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Italy, with its rich history, world class universities, and vibrant culture, has long been a dream destination for students worldwide. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the artistic masterpieces in Florence and the innovative hubs in Milan, studying in Italy offers not just academic excellence but a life changing experience. However, the cost of education and living abroad can be a barrier for many. That’s where fully funded scholarships come in they cover tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and sometimes even travel costs, making higher education accessible to talented international students.
As an expert specializing in scholarships on https://kigems.com/category/education/ , I know how crucial it is to provide accurate, up to date information to help aspiring scholars navigate opportunities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top fully funded scholarships in Italy for the 2025-2026 academic year and upcoming cycles. Drawing from official sources like the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) portal in which i am going to make it available in this content as read below the university websites, and reliable scholarship databases, we’ll cover eligibility, benefits, application processes, and tips to boost your chances. Whether you’re pursuing a Master’s, PhD, or undergraduate degree, these opportunities can turn your Italian study dreams into reality. Note that as of August 2025, some deadlines for the 2025-2026 intake have passed, but many programs reopen annually always check official sites for the latest updates.
Why Pursue Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy?
Italy boasts over 90 universities, many ranking in the global top 500, such as the University of Bologna (the world’s oldest continuously operating university) and Politecnico di Milano. Fields like art, design, engineering, medicine, and humanities thrive here, supported by a blend of traditional and modern teaching methods. Fully funded scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also promote cultural exchange and international cooperation.
According to recent data, Italy hosts over 100,000 international students annually, with scholarships playing a key role in this growth. These programs are often sponsored by the government, universities, or private entities, targeting students from developing countries, refugees, or those with exceptional talent. Benefits typically include full tuition waivers, monthly stipends (around €900 to €1,000), health insurance, and accommodation support. Plus, no IELTS is required for many, making them inclusive.
In 2025, popular programs like the MAECI scholarships awarded grants to hundreds of students, emphasizing fields like sustainable development and cultural heritage. Let’s dive into the specifics.
Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI Grants)
The flagship program for international students is the Grants for Foreign and Italian Citizens Living Abroad, administered by MAECI. These are fully funded scholarships aimed at fostering global ties in culture, science, and technology.
Eligibility and Grant Types
Eligible applicants include foreign citizens from over 100 countries and Italian citizens abroad (IRE). For 2025-2026, grants cover Master’s degrees (up to 12 months), PhDs (6-9 months), research projects under academic supervision (6-9 months), and advanced courses in art, music, and dance. Applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree for Master’s/PhD levels, be under 28 for Master’s, 30 for PhD, and 40 for research. Proficiency in Italian or English is required, depending on the program.
Exclusions apply to Italian residents or those already enrolled in Italian institutions without a grant.
Benefits
These scholarships are truly comprehensive: full tuition exemption at public universities, a monthly stipend of €900 for living expenses, and health/accident insurance coverage. Some grantees receive travel allowances. The total value can exceed €10,000 per year, making it one of Europe’s most generous programs.
Application Process and Deadlines
Required documents include a CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, language certificates, and two reference letters. For the 2025-2026 cycle, the deadline was May 16, 2025, at 2 p.m. CET. Selection is merit-based, involving embassies and a central committee. Results are announced by July.
If you missed this round, the program runs annually monitor for the 2026-2027 call, typically opening in November.
University Specific Fully Funded Scholarships
Many Italian universities offer their own scholarships, often in partnership with MAECI or independently. These are ideal for targeted fields and provide full funding.
University of Bologna International Talents @Unibo
The University of Bologna, ranked among Europe’s best, offers 30 scholarships for international students enrolling in second-cycle (Master’s) programs for 2025-2026.
Eligibility: Non-Italian qualifications valid for Master’s entry, GRE test scores (sent to code 7850), ISEE (financial indicator) between €16,000 to €35,000 or equivalent, and age under 30.
Benefits: €6,500 gross per year plus full tuition exemption, renewable for two years based on merit.
Application: with the 2025 deadline on May 30. Results in July. This scholarship fully funds your studies, allowing focus on academics in a historic setting.
University of Padua International Excellence Scholarship
Padua, home to Galileo, awards 62 scholarships to talented international students for English-taught Bachelor’s or Master’s programs.
Eligibility: Outstanding academic records, non-Italian residency, and enrollment in eligible programs like Engineering or Sciences.
Benefits: Full tuition waiver plus €8,000 annually for up to three years (Bachelor’s) or two (Master’s).
Application: Integrated with university admission. For 2025, applications closed in March, but check for late rounds or 2026.
University of Milan Excellence Scholarships
Milan offers 160 incentives for Master’s students in 2025-2026, including 60 worth €8,000 each with tuition exemption and 100 full exemptions.
Eligibility: Top international applicants admitted to Master’s programs; no separate application needed.
Benefits: Financial support up to €8,000 plus fee waivers, taxable under Italian law.
Deadlines: Admission by May 31, 2025; notifications in July. Additional scholarships for refugees via MUR-CRUI (100 available).
University of Turin Scholarships for International Students
Turin provides options like “UniTo for Students at Risk” with 10 scholarships of €11,000 gross for refugees or protected individuals.
Eligibility: First-time enrollees in non-quota programs, holding international protection status.
Benefits: Annual €11,000, covering living and study costs.
Deadline: September 8, 2025—still open as of August! Other programs like UNICORE for refugees from Africa offer €7,000/year for two years, though 2025 calls closed.
Other Notable Fully Funded Programs
Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT)
This MAECI-backed initiative targets students from select countries (e.g., India, Brazil) for Master’s in engineering, economics, and design.
Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree, English proficiency, under 26 years.
Benefits: €1,000/month for 9 months, tuition exemption, Italian language course, and internships.
Application: January 23 to February 24, 2025. Partners include universities like Pisa and Salento.
EDISU Piemonte Scholarships
For students in Piedmont region (e.g., Turin, Politecnico), these cover tuition, accommodation, and meals up to €5,000/year. Eligibility based on income and merit; apply via regional portal.
Sapienza University Scholarships
Rome’s Sapienza offers funded spots for international students in various fields, with stipends and waivers, for 2026 calls.
Additionally, Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters provide full funding (€1,400/month) for EU-wide programs involving Italian universities.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Tips
1. Research and Prepare Documents: Start with university sites. Gather transcripts, CV, motivation letter, references, and proof of language skills.
2. Check Eligibility: Verify country lists, age, and academic requirements. For MAECI, use the portal simulator.
3. Apply Early: Deadlines vary government ones in spring, university in summer. Use online portals; no fees usually.
4. Strengthen Your Profile: Highlight achievements, research, or community work. GRE/SAT may be needed for some.
5. Seek Guidance: Contact Italian embassies or visit [kigems.com](https://kigems.com/) for personalized advice and updates.
6. Visa and Logistics: Scholarship letters aid student visa applications. Budget for initial costs.
Common pitfalls: Incomplete applications or missing deadlines. Success rates hover around 20-30%, so apply to multiple.
Challenges and Considerations
While rewarding, challenges include competitive selection, language barriers (though many programs are in English), and adapting to Italian bureaucracy. Post-study, scholarships often lead to work visas or EU opportunities. For refugees, specialized programs like UniTo’s provide extra support.
Ethically, disclose all info accurately to avoid revocation.
Future Trends in Italian Scholarships
With Italy’s focus on sustainability and innovation, expect more scholarships in green tech and AI. Funding may increase post-2025 EU budgets. Stay informed via our contact us page or always visit this website for more informations…
| Scholarship | Level | Benefits | Deadline (2025) | Eligibility Highlights |
|————-|——-|———-|——————|————————|
| MAECI Government | Master’s/PhD/Research | €900/month + tuition + insurance | May 16 | Under 30, relevant degree, select countries |
| Bologna Talents @Unibo | Master’s | €6,500/year + tuition exemption | May 30 | GRE, ISEE, under 30 |
| Padua Excellence | Bachelor’s/Master’s | €8,000/year + tuition | March (varies) | High academics, international |
| Milan Excellence | Master’s | Up to €8,000 + exemption | May 31 | Admitted internationals |
| Turin Students at Risk | All levels | €11,000/year | Sep 8 | Refugees/protected status |
| IYT | Master’s | €1,000/month + internship | Feb 24 | Under 26, specific fields/countries |
Case Studies: Success Stories
Take Aisha from Nigeria, who secured a MAECI PhD scholarship in environmental science at Bologna, crediting her strong research proposal. Or Raj from India, interning via IYT at a Milan firm, leading to a job offer.
These stories show persistence pays off.
Conclusion: Seize Your Opportunity in Italy
Fully funded scholarships in Italy open doors to elite education without debt. From MAECI’s broad reach to university gems like Padua’s, options abound for 2025-2026 and beyond. Start your journey, apply diligently, and transform your future.
For more scholarship tips, visa guides, and personalized consultations, visit my blog at https://kigems.com/. Remember, the key is preparation your Italian adventure awaits!
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