Last Updated: 02-Jul-2026

Scholarships in Italy 2026: Types, Government, University & Private Funding

Italy is one of Europe's top study destinations for international students, known for its historic universities, globally recognised degrees, and strong academic reputation. Compared with many other Western study destinations, studying in Italy for Indian students is relatively affordable, with public universities offering low tuition fees and an increasing number of English-taught programmes.

To make higher education even more accessible, Indian students can apply for 15+ scholarships in Italy for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 academic cycles. These include prestigious government-funded, university-funded, regional, and European Union scholarships. Even with affordable tuition, students still need to budget for accommodation, living expenses, health insurance, and travel. Scholarships in Italy for Indian students, whether fully funded or merit-based can significantly reduce these costs at the Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels. With the right planning, Indian students can secure a fully funded scholarship or a substantial need-based award and pursue a world-class education in Italy at a genuinely affordable cost.

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What Are the Top Scholarships in Italy for Indian Students?

Indian students can apply for government, university, EU-funded, regional, and private scholarships to reduce the cost of studying in Italy. The table below highlights the most popular scholarships, their funding amount, eligibility, and expected application timelines.

Benefits of Scholarships in Italy

Studying in Italy is already more affordable compared to many other countries, and scholarships make it even easier for students to manage their expenses. These scholarships reduce financial pressure and help students focus on their education.

• Affordable Education: Many scholarships in Italy cover full or partial tuition fees. This helps students study without spending too much money.
• Help with Living Costs: Some scholarships provide monthly allowances, free accommodation, or food support. This makes it easier to manage daily expenses.
• Better Career Opportunities: Getting a scholarship adds value to your profile. It shows your academic strength and can help you get internships and job opportunities.
• Chance to Study in Top Universities: Scholarships make it possible to study in well-known universities in Italy, which may otherwise be expensive.

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Types of Scholarships in Italy for Indian Students

Italy offers many scholarship options for Indian students who want to study Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs. These scholarships mainly help cover living expenses like accommodation, food, health insurance, travel, and study materials.

Scholarships in Italy are mainly divided into three types:

Government Scholarships:

These are provided by the Italian government, regional authorities, or the European Union. They are usually competitive and based on merit. They may include monthly payments, travel support, health insurance, and sometimes full tuition fee coverage.

Non-Government Scholarships:

These are offered by private organizations, foundations, or companies. They may be given based on academic performance, leadership skills, or specific fields of study.

University Scholarships:

These are offered by Italian universities to attract international students. They are usually based on merit or financial need and provide partial financial support for a certain period.

Government-Funded Scholarships in Italy

What Is the MAECI Scholarship?

The MAECI Scholarship is the Italian Government's flagship scholarship programme offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI). It supports international students, including Indians, pursuing Master's, PhD, AFAM (Higher Education in Arts, Music and Dance), research programmes, and Italian language courses in Italy.

For the 2026-27 academic year, the scholarship provides €10,800 over nine months, paid in three instalments, along with a tuition fee waiver, enrolment fee exemption, and health and medical insurance. Applications are submitted through the Study in Italy portal and processed in coordination with the Italian Embassy or Consulate in India.

The MAECI Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships available to Indian students and aims to strengthen academic, scientific, and cultural cooperation between Italy and partner countries. It is highly competitive, with applicants evaluated on academic achievements, language proficiency, and supporting documents.

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What Is the DSU Scholarship (Diritto allo Studio Universitario)?

The DSU Scholarship (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) is a need-based regional financial aid programme designed to support students studying at Italian public universities. Unlike the MAECI Scholarship, DSU is managed separately by each Italian region, with organisations such as ER.GO (Emilia-Romagna) and DiSCo Lazio (Rome) administering the grants.

For the 2026-27 academic year, eligible students can receive €1,445 to €8,605 per year, along with benefits such as subsidised accommodation, university canteen services, and other student welfare support. Eligibility is primarily determined using the ISEE Parificato, which assesses the financial status of international families.

Since the ISEE Parificato requires financial documents to be translated, legalised, and verified through the Italian Embassy or Consulate, Indian students should begin preparing the required documents well before the application deadline.

What Is the Erasmus+ Scholarship in Italy?

The Erasmus+ Scholarship is a European Union-funded programme administered by the European Commission that supports international students pursuing Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degrees (EMJMDs). These programmes are jointly delivered by two or more universities across different European countries, with many prestigious Italian universities participating.

For Indian students, Erasmus+ is one of the most comprehensive fully funded scholarships in Italy, covering 100% of tuition fees and providing an all-inclusive monthly stipend of €1,400 to help with living expenses, travel, and installation costs for up to 24 months.

Indian students can apply to Erasmus Mundus programmes offered by Italian universities or by international university consortia that include Italy as a study destination. Since each programme has its own admission timeline and eligibility criteria, applicants should begin researching and preparing their applications well in advance.

What Is the Invest Your Talent in Italy Programme?

Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) is a prestigious scholarship programme jointly offered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), the Italian Trade Agency (ICE), and Confindustria. The programme combines a Master's scholarship with a guaranteed internship at an Italian company, providing both academic and professional experience.

It is specifically designed for talented international students pursuing English-taught Master's programmes in Engineering, High Technology, Architecture, Design, Economics, and Management.

A key feature of the programme is the mandatory three-month internship with an Italian company, which must be completed before the end of the second year. This makes the scholarship particularly attractive for Indian students seeking international work experience alongside their studies.

Non-Government Scholarships in Italy

What Are the MSCA (Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions) Fellowships?

The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Fellowships are prestigious research fellowships funded by the European Union's Horizon Europe programme. Although they are not exclusive to Italy, many leading Italian universities and research institutions host MSCA-funded researchers, making them one of the most attractive funding opportunities for Indian PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers.

MSCA Fellowships offer competitive monthly funding, mobility support, and opportunities to conduct cutting-edge research across a wide range of academic disciplines.

MSCA Fellowships are ideal for Indian researchers seeking internationally recognised research experience, competitive funding, and collaborations with leading Italian universities and research organisations.

Fondazione Edu Scholarship

The Fondazione Edu Scholarship supports international students pursuing Master's programmes in Italy, particularly in Business, Management, and Social Sciences. The scholarship recognises students with strong academic achievements, leadership potential, and clear career goals.

What Is the ENI Award?

The ENI Award is an international research award sponsored by ENI S.p.A., one of Italy's leading energy companies. It supports innovative research in energy, environmental science, sustainability, and related fields.

The ENI Award is particularly suitable for Indian researchers working on sustainable energy, climate change, environmental engineering, and related technologies.

What Is the Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship?

The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarship provides funding for graduate-level study in Italy and other countries. It supports programmes aligned with Rotary's Areas of Focus, including peacebuilding, education, public health, environmental sustainability, and community development.

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What Is the Marco Polo Scholarship?

The Marco Polo Scholarship refers to regional and university-level scholarship programmes designed to encourage international student mobility, particularly for students from Asian countries. Funding and eligibility vary by institution.

University-Specific Scholarships in Italy

University of Bologna Excellence Scholarship

The University of Bologna, one of the world's oldest universities, offers merit-based excellence scholarships to outstanding international students.

Scholarship Amount:

• Up to €11,059 per year
• Covers tuition fees and contributes to living expenses

Selection is based on academic excellence and the quality of the student's application. Indian students applying to Bologna's international Master's programs are eligible.

Politecnico di Milano Scholarship

Politecnico di Milano is Italy's top engineering and design university. It offers merit-based scholarships to international students enrolled in its English-taught Master's programs.

Scholarship Amount:

• Partial to full tuition waiver
• €5,000 to €10,000 per year depending on merit

Students with strong academic backgrounds in engineering, architecture, and design have a strong chance of qualifying. Applications are submitted through the university's online portal during the admission process.

Sapienza University of Rome Scholarship

Sapienza University, one of the largest universities in Europe, offers scholarships to international students through its own funding and regional DSU support.

Scholarship Amount:

• Tuition fee reduction of up to 100 percent based on income and merit
• Monthly allowances for qualifying students through DSU

Indian students enrolled in full-time programs at Sapienza can apply through the university's international scholarship office.

Scuola Normale Superiore Excellence Fellowship

Scuola Normale Superiore in Pisa offers highly competitive fellowships for Ph.D. and research students in humanities, sciences, and social sciences.

Scholarship Amount:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Monthly fellowship of approximately €1,100
• Accommodation support

This fellowship is among the most prestigious in Italy and is suited for academically exceptional Indian students pursuing doctoral research.

University of Padova International Scholarships

The University of Padova offers International Excellence Scholarships to top international Master's students.

Scholarship Amount:

• €8,000 per year
• Renewable based on academic performance

Students must apply directly to the university as part of the admission process and demonstrate outstanding academic results.

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Top Scholarships in Italy

MAECI vs Erasmus+: Which Italy Scholarship Should You Choose?

MAECI and Erasmus+ are two of the most popular scholarships for Indian students who want to study in Italy. However, they are meant for different types of students.

• MAECI Scholarship is offered by the Italian Government. It supports students studying at one university in Italy.
• Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus is funded by the European Union. Students study at two or more universities in different European countries, with Italy being one of them.

Which Italy Scholarship Is Best for You?

The best scholarship depends on your education, financial situation, and career goals.

Can You Get an Italy Scholarship Without IELTS?

Many Italian universities require proof of English language skills for English-taught courses. The required level is usually CEFR B2, which is equal to about IELTS 5.5-6.0, depending on the university.

Some universities allow students to study without IELTS if they submit a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from their previous college or university. This certificate confirms that your previous education was taught in English.

Here are some examples:

• Politecnico di Milano: IELTS 6.0 is required.
• University of Padova: Usually accepts IELTS 6.0 for B2-level programmes and IELTS 5.0 for some B1-level programmes.
• Some University of Bologna programmes: Accept IELTS 5.5.
• Italian-taught programmes: Require Italian language certificates such as CILS B2 or CELI 3 instead of IELTS.
• MAECI Scholarship: Accepts proof of either English or Italian language proficiency, depending on your programme.

Always check the language requirements on the official university website before applying, as they may differ between programmes.

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Most affordable universities in Italy

Steps to Apply for Scholarships in Italy from India

Step 1: Choose Your Course and University

Decide which subject you want to study and at which level. Shortlist Italian universities offering your chosen program in English or Italian. Check language requirements such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Italian language certifications like CILS or CELI.

Step 2: Research Available Scholarships

Search for government, foundation, and university-specific scholarships relevant to your field. Read eligibility criteria, benefits, and application deadlines carefully on official portals.

Step 3: Check Eligibility Requirements

Confirm you meet all conditions including minimum academic marks, language scores, age limits, and financial documentation requirements.

Step 4: Prepare Required Documents

Collect academic transcripts, certificates, a valid passport, language test scores, a Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, and your CV. Some scholarships also require a research proposal or portfolio.

Step 5: Apply for University Admission

Apply through the university portal or the Universitaly platform, which is Italy's official gateway for international student admissions. Secure your admission letter before applying for most scholarships.

Step 6: Submit the Scholarship Application

Apply through the official scholarship portal before the deadline. Write a clear and honest motivation letter explaining your goals, academic strengths, and reasons for choosing Italy.

Step 7: Attend Interview if Required

Some scholarships conduct online interviews. Prepare to discuss your academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing your specific program and university.

Step 8: Receive Scholarship Confirmation

If selected, you will receive an official award letter with funding details. Keep this document for your visa application.

Step 9: Apply for an Italian Student Visa

Use your admission letter and scholarship confirmation to apply for an Italian student visa from the Italian Embassy in India. The scholarship letter serves as proof of financial support.

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Requirements to Apply for Scholarships in Italy

• Strong academic records from previous studies
• Admission letter from an Italian university
• English language test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL, or Italian language certification such as CILS or CELI
• Statement of Purpose explaining your study goals and scholarship need
• One or two letters of recommendation from teachers or employers
• Updated CV with education and work details
• Work experience certificate if required by the scholarship
• Proof of financial need such as income certificate or bank statement for need-based scholarships
• Valid passport copy

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Selection

• Choose a program that clearly matches your academic background and career goals
• Highlight any research projects, internships, publications, or awards in your application
• Learn about the Italian university you are applying to and tailor your application accordingly
• Write a compelling and honest motivation letter that clearly explains your strengths and aspirations
• Apply for more than one scholarship at the same time to increase your chances
• Begin your preparation at least 12 to 15 months before your intended start date

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Your Path to Studying in Italy with Scholarships

Studying in Italy is a rewarding opportunity for Indian students seeking high-quality education in one of the world's most historically rich academic environments. Italy offers a broad range of scholarship options, from the prestigious MAECI Government Scholarship to foundation grants and university-specific funding. Monthly support typically ranges from €900 to €1,400 for government and foundation scholarships, with additional benefits such as tuition waivers, travel allowances, and health insurance.

These scholarships are competitive. Prepare carefully, meet all eligibility requirements, submit complete documents, and articulate your academic strengths and career goals clearly. With proper planning and dedication, your dream of studying in Italy with a scholarship can absolutely become a reality.

How Can Y-Axis Help You Secure Scholarships in Italy?

Y-Axis offers complete support for students who want to apply for scholarships in Italy. We guide you through every step, from choosing the right scholarship to getting your student visa.

At Y-Axis, we help you with:

• Y-Path Guidance: Helps you choose the right scholarships like MAECI, Erasmus+, DSU, and university options based on your profile
• Coaching Support: Improve your IELTS, TOEFL,
• Application Help: Assistance with filling forms and submitting scholarship applications
• Document Preparation: Support for writing SOPs, LORs, CVs, and research proposals
• University & Visa Support: Help with university admission and Italian student visa process
• Financial Guidance: Assistance with financial documents, blocked account, and income proof