Did you know that over 12,000 Indian students are currently studying in Italy? Just a decade ago, this number was only 250, showing how Italy has become a top destination for Indian students. In 2023 alone, more than 6,100 Indian students enrolled in Italian universities, and by 2025, this number is expected to rise by 22.2%.
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With affordable tuition fees, globally ranked universities, and a variety of scholarships, studying in Italy has never been more accessible. Whether you're applying for a government-funded scholarship, a university grant, or regional financial aid, you have multiple opportunities to reduce your costs.
This guide will walk you through the best Italy scholarship for indian students, their eligibility criteria, and a step-by-step application process to help you secure funding for your education.
Key Highlights
Here’s a quick overview of everything you will learn in this blog about Italy scholarship for indian students.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Scholarships Available Annually | Over 1,200 government scholarships |
| Top Italy Scholarship for Indian Students | Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) ScholarshipUniversity of Padova International Excellence GrantBocconi Graduate Merit Awards |
| Private Scholarships Funding | Up to EUR 38.5K (INR 36L) for top programs |
| Tuition Fees at Public Universities | EUR 900 to EUR 4K (INR 84K to INR 3.7L) per year |
| Monthly Stipend for MAECI & IYT Scholarships | EUR 900 (INR 84K) paid in installments |
| Italy Scholarship for Indian Students Average Reward Amount | EUR 900 to EUR 20K (INR 84K to 18.6L) total amount |
Why Study in Italy?
Italy is home to some of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities such as the University of Bologna, founded in 1088, offering high-quality education at relatively lower costs compared to other European countries.
If you're considering studying abroad, Italy provides some key benefits such as the following.
- Globally Ranked Universities: Italy has 81 public and private universities, including some of the oldest institutions in the world.
- Diverse Study Fields: In 2023/2024, over 270,000 students enrolled in medicine and healthcare, while 265,000 pursued economics. Another 235,000 students studied industrial and information engineering, making these some of the most popular fields.
- Affordable Education: Tuition fees at public universities range from EUR 900 to EUR 4K (INR 84K to INR 3.7L) per year, significantly lower than in many other European countries.
- Post-Graduation Opportunities: Italy offers post-study work permits, allowing you to stay and work for up to 12 months after graduation.
Read More: Top Public Universities in Italy
How Scholarships Can Help Reduce Costs?
Studying in Italy is already more affordable than in many other countries, but Italy scholarship for indian students can further reduce tuition fees, accommodation costs, and living expenses. With over 1,200 government scholarships awarded annually and more than 500 regional scholarships, there are plenty of funding options available.
Types of Scholarships Italy Scholarship for Indian Students
If you're planning to study in Italy, you’ll find multiple Italy scholarship for indian students to help reduce your education costs. These scholarships come from government programs, universities, and regional authorities, offering financial aid for tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
1. Government-Funded Scholarships
The Italian government offers several scholarships to support international students, including those from India. Approximately 15,000 candidates apply for Italian Government Scholarships, but only 1,200 scholarships are awarded each year giving a selection rate of just 8%.
Here are some of the top Italy scholarship for indian students.
| Italy Scholarship for Indian Students | Reward Amount | Funded By |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI) | EUR 900 (INR 84K ) per month stipend | Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation (MAECI) |
| Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) Scholarship | EUR 9K (INR 8.3L) total EUR1K (INR 93K) per month till 9 months | Italian Government (IYT Program) |
| Regional Scholarships (DSU Grants) | Free/subsidised accommodation, meal plans, and tuition fee assistance | Regional Governments (Tuscany, Lazio, Lombardy) |
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2. Private & External Scholarships
Many private organisations, NGOs, and regional governments also offer scholarships for Indian students. Here are some top private Italy scholarship for indian students.
| Italy Scholarship for Indian Students | Reward Amount | Funded By |
|---|---|---|
| Edison Scholarship | USD 12.5K (INR 11.6) per year | Edison Global Energy Advisory |
| Enel Scholarship | Varies (Merit-Based) | Enel (Italian Multinational) |
| Intesa Sanpaolo Scholarship for Law | EUR 38.5K (INR 36L) for 1 year | Intesa Sanpaolo Banking Group |
3. University Scholarships
Italy has 81 public and private universities, many of which offer scholarships specifically for international students. These university-funded scholarships can help cover tuition fees and additional costs, making it easier for you to study in Italy.
Here are some of the top universities that provide Italy scholarship for indian students.
| University | Italy Scholarship for Indian Students | Reward Amount |
|---|---|---|
| University of Turin | UniTo for Students at Risk Scholarships | EUR 9.6K (INR 9L) two-year scholarships |
| University of Bologna | Unibo Action 1 & 2 Scholarships | Up to EUR 11K (INR 10.2) annually for tuition & living costs |
| Bocconi University | Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards | Up to EUR 14K (INR 13L) per year |
Also Read: Study in Italy for Indian Students
Top 10 Italy Scholarship for Indian Students
Italy offers various scholarships covering tuition fees and living costs. Over 7.44% of Italy government spending was allocated to education, highlighting its commitment to students. These scholarships can help Indian students reduce financial burdens while studying in Italy.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 Italy scholarship for Indian students.
1. Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI)
The Italian Government Scholarships provide tuition exemptions and a monthly stipend to international students, including Indian applicants. Grants are awarded for 6 to 9 months and help cover living expenses and health insurance.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation (MAECI) |
| Number of Scholarships Available | 300 annually |
| Application Deadline | June (tentative) |
| Duration | 6 to 9 months |
| Age Limit | Maximum 28 years by the deadline of the call |
| Language Proficiency | B2 in Italian (for Italian-taught courses) B2 in English (for English-taught courses) |
| Other Requirements | Must be from an eligible foreign countryHold a recognised academic qualification |
2. Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) Scholarship
The Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) Scholarship supports talented international students like you pursuing Master’s degrees in fields like engineering, advanced technologies, management, and economics.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | Italian Government (IYT Program) |
| Number of Scholarships Available | Around 200 annually |
| Application Deadline | February 24, 2025 |
| Duration | 9 months |
| Age Limit | Be born on or after January 1st, 1999 |
| Language Proficiency | At least a B2 level English language certificate |
| Other Requirements | Must hold a Bachelor’s degree |
| Should be applying for a Master’s program in an eligible field |
3. Regional Scholarships (DSU Grants)
The DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) Grants are funded by regional governments in Italy, such as Tuscany, Lazio, and Lombardy. These scholarships provide financial aid for tuition fees, accommodation, meal plans, and living expenses.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | Regional Governments (Tuscany, Lazio, Lombardy, etc.) |
| Number of Scholarships Available | Around 500 annually |
| Application Deadline | Varies by region (typically August-September) |
| Duration | One academic year |
| Age Limit | No specific age limit |
| Language Proficiency | Varies by university (depends on the course language requirements) |
| Other Requirements | Must demonstrate financial needFull-time student enrolled in a recognised Italian universityA satisfactory academic record |
4. Unibo Action 1 & 2 Scholarships
The University of Bologna offers the Unibo Action 1 & 2 Scholarships to attract talented international students like you. These scholarships help cover tuition fees and living expenses, making it easier for you to pursue studies at one of Italy’s top universities.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | University of Bologna |
| Number of Scholarships Available | varies annually |
| Application Deadline | May 30, 2025 |
| Duration | One academic year (renewable for the second year in Master’s programs) |
| Age Limit | Maximum 30 years |
| Language Proficiency | B2 in English or Italian |
| Other Requirements | A valid qualification for your degree program from an institution outside of ItalyMeet the admission requirements for your chosen degree program |
5. Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships
The Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships are awarded to students enrolling in Master’s programs at the university. These scholarships cover full or partial tuition fees.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | Politecnico di Milano |
| Number of Scholarships Available | 75 per year |
| Application Deadline | March 4, 2025 |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Age Limit | No specific age limit |
| Language Proficiency | B2 in English or Italian (depending on the course language) |
| Other Requirements | - Must have an outstanding academic record |
| - Applying for a Master’s degree at Politecnico di Milano |
6. University of Padova International Excellence Grant
The University of Padova International Excellence Grant is designed for high-achieving international students like you pursuing Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | University of Padova |
| Number of Scholarships Available | 60 to 62 |
| Application Deadline | March 31, 2025 |
| Duration | Bachelor’s: 3 yearsMaster’s: 2 years |
| Age Limit | 28 to 30 years |
| Language Proficiency | B2 in English |
| Other Requirements | Must have an excellent academic recordApply to a degree program taught in EnglishApplying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at the University of Padova |
7. Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards
The Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards are offered to outstanding international students like you enrolling in Master’s programs at Bocconi University. These scholarships cover full or partial tuition fees, with some offering additional financial aid for living expenses.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | Bocconi University |
| Number of Scholarships Available | Limited (varies annually) |
| Application Deadline | May 2025 |
| Duration | Full degree duration |
| Age Limit | No specific age limit |
| Language Proficiency | English proficiency at a B2 level |
| Other Requirements | Must have an outstanding academic record |
| Must be first-year graduate applicants for the academic year 2025- 2026 |
8. UniTo for Students at Risk
The UniTo for Students at Risk scholarship is designed to support international students facing difficult socio-political situations in their home countries. It provides tuition waivers and financial grants to help students pursue their studies at the University of Turin.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | University of Turin |
| Number of Scholarships Available | varies annually |
| Application Deadline | September (tentative) |
| Duration | A full academic year |
| Age Limit | No specific age limit |
| Language Proficiency | At least level B1 (BEC Vantage, FCE and C, IELTS) |
| Other Requirements | Must be from a crisis-affected regionHold a residence permit for international protection (asylum/refugee status or subsidiary protection)Applying for a Master’s program at the University of Turin |
9. Politecnico di Torino Scholarships
The Politecnico di Torino Scholarships are awarded to exceptional international students enrolling in engineering, architecture, and technology programs in Italy’s top technical universities.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | Politecnico di Torino |
| Number of Scholarships Available | varies by program and year |
| Application Deadline | July (tentative) |
| Duration | 1 to 2 year |
| Age Limit | 30 years |
| Language Proficiency | IELTS: 5.5+ |
| Other Requirements | Be an international student (non-EU) who needs a study visaPass the Politecnico admission test with a score of at least 70Have a high school diploma from outside Italy |
10. UniTrento Scholarships
The UniTrento Scholarships are awarded to international students, with a special focus on female students in STEM fields. These scholarships provide financial assistance to support tuition fees for Bachelor's and Master’s programs at the University of Trento.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funded By | University of Trento |
| Number of Scholarships Available | Varies |
| Application Deadline | March 6, 2025 |
| Duration | Full degree duration UG: 3 years PG: 2 years |
| Age Limit | 35 years |
| Language Proficiency | CEFR: B2 |
| Other Requirements | - Must have a strong academic record |
| - Female students in STEM fields are encouraged to apply |
Read More: Cost of Studying in Italy
How to Apply for an Italy Scholarship for Indian Students?
Applying for Italy scholarship for indian students requires careful planning, as deadlines and requirements vary across different programs. Follow these steps to increase your chances of securing funding.
Step 1: Research Scholarships
Look for government, university, and private scholarships. Check the eligibility criteria, including academic scores, language proficiency, and financial requirements.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Gather essential documents before applying for Italy scholarship for indian students. These usually include the following.
- Academic transcripts
- IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT scores
- Letters of recommendation from professors or employers
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Passport (valid for at least six months)
Some scholarships may also require: - Portfolio (for creative courses like art or design)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Italian language proficiency test (if studying in Italian)
Step 3: Apply to Italian Universities
Choose a recognised university offering your desired course. Secure an admission letter, as most scholarships require proof of enrolment before applying.
Step 4: Submit the Scholarship Application
Register on the official scholarship portal and create an account. Fill out the online application form carefully and upload all required documents before the deadline.
Step 5: Apply for Additional Scholarships
Many regions offer DSU grants and other local scholarships. If eligible, apply for extra financial aid alongside your primary scholarship.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
Mistakes in your scholarship application can lead to rejections or delays. Avoid these common errors to improve your chances of securing funding.
1. Missing Deadlines
Many scholarships have strict application deadlines. Submitting late or at the last minute may result in rejection. Keep track of important dates and apply well in advance.
2. Ignoring Eligibility Criteria
Applying for Italy scholarship for indian students without meeting the requirements is a waste of time. Carefully read the academic, financial, and language criteria before applying.
3. Submitting Poorly Written Documents
Weak letters of motivation or badly structured CVs can hurt your application. Keep your writing clear, concise, and relevant to your academic and career goals.
4. Not Preparing for Language Requirements
Italy scholarship for indian students requires English or Italian proficiency. Ensure you have the required IELTS, TOEFL, or Italian language certification before applying.
5. Applying Without University Admission
Some scholarships require proof of enrolment at an Italian university. Secure an admission letter before starting your scholarship application.
6. Using Generic Applications
A one-size-fits-all application can weaken your chances. Customise each application to match the specific scholarship criteria and focus on what makes you a strong candidate.
Read Next: Italy Student Visa
Securing an Italy scholarship for indian students can significantly reduce your study costs and open doors to top universities. By following the right application process and avoiding common mistakes, you can improve your chances of receiving financial support.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Does Italy give scholarships for Indian students?
A. Yes, there are multiple Italy scholarship for Indian students, including government-funded, university, and private scholarships. Popular options include MAECI, scholarships for Indian students in Italy, and DSU grants. These scholarships for Indian students to study in Italy cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living costs.
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Q. How can I get a full scholarship in Italy?
A. To secure a full scholarship in Italy for Indian students, you must meet academic and financial criteria. The Invest Your Talent in Italy Scholarship and scholarship to study in Italy for Indian students provide full tuition waivers and stipends. Strong academic records and IELTS scores improve your chances.
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Q. Can I study in Italy for free?
A. Studying in Italy is affordable, and with the right scholarship for Indian students in Italy, you can study with minimal costs. Government grants like DSU and MAECI cover tuition, while university scholarships for Indian students in Italy help with expenses. Some universities also have fee waivers.
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Q. Is Italy a good option for Indian students?
A. Yes, Italy is a great destination due to its world-class universities, affordable tuition, and multiple scholarships for Indian students to study in Italy. With low living costs and post-study work opportunities, it is an attractive option for those seeking quality education at a lower expense.
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Q. Which university in Italy is the cheapest?
A. Public universities like Sapienza University of Rome and University of Bologna offer the lowest tuition fees, ranging from €900 to €4,000. Applying for a scholarship to study in Italy for Indian students can further reduce expenses, making education in Italy highly affordable.
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Q. Is it easy to get scholarships in Italy for international students?
A. While competitive, securing an Indian students scholarship for Italy is possible with good academic performance and timely applications. The MAECI Scholarship and regional DSU grants are awarded to thousands of students annually. Meeting eligibility criteria improves success rates.
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Q. How can I get a scholarship in Italy?
A. To get a scholarship for Indian students in Italy, research available options, meet the eligibility criteria, and apply before the deadlines. Many Italy scholarship for indian students require a strong academic record, IELTS/TOEFL scores, and a Statement of Purpose (SOP).
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Q. Is studying in Italy cheap?
A. Yes, compared to other European countries, studying in Italy is cost-effective. Public universities charge €900–€4,000 per year, and various scholarships for Indian students to study in Italy help cover additional expenses. Regional DSU grants also assist students with accommodation and meals.
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Q. Is there no tuition fee in Italian universities?
A. While most public universities charge low tuition fees, several italy scholarship for indian students cover full tuition. MAECI Scholarships and regional grants waive fees entirely, making studying in Italy almost free for eligible students.
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Q. How can I apply for scholarships to study in Italy?
A. To apply for a scholarship to study in Italy for Indian students, secure admission to an Italian university first. Then, apply for Italy scholarship for Indian students via government portals, university websites, or private funding bodies before the deadlines.
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Q. When is the best time to apply for scholarships in Italy?
A. Most scholarships for Indian students in Italy have deadlines between February and September. Government and regional scholarships to study in Italy for Indian students often open applications in early spring, so early research and preparation are essential.
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