Let’s be real—studying abroad isn’t cheap. But if you’ve ever dreamed of walking through historic campuses, sipping espresso in Roman cafés between lectures, and earning a degree from one of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities, Italy might just be the place for you. And the best part? You might not have to pay full price for it. Thanks to a wide range of scholarships in Italy, students from around the world are finding new ways to make their study-abroad dreams come true.
In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know—no fluff, just straight-up useful info.
Why So Many Students Are Choosing Italy
Before diving into scholarship details, it’s worth taking a second to talk about why Italy is such a solid choice for higher education.
First off, the country is home to some of the world’s most iconic universities—like the University of Bologna (yep, the oldest in the Western world), Politecnico di Milano, and Bocconi University. These schools don’t just carry prestige; they also offer high-quality programs, especially in fields like engineering, architecture, economics, and design.
Then there’s the lifestyle. Think weekend trips to Venice, Tuscan sunsets, and living in cities that double as open-air museums. Add in the fact that many Italian degrees are offered in English, and suddenly the language barrier doesn’t feel like such a big deal.
But here’s the kicker: Italy’s tuition fees are surprisingly affordable—and when you throw in a scholarship, the total cost becomes manageable, even compared to local universities in some countries.
The Main Types of Scholarships in Italy
So, what kind of financial help is actually out there? Quite a bit, it turns out. Scholarships in Italy generally fall into a few categories, and they can come from national government programs, regional agencies, or even the universities themselves.
1. Italian Government Scholarships
These are offered every year through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. They’re aimed at international students pursuing a Master’s, PhD, or certain advanced arts programs (AFAM).
- What’s included: A monthly allowance (usually around €900), plus exemption from tuition fees at public universities.
- Who it’s for: Students from selected countries. The list changes slightly year to year, so it’s worth checking the official MAECI website.
One standout initiative is “Invest Your Talent in Italy”—a government program that supports students in fields like engineering, tech, and design. It’s super competitive but includes internships at Italian companies, which makes it extra valuable if you’re thinking long-term career.
2. Regional Scholarships
Here’s something most students miss: Italy’s regions have their own funding programs for students based on income and academic merit. These often come with fewer eligibility restrictions and are offered through local bodies tied to specific universities.
Examples include:
- Laziodisco (for students in the Lazio region, including Rome)
- DSU Toscana (Tuscany)
- ERSU Palermo (Sicily)
These scholarships can cover tuition, housing, meals, and provide a monthly stipend—sometimes all of the above.
Heads up: You typically need to show proof of income from your home country, so prepare documents early and make sure they’re translated and legally recognized.
3. University-Specific Scholarships
Many of Italy’s top universities offer their own financial aid packages for international students. These are often merit-based, which means your grades, test scores, or portfolio can help you land a great deal.
✦ University of Bologna
Offers Unibo Action 1 & 2 scholarships, which cover tuition and offer grants of up to €11,000 per year.
✦ Politecnico di Milano
Provides full or partial tuition waivers for students with strong academic records. Especially generous in STEM fields.
✦ Bocconi University
Their financial aid options are among the best in Europe for economics and business. Awards can cover the full tuition and even housing.
✦ Sapienza University of Rome
Known for multiple scholarship options, including those for students from developing countries and partnerships with global organizations.
.Also visit 👉👉 Scholarships for College Students
What You Need to Apply
While requirements vary depending on the scholarship, here are the usual suspects:
- University acceptance letter (some scholarships require you to apply after admission)
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of income (for need-based scholarships)
- Language certificates (like IELTS, TOEFL, or an Italian proficiency test)
- Motivation letter or personal statement
- Recommendation letters (usually 1 or 2)
Pro tip: Pay close attention to deadlines—many Italian scholarships open between March and May, with results coming out over the summer.
What’s It Like Living in Italy on a Scholarship?
Italy isn’t the cheapest country in Europe, but it’s also not the most expensive. A scholarship—especially one that includes accommodation or a monthly allowance—can go a long way.
Here’s a rough breakdown of monthly costs (in euros):
- Rent: €300–€600 (depending on the city)
- Food: €150–€250
- Transport: €25–€50
- Extras: €100–€200
If your scholarship covers housing and meals, you’re basically just budgeting for pocket money and transportation. Not bad for a student lifestyle surrounded by Renaissance art and unbeatable coffee.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Take Sara, a student from Morocco who secured a full scholarship at the University of Pavia. She was able to study biotechnology without worrying about tuition or rent—and now she’s working on cutting-edge cancer research.
Then there’s Daniel, a Brazilian architecture student studying in Milan. Thanks to a regional scholarship and a university grant, he’s living in one of the most stylish cities in Europe while paying less than he would back home.
These stories aren’t outliers—they’re happening more and more as Italy continues to open its academic doors to the world.
A Few Final Tips Before You Apply
- Start early: Applications for both admissions and scholarships take time. Get your documents together ASAP.
- Follow instructions carefully: Italian bureaucracy can be strict. Make sure everything is complete and correctly formatted.
- Double-check deadlines: Some scholarships close months before the academic year begins.
- Don’t overlook smaller awards: A partial scholarship combined with low tuition can still be a game-changer.
Conclusion: Is a Scholarship in Italy Worth It?
If you’re looking for a study abroad experience that offers rich culture, excellent academics, and financial support, Italy absolutely deserves a spot on your list. With government programs, regional aid, and university-specific scholarships, there are options for almost every kind of student—from science majors and artists to future business leaders.
So, if you’ve been sitting on the idea of studying abroad, this might be your sign. Italy is waiting—and it’s more accessible than you think.