Best 7 Fully Funded Scholarships for Master’s in Italy 2025

Are you dreaming of studying in Italy for your Master’s degree, but worried about the cost? Good news! This guide is here to help you find amazing “Fully Funded Scholarships for Master’s in Italy 2025.” These special scholarships mean you won’t have to pay for school. They cover your tuition, and often your living costs too. Imagine studying in beautiful Italy without money worries! We will tell you all about the best fully funded scholarships available for your Master’s studies.

We will look at scholarships from the Italian Government, top universities like Politecnico di Milano, University of Milan, University of Padua, and others. We will also share details on Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards, University of Turin “Talents 4 UniTo” Scholarships, and EDISU Piemonte Scholarships. Learning about these fully funded scholarships for Master’s in Italy 2025 can open new doors for your future. Get ready to explore your options!

What is the Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI Scholarship)?

• Name of the institution offering the scholarship: Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI)
• Origin or background of the scholarship: This scholarship is offered by the Italian Government to promote international cooperation in cultural, scientific, and technological fields, and to promote the Italian language and culture.
• Who is the ideal candidate? Students and researchers who want to pursue higher education or research in Italy, with a strong academic background and an interest in Italian culture.
• Total value of the scholarship: This is a fully funded scholarship. It covers tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend.
• Number of seats available: The number of scholarships varies each year, but it is a substantial number for international students.
• Start date of the scholarship: Typically, the academic year in Italy starts in September or October. The scholarship aligns with this.
• Application deadline: Usually around June or July for the following academic year. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the deadline would have been around June 2025.
• Is the scholarship currently active? Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year will open later.
• The month when applications usually open: Applications typically open in May or June each year.

Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI Scholarship) Coverage

• Full or partial funding: Full funding.
• Tuition fees: Full exemption from tuition fees at public Italian universities.
• Living expenses: A monthly allowance for living expenses.
• Books and study material: Not specifically covered as a separate allowance, but the monthly stipend is meant to help with these costs.
• Travel expenses: Not usually covered. Students are responsible for their travel to Italy.
• Any other benefits: Health insurance coverage provided.

Eligibility Criteria

• Is it for U.S. or international students? International students, including U.S. citizens.
• Eligible countries: A wide range of countries are eligible. Check the official call for applications for the complete list.
• Minimum qualification needed: A Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programs. Specific academic requirements depend on the chosen course.
• Required certifications: Proof of Italian language proficiency (B2 level for courses taught in Italian) or English language proficiency (for courses taught in English).
• Required documents:
  • Valid passport or ID.
  • Academic transcripts and degrees.
  • Motivation letter.
  • Letter of acceptance from an Italian university (in some cases, this might be required after initial selection).
  • Language certificates.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Whether the application is online or offline: The application is entirely online.

How to Apply for the Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI Scholarship)

1. How to apply: Visit the official Study in Italy portal.
2. How to create an account (if needed): You will need to register and create an account on the Study in Italy portal.
3. Additional steps, if any:
   • Select your preferred study program and university.
   • Fill out the online application form with all required personal and academic information.
   • Upload all the necessary supporting documents.
   • Submit your application before the deadline.
   • Link to the official website: Study in Italy

What are Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based International Scholarships?

• Name of the institution offering the scholarship: Politecnico di Milano
• Origin or background of the scholarship: Politecnico di Milano offers these scholarships to attract talented international students to its Master of Science programs, promoting academic excellence and diversity.
• Who is the ideal candidate? High-achieving international students with an excellent academic record who wish to pursue a Master of Science degree at Politecnico di Milano.
• Total value of the scholarship: The value varies depending on the level (Platinum, Gold, Silver), but the highest levels are fully funded, covering tuition and providing a stipend.
• Number of seats available: A significant number of scholarships are offered each year, but it is competitive.
• Start date of the scholarship: The academic year usually starts in September or October.
• Application deadline: Typically in March or April for the first intake, and sometimes a second intake in May or June. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the deadlines would have been in spring 2025.
• Is the scholarship currently active? Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year will open later.
• The month when applications usually open: Applications usually open around January or February.

Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based International Scholarships Coverage

• Full or partial funding: Can be full (Platinum/Gold) or partial (Silver/Bronze), with full coverage of tuition and providing a stipend.
• Tuition fees: Full tuition fee waiver for all levels of the merit scholarship.
• Living expenses: Platinum and Gold level scholarships provide a gross amount of money for living expenses.
• Books and study material: Not specifically covered, but the stipend helps with these costs.
• Travel expenses: Not covered.
• Any other benefits: Access to university services and facilities.

Eligibility Criteria

• Is it for U.S. or international students? International students from all over the world.
• Eligible countries: All countries are generally eligible.
• Minimum qualification needed: A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field with an excellent academic record.
• Required certifications: English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) for programs taught in English. No Italian language proficiency is required for English-taught programs.
• Required documents:
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Motivation letter.
  • Letters of recommendation (optional but recommended).
  • Passport copy.
  • English language certificate.
• Whether the application is online or offline: The application is entirely online through the Politecnico di Milano admission portal.

How to Apply for the Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based International Scholarships

1. How to apply: Apply for admission to a Master of Science program at Politecnico di Milano. You are automatically considered for the scholarship based on your application.
2. How to create an account (if needed): You will need to create an account on the Politecnico di Milano online services portal.
3. Additional steps, if any:
   • Choose your preferred Master of Science program.
   • Complete the online admission application form.
   • Upload all required academic and personal documents.
   • Ensure your academic profile is strong, as selection is merit-based.
   • Link to the official website: Politecnico di Milano

What are the University of Milan Excellence Scholarships?

• Name of the institution offering the scholarship: University of Milan
• Origin or background of the scholarship: The University of Milan offers these scholarships to attract and support high-achieving international students wishing to enroll in its Master’s degree programs, promoting academic excellence.
• Who is the ideal candidate? International students with outstanding academic records who are seeking to pursue a Master’s degree at the University of Milan.
• Total value of the scholarship: This is a fully funded scholarship, covering tuition fees and providing a generous stipend.
• Number of seats available: A specific number of scholarships are awarded each year, typically between 100-150.
• Start date of the scholarship: The academic year generally starts in September or October.
• Application deadline: Usually in April or May for the academic year starting in September. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the deadline would have been around April/May 2025.
• Is the scholarship currently active? Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year will open later.
• The month when applications usually open: Applications typically open around March each year.

University of Milan Excellence Scholarships Coverage

• Full or partial funding: Full funding.
• Tuition fees: Full exemption from university tuition fees.
• Living expenses: An annual stipend to cover living expenses (e.g., €8,000).
• Books and study material: Not specifically covered as a separate allowance, but the stipend is intended to help with these costs.
• Travel expenses: Not typically covered, but some scholarships might offer a contribution towards accommodation and a canteen card.
• Any other benefits: May include a contribution towards accommodation and a canteen card.

Eligibility Criteria

• Is it for U.S. or international students? International students from outside Italy.
• Eligible countries: All countries are generally eligible.
• Minimum qualification needed: A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a foreign institution, with a strong academic performance.
• Required certifications: English language proficiency for programs taught in English (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, CAE/CPE).
• Required documents:
  • Academic transcripts and a diploma for a Bachelor’s degree.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Motivation letter.
  • Passport copy.
  • English language certificate.
  • Any other documents required by the specific Master’s program.
• Whether the application is online or offline: The application is entirely online.

How to Apply for the University of Milan Excellence Scholarships

1. How to apply: You must first apply for admission to a Master’s degree program at the University of Milan. You are automatically considered for the Excellence Scholarship if you meet the eligibility criteria during the admission process.
2. How to create an account (if needed): You will need to register on the University of Milan’s online admission portal.
3. Additional steps, if any:
   • Choose your desired Master’s degree program.
   • Complete the pre-application/admission application online, ensuring all sections are filled out accurately.
   • Upload all required academic and personal documents within the given deadlines.
   • Ensure your academic profile highlights your excellence, as the scholarship is merit-based.
   • Link to the official website: University of Milan

What is the University of Padua International Excellence Scholarship Programme?

• Name of the institution offering the scholarship: University of Padua (Università degli Studi di Padova)
• Origin or background of the scholarship: This program is offered by the University of Padua to attract highly talented international students and to promote internationalization and academic excellence within its Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs.
• Who is the ideal candidate? Excellent international students with a strong academic background who wish to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree fully taught in English at the University of Padua.
• Total value of the scholarship: The scholarship offers a full tuition fee waiver (excluding regional tax and stamp duty) and an annual stipend of €8,000.
• Number of seats available: For the 2025/2026 academic year, the university is offering a total of 62 scholarships for Bachelor’s and Master’s candidates.
• Start date of the scholarship: The academic year in Italy typically starts in September or October. The scholarship begins with the start of the academic year.
• Application deadline: The application deadline for the 2025/2026 academic year was May 2, 2025.
• Is the scholarship currently active? No, applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year will open later.
• The month when applications usually open: Applications typically open around November.

University of Padua International Excellence Scholarship Programme Coverage

• Full or partial funding: Full funding.
• Tuition fees: Full waiver of tuition fees (excluding a regional tax and stamp duty, which are minor administrative fees).
• Living expenses: An annual allowance of €8,000 to cover living expenses.
• Books and study material: Not specifically covered as a separate allowance, but the annual stipend helps with these costs.
• Travel expenses: Not covered. Students are responsible for their travel arrangements to Italy.
• Any other benefits: Access to university facilities and support services for international students.

Eligibility Criteria

• Is it for U.S. or international students? International students from all nationalities who hold a non-Italian undergraduate degree.
• Eligible countries: All nationalities are eligible.
• Minimum qualification needed: For Master’s applicants, a non-Italian undergraduate degree is required. Applicants must meet the specific admission requirements for their chosen Master’s program.
• Required certifications: No specific language certification is explicitly listed as a separate requirement for the scholarship, but proficiency in English is necessary as the eligible programs are fully taught in English. Meeting the language requirements of the chosen Master’s program is sufficient.
• Required documents:
  • Academic transcripts and a diploma of a non-Italian undergraduate degree.
  • Valid passport.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Any other documents required for admission to the specific Master’s program (e.g., motivation letter, reference letters).
• Whether the application is online or offline: The application is entirely online.

How to Apply for the University of Padua International Excellence Scholarship Programme

1. How to apply: Candidates applying to an eligible Bachelor’s or Master’s program at the University of Padua are automatically considered for the scholarship. No separate application is required.
2. How to create an account (if needed): You will need to register on the University of Padua’s admission portal to apply for your chosen study program.
3. Additional steps, if any:
   • Submit your application for a Master’s degree program fully taught in English through the University of Padua’s online admission system.
   • Ensure all required documents for your chosen study program are uploaded before the deadline.
   • The scholarship selection is based on academic merit from your admission application.
   • Link to the official website: University of Padua

What are the Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards in Fully Funded Scholarships for Master’s in Italy?

• Name of the institution offering the scholarship: Bocconi University
• Origin or background of the scholarship: Bocconi University offers these merit-based awards to recognize and attract top-performing international students to its Master of Science programs, fostering a highly talented and diverse student body.
• Who is the ideal candidate? Exceptionally talented international students with outstanding academic achievements are applying for a Master of Science program at Bocconi University.
• Total value of the scholarship: The Merit Award includes a full tuition and fees waiver, which is approximately €13,000 per year. A limited number of students may also receive free accommodation.
• Number of seats available: The number of awards is not fixed but is based on the pool of highly deserving applicants. The majority of awards are allocated in the earlier admission rounds.
• Start date of the scholarship: The academic year typically starts in September.
• Application deadline: Bocconi University has multiple application rounds. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the deadlines for Master’s programs were typically in April and May 2025.
• Is the scholarship currently active? Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year will open later.
• The month when applications usually open: Applications typically open around September or October for the earliest rounds.

Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards Coverage

• Full or partial funding: Primarily full tuition and fees waiver. A limited number may include free accommodation, making it fully comprehensive.
• Tuition fees: Full tuition and fees waiver.
• Living expenses: Not generally included as a direct stipend, but free accommodation may be offered to a limited number of recipients.
• Books and study material: Not specifically covered.
• Travel expenses: Not covered.
• Any other benefits: Possible free accommodation in one of Bocconi Residences for a limited number of awardees.

Eligibility Criteria

• Is it for U.S. or international students? International students from all countries.
• Eligible countries: All nationalities are eligible.
• Minimum qualification needed: A Bachelor’s degree from a non-Italian institution with an exceptional academic record. The evaluation is primarily based on academic achievement.
• Required certifications: English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) for English-taught programs. GMAT/GRE scores are highly recommended for a stronger application.
• Required documents:
  • Academic transcripts and a Bachelor’s degree.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Motivation letter.
  • GMAT/GRE scores (highly recommended).
  • English language test scores.
  • Passport copy.
• Whether the application is online or offline: The application is entirely online.

How to Apply for the Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards

1. How to apply: There is no separate application for the Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards. All eligible students who apply for admission to a Master of Science program at Bocconi University are automatically considered.
2. How to create an account (if needed): You will need to create an account on the Bocconi University admissions portal to submit your Master of Science application.
3. Additional steps, if any:
   • Complete your online application for a Master of Science program at Bocconi University, ensuring you submit a strong academic profile.
   • Upload all required documents, paying attention to deadlines for each admission round.
   • The selection committee evaluates the complete admission dossier, focusing on academic merit.
   • Link to the official website: Bocconi University

What are the University of Turin “Talents 4 UniTo” Scholarships?

• Name of the institution offering the scholarship: University of Turin (Università degli Studi di Torino)
• Origin or background of the scholarship: The “Talents 4 UniTo” scholarships are part of the University of Turin’s initiative to attract and support highly motivated and talented international students enrolling in its English-taught postgraduate degree programs.
• Who is the ideal candidate? International students with a strong academic background who wish to pursue a Master’s degree in an English-taught program at the University of Turin.
• Total value of the scholarship: This is a fully funded grant of €20,000 (€10,000 per academic year) for two academic years.
• Number of seats available: For the 2025-2026 academic year, there were 38 two-year scholarships available.
• Start date of the scholarship: The academic year typically starts in September or October. The scholarship begins with enrollment.
• Application deadline: The deadline for applications for the 2025-2026 academic year was January 30, 2025.
• Is the scholarship currently active? No, applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are now closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year will open later.
• The month when applications usually open: Applications typically open around December or January.

University of Turin “Talents 4 UniTo” Scholarships Coverage

• Full or partial funding: Full funding.
• Tuition fees: Tuition fees are generally covered by this substantial grant or are waived for scholarship recipients. The grant amount is intended to cover both living and study-related costs.
• Living expenses: A significant grant of €10,000 per academic year is provided to cover living expenses in Turin.
• Books and study material: Not specifically covered as a separate allowance, but the grant helps with these costs.
• Travel expenses: Not explicitly covered. Students are responsible for their travel arrangements to Italy.
• Any other benefits: This grant provides comprehensive financial support for the duration of the Master’s program.

Eligibility Criteria

• Is it for U.S. or international students? International students who obtained their degree outside the Italian system.
• Eligible countries: All nationalities are generally eligible, provided they are not Italian citizens and do not reside in Italy.
• Minimum qualification needed: A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) earned outside the Italian university system. Applicants must meet the specific admission requirements for their chosen Master’s program.
• Required certifications: English proficiency at the B2 level or higher (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
• Required documents:
  • Academic transcripts and a Bachelor’s degree certificate.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Motivation letter.
  • English language proficiency certificate.
  • Passport copy.
  • Any other documents required for the chosen Master’s program?
• Whether the application is online or offline: The application is entirely online through the Apply@UniTO platform.

How to Apply for the University of Turin “Talents 4 UniTo” Scholarships

1. How to apply: Apply for admission to one of the eligible English-taught Master’s degree programs through the Apply@UniTO platform. By applying for admission, you are automatically considered for the scholarship.
2. How to create an account (if needed): You will need to create an account on the Apply@UniTO portal to submit your application.
3. Additional steps, if any:
   • Visit the Apply@UniTO platform.
   • Choose up to two eligible postgraduate courses.
   • Complete the online application form with all your personal and academic details.
   • Upload all required documents, including your English proficiency certificate.
   • Ensure your application highlights your academic excellence and coherence with your previous studies, as selection is merit-based.
   • Link to the official website: University of Turin

What are EDISU Piemonte Scholarships?

• Name of the institution offering the scholarship: EDISU Piemonte (Ente per il Diritto allo Studio Universitario del Piemonte) – The Regional Agency for the Right to University Education in Piedmont.
• Origin or background of the scholarship: EDISU Piemonte is a regional body that implements the “Right to University Education” policies, providing financial support to deserving students, both Italian and international, based on income and merit criteria.
• Who is the ideal candidate? Students (Italian and international) enrolled in universities in the Piedmont region (e.g., University of Turin, Politecnico di Torino) who demonstrate both academic merit and financial need.
• Total value of the scholarship: This is a fully funded scholarship that can cover tuition fees, provide a cash stipend, offer free or subsidized accommodation, and access to subsidized meal services. The exact value varies based on the student’s economic condition and whether they are an “on-site,” “commuter,” or “independent” student.
• Number of seats available: A large number of scholarships are awarded each year, as it aims to ensure the right to education for many students.
• Start date of the scholarship: The benefits commence with the start of the academic year, typically in September or October.
• Application deadline: For the 2025-2026 academic year, the general deadline for scholarship applications is typically around September 15, 2025. Deadlines for college placements can be earlier (e.g., August 4, 2025).
• Is the scholarship currently active? Yes, applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are currently open, with deadlines in August and September 2025.
• The month when applications usually open: Applications typically open in July or August.

EDISU Piemonte Scholarships Coverage

• Full or partial funding: Full funding, covering various aspects of student life.
• Tuition fees: Full exemption from university tuition fees.
• Living expenses: A cash stipend for living expenses, varying based on the student’s category (e.g., on-site, commuter).
• Books and study material: Not a separate allowance, but the cash stipend helps cover these costs.
• Travel expenses: Not specifically covered, but the scholarship may include a contribution towards accommodation for non-local students.
• Any other benefits:
  • Free or subsidized accommodation in EDISU residences.
  • Access to subsidized meal services at university canteens.
  • Possible degree award for graduating students.

Eligibility Criteria

• Is it for U.S. or international students? Both Italian and international students are enrolled in universities in the Piedmont region.
• Eligible countries: All nationalities are eligible, provided they meet the economic and merit criteria.
• Minimum qualification needed: Enrollment or intention to enroll in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program at a university in the Piedmont region. Specific merit requirements (ECTS credits) apply to students in the first year.
• Required certifications: No specific language certifications are typically required for the scholarship itself, but they might be needed for university admission.
• Required documents:
  • Proof of enrollment in a university in Piedmont.
  • Economic status documentation (ISEE Parificato for international students or equivalent income declaration from your home country, translated and legalized). This is crucial for proving financial need.
  • Academic transcripts/merit requirements (for students applying for subsequent years).
  • Passport/ID.
  • Other documents as specified in the official call for applications.
• Whether the application is online or offline: The application is entirely online through the EDISU Piemonte online services portal.

How to Apply for the EDISU Piemonte Scholarships

1. How to apply: Access the EDISU Piemonte online services portal.
2. How to create an account (if needed): You will need to register and create an account on the EDISU Piemonte portal, usually using SPID or CIE (for Italian residents) or specific credentials for international students.
3. Additional steps, if any:
   • Carefully read the “Call for Scholarship Applications” for the relevant academic year, paying close attention to the economic (ISEE) and merit requirements.
   • Fill out the online application form with all personal, academic, and economic data.
   • Upload all required documents, especially the economic declaration (ISEE Parificato or equivalent). This is a critical step for international students.
   • Submit your application before the deadline.
   • Monitor the EDISU portal for provisional and definitive outcomes.
   • Link to the official website: EDISU Piemonte

Conclusion

We have looked at many great fully funded scholarships for Master’s degrees in Italy. These include awards from the Italian Government and top universities like Politecnico di Milano, University of Milan, University of Padua, Bocconi, University of Turin, and EDISU Piemonte. Each scholarship offers wonderful support, covering your school fees and often your living costs. Remember to check each scholarship’s rules, gather your documents, and apply on time. Don’t miss your chance to study in Italy for free! Start your application today and make your dream of a Master’s degree in Italy come true.

FAQs

Can I apply for the Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI Scholarship) if I don’t speak Italian?

Yes, you can. If your chosen Master’s program is taught in English, you will need to show proof of English language skills. For programs in Italian, a B2 level of Italian is usually needed.

Does the Italian Government Scholarship cover all my living costs?

Yes, it does. This scholarship gives you a monthly payment to help with your living costs, like housing and food. It also covers your tuition fees.

Do I need a special application for Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based International Scholarships?

No, you do not. When you apply for a Master of Science program at Politecnico di Milano, you are automatically considered for these scholarships. They look at your school grades.

What does the Politecnico di Milano scholarship give me?

These scholarships fully cover your school fees. The top levels of the scholarship also give you extra money to help with living costs each year.

How many University of Milan Excellence Scholarships are given each year?

The University of Milan gives many scholarships each year. For 2025-2026, there were 160 awards for Master’s students. Some include money for living, and others are just for tuition.

Does the University of Milan Excellence Scholarship pay for my travel to Italy?

No, it usually does not. The scholarship covers your school fees and gives you money for living expenses. You will need to pay for your travel to Italy yourself.

Is the University of Padua International Excellence Scholarship Programme truly fully funded?

Yes, it is. This scholarship covers all your tuition fees. It also gives you €8,000 each year to help with your living expenses.

Do I need to apply separately for the Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards?

No, you do not. When you apply for a Master’s program at Bocconi, you are automatically considered for these awards. They look at how well you did in your past studies.

What is the full value of the University of Turin’s “Talents 4 UniTo” Scholarships?

This scholarship is worth €20,000 in total. You get €10,000 each year for two years to help with all your study and living costs.

Who can get an EDISU Piemonte Scholarship?

Students who are enrolling in universities in the Piedmont region of Italy can apply. Both Italian and international students can apply if they show good grades and financial need.