Studying abroad is a very satisfying adventure for almost every student. Italy ranks among the best destinations in that regard because of the high-quality education offered in the country. Another thing that makes Italy a student’s favorite is its tourist attractions. The country is best known for its historical monuments and many breathtaking sceneries. Therefore, Italy’s top universities might be your best bet if you’re looking to mix your education with some exploration.
As you’d expect, as an international student, private universities charge much more than their public counterparts. However, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker for you because there are several scholarship programs aimed at helping those who can’t afford to finance their education. Here we will list five of the best scholarships in Italy that every international student studying in Italy should consider.
Top Scholarships in Italy for International Students
| Scholarship Name | Scholarship Type | Eligible Degrees | Scholarship Value | Deadline |
|---|
| Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students | Government Scholarship | AFAM courses (Arts, Music and Dance courses)
Master’s
Ph.D. | Up to full tuition | Vary |
| International Talents at Unibo | University of Bologna | Bachelor’s
Master’s | €4,500 including full exemption of tuition fees in one academic year | Scholarship Deadline |
| Padua International Excellence Scholarship | University of Padua | Bachelor’s
Master’s | Tuition fee waiver | Scholarship Deadline |
| Regione Veneto Scholarships | University of Padua | Bachelor’s
Master’s
Ph.D. | Tuition Fee Waivers
Yearly Discounts
Academic Discounts | Scholarship Deadline |
| Bocconi Graduate Merit Award | Bocconi University | Bachelor’s
Master’s | 50% or Full Tuition Fee Waiver | |
| Politecnico International Scholarships | Polytechnic University of Turin | Bachelor’s
Master’s
Ph.D. | Tuition Fee Waiver | Vary |
| Ph.D. Scholarships | Scuola Normale Superiore | Ph.D. | Tuition Fee Waiver
Research Stipend | Vary |
| Unical Admission – Masters Degree Extra UE | University of Calabria | Master’s | Full tuition
Free services ( board and lodging)
€3,600 allowance | Vary |
| Excellence Scholarship | University of Milan | Master’s | €8,000 | Scholarship Deadline |
| UniTo for Students at Risk | University of Turin | Bachelor’s
Master’s | €9,000, accommodation
Additional support | Scholarship Deadline |
| UNIPI Merit Scholarship | University of Pisa | Bachelor’s
Master’s | €6,500 gross for first year for undergraduates
Full exemption of tuition fees | Scholarship Deadline |
| Policy Leader Fellowship | European University Institute | Master’s
Ph.D. | monthly stipend of €2,500 | |
| Unisalento4Talents Programme | University of Salento | Master’s | Full tuition | |
| Students with Athletic Merits | Sapienza University of Rome | Bachelor’s
Master’s | Tuition fee exemption | Scholarship Deadline |
| “Study in Naples” Program | University of Naples Federico II | Bachelor’s
Master’s
Ph.D. | €11,059.20 | |
| Merit-Based Scholarships | Polytechnic University of Milan | Master’s | Full tuition fee waiver
Additional gross allowance of up to €10,000 per year | Scholarship Deadline |
| Ph.D Scholarship | University of Udine | Ph.D. | € 16,243 | |
1. Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: Full Tuition Fee and from €3,000 to €9,000 annual grant
- Eligible Degree/s: (Arts, Music and Dance courses) AFAM, Master’s, Ph.D.
The Italian government is always looking to make its education system affordable for international students. The Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students, one of the best Italian scholarships for international students, is one of the programs introduced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to support students from other parts of the world, especially those struggling financially. This scholarship in Italy is also designed to boost international cooperation in various fields, including technological, cultural, and scientific.
The scholarships are offered to eligible international students studying in one of the Italian universities. The beneficiaries receive partial or full tuition fees depending on the number of qualified students and their educational merit. On top of this, one will also receive monthly allowances amounting to about $1,000 and be paid quarterly. You can confirm on the scholarship page whether your country is eligible before moving forward with the application process.
2. International Talents at Unibo (University of Bologna)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: €4,500 including full exemption of tuition fees in one academic year
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Various universities in Italy also offer institution-based financial aid to some of their students. The University of Bologna, for instance, awards study grants to those students who meet the qualification criterion. Some students may also receive full tuition waivers for all the academic years of their current programs. The offer is only available at the University of Bologna for anyone studying first-, single, or second-cycle degree programs.
You must possess academic qualification documents that meet the requirements of your selected course to get this scholarship in Italy. If you don’t have some of the documents ready, make sure they’re available by the time of registration. Also, remember that only those who have not benefited from this grant before are eligible. Do you want to learn more? Visit the official scholarship website for a detailed guide on the application process.
3. Padua International Excellence Scholarship (University of Padua)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: Tuition Fee Waiver and €8,000 scholarship (gross amount) per each academic year
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Being one of the top universities in Italy, the University of Padua has emphasized the growth of its international body, and due to its high emphasis, this institution has established this scholarship scheme to award 59 scholarships to highly prospective students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. The courses are completely held in English, which means that many eligible international students apply for this scholarship award.
Due to the high number of students applying for this award, the competition for this scholarship is quite fierce. Due to its high selectivity, students with the highest achievements and outstanding academic records will be chosen for this award. For bachelor’s degrees, the maximum duration of this scholarship is approximately three years while the maximum duration for master’s degree candidates is around two years.
4. Regione Veneto Scholarships (University of Padua)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: Tuition Fee Waivers, Yearly Discounts, Academic Discounts
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Single-Cycle degrees, Master’s, Ph.D.
Also offered by the University of Padua, Regione Veneto Scholarships was established for students who came from low-income families. To be considered for this scholarship, eligible applicants must first be admitted into one of the programs offered by the University of Padua, and they also must be eligible to obtain an Italian student visa, which is an ideal requirement for an international applicant.
To accommodate as many students as they can, the scholarship award mainly depends on your family income, which means that a low family income means high financial aid. Even though the duration of this scholarship is only one year, scholarship recipients renew their scholarship duration by meeting the renewal requirements.
5. Bocconi Graduate Merit Award (Bocconi University)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: 50% or Full Tuition Fee Waiver
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Another university with a program(s) geared towards improving the welfare of international students is the University of Bocconi. The Bocconi Graduate Merit Award covers full tuition and a 100% tuition fee waiver for graduates who meet the requirements.
It’s worth noting, that the acceptance rate of those who apply for this scholarship is very low. This can be attributed to the huge funds awarded to each beneficiary. Nevertheless, you always have a chance of being considered provided you meet the minimum requirements set by the university.
6. Politecnico International Scholarships (Polytechnic University of Turin)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: Tuition Waiver
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.
Are you a student in the fields of Engineering and Architecture? The Politecnico di Torino might be your ideal destination. The institution offers Italian scholarships to international students interested in the available programs. There are several different scholarship projects which you can apply for at the institution.
Alta Scuola Politecnica, for instance, targets talented international students interested in the school’s Master of Science programs. COLFUTURO scholarships, on the other hand, are designed for Colombian students enrolled in Engineering and Architecture programs at the Master of Science and Ph.D. level. Other scholarships include Eni Project (Petroleum Engineering), TOPoliTo, and Invest Your Talent in Italy.
7. Ph.D. Scholarships (Scuola Normale Superiore)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: Tuition Fee Waiver and Research Stipend
- Eligible Degree/s: Ph.D.
Scuola Normale Superiore is one of the most prestigious institutions in Italy. This state-supported university offers various financial aid to international students looking to further their studies in the country. Perhaps the most popular scholarship program at the institution is the fully-funded Ph.D. courses. The beneficiaries of this Italy scholarship will have their tuition fee covered as well as room & board (total attendance cost).
It’s worth noting that all students admitted at Scuola Normale Superiore will receive a scholarship that will finance all their doctoral studies. In addition to the tuition fees, you’re also entitled to a stipend to enhance your research activities. The students may also get free accommodation and meals at the institution’s facilities.
8. Unical Admission – Masters Degree Extra UE (University of Calabria)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: Full tuition, free services such as board and lodging, and a €3,600 allowance
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s
The University of Calabria is a public university in Italy founded in 1998 and one of the leading universities in Europe. It offers scholarships to international students who wish to pursue their master’s degree at the university. In addition, it provides several award programs for various academic disciplines such as science, engineering, arts, humanities, law, and economics.
The scholarships are awarded based on merit and financial status. The university has an excellent campus with modern facilities for academics as well as sports facilities for recreation purposes. Furthermore, the tuition fees are nominal compared to other colleges in Europe, making it an excellent choice for international students who wish to study abroad without breaking their bank balance!
To apply for the scholarship, you must complete an application form online and submit it with your transcript and verification of residence. You will also need to provide proof of English language proficiency.
9. Excellence Scholarship (University of Milan)
The University of Milan is one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It was founded in 1924 by a group of intellectuals to promote excellence in research and education.
The Excellence Scholarship for international students is an opportunity for non-EU citizens interested in studying at the college. It is designed to help students who have been accepted into the master’s program. It offers a competitive monthly stipend that can be used toward food, housing, transportation, and whatever’s needed to get through your studies.
10. UniTo for Students at Risk (University of Turin)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: €9,000, accommodation, additional support
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s Master’s
The Unito for Students at Risk Scholarship is open to international students who are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or master’s course. This scholarship is open to refugee students.
The scholarship is only available for students who have never been enrolled at the University of Turin. It cannot be combined with another award or grant that assists with living expenses. All applicants must provide proof of registration at the university along with their completed online application form.
11. UNIPI Merit Scholarship (University of Pisa)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: €6,500 gross for first year for undergraduates and full exemption of tuition fees
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s
The University of Pisa, founded in the 12th century, is one of the oldest universities in Europe. For over 800 years, it has been a leading center for academic excellence, research, and innovation. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. The university consists of nine schools with over 80 departments offering courses in humanities, science, engineering, and medicine. Courses are taught in English and Italian by highly qualified staff from all over the world.
The university offers scholarships to international students who wish to study at this prestigious institution. The scholarship is offered for up to three years (2 years for master’s and three years for undergraduates).
To apply for this university scholarship, you must complete an online application form which requires you to upload your university transcript, personal statement, proof of financial need, copy of your passport, two recommendation letters, and official proof of admission. You must also include an essay on why you wish to study at the University of Pisa.
12. Policy Leader Fellowship (European University Institute)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: A monthly stipend of €2,500
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, Ph.D.
The Policy Leader Fellowship offered by the European University Institute is a unique opportunity for international students to develop their leadership skills and be part of a global network of like-minded young leaders. It is an intensive five to ten-month training program that will give you the tools about policymaking and how to become a better leader. It is designed to help you develop your leadership style. The program is open to students from all over the world.
The application process is competitive. You will need to submit an online application. If selected for the program, you’ll get a scholarship covering accommodation and transportation costs during your stay in Florence, Italy.
13. Unisalento4Talents Programme (University of Salento)
Unisalento 4 Talents Scholarship is an award program that offers financial support to international students who want to study in Italy. This award is open to students who are enrolled in master’s degree programs at the University of Salento. The college aims to make Salento a place where people come from all over the world to learn about each other’s cultures and languages.
Students are encouraged to apply for this scholarship if they have a strong academic record and a passion for learning about other cultures. Applicants should also be able to demonstrate how their personal qualities can contribute to the community and help them build a stronger sense of internationalism among its members.
14. Students with Athletic Merits (Sapienza University of Rome)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: Tuition fee exemption
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s
The Sapienza University of Rome is one of the most prestigious universities in Italy. It is known for its research in science, medicine, and engineering. It also has a strong focus on arts, humanities, and social sciences.
The university offers several scholarships for international students. For athletes, students can apply for the Students with Athletic Merits scholarship. Awardees of this scholarship are required to participate in two presentations and organizations facilitated by the university.
15. “Study in Naples” Program (University of Naples Federico II)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: €11,059.20
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.
The University of Naples Federico II is a public university in Naples, Italy, and was founded in 1224. It is one of the oldest universities in the world. The university enrolls approximately 48,000 students and has about 8,000 full-time faculty members.
The University of Naples Federico II offers undergraduate engineering, architecture, mathematics, and natural sciences undergraduate programs. It also offers postgraduate courses leading to research degrees in various fields, including medicine, law, political science, and economics.
The University of Naples Federico II Scholarship is available to international students who wish to study in Italy. It offers funds for up to three years and is open to students worldwide. The application process is rigorous, but the rewards are worth it. You will get a top-notch education at one of the oldest universities in Europe and an opportunity to experience an incredible culture.
16. Merit-Based Scholarships (Polytechnic University of Milan)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Value: Full tuition-fee waiver, an additional; gross allowance of up to €10,000 per year
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s
Politecnico Milano is a public university in Milan, Italy. It was founded in 1863 and is one of the most renowned universities in Europe. Politecnico offers programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The university has four campuses: two in Milan and two others in Varese and Busto Arsizio.
The Merit-Based Scholarships are offered to international students who wish to pursue a master’s program at Politecnico di Milano. These scholarships are awarded on merit and cover tuition fees and up to €10,000 stipend.
The application process for this scholarship starts in January and ends in March every year. Students must fill out an online application form before submitting it to Politecnico Milano on March 31 each year. It’s important to note that you cannot apply for this scholarship if you have already studied at Politecnico Milano for two consecutive academic years.
17. Ph.D Scholarship (University of Udine)
The University of Udine is one of Italy’s oldest and largest universities, founded in 1404. It offers a wide range of degree programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, with a particular focus on education, law, economics, and business studies.
The University of Udine Ph.D Scholarship is available for international students pursuing their doctoral studies at the college. To apply for the scholarship in Italy, applicants must have good academic records and a strong interest in the field in which they are applying. They must also have completed at least one year of master’s degree from any recognized university or institution with good grades.
FAQs: Applying for Scholarships in Italy
Can International Students Get a Full Scholarship in Italy?
The answer is yes. International students can get a full-ride scholarship in Italy by applying for scholarships offered by the Italian government. Since the funding is backed by the government, it is similar to full-ride scholarships offered by U.S. institutions. The scholarship award covers all of your tuition fees, and it also covers a majority of your living expenses as well.
How Can International Students Study for Free in Italy?
We all know that not all international students will receive a full-ride scholarship when trying to study in Italy. If you fall into the majority group where you didn’t receive a full-ride scholarship, there are additional things that you can do to cover the major expenses of studying abroad. First, try to get at least a partial scholarship, and then, get a work-study job at your institution to supplement your income. If that is not enough, try to also work during vacation periods so that you can accumulate enough money to meet the financial cost of your next academic semester. In addition to the partial scholarship offered at your institution, try to also apply to external scholarships since even those small amounts of money will go a long way since these types of methods will prevent you from going into debt.
We hope this article on Italy scholarships for international students was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Study in Italy and Available Programs for International Students pages for more informative articles on studies in Italy and Europe at large.
