Best Scholarships in Italy for International Students

YesItaly 990
8 hours ago
4 min read

Studying in Italy is a dream for many students worldwide. With world-class universities, rich cultural history, and affordable living costs compared to other European countries, Italy has become a top destination for higher education. The good news is that there are plenty of scholarships in Italy for international students that make this journey more affordable.

This blog will guide you through the best scholarships in Italy, eligibility requirements, and tips to maximize your chances of winning financial aid.

Why Choose Italy for Higher Education?

Before we dive into scholarships, here’s why Italy is an amazing study destination:

Home to some of the oldest universities in Europe like the University of Bologna.
Wide range of programs in arts, science, engineering, fashion, and MBA in Italy.
Affordable tuition compared to countries like the USA or UK.
Great opportunities for part-time work and post-study employment.
Internationally recognized degrees.

All of these benefits become even more accessible if you secure a scholarship.

Types of Scholarships in Italy

International students can apply for a variety of scholarships offered by:

Italian Government Scholarships

For undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students.
Covers tuition fees, health insurance, and sometimes living expenses.

Regional Scholarships

Many Italian regions like Lazio and Tuscany offer scholarships based on merit or need.
These often include housing and meal support in addition to tuition.

University Scholarships

Almost every major university in Italy offers merit-based or need-based scholarships.
Example: University of Bologna Study Grants.

Program-Specific Scholarships

Particularly for specialized courses such as an MBA in Italy, fashion design, or engineering.

Scholarships by International Organizations

Programs like Erasmus+ also provide funding opportunities for students in Italy.

Top Scholarships in Italy for International Students

Here are some of the best opportunities:

Italian Government Scholarships

Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Available for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students.
Benefits: full or partial tuition fee waiver, health insurance, and monthly allowance.

University of Bologna Study Grants

One of the most popular scholarships in Italy.
Provides up to €11,000 for international students.
Open for undergraduate and master’s programs.

Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships

For students in engineering, architecture, and design.
Benefits include tuition fee exemption and additional financial support.

Bocconi University Scholarships

Perfect for business, economics, and management students.
Full tuition fee waivers available.
A great option if you are planning to pursue an MBA in Italy.

Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships

Fully funded scholarships for doctoral programs.
Includes tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

Regional Scholarships (EDISU Piemonte, LazioDisco, etc.)

Based on family income and merit.
Covers accommodation, meals, and tuition fees.

Scholarship in Italy for Indian Students

If you’re from India, the opportunities are especially attractive. Many Italian universities and organizations encourage Indian students to apply by offering dedicated scholarships.

Invest Your Talent in Italy Program – Specially designed for students from countries like India. It provides tuition fee waivers and internships with Italian companies.
Bocconi University Merit Awards – Highly competitive, but Indian students are strongly encouraged to apply.
Regional Scholarships – Many Indian students benefit from need-based scholarships that cover living and study expenses.
MBA in Italy Scholarships – Indian students applying for management programs can access specific funding, especially at universities like SDA Bocconi.

These options make it easier to pursue quality education without financial burden.

Eligibility for Scholarships in Italy

The requirements vary depending on the scholarship, but common criteria include:

Academic excellence and transcripts.
Proof of income (for need-based scholarships).
English or Italian language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Italian test).
Valid admission offer from an Italian university.
For some programs, work experience is required (especially for MBA in Italy scholarships).

How to Apply for Scholarships in Italy

Applying for scholarships can be competitive, but here’s a step-by-step approach:

Research Early – Start looking for scholarships as soon as you decide to study in Italy.

Check University Websites – Most scholarship details are published on official university portals.

Prepare Strong Documents – SOP (Statement of Purpose), LORs (Letters of Recommendation), and CV.

Meet Deadlines – Italian scholarships often have strict deadlines, usually between March and June.

Apply for Multiple Scholarships – Don’t limit yourself to one; increase your chances by applying to many.

Seek Guidance – Education consultants like YES Italy can help streamline your application.

Tips to Increase Your Chances

Maintain a strong academic record.
Showcase extracurricular achievements and leadership skills.
Highlight your motivation for choosing Italy.
Prepare a clear plan for your career after graduation.
For Indian students, mention how a scholarship in Italy for Indian students will help you contribute back to your home country.

Cost of Living and Scholarship Support

Even with affordable tuition, living in Italy can be expensive for some students. On average:

Accommodation: €300–€600 per month.
Food: €150–€250 per month.
Transportation: €30–€50 per month.
Miscellaneous: €100–€200 per month.

Most scholarships in Italy provide enough support to cover these costs, making your education nearly free or very affordable.

MBA in Italy – Scholarship Opportunities

If you are aiming for an MBA in Italy, you’re in luck. Business schools like SDA Bocconi, Politecnico di Milano, and LUISS Business School offer generous scholarships.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to students with excellent academic and professional backgrounds.
Women in Leadership Scholarships: Encouraging women in management roles.
Corporate Scholarships: Supported by Italian companies for future leaders.

An MBA in Italy is globally recognized and often costs less than programs in the US or UK, especially with scholarships.

Final Thoughts

Italy offers countless opportunities for international students to pursue higher education without breaking the bank. From government funding to regional and university-specific awards, there’s a wide range of scholarships in Italy to explore.

Whether you’re searching for a scholarship in Italy for Indian students or planning to pursue an MBA in Italy, the right financial aid can make your dream of studying in Italy a reality.

Start early, stay organized, and make use of every opportunity to secure funding. With the right scholarship, your Italian education journey can be smooth, affordable, and life-changing.