Education plays a vital role in the growth and development of any country, and most nations have built schools, colleges, and universities to provide learning opportunities to their people. Universities are considered the backbone of higher education, offering advanced knowledge and research facilities. However, not every country follows the same system, and some places stand out as unique when it comes to their approach to higher studies.

Countries with No Universities

Most countries around the world have universities to provide higher education, but there are a few rare exceptions. Vatican City and Luxembourg are two nations with no traditional universities within their borders. Vatican City is too small to host schools or universities, while Luxembourg relies on state-run institutes instead of full universities. In both cases, students often go abroad for advanced studies and professional degrees.

1. Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest independent country in the world, located inside Rome, Italy. It is the headquarters of the Catholic Church and is home to the Pope. With an area of just 49 hectares and a population of fewer than 1,000 people, it is also one of the least populated nations in the world.

Education in Vatican City

Vatican City does not have primary, secondary, or higher education schools for its citizens. Due to its small size and population, establishing universities inside its borders is not possible.

Interestingly, Vatican City is associated with over 15 universities and colleges, but most of them are located just outside its borders in Rome. The only exception within Vatican walls is the Ethiopian College, which trains African students for the priesthood.

Why does It have No University?

The main reason is its tiny population and limited land area. Security restrictions and border checkpoints also make it difficult to host universities within Vatican City. Students usually pursue higher education at universities in Rome or nearby regions of Italy.

2. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is a small European country located between France, Germany, and Belgium. It covers just 2,586 square kilometers and has a population of about 6.8 lakh (681,000) people in 2025. Despite being wealthy and developed, Luxembourg does not have any traditional universities.

Education System of Luxembourg

Luxembourg has a well-structured education system that starts with preschool (ages 4–6), followed by primary school (ages 6–12) and secondary school (ages 12–18). Secondary education is divided into two tracks:

• General education (classical lyceum)

• Technical education (modern lyceum)

Here, education is compulsory until age 16 and students are taught in multiple languages—mainly French, German, and Luxembourgish.

Higher Studies in Luxembourg

Instead of universities, Luxembourg has state-owned higher institutes that focus on professional and technical education. For advanced studies, most students move abroad to countries like France, Germany, or Belgium.