Italy is a picturesque country that is filled with magnificent tourist spots and delectable dishes. Moreover, the nation has been a part of history since 700 bc. Going back to the present, it currently has a population of 58,426,000. Additionally, its capital is none other than the charming city of Rome.
On the topic of religion, the majority of the citizens are members of the Catholic Church. However, there are also Protestants and Muslims spread out across the land. As for language, its official one is Italian, while many residents also speak English and French.
In Italy, it is a must to check out famous destinations such as the Pantheon, the Grand Canal, Tuscan hill towns, Il Duomo, and Lake Como. After taking a trip to these breathtaking places, tourists should then try out Italian cuisine, which consists of lasagne, brodetto, gelato, polenta, and of course, pizza napoletana.
Moving on to the country’s education sector, the Italian government as well as universities, are known for being generous with scholarships. Its higher education institutions are also recognized for being some of the world’s oldest ones. Adding to this, many individuals from far and wide choose to pursue their tertiary studies in the country and at present, there are 32,000 international students in Italy.
Italian Government Scholarship Awards
1. Master’s Degree (Laurea Magistrale 2° ciclo)
This is a special scholarship grant that has a duration of six or nine months. It is only awarded to those who have completed their Bachelor’s degrees. Furthermore, in order to renew it, the scholar must achieve satisfactory marks during their first year as a Master’s student.
Master’s students who get awarded the scholarship will receive full tuition scholarship as well as monthly stipend and insurance
2. PhD program
Specially created for those who are at the PhD level, this scholarship is similar to the aforementioned grant in terms of duration, meaning it is also valid for a six or nine months study period. Like most grants, it requires the student to meet his or her chosen educational institution’s requirements and qualifications.
PhD students who get awarded the scholarship will receive full tuition scholarship as well as monthly stipend and insurance
Eligibility Criteria
Master’s
To be eligible for Italian Government scholarships, the applicant should have a valid passport or identification card. This said document is to be photocopied and uploaded as part of the registration procedure.
In addition to this, incoming scholars should note that there is also an age requirement. Master’s students should not be older than 28 years and 364 days
Besides this, language proficiency will be checked as well. Those who will be enrolling in courses that will utilize the Italian language, need to attain at least level B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
On the other hand, English-taught courses also require the student to achieve at least level B2 in the CEFR. Lastly, one should acquire level A2 in the CEFR if he or she is to take up a course that centers on the Italian language or culture.
PhD
Similar to the eligibility criteria for applicants at the Master’s level, future PhD scholars will need to present a valid passport or identification card which will then be photocopied and submitted during the registration process.
In terms of age, PhD applicants must not exceed the age of 30 years and 364 days by the deadline period. When it comes to language proficiency, however, PhD students do not need to show any proof of language skills.
How to Apply to Italian Government Scholarships
To acquire any of the grants offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), interested individuals should apply and register online through the official Study in Italy portal.
In line with this, applicants are advised to register using their main email address. Most importantly, students should be aware that the deadline for registration and application is on June of every year.
I hope this article on the Italian Government scholarships was helpful and insightful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs in Europe!