Universities are often seen as the hallmark of higher education. They produce research, train professionals, and help shape national development. Almost every country in the world has at least one, but there are rare exceptions.

Surprisingly, two European nations do not have a single university within their borders. Their citizens still receive higher education, but mostly by relying on neighbouring countries or state-owned institutes.

Here are the two countries without a university:

Vatican City

Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent state, located within Rome, Italy. It is home to the Pope and serves as the headquarters of the Catholic Church. Covering just 49 hectares and with a population of fewer than 1,000 people, it is also one of the least populated countries on earth.

Because of its tiny size and clerical population, Vatican City has no primary, secondary or higher education schools for its citizens. Establishing a full university is practically impossible due to limited land, security restrictions, and its small number of residents.

Universities are often seen as the hallmark of higher education. They produce research, train professionals, and help shape national development. Almost every country in the world has at least one, but there are rare exceptions.

Surprisingly, two European nations do not have a single university within their borders. Their citizens still receive higher education, but mostly by relying on neighbouring countries or state-owned institutes.

Here are the two countries without a university:

Vatican City

Vatican City is the world’s smallest independent state, located within Rome, Italy. It is home to the Pope and serves as the headquarters of the Catholic Church. Covering just 49 hectares and with a population of fewer than 1,000 people, it is also one of the least populated countries on earth.

Because of its tiny size and clerical population, Vatican City has no primary, secondary or higher education schools for its citizens. Establishing a full university is practically impossible due to limited land, security restrictions, and its small number of residents.

That said, Vatican City is closely linked with more than 15 universities and colleges, almost all of which are situated just outside its walls in Rome. The only institution within its borders is the Ethiopian College, which trains African students for the priesthood. For most citizens, higher education takes place in Rome or other Italian universities.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg, a small but wealthy country bordered by France, Germany and Belgium, also lacks a traditional university system. Despite its population of around 682,000 in 2025 and its reputation as a developed nation, it relies instead on a network of state-owned higher institutes.

The country’s education system is well-structured. Children attend preschool from ages four to six, then progress to primary school (ages six to twelve) and secondary school (ages twelve to eighteen). Secondary education is split into general and technical tracks, with teaching carried out in several languages — French, German and Luxembourgish.

When it comes to higher studies, however, Luxembourg does not operate full universities. Instead, students often travel abroad to France, Germany or Belgium to pursue advanced degrees. Its local institutions provide professional and technical training but do not offer the broad research-based education associated with traditional universities. (BUSINESS DAY)