Università di Venezia Ca' Foscari
Ca' Foscari University of Venice (Università Ca' Foscari Venezia) holds the distinction of being Italy's first institution dedicated to commerce and economics when founded in 1868, establishing a tradition of innovation that continues today. Named after the magnificent Gothic palace on the Grand Canal that serves as its historic headquarters, Ca' Foscari has evolved into a comprehensive research university while maintaining its distinctive identity. The university's mission emphasizes connecting academic excellence with practical application, international engagement, and contribution to Venice's unique cultural ecosystem. Ca' Foscari consistently ranks among Italy's leading universities for humanities, languages, and economics, with growing recognition for environmental science and Asian studies. The university serves approximately 23,000 students through an extensive network of faculties spread across Venice's historic center and nearby mainland campuses. International rankings recognize Ca' Foscari's research excellence and teaching quality, particularly in modern languages, management, and environmental sustainability. The institutional culture reflects Venice's historic role as a bridge between East and West, with strong traditions in Asian languages and cultures, international commerce, and cross-cultural understanding. The extraordinary setting in one of the world's most remarkable cities provides constant inspiration while presenting unique challenges that have fostered innovative approaches to sustainability and heritage preservation. Ca' Foscari offers students an unmatched combination of academic excellence and cultural immersion.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
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- Avg GPA
- 3.25
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Student Life & Environment
Student life in Venice differs fundamentally from student life anywhere else. There are no cars, no sprawling suburban campuses, no tailgate parties. Instead, students navigate narrow calli walkways, gather in small campi squares, and treat the entire city as their common space. The experience is intimate and intense. Housing presents unique challenges and opportunities. The historic center offers limited options at high prices, leading many students to live in Mestre or other mainland communities and commute in by train and bus. Those who find Venice housing experience daily life in one of humanity's most remarkable creations. Nightlife centers on certain areas where students gather at bars and cafes, with the Campo Santa Margherita serving as a traditional hub for evening socializing. Venice lacks the club scene of larger cities, but wine bars and live music venues provide alternatives. The city empties of tourists after dark, leaving it to residents and students. Student organizations cover academic interests, cultural activities, sports, and social causes. The University Sports Center provides fitness facilities and organizes recreational activities, adapting to a city where running happens along fondamenta walkways rather than around tracks. The tourist hordes that pack Venice during certain seasons can make daily life frustrating, but students develop strategies for navigating crowds and finding hidden corners. Living in Venice means learning to share it with visitors while maintaining your own relationship with the city.
Location & Surroundings
Venice needs little introduction. The city of canals, built on islands in a lagoon, has captivated visitors for centuries and continues to function as both tourist destination and living community. Students at Ca' Foscari become residents rather than tourists, learning the rhythms of a place unlike anywhere else on earth. The historic center is car-free by necessity, with all transportation happening by foot or boat. Walking becomes second nature, with mental maps of bridges and routes developing over weeks and months. The vaporetto water bus system provides public transit along the Grand Canal and to outlying islands. Weather follows Mediterranean patterns with mild winters and warm summers. Humidity is ever-present given the water surroundings. Acqua alta, the periodic flooding that puts certain areas underwater, requires rubber boots and patience several times yearly. Climate change has increased flooding frequency, adding urgency to conservation efforts. Mestre and the mainland provide conventional urban services that the historic center lacks: supermarkets, car dealerships, cinemas, and other modern conveniences. Many students split their time between Venice and the mainland depending on their needs. The Veneto region surrounding Venice offers easy day trips to Padua, Verona, and smaller towns. The Dolomite mountains lie to the north for skiing and hiking. Venice's airport and rail connections make it a gateway to the rest of Italy and Europe.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Italian public university tuition remains low by international standards, making Ca' Foscari affordable even for international students. Fees are calculated based on family income, with lower-income students paying reduced rates. Living expenses in Venice run higher than in most Italian cities, though Mestre offers more economical options. Scholarships and financial aid are available through Italian government programs, European Union initiatives, and university funds. International students may qualify for merit-based awards that reduce costs further. Part-time work opportunities exist, though Venice's economy limits options compared to larger cities. Career outcomes connect to the university's strengths in languages, international business, and cultural fields. Graduates with Asian language competencies find opportunities in import-export businesses, diplomacy, tourism, and international organizations. Economics and management graduates enter traditional business roles. Venice's own economy is limited, so most graduates relocate for career purposes. Milan, Rome, and other major Italian cities absorb many. International graduates often return to home countries with European credentials and language skills that enhance their competitiveness. The Career Service helps students with job search preparation and connects them with recruiters. The alumni network spans Italy and internationally, with particularly strong connections in the Veneto business community and in fields related to the university's distinctive programs.
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