research vision and the academic calibre to contribute original knowledge to their field. Interviews (via video conference for international candidates) are conducted with shortlisted applicants to discuss the research proposal and assess the candidate’s preparation and fit for doctoral study.