List of Top 10 Oldest Universities in the World: A Comprehensive Guide
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Were you aware that the prestigious University of Bologna in Italy has its roots dating back to the year 859 AD? It's truly remarkable to consider the enduring resilience of these venerable institutions, which have withstood the trials of centuries. This blog promises an engaging, insightful journey into the history of the oldest universities in the world.
Take a step into the past and unearth captivating details about the world’s oldest university.
Top 10 Oldest Universities In the World
The following table provides comprehensive insights into the world's oldest universities. These esteemed institutions are acknowledged as the top 10 oldest universities in the world.
Below, you'll find valuable and informative insights about the oldest universities in the world. Discover a wealth of knowledge in the information provided below.
1. University of Bologna - The Ancient Beacon of Wisdom
If you are wondering which is the first university in the world, then the University of Bologna in Italy is the answer, recognized as the world's first university in the world, the University of Bologna holds the title of the "Nourishing Mother of Studies" according to its Latin motto. Operating continually since its establishment, the university offers a diverse range of programs across all academic levels.
Notable alumni include three popes, various business leaders, and prominent Italian politicians.
- Top Specializations: Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Food Science & Technology, Physics, Oncology, Agricultural Sciences
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹226000 to ₹311000
2. University of Oxford - Pinnacle of Timeless Learning
Ranking 4th in the QS World University Rankings 2023, the University of Oxford holds the distinction of being the world's oldest university. With a student community of nearly 25,000, it operates the world's largest university press, catering to critical markets in research, education, and English language teaching.
Oxford boasts an impressive list of alumni, including UK Prime Ministers, Archbishops of Canterbury, saints, Nobel laureates, Nobel Prize winners, and the renowned Sir Stephen Hawking.
- Top Specializations: Computer Science and Information Technology, Linguistics, Medicine, Natural Sciences
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹2628000 to ₹4017000
3. University of Salamanca - Iberian Cradle of Knowledge
As the world's oldest university in Spain, the University of Salamanca serves a student population exceeding 30,000. Referred to as the "Oxford of Spain," it encompasses six campuses, each dedicated to specific academic disciplines.
- Top Specializations: Art and Humanities, Sciences, Health Sciences, Social and Legal Sciences, Engineering and Architecture
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹200000 to ₹400000
4. University of Paris - Epoch of Academic Legacy
Holding a prominent position among the world's oldest universities, the University of Paris is the ancient university in Europe. Despite a suspension of 103 years after the French Revolution, it has now proliferated across France, divided into 13 institutions.
- Top Specializations: Computer Science, Engineering, Health, Social Science, and Humanities
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹13604 to ₹49616
5. University of Cambridge - Saga of Scholarly Eminence
Counted among the most ancient universities globally, the University of Cambridge was founded by scholars who departed from the University of Oxford due to political reasons. Notable alumni include Sir Isaac Newton, Alan Turing, and Francis Bacon.
- Top Specializations: Computer Science, Engineering, Health, Social Science, Humanities, Business, and Economics, Law
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹2698400 to ₹5950000
6. University of Padua - Renaissance of Intellect
Ranked among medieval universities in Italy, the University of Padua is renowned for early research in astronomy, law, medicine, and philosophy. With approximately 62,500 students, it established the Botanical Garden of Padua and operates nine museums.
- Top Specializations: Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine, Forest Science, Food and Health
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹15000 to ₹722000
7. University of Naples Federico II - Vesuvius of Knowledge
Ranked 416th in the QS World University Rankings 2023, the University of Naples Federico II educates around 80,000 students. Notable alumni include Italian presidents, mayors of Naples, CEOs, and philosophers.
- Top Specializations: Agriculture, Architecture, Economics, Pharmacy, Law, Engineering, Medicine & Surgery
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹253000 to ₹3020000
8. University of Siena - Citadel of Renaissance Learning
With a solid global standing in the QS World University Rankings 2023, the University of Siena educates over 20,000 students, representing half of the city's population. The city itself is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists with its food, art, museums, and medieval heritage.
- Top Specializations: Economics, Pharmacy, Law, Engineering, Medicine & Surgery, etc.
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹63870 to ₹230000
9. University of Coimbra - Lighthouse of Academic Tradition
Among the oldest universities abroad, the University of Coimbra has a student community exceeding 24,000. It has undergone various reforms and, in the 18th century, was the only operative university for decades. Recognized for its cultural traditions, historical buildings, etc., it is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage.
Top Courses: Art & Humanities, Clinical Pre-Clinical, and Health, Engineering & Technology, Life Sciences, etc.
Tuition Fee: ₹40000 to ₹1918000
10. Al-Azhar University - Oasis of Islamic Scholarship
Initially known as a center of Islamic learning, Al-Azhar University later developed a modern curriculum, including secular subjects. Despite facing political instability, it currently ranks in the 1201-1400th position in the QS World University Rankings 2023.
- Top Specializations: Science & Technology, Management, and Business Administration, Arts, Language, and Humanities
- Annual Tuition Fee: ₹205000
Note: The tuition fees at each of these universities are in general and not specific to any particular program.
Also Read: List of Best Universities for Indian Students Abroad
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