The Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies' Main Campus is housed inside the former convent of Sant'Anna, a Benedictine nunnery that dates back to the thirteenth century but was suppressed in 1786 on Pietro Leopoldo of Lorraine's order.

There are around 1652 students in the university.

Strong secondary education, high grades (often equivalent to 27/30 or B+), English/Italian proficiency, a motivational letter, CV, references, and possibly GMAT/GRE, as well as navigating visa/pre-enrollment via Universitaly portal for non-EU applicants, are all prerequisites for undergraduate admission to Italy's Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna (a highly selective scuola superiore, not a standard university).

International students must have a strong Bachelor's degree, proof of English/Italian proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), a CV, a motivation letter, transcripts, a copy of their passport, and possibly the GMAT or GRE in order to be admitted to the postgraduate program at Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies. The specific requirements vary depending on the program, so it's important to check the official "Call for Applications" on their website for deadlines and detailed documents like research proposals.

The institutional focus on emergency protocols, environmental safety (HSE), and advanced safety research in fields like AI and cyber security, ensuring a comprehensive approach to student welfare.

Intense academics, state-of-the-art research, and a strong emphasis on personal and professional development define student life at Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna. Specialized programs, international opportunities (like UN simulations), lively campus events (festivals, welcome weeks), and holistic support (mental health/yoga, choirs, extracurriculars) are all part of this selective, excellence-driven setting.

From October 2025 to September 22, 2026, the Santa Croce in Fossabanda facility of the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna will rent out thirty-two ensuite single rooms to first-year PhD students (XLI Cycle). The rooms, which will cost €400 per month, will be assigned with priority to international students and other criteria.

For many years, the Career Service has worked with numerous organizations and businesses, offering tailored services during the hiring, hiring, and company branding stages as well as the execution of projects or activities that are tailored to each individual's needs.