This funding initiative by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) promotes study, research and cultural exchange in Italy.
Scholarships awarded to foreign citizens residing abroad and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE)
Available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, single-cycle degrees, PhDs, research projects, and Italian language/culture courses
Applications for 2025-26 closed on 16 May 2025 at 14:00 CET
Covers study on Italian territory only (on-site attendance required)
Promotes international cooperation and Italian language/culture
Supports Italy’s global academic and economic influence
Financial coverage for tuition and living expenses (in part)
Accessible via the Study in Italy portal
Health and accident insurance included during study period
Selections based on merit, proposal quality, and language proficiency
Why study with an Italian Government Scholarship?
This scholarship offers more than financial aid—it opens doors to Italy’s academic and cultural life.
Access to 60+ public universities and prestigious institutions
Opportunity to study in English or Italian
Scholarships reduce or eliminate tuition costs
Cultural immersion in Italy’s rich heritage
Study in globally recognized Italian institutions
Improve employability with a European degree
Funded academic and language courses
Short-term and long-term programme flexibility
Insurance coverage during stay
International academic network opportunities
Key Features of the Scholarship
Understand the essential benefits and coverage before applying.
Financial grant up to €9,000 for 9 months
Possible tuition fee waivers depending on institution
Health and accident insurance included
Study duration varies by course (3 to 9 months)
Age limits: under 28 for Master’s, under 30 for PhD, under 40 for research
Language requirements: Italian B2 or English B2
Study must be physically in Italy
Requires academic merit and proposal relevance
Annual call issued via Study in Italy portal
Specific country eligibility applies each year
Eligibility Checklist
Make sure you meet these criteria before applying.
Criteria
Requirements
Nationality
Foreign citizens or Italian citizens abroad (IRE)
Academic background
Bachelor’s for Master’s; relevant degree for PhD
Age limit
Master’s: <28, PhD: <30, Research: <40
Language proficiency
Italian B2 or English B2 (depending on course)
Study location
Must study in Italy (not remote)
Course types
Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, AFAM, research, language courses
Choose an eligible programme and Italian institution
Verify eligibility by age, nationality, and academic level
Register and apply via Study in Italy portal
Prepare and upload necessary documents:
Passport or valid ID
Academic transcripts and certificates
CV and motivation letter
Language certification (Italian or English)
Research proposal and supervisor letter (if applicable)
Submit application before the deadline
Wait for selection and admission confirmation
Enrol in the institution and activate scholarship
Maintain progress for scholarship continuation
Open Italian bank account if required
Stay updated via institution and MAECI notifications
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Be mindful of these frequent mistakes.
Missing application deadlines
Ignoring age and programme-specific eligibility
Not understanding language requirements
Choosing ineligible courses or institutions
Assuming automatic tuition waivers
Failing to submit complete documents
Underestimating living and travel costs
Not securing accommodation early
Overlooking country eligibility lists
Submitting applications via unofficial portals
Selection and Ranking Criteria
Improve your chances by knowing how you’re evaluated.
Academic excellence and prior achievements
Quality and clarity of motivation letter
Alignment of study proposal with Italian priorities
Language skill proficiency
Admission to an Italian institution
Completeness of application
Relevance and innovation in research (if applicable)
Supervisor endorsement for research grants
Study feasibility and candidate preparedness
Country representation goals in selection process
Key Dates and Timeline (Example: 2025-26)
Track these important milestones.
Call announced: April 2025
Application deadline: 16 May 2025, 14:00 CET
Review and selection: May to July 2025
Results published: Summer 2025
Scholarship activation: September/October 2025
Course start: Varies by institution
Duration: 3-9 months depending on programme
Renewal application (if applicable): Early 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for an English-taught programme?
Yes, provided you meet the English proficiency requirement (minimum B2 level).
Does the scholarship cover all living expenses?
No. The grant helps with expenses but doesn’t fully cover all costs.
Can I apply if I already live in Italy?
No. Applicants must be foreign citizens living outside Italy or Italian citizens abroad.
Is the scholarship renewable?
Yes, depending on your academic progress and course duration.
Do I need admission before applying?
Admission may strengthen your application but isn’t always required initially.
How do I know if my country is eligible?
The eligible country list is published annually with the call.
What language proof do I need?
B2 for Italian or English, depending on course language. Italian A2 for culture courses.
Is the application online?
Yes, all applications go through the Study in Italy portal.
Can I work while studying?
You must check with your visa terms and institution guidelines.
What happens after selection?
You follow your university’s enrolment steps, activate your grant, and start your programme.
Conclusion
The Italian Government Scholarships provide a valuable opportunity to study in Italy with financial and academic support. They enable students to pursue higher education in one of Europe’s most vibrant cultural environments.
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