In this article you will learn what scholarships exist for studying in Italy, how much they cover, what requirements they ask for, and when to apply.
Italy is known to be one of the most sought-after countries for quality education and most especially it gives students globally the opportunity to study in Italy, learn their culture and also decide to work or stay in the country.
Without further ado, I will be taking you through everything you need to know about gaining a fully funded scholarship in Italy so tag along.
What types of scholarships are available to study in Italy?
Scholarships in Italy come from three sources: the Italian government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI), universities independently, and the regional DSU system, which supports students based on their financial situation. Some scholarships are fully funded, while others cover only tuition or living expenses. Here are the 10 best options.
The 10 Best Scholarships to Study in Italy
Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI)
It is one of the most comprehensive scholarships available for international students. Offered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it covers everything from Italian language studies to doctoral programs.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Monthly allowance | Between €900 and €1,200 |
| Registration | Full or partial exemption |
| Health insurance | Including |
| Italian course | Gratuitous |
Main requirements: be between 18 and 36 years old, have a degree equivalent to the desired level of studies, and have a B2 level of Italian or English depending on the program.
Levels: Italian, undergraduate, master’s, doctorate and specialization.
| Deadline |
|---|
| It varies depending on the country of origin |
⚠️ Always check the active call for applications on the official MAECI website, as the opening and closing dates change every year.
DSU Scholarships (Right to University Study)
The DSU is Italy’s regional student welfare system. It doesn’t require an exceptional academic record, but rather proof of financial need. It’s one of the few scholarships that directly covers room and board.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Free or subsidized rent |
| Food | Two free meals a day |
| Financial contribution | Up to €6,806 in total |
| Registration | Exemption or reduction |
Main requirements: be enrolled or pre-enrolled at a participating university. No language certificate is required.
Participating universities: Florence, Milan, Pisa, Siena and Politecnico di Milano.
| Deadline |
|---|
| September of each year |
⚠️ Check the DSU website of the corresponding region to verify the current call for applications.
Invest Your Talent in Italy Scholarship
This scholarship is aimed at citizens of specific countries, including Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil. It is offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in conjunction with the Italian Institute for Foreign Trade (ICE) and the Italian Chambers of Commerce, and combines academic studies with professional internships.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Monthly allowance | €900 |
| Registration | Full or partial exemption |
| Italian course | Gratuitous |
| Professional internships | 3 months in Italian companies |
Main requirements: maximum 26 years old, nationality of an eligible country (Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, among others), certified B2 level of English, bachelor’s degree in engineering, economics, design or social sciences.
| Deadline |
|---|
| March of every year |
⚠️ Check the official Invest Your Talent in Italy website to see if the application period is open before starting your application.
EUI (European University Institute) Scholarships
The EUI is geared towards leadership profiles: individuals linked to civil service, media, politics, or non-governmental organizations. It is a highly demanding scholarship but with one of the most generous stipends on this list.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend | €2,500 |
| Family allowance | €300 per month |
| Air tickets | Up to €1,200 round trip |
| Medical coverage | Included |
Main requirements: be in the middle of your career or be a young professional in the public sector, media or NGO; English certificate (TOEFL, IELTS, CAE, TOEIC or BEC); motivation letter, CV and work plan.
| Deadline |
|---|
| January of each year |
⚠️ Check the official EUI calendar, as the admissions process opens several months in advance.
Politecnico di Milano Scholarships
One of the most prestigious engineering and design universities in Europe. Its scholarships are among the most comprehensive in terms of living expenses, not just tuition.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Registration | Complete |
| Food | Free daily |
| Accommodation | Including |
| Medical expenses | Covered |
| Child Support | Up to €10,000 per year |
Main requirements: high academic record, university degree in a related area, proficiency in English.
Levels: Master’s and Doctoral.
| Deadline |
|---|
| April of each year |
⚠️ Politecnico di Milano’s application deadlines may vary by program. Please check their official website.
La Sapienza University Scholarships
Sapienza University is the largest university in Italy, founded in 1303. Every year it awards scholarships to foreign students from countries outside the European Union for master’s and doctoral degrees.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Registration | Full exemption |
| Monthly Master’s Degree Allowance | €1,000 |
| Monthly doctoral allowance | €1,500 |
| Health insurance | Including |
Main requirements: be a citizen outside the EU, academic average above 80%, level of English or Italian according to the program.
| Deadline |
|---|
| April of each year |
⚠️ Check the active call for applications directly on the La Sapienza website.
Scholarships from the University of Padua
The University of Padua offers two types of financial support: International Excellence Scholarships and tuition waivers, both aimed at international students with good academic records.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Excellence Scholarship | €8,000 per academic year |
| Tuition exemption | 100 full exemptions available |
Main requirements: non-Italian high school diploma or university degree, not having Italian citizenship, not residing in Italy, applying for programs taught in English.
| Deadline |
|---|
| Between February and March of each year |
⚠️ Check the official website of the University of Padua to confirm the exact dates of each call for applications.
University of Calabria Scholarships
A lesser-known but open option from undergraduate to doctoral level. Its benefits vary depending on the student’s level and academic performance.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Registration | Partial or total |
| Monthly allowance | According to the type of scholarship |
| Accommodation | Free or subsidized in some cases |
| Air tickets | In certain calls for applications |
Main requirements: good academic record, sufficient level of English or Italian.
| Deadlines by level | |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | April – May |
| Mastery | December – February |
| Doctorate | May – June |
⚠️ Dates may vary. Always check the official University of Calabria website.
Scuola Normale Superiore Scholarships
One of the most selective institutions in Italy and the world, with campuses in Pisa and Florence. Its doctoral scholarships are open to citizens of any country and require a very strong academic and research profile.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Monthly allowance | €1,500 |
| Registration | Full exemption |
| Health insurance | Including |
| Research stays | Possibility in international institutions |
Main requirements: Master’s degree, excellent academic record, original research proposal, passing written and oral admission tests and interview.
| Deadline |
|---|
| August of each year |
⚠️ The Scuola Normale admissions process is rigorous. Please check their official website in advance.
Politecnico di Torino Scholarships
The Politecnico di Torino is a leading institution in engineering, architecture, and design in Italy. Through its TOPoliTo program, it offers annual funding for outstanding international students.
| What does it cover? | Detail |
|---|---|
| Monthly allowance | €1,100 |
| Registration | Full exemption |
| Health insurance | Including |
| TOPoliTo Program | Up to €8,000 per year |
Main requirements: Master’s degree, certified English, relevant research proposal.
Level: PhD.
| Deadline |
|---|
| Annual call for applications |
⚠️ Check the official Politecnico di Torino website to see when each doctoral call opens.
When to apply for scholarships to study in Italy?
Preparing at least six months in advance is highly recommended. Several processes require obtaining a university acceptance letter before applying for the scholarship, which adds time to the process.
| Scholarship | Approximate date |
|---|---|
| EUI Scholarships | January |
| Invest Your Talent in Italy | March |
| University of Padua | February – March |
| Politecnico di Milano | April |
| La Sapienza University | April |
| University of Calabria (Master’s degree) | December – February |
| MAECI Government Scholarships | It varies by country. |
| DSU Scholarships | September |
| Scuola Normale Superiore | August |
| Politecnico di Torino | Annual (verify) |
⚠️ This calendar is for guidance only. Always check the exact dates on the official website of each scholarship, as applications may open and close on different dates each year.
Frequently asked questions about scholarships in Italy
Do I need to speak Italian to study in Italy on a scholarship?
Not necessarily. Many master’s and doctoral programs are taught in English, and some scholarships, such as MAECI or Invest Your Talent in Italy, include a free Italian course. What you do need in most cases is an English certificate of at least level B2, according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Are there scholarships to study in Italy for people over 30 or 40 years old?
Yes, although with limitations. Italian government scholarships have age limits (up to 36 years old for most programs). However, scholarships from universities such as La Sapienza, Politecnico di Milano, or Scuola Normale Superiore do not have an age limit and primarily evaluate academic and research profiles.
Can I apply for more than one scholarship at the same time?
In most cases, yes, provided there isn’t an exclusivity clause in the terms and conditions of each scholarship program. It’s advisable to apply to several scholarships simultaneously to increase your chances, prioritizing those that best mat
