Italy remains a top global destination for international students seeking high-quality education without the burden of tuition fees. For the 2026-27 academic year, the Italian government and leading universities have expanded their funding programs to attract global talent. These scholarships are designed to cover everything from university fees to daily living expenses, ensuring a smooth transition for students moving abroad.
The most attractive feature of studying in Italy is the flexibility regarding language requirements. Many universities allow you to bypass the IELTS exam if you can provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your previous institution. This document proves that your prior degree was taught in English, effectively meeting the language proficiency standards for most English-taught programs.
This comprehensive guide outlines the top 10 fully funded scholarships in Italy for the 2026 intake. We cover essential details including eligibility, financial benefits, and step-by-step application processes. By following this roadmap, you can secure the funding needed to earn a world-class degree while immersing yourself in Italy’s rich cultural and historical landscape.
1. Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI)
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) manages this prestigious scholarship to foster international cultural and scientific cooperation. It targets high-achieving students from specific partner countries who wish to pursue Master’s or PhD research at public Italian institutions.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s and PhD
- Location: All Italian Public Universities
- Institution(s): Managed by MAECI
- Program Period: 6 or 9 months (Renewable)
- Course offered: All English-taught programs
- Deadline: May 2026
Scholarship Coverage
The MAECI scholarship provides three core financial benefits: full tuition fee waivers, a monthly stipend of €900, and comprehensive health insurance. These funds are deposited directly into the student’s Italian bank account to support monthly living costs.
Eligibility Criteria
- International Status: You must be a foreign national living abroad or an Italian citizen living abroad.
- Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or a Master’s degree (for PhD).
- Age Limits: Candidates must be under 28 for Master’s and under 30 for PhD programs.
- Language Proof: You can provide an MOI certificate if your previous degree was in English.
Application Process
- Visit the official Study in Italy portal at studyinitaly.esteri.it.
- Create an account and register your profile.
- Select your desired course and university.
- Upload required documents, including your passport, transcripts, and MOI certificate.
- Submit the application before the May 2026 deadline.
2. University of Bologna Scholarships (Unibo Action 1 & 2)
The University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world, offers these awards to reward academic excellence. These scholarships are highly competitive and are based on standardized test scores.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- Location: Bologna, Cesena, Forlì, Ravenna, and Rimini
- Institution(s): University of Bologna
- Program Period: 1-2 years
- Course offered: All University Degrees
- Deadline: March – April 2026
Scholarship Coverage
The Unibo Action programs provide two types of support: full tuition fee waivers (Action 1) or a gross study grant of €11,000 per year (Action 2). Students are selected based on their performance in the SAT (for Bachelor’s) or GRE (for Master’s) exams.
3. Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships
Politecnico di Milano is Italy’s leading technical university, specializing in Engineering, Architecture, and Design. It offers Platinum, Gold, and Silver scholarships to top-tier international applicants.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master of Science
- Location: Milan, Cremona, Lecco, Mantova, and Piacenza
- Institution(s): Politecnico di Milano
- Program Period: 2 Years
- Course offered: Engineering, Architecture, Design
- Deadline: December 2025 (Early Bird) to March 2026
Scholarship Coverage
Recipients receive full tuition waivers and annual cash stipends ranging from €5,000 (Gold) to €10,000 (Platinum). The scholarship is paid in two installments upon successful completion of university credits.
4. University of Padua International Excellence Scholarships
The University of Padua offers 62 scholarships specifically for highly talented international students enrolling in English-taught degrees.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- Location: Padua, Italy
- Institution(s): University of Padua
- Program Period: 2-3 Years
- Course offered: All English-taught programs
- Deadline: February – June 2026
Scholarship Coverage
The Excellence Scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides an €8,000 annual stipend. No separate application is required; students are automatically considered when they apply to their chosen degree program.
5. DSU Regional Scholarships (Tuscany, Lombardy, Lazio)
DSU is a unique “Right to Study” program that provides funding based on financial need rather than academic grades. This makes it the most accessible scholarship for students with limited financial resources.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
- Location: Various Regions (Tuscany, Lombardy, etc.)
- Institution(s): Regional Agencies (e.g., DSU Toscana, ER.GO)
- Program Period: Entire degree duration (renewable annually)
- Course offered: All programs at regional universities
- Deadline: July – September 2026
Scholarship Coverage
The DSU grant provides free accommodation in student residences, two free meals per day at the canteen, and a cash stipend of up to €8,000. To qualify, you must submit income and property documents translated into Italian.
6. Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships
Scuola Normale Superiore (SNS) is an elite institution in Pisa that offers fully funded doctoral positions with world-class research facilities.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: PhD
- Location: Pisa, Italy
- Institution(s): Scuola Normale Superiore
- Program Period: 3-4 Years
- Course offered:
- Philosophy
- History and Art History
- Classics
- Chemistry and Physics
- Biology and Neuroscience
- Deadline: March 2026
Scholarship Coverage
- Full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the PhD.
- Free accommodation in SNS residences.
- Free meals at the school canteen.
- Monthly research stipend and travel funds for conferences.
7. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (Italy-based)
Erasmus Mundus is a European Union program that allows you to study at multiple universities, including top Italian institutions.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Location: Multiple EU Countries (including Italy)
- Institution(s): Consortium of European Universities
- Program Period: 2 Years
- Course offered: Selected Joint Master Programs
- Deadline: February 2026
8. Bocconi University International Awards
Bocconi is a world-renowned private university in Milan, famous for its programs in Economics, Management, and Law.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- Location: Milan, Italy
- Institution(s): Bocconi University
- Deadline: January – May 2026 (Multiple Rounds)
Scholarship Coverage
Bocconi provides 50% to 100% tuition waivers, valued up to €13,000 per year. Exceptional candidates may also receive free housing in university residences.
9. University of Milan Excellence Scholarships
The University of Milan (La Statale) offers 160 incentives to the best international students admitted to Master’s programs.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Location: Milan, Italy
- Institution(s): University of Milan
- Deadline: May 2026
10. University of Pisa Merit Scholarships
The University of Pisa awards merit-based grants to international students enrolling in Master’s degrees taught in English.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Location: Pisa, Italy
- Institution(s): University of Pisa
- Deadline: July 2026
Apply Now
Ready to start? Visit the official portals to begin your 2026 application:
- Government Grants: Study in Italy (MAECI)
- University Pre-enrollment: Universitaly Portal
FAQs
What is the Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI)?
The Italian Government Scholarship is offered by MAECI to support international students for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD studies in Italy. It covers tuition fees, monthly living allowance, and sometimes travel costs. Applications usually open in May and close in June.
Who can apply for University of Bologna Scholarships (Unibo Action 1 & 2)?
These scholarships are for international students applying for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the University of Bologna. Candidates must show excellent academic records and apply online during the application period, typically starting in April.
Are Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships fully funded?
Yes, these scholarships can cover full or partial tuition fees for high-achieving students. Some awards also include a monthly stipend for living expenses, but coverage varies by program and availability.
How competitive are University of Padua International Excellence Scholarships?
They are highly competitive because they attract top international students worldwide. Selection is based on academic merit, motivation, and sometimes interviews or additional tests.
What regions are covered by DSU Regional Scholarships?
DSU scholarships support students in Tuscany, Lombardy, and Lazio regions. They offer financial aid for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, especially targeting local and international university students.
What fields are eligible for Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships?
PhD scholarships at Scuola Normale Superiore cover various fields like humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Candidates must have a strong research proposal and a Master’s degree.
Can I apply for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees if I am not from Europe?
Yes, Erasmus Mundus scholarships are open worldwide. The program supports students who want to study in multiple European countries, including Italy, and covers tuition, travel, and living costs.
Do Bocconi University International Awards cover living expenses?
Most Bocconi scholarships cover tuition fees fully or partly. Some awards may provide additional support for living expenses, but this depends on the specific scholarship.
What is required to apply for University of Milan Excellence Scholarships?
Applicants need a high school diploma or Bachelor’s degree, language proficiency certificates, and academic transcripts. The application process is online and usually opens in spring.
Are University of Pisa Merit Scholarships open to international students?
Yes, international students from all countries can apply. Eligibility includes good academic performance and submission of required documents through the online application portal.
Italy is a top choice for students who want high-quality education with rich culture and history. Fully funded scholarships in Italy give you a chance to study without financial stress. Make sure to check each scholarship’s requirements and apply early. Start your preparation today, gather your documents, and follow the application steps carefully. Good luck, and your dream of studying in Italy can come true!
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