Introduction

Italy is not only known for its rich cultural history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine but also for offering world-class higher education. For international students seeking affordable and quality education in Europe, Italy provides a wide range of scholarship opportunities at undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels. Many of these scholarships are fully funded, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs. In this article, we explore the top fully funded and high-value scholarships in Italy available in 2025 for international students across all disciplines.

Why Study in Italy?

Italy boasts some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, such as the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico di Milano. Apart from academic excellence, Italy offers:

  • Affordable living costs compared to other Western European countries
  • A wide selection of programs in English
  • Rich historical and artistic heritage
  • Opportunities for post-study work and immigration
  • A strategic location within Europe for travel and networking

Most importantly, many Italian universities and the Italian government offer scholarships specifically designed for international students.

1. Italian Government Scholarships for International Students

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) offers scholarships to foreign students and Italian citizens living abroad. These scholarships support master’s and PhD programs and certain research projects.

Benefits:

  • Monthly stipend of €900
  • Full or partial tuition fee waiver
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Duration: 3 to 9 months, renewable

Eligibility:

  • Must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an Italian university
  • Proficiency in Italian or English (depending on the program)
  • Under 28 years old for master’s degrees, under 30 for PhDs

2. University of Bologna Study Grants for International Students

The University of Bologna, one of the oldest universities in the world, offers Study Grants and Tuition Fee Waivers (Unibo Action 1 & 2) to international students pursuing first, second, and single-cycle degree programs.

Benefits:

  • Full tuition fee waiver
  • Annual allowance of €11,000
  • Applicable to undergraduate and master’s programs

Eligibility:

  • Based on SAT/ACT for undergraduates or GRE for master’s
  • Must be under 30 years old

3. Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships

One of Italy’s most prestigious graduate schools, Scuola Normale Superiore, offers fully funded PhD scholarships in disciplines such as Physics, Mathematics, Philosophy, and Political Science.

Benefits:

  • Monthly stipend of €1,400+
  • Tuition fee exemption
  • Free meals and housing on campus

Eligibility:

  • Open to both EU and non-EU students
  • Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in relevant fields

4. Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships

Politecnico di Milano offers Platinum, Gold, and Silver scholarships to outstanding international students applying for master’s degrees in engineering, architecture, and design.

Benefits:

  • Platinum: €10,000/year + tuition waiver
  • Gold: €5,000/year + tuition waiver
  • Silver: Tuition waiver only

Eligibility:

  • Academic excellence
  • Strong motivation letter
  • Portfolio or relevant experience (for design and architecture)

5. University of Padua International Scholarships

The University of Padua, ranked among the top universities in Europe, offers fully funded scholarships for outstanding international students in English-taught degree programs.

Benefits:

  • Full tuition waiver
  • Annual stipend of €8,000
  • Renewable for the entire duration of the degree program

Eligibility:

  • High academic performance
  • Admission to an eligible English-taught program

6. EDISU Piemonte Scholarships

This scholarship is provided by the Regional Authority for the Right to University Education (EDISU) in the Piedmont region (including universities in Turin, Vercelli, and Novara).

Benefits:

  • Free accommodation or financial contribution toward rent
  • Free meals
  • Tuition fee coverage
  • Annual grant up to €5,000

Eligibility:

  • Enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, or PhD programs
  • Financial need and academic merit

7. University of Milan Excellence Scholarships

The University of Milan awards 155 Excellence Scholarships to top-performing international students admitted to master’s programs taught in English.

Benefits:

  • 55 scholarships worth €6,000 with tuition exemption
  • 100 full tuition exemptions

Eligibility:

  • Admission to a master’s program
  • Academic excellence

8. Bocconi University Merit Awards

Bocconi University, a top-ranked institution for economics and business, offers merit-based scholarships for both bachelor’s and master’s programs.

Benefits:

  • Full tuition waiver worth up to €13,000 per year for undergraduates
  • Up to €14,000 per year for graduates
  • Some awards include free housing

Eligibility:

  • Exceptional academic records
  • Performance in Bocconi’s entrance exams or other accepted tests (SAT, ACT, GMAT, etc.)

9. Università Cattolica Africa Scholarship Program

This partial scholarship is aimed at students from Africa enrolling in selected master’s degree programs at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore.

Benefits:

  • 50% reduction in tuition fees
  • Applies to specific programs such as Agriculture and Food Economics, Global Business, and Health Management

Eligibility:

  • Citizenship of an African country
  • Strong academic background

10. Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies Scholarships

Sant’Anna School, located in Pisa, provides PhD and master’s scholarships to international students, especially in economics, law, and applied sciences.

Benefits:

  • Tuition waiver
  • Monthly stipend of over €1,000
  • Free meals and accommodation in some cases

Eligibility:

  • Academic excellence
  • Research potential

11. University of Pavia CICOPS Scholarships

This program is for research collaboration between Italian and international scholars from developing countries, especially from Africa and Asia.

Benefits:

  • Monthly grant of €1,200
  • Travel and visa support
  • Research mentorship and collaboration

Eligibility:

  • At least two years of teaching or research experience
  • Letter of support from University of Pavia professors

Additional Scholarships Available in Italy

  • Tor Vergata University of Rome Scholarships for international master’s students
  • University of Trento Scholarship for PhD students in science and engineering
  • Ca’ Foscari University of Venice Scholarships for English-taught programs
  • LUISS University Scholarships for economics, finance, and international relations

How to Apply for Scholarships in Italy

While each scholarship has its own application procedure, here are general steps to follow:

  1. Research Eligibility Requirements – Read the conditions of each scholarship carefully.
  2. Prepare Required Documents – These often include transcripts, language certificates, a motivation letter, and letters of recommendation.
  3. Apply for Admission First – Some scholarships require you to be admitted to a university before applying.
  4. Follow Application Deadlines – Italian university intakes usually begin in September/October, and most deadlines fall between March and May.
  5. Use Scholarship Portals – Websites like “Study in Italy,” “Invest Your Talent in Italy,” and individual university portals are reliable sources.

What Are the Costs of Living in Italy for Students?

Although many scholarships cover tuition and living expenses, here’s an idea of monthly costs:

  • Rent: €250 – €600
  • Food: €200 – €300
  • Transport: €25 – €50
  • Utilities & Internet: €100
  • Miscellaneous: €100 – €150

Total estimated cost: €700 – €1,200/month

Cities like Bologna, Padua, and Trento are more affordable compared to Milan or Rome.

Are There English-Taught Programs in Italy?

Yes, most universities offer a wide range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs, especially in fields such as Engineering, Business, Computer Science, International Relations, and Design. Language requirements vary, but a minimum IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 is often required.

Can You Work While Studying in Italy?

Yes. International students on a study visa can work up to 20 hours per week and up to 1,040 hours annually. While student jobs may not cover all expenses, they provide valuable work experience and supplementary income.

What Are the Visa Requirements for Scholarship Students?

Students awarded scholarships still need a student visa. Here’s what’s usually required:

  • Letter of admission
  • Proof of scholarship/funding
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Passport valid for the entire stay
  • Medical insurance
  • Visa application form and fee

Apply through the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your home country well in advance.

Tips for a Successful Scholarship Application

  • Start early—some deadlines are 6–12 months before program start dates
  • Craft a compelling statement of purpose
  • Highlight academic and extracurricular achievements
  • Obtain strong reference letters
  • Double-check document translations and certifications

Conclusion

Italy offers a treasure trove of opportunities for international students through generous and prestigious scholarships. Whether you’re interested in business, science, humanities, or design, there’s likely a fully funded or merit-based scholarship in Italy to match your aspirations. With world-class institutions, rich cultural experiences, and increasing availability of English programs, studying in Italy is more accessible than ever. If you’re serious about international education in 2025, Italy should be at the top of your list.

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