Last Updated on October 15, 2024
Universities have existed for centuries now, shaping minds and influencing minds. But just how far back do these centers of learning date? In this blog, we shall explore some of the oldest universities in the world and why they are just as reputed today!
Oldest Universities in the World
In this time and age, there are thousands of universities around the globe, but only a handful have been around for centuries! These historic institutions have not only stood the test of time but also played an important role in shaping our modern world.
Here’s a table of the top 10 oldest universities in the world:
| Universities | Founded In | Location |
| University of Al-Karaouine | 859 AD | Morocco |
| Al-Azhar University | 970 AD | Cairo, Egypt |
| University of Bologna | 1088 | Bologna, Italy |
| University of Oxford | 1096 | Oxford, England |
| University of Paris | 1160 – 1250 | Paris, France |
| University of Salamanca | 1134 | Salamanca, Spain |
| University of Cambridge | 1209 | Cambridge, England |
| University of Padua | 1222 | Padua, Italy |
| University of Naples Federico II | 1224 | Naples, Italy |
| University of Siena | 1240 | Siena, Italy |
University of Al-Qarawiyyin
The University of Al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, Morocco, has a rich and intriguing history. Founded in 859 AD, it is recognized as the oldest continuously operating university in the world and has served as a center of knowledge for centuries. Al-Qarawiyyin has played a crucial role in preserving and disseminating Islamic knowledge while also thriving in disciplines such as medicine, astronomy, and law.
| Top Courses | -History and Civilization of the Islamic World-Mathematics and Astronomy in Islamic Civilization-Medicine and Traditional Islamic Medicine |
| Avg Tuition Fees | NA |
University of Bologna
The University of Bologna has a rich academic legacy that dates back to 1088 AD. This esteemed institution has nurtured innovative thinkers and students for centuries.
| Top Courses | -Medicine & Surgery-Law-Engineering |
| Best Intake | September |
| Avg Tuition fees | INR 2L – INR 3.5L |
University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is one of the oldest and most esteemed universities in the world. Established in the 11th century, it is situated in Oxford, England, and is renowned for its breathtaking architecture and rich historical significance. While the precise date of its founding remains uncertain, evidence indicates that teaching activities were taking place at Oxford as early as 1096.
Oxford was created by a group of students and teachers who aimed to establish a center of learning that would draw the brightest minds from around the globe. The university is celebrated for its outstanding education and research programs, currently hosting over 20,000 students, including a significant number from India.
Let’s explore some of the university’s most popular courses and see when the ideal times are to apply.
| Top Courses | –BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences–MBA–MSc in Computer Science (Advanced) |
| Best Intake | -September-January |
| Avg Tuition fees | INR 10.5L (£10,000) – INR 55L (£52,500) |
University of Paris
The University of Paris, often called the Sorbonne, is one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in the 12th century. With a rich history of academic excellence, it has long been a center for learning and innovation. Today, the university is well-known for its exceptional research and teaching, attracting students from all corners of the globe. It offers a wide variety of programs in many fields, including science, humanities, law, and medicine.
| Top Courses | -Humanities-Law & Political Science-Economics & Management |
| Best Intake | September |
| Avg Tuition fees | INR 90,000 – INR 3.4L |
University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge, situated in Cambridge, England, is the seventh oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Established in 1209, it has a history spanning over 800 years.
In recent years, India has become one of the leading countries for students attending the University of Cambridge. According to the latest statistics, India ranks fifth among the international student population at the university, with a total of 389 students enrolled.
| Top Courses | –BA (Hons) Computer Science–Master of Finance–MBA |
| Best Intake | Michaelmas term (Oct – Dec) |
| Avg Tuition fees | INR 27L (£25,734) – INR 72L (£69000) |
Oldest Universities in the USA
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious and oldest universities in the world. With over 4,000 colleges and universities, it serves as a hub for higher education, attracting students from across the globe.
Every year, a significant number of Indian students choose to study in the U.S. According to officials from the U.S. Consulate, more than a million international students enrolled in American higher education institutions during the 2022/23 academic year, with 268,923 of those students coming from India.
| Universities | Founded In | Avg Tuition Fees |
| Harvard University | 1636 | INR 33L ($54,269) – INR 53L ($ 86,145) |
| College of William & Mary | 1693 | INR 24.5L ($ 29,352) – INR 1Cr ($120,750) |
| St. John’s College | 1996 | INR 37.5L ($ 45,000) |
| Yale University | 1701 | INR 12L ($ 14377) – INR 85L ($101839) |
| University of Pennsylvania | 1740 | INR 29L ($ 34745) – INR 50L ($ 59905) |
Oldest Universities in the UK
The United Kingdom is renowned for its prestigious and ancient universities. With a history of over a thousand years in education, these institutions continue to draw students from around the world who seek a high-quality education.
In recent years, more than 120,000 Indian students have chosen to study in the UK, making them one of the largest international student communities in the country. The number of Indian students opting for higher education in the UK has been rapidly increasing each year.
The higher education system in the UK is extensive and diverse, comprising numerous universities and colleges. It offers a wide range of programs that cater to various interests and academic aspirations.
Here’s a table of the top 5 oldest universities in the UK:
| Universities | Founded In | Avg Tuition Fees |
| University of Oxford | 1096 | INR 10.5L (£10,000) – INR 55L (£52,500) |
| University of Cambridge | 1209 | INR 27L (£25,734) – INR 72L (£69000) |
| University of St Andrews | 1413 | INR 38L (£ 30,160) – INR 39L (£ 37,000) |
| University of Glasgow | 1451 | INR 11.3L (£10800) – INR 60L (£ 56,520) |
| University of Aberdeen | 1495 | INR 21L (£ 20000) |
Oldest Universities in Canada
Canada is home to more than 100 universities, each offering a wide variety of programs and fields of study. The country’s oldest universities have a rich heritage and continue to attract students from around the globe.
The oldest university in Canada is Université Laval, which was established in 1663.
Here’s a table of the top 10 oldest universities in Canada:
| Universities | Founded In | Avg tuition fees |
| Université Laval | 1663 | INR 18L (CAD 30,000) – INR 24L (CAD 40,000) |
| University of New Brunswick | 1785 | INR 20L (CAD 33,000) |
| University of King’s College | 1789 | INR 20.5L (CAD 33,814) |
| McGill University | 1821 | INR 16.4L (CAD 27,000) – INR 37L (CAD 61,000) |
| University of Toronto | 1827 | INR 18L (CAD 29,597) – INR 50L (CAD 82,215) |
Oldest Universities in Australia
Australia is home to over 40 universities, each offering a wide variety of programs and fields of study. The country’s oldest universities have a rich history and continue to attract students from around the globe.
Recent data shows that Australia is a top destination for Indian students, with India being the second-largest source of international student enrollments, contributing a significant total of 122,391 students to Australian universities.
| Universities | Founded In | Avg tuition fees |
| The University of Sydney | 1850 | INR 16L (AUD 29,322) – INR 20L (AUD 36,652) |
| The University of Melbourne | 1853 | INR 22L (AUD 40318) – INR 25L (AUD 45815) |
| University of Tasmania | 1842 | INR 17L (AUD 31000) – INR INR 47.5L (AUD 87,000) |
| Federation University Australia | 1870 | INR 12.5L (AUD 23,000) – INR 16.3L (AUD 30,000) |
| The University of Adelaide | 1874 | INR 25L (AUD 45815) |
Top 10 High-Ranking Oldest Universities in the World
Many of the oldest universities in the world also hold impressive positions in global university rankings. These rankings are determined by various factors, including research output, academic reputation, student satisfaction, and more.
The QS World University Rankings is one of the most respected and widely recognized university ranking systems worldwide.
Below is a table showcasing the top 10 oldest universities in the world, along with their QS world university ranking and location.
| Universities | QS World Ranking 2024 | Founded In |
| University of Cambridge | #2 | 1209 |
| University of Oxford | #3 | 1096 |
| Harvard University | #4 | 1636 |
| Yale University | #16 | 1701 |
| McGill University | #30 | 1821 |
Final Thoughts
The oldest universities in the world carry a profound legacy and continue to influence society today. From the University of Al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco to the University of Cambridge in England, these institutions have endured through the ages, consistently attracting students from around the globe who seek a distinguished education. Their rich histories and commitment to knowledge make them vital centers of learning in our ever-evolving world.
FAQs
What are the oldest universities in the world?
The oldest universities the world include the University of al-Qarawiyyin (founded in 859), the University of Bologna (founded in 1088), and the University of Oxford (established between 1096 and 1167).
Which universities are considered the most famous globally?
Renowned universities include Harvard University, Stanford University, the University of Cambridge, and the University of Oxford.
What scholarships are available for international students?
Many universities offer scholarships such as the Fulbright Program, Chevening Scholarships, and university-specific grants.
What is the typical tuition fee for studying at these universities?
Tuition fees range from approximately $10,000 to $60,000 per year for international students.
What are the entry requirements for these universities?
Entry requirements typically include a strong academic record, standardized test scores (like SAT or ACT for U.S. schools), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
How can I apply to these universities?
Applications usually involve submitting an online application form, academic transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay.
Do these universities offer programs in multiple disciplines?
Yes, many of these ancient institutions offer a wide range of programs across various fields including humanities, sciences, law, and medicine.
Simran is a seasoned content writer with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Her extensive expertise in research enables her to effectively guide students in their study abroad endeavors, particularly in navigating the complexities of choosing the right programs and universities. With a passion for education and mental health, Simran combines her writing skills and psychological insights to create informative content that empowers students to make informed decisions about their academic futures. Her commitment to helping others is evident in her work, as she strives to provide valuable resources for aspiring international students.
