Italy is one of the most ideal places in Europe to study because it has an excellent mix of world-class education, rich culture, low tuition, and lots of scholarship opportunities. Italy offers fully and partially funded scholarships for international students, especially those from Africa, Asia, and developing countries. These scholarships can greatly lower or even eliminate studying abroad costs.
This guide will help you find the best scholarships for studying in Italy in 2026, who can apply, and how.
Why You Should Study in Italy as an International Student
Some of the oldest and most respected universities in the world are in Italy. Students have a high quality of life outside school, get to experience European culture, and have excellent job prospects.
Some of the main benefits are:
- Universities known around the world
- Tuition cheaper than in the UK and the US
- A lot of the programmes are taught in English
- Work opportunities while you study
- Getting a job in the EU after graduation
Most importantly, Italy has many scholarships available at the government, regional, and university levels, so students from all financial backgrounds can go there.
1. The MAECI Scholarship from the Italian Government
In Italy, this is the most prestigious scholarship.
Summary
The Italian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI), provides scholarships to international students who want a master’s or PhD.
What It Covers
- Monthly payments of €900
- No tuition fee
- Insurance for health
Depending on the programme and university, this scholarship may be partially or fully funded.
Requirements for eligibility
- Must not be a Italian citizen
- Good school grades
- Age limits: usually under 28–30 for a master’s degree and under 35 for a PhD.
- Ability to speak English or Italian well
Why Is It So Popular?
- Open to many countries, like Nigeria
- Offered at many colleges and universities
- Covers the important costs of living
2. Scholarship for Investing in Your Talent in Italy
This is a government scholarship to get talented students from other countries to school here.
Summary
It is for students who want degrees in:
- Building
- Tech
- Money matters
- Building design
Pros
- Paying for tuition
- Monthly payment
- Internships with Italian businesses
Special Benefit
It combines learning with real work experience, which is helpful for students who want to work in a specific field.
3. Scholarships for Unibo Action at the University of Bologna
One of the most competitive scholarships in Italy is offered by the University of Bologna.
Summary
These scholarships, called Unibo Action 1 & 2 Grants, are given out based on merit.
Pros
- Full waiver of tuition fees
- Grants of up to €11,000 a year
Who Should Apply
- Undergraduate and master’s applicants who did well
- Students who do well in school
What makes it stand out?
This scholarship is very prestigious because the University of Bologna is the oldest university in the world.
4. The International Excellence Scholarship from the University of Padua
This is one of the most excellent scholarships for college and graduate students.
Summary
The University of Padua offers it to top international students.
Pros
- Full waiver of tuition fees
- A yearly stipend
- Help with housing
Main Idea
There are many ways for international students to get money from universities.
The Best Candidates
- Students who do well at school
- Drive and leadership ability
5. Scholarships for Excellence at the University of Milan
This scholarship aims to attract the most talented individuals from around the world.
Summary
It is available for master’s degree programmes.
Pros
- €8,000 in scholarships every year
- Exemption from tuition fee
Over 160 scholarships and fee waivers were given to international students for 2025 and 2026.
Why It’s Critical
It gives you money and access to Italy’s most prestigious universities.
6. Scholarships for students in the LazioDisco, EDISU, DSU, and ERSU regions
These are some of the easiest scholarships to get in Italy.
Summary
In Italy, regional governments provide scholarships based on:
- Need money for
- Academic merit
Pros
- Free place to stay
- Meals for free
- No tuition fees
- Money allowance
Some programmes pay up to €7,000–€8,000 a year plus living expenses.
For example, the ERSU Scholarship
- Housing from October to July
- Free food in university cafeterias
- Help with money based on income and merit
Why it’s Important
These scholarships are easier to obtain and more widely available, making them suitable for students without money.
7. The “Talents 4 UniTo” Scholarship from the University of Turin
This is a very valuable scholarship for college students.
Summary
International students who want to study English at the University of Turin can get scholarships.
Pros
- The total value of the scholarship is €20,000.
- Includes two years of study
More chances
- Scholarships for risky students and refugees
- Programmes that help certain areas financially
Best for:
Students who want financial help with their graduate studies.
8. Scholarships for PhD students at SCUOLA Normale Superiore
This is one of the most prestigious research scholarships in Italy.
Summary
Top schools offer fully funded PhD programmes.
Pros
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly payments of €1,000 to €1,400
- Free place to stay
Best candidates
- Students who want to do research and work in academia
- People who do well at school
9. Scholarships for the Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies
This is another prestigious scholarship for graduate students.
Summary
Concentrated on advanced research in:
- The study of politics
- Money matters
- The law
- Building
Pros
- Complete funding
- Housing
- Help with research
Benefit
Very competitive and known worldwide.
10. Scholarships for individuals and specific universities
Italian universities and private groups offer more ways to earn money.
Some examples
- Scholarships from the Politecnico di Milano
- Bocconi University awards merit
- Scholarships from Ca’ Foscari University
Pros
- No tuition fees
- Monthly payments
- Funding for research
Plan
To increase your chances, apply to more than one university.
How to Get Scholarships in Italy
To get a scholarship, you need to do the following:
Step 1: Pick Your Programme
Choose:
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate
- Programmes taught in English or Italian
Step 2: Get the Necessary Papers Ready
Usually, you will need:
- Transcripts from school
- Certificates of degree
- Statement of purpose
- CV
- Letters of recommendation
- Results of language tests (IELTS/TOEFL or Italian)
Step 3: Fill out an application for admission
To receive the most scholarships, you have to get into a university first.
Step 4: Apply for financial aid
- Government scholarships through official channels
- College scholarships through admission portals
- Local agencies offer regional scholarships.
Step 5: Go to Interviews (if necessary)
Some programmes have interviews or other tests.
How to Get an Italian Scholarship
To stand out from the thousands of people who apply:
1. Keep up good grades in school
Most scholarships are based on merit.
2. Write a strong personal statement
Please explain:
- Why Italy?
- Your school goals
- What you want to do with your career in the future
3. Apply Early
Usually, deadlines are between March and May.
4. Apply for more than one scholarship
Don’t depend on just one app.
5. Show that you need money (for regional scholarships)
Get the right paperwork for your income ready.
6. Learn some Italian.
Not always necessary, but it makes you more likely to get it.
Things You Shouldn’t Do
- Not meeting application deadlines
- Sending in documents that aren’t complete
- Letters of motivation that aren’t strong
- Only applying to one school
- Not paying attention to regional scholarships
Cost of Studying in Italy Without a Scholarship
Knowing how much something costs helps you understand how valuable scholarships are:
- Cost of tuition: €1,000 to €4,000 a year
- Cost of living: €700 to €1,200 a month
- Rent: €300 to €700 per month
Scholarships can reduce or even eliminate most of these costs.
The Best Classes to Take in Italy
There are many scholarships available in the following fields:
- Technology and Engineering
- Design and Architecture
- Economics and Business
- Humanities and Arts
- Relations Between Countries
Italy is especially famous for its programs in design, architecture, and engineering.
Last Thoughts
Italy is one of the best places in Europe for international students who want to get a quality education at a low cost or for free. Students can study in Italy without worrying about money thanks to scholarships like the Italian Government (MAECI), Invest Your Talent in Italy, University of Bologna grants, and regional scholarships.
It’s easy to understand what makes someone successful:
Start early, make strong applications, and apply for more than one job.
If you stay focused and consistent, you can get a scholarship and start your studies in one of the most culturally rich and academically respected countries in Europe.
