As of late 2023, over 6,000 Indian students are studying in various Italian universities, attracted by the country’s rich cultural heritage, diverse academic programs, and vibrant student life!
This growing trend is fueled by Italy’s renowned educational institutions, which offer a wide range of English programs, affordable tuition fees, and numerous scholarships.
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Italy’s educational system is highly regarded worldwide. The country is renowned for its prestigious universities and institutions and offers many programs and courses. Students can immerse themselves in an environment where learning extends beyond the classroom, enriched by the country’s artistic and architectural wonders.
Want to find out the cost of study in Italy for Indian students, scholarships that can lower this cost, and top universities for international students? This guide will help you understand it all and more!
Key Highlights
Read about all the key details that will help you understand how to complete your study in Italy!
| Aspect | Details |
| Top Italy universities for International students | University of Bologna Politecnico di MilanoSapienza University of Rome |
| Popular Courses to Study in Italy for Indian Students | Engineering Business ArtsMedicine |
| Scholarships to reduce the cost of study in Italy for Indian students | Invest Your Talent in Italy: Pays INR 7L – INR 9L annually Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students: Pays INR 3.5L – INR 6L annually |
| Living Costs | Accommodation: INR 20,000 – INR 50,000/month Transportation: INR 2,000 – INR 5,000/month Food: INR 15,000 – INR 25,000/month |
| Work While Studying | Up to 20 hours per week during term, full-time during holidays |
| High-Paying Jobs | INR 80L – INR 2Cr |
Is Pursuing Study in Italy for Indian Students Good?
Wondering why you should choose Italy over other countries? Here are a few reasons why a study in Italy for Indian students might be the most ideal situation!
- Presence of English medium instruction for international students: Many Italy universities for international students offer courses in English.
- Cost-effectiveness of education compared to other European countries: The cost of studying in Italy and living costs in Italy are generally lower than in other European countries.
- High-quality education and infrastructure at Italian universities: Italian universities provide top-notch education and modern facilities, ensuring a great learning environment.
Italian Higher Education System
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Italy’s higher education system includes a variety of institutions, each offering different levels of education.
- Universities: Offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
- Polytechnic Universities: Focused on engineering and technical disciplines.
- Higher Schools: Specialised institutions for advanced studies and research.
- Institutes for Higher Artistic Education (AFAM): Providing music, dance, and fine arts education.
Special Programs Offered
Italy is renowned for the following programs.
- AFAM Institutes: Offer programs in art, music, dance, and drama, combining practical training with academic studies.
- Higher Technical Institutes (ITS): Provide vocational training in sectors such as technology, fashion, tourism, and design, bridging the gap between education and industry needs.
Does the idea of studying in Italy excite you now? Then rush to this next section to learn more about the best-ranked Italy universities for international students!
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Top 7 Universities to Study in Italy for Indian Students
Italian universities consistently perform well in the QS World University Rankings due to several key features:
- Academic Excellence: High standards of teaching and research.
- International Faculty and Students: Diverse community contributing to a global learning environment.
Comparing and choosing a university that would fit your needs might be tiring, but it should not be. Check out our detailed table of the best universities you could consider.
| Best Universities to Study in Italy for Indian Students | QS World Ranking 2024 | Annual Tuition Fee (INR) |
| University of Bologna | 154 | INR 1L – INR 2.5L |
| Sapienza University of Rome | 134 | INR 80,000 – INR 2L |
| University of Milan | 276 | INR 1.2L – INR 3L |
| Politecnico di Milano | 123 | INR 1.5L – INR 3.5L |
| University of Padua | 219 | INR 90,000 – INR 2.5L |
| University of Pisa | 349 | INR 70,000 – INR 2L |
| Politecnico di Torino | 252 | INR 1.4L – INR 3L |
Popular Courses to Study in Italy for Indian Students
Choose a course related to your field of choice! Learn about these universities’ different, popular courses and make your pick.
| University | Popular Courses to Study in Italy for Indian Students |
| University of Bologna | Fine Arts, Music, Literature, Business Management |
| Sapienza University of Rome | Arts, Humanities, Business Administration, Engineering |
| University of Milan | Medicine, Business, Social Sciences |
| Politecnico di Milano | Engineering, Architecture, Design, MBA |
| University of Padua | Medicine, Engineering, Natural Sciences |
| University of Pisa | Engineering, Computer Science, Physics |
| Politecnico di Torino | Engineering, Architecture, Industrial Design |
Masters in Italy for Indian Students
Italy offers diverse master’s programs that are popular among Indian students due to their quality and international recognition. Here’s a quick overview:
| University | Popular Programs |
| Politecnico di Milano | Engineering, Architecture, Design |
| University of Bologna | Law, Humanities, Business Management |
| Bocconi University | Business, Economics, Finance |
| Sapienza University of Rome | Arts, Sciences, Engineering |
| University of Padua | Medicine, Engineering, Natural Sciences |
Popular Courses Taught in English
Many universities offer popular programs taught in English for international students. This makes it easier for non-English speakers to pursue their education without the language barrier. Additionally, several institutions provide admission opportunities without requiring IELTS scores, making it more accessible.
Programs in English to Study in Italy
- Business and Management: Bocconi University and Politecnico di Milano offer MBA and other business-related programs. (Requires IELTS 6.5+)
- Engineering: Politecnico di Torino provides a variety of engineering courses in English. (Requires IELTS 6+)
Universities with No IELTS Requirement
- University of Bologna: Some programs accept alternative English proficiency tests or previous education in English as proof.
- Sapienza University of Rome: Offers various programs with flexible language requirements.
- The University of Milan offers an International Medical School program in English.
These options make Italy an attractive destination for students seeking quality education in a diverse and accommodating environment. If you wish to submit your application to your selected university, read this next section thoroughly. We are detailing the entire admissions process so you have your best foot forward when the time comes!
2024 Intakes to Study in Italy for Indian Students
Italian universities typically offer two main intakes for international students, providing flexibility for when you can start your studies in Italy.
Fall Intake (September/October)
- Application Period: This intake usually opens in November of the previous year and closes around April to June. Specific deadlines vary by university and program, so checking the exact dates on the university’s official website is important.
- Programs Available: Most undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs are offered during the fall intake, which is the main intake period and includes various courses across various disciplines.
- Benefits: The fall intake allows students to begin their studies at the start of the academic year, providing a full year of study. This intake also offers the broadest selection of programs and courses.
Spring Intake (February)
- Application Period: The application period for the spring intake generally opens in July and closes around November to December of the previous year. Again, specific deadlines can vary, so verifying the dates for your chosen program is crucial.
- Programs Available: The spring intake primarily offers postgraduate courses, with fewer options compared to the fall intake. It is ideal for students who may have missed the fall application deadlines or those who prefer to start their studies in the second semester.
- Benefits: Starting in the spring can be advantageous for students who need extra time to prepare their applications or who wish to complete prerequisite courses or language studies before beginning their main program.
Also read: DSU Scholarship in Italy
Application Guide to Study in Italy for Indian Students
It’s important to ensure you understand the entire application process to prepare beforehand and keep the documents required for a study visa in Italy ready!
Pre-Application
- Research Programs: Identify the programs and universities that align with your interests and goals.
- Check Eligibility: Review the specific requirements for each program.
- Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a valid passport.
Application
- Online Application: Fill out the application form on the university’s website.
- Submit Documents: Upload all required documents, including your CV and personal statement.
- Application Fee: Pay the application fee, if applicable.
Post-Application
- Interview: Some programs may require an interview, either in person or online.
- Await Results: Wait for the admission results, typically communicated via email.
Admission Announcement
- Offer Letter: Receive an offer letter if accepted.
- Confirm Enrollment: Confirm your acceptance and pay any necessary deposits.
- Visa Application: Apply for a student visa if required.
Documents Required To Study In Italy For Indian Students
- Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of previous academic records.
- Language Proficiency: If applicable, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
- Passport: A valid passport with sufficient validity.
- Recommendation Letters: Typically, two or three from academic or professional references.
- Personal Statement: An essay outlining your motivations and goals.
Language Proficiency
- English-Taught Programs: IELTS or TOEFL scores.(Minimum IELTS scores range from 6.5 – 6.0)
- Italian-Taught Programs: Proof of Italian language proficiency if required.
Special Considerations for Different Programs
Undergraduate Programs
- High School Diploma: Equivalent to the Italian secondary school leaving certificate.
- Entrance Exams: Some programs may require entrance exams.
Graduate Programs
- Bachelor’s Degree: A relevant undergraduate degree.
- Work Experience: Sometimes required for professional programs like MBA.
Doctoral Programs
- Master’s Degree: A relevant graduate degree.
- Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal in the field of study.
Also read: Top Public Universities in Italy for International Students
Visa Requirements To Study In Italy For Indian Students
International students need to obtain a student visa to study in Italy. Below is an overview of the entire process!
- Application Process: Apply at your home country’s Italian consulate or embassy.
- Required Documents: An acceptance letter from an Italian institution, proof of financial means, health insurance, and accommodation details.
- Timing: Apply at least three months before your intended departure date.
Documents required for a study visa in Italy
International students must gather and submit several essential documents to apply for a study visa in Italy. Here’s a comprehensive list of the required documents.
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Italy.
- Visa Application Form: Complete the study visa application form, which can be obtained from the Italian consulate or embassy.
- Acceptance Letter: An official acceptance letter from an Italian university or educational institution.
- Proof of Financial Means: Evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsorship affidavits.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Italy.
- Accommodation Details: Documentation showing your place of residence in Italy, such as a rental agreement or university accommodation confirmation.
- Passport-sized Photographs: 2 recent passport-sized photographs meet the visa requirements.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: Depending on the language of instruction, you may need to provide proof of proficiency in Italian or English, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
- Visa Fee Payment Receipt: Proof you have paid the visa application fee (around INR 7220)
Procedure for Obtaining a Residence Permit
Upon arrival in Italy, students must obtain a residence permit:
- Application: Apply at the local post office within eight days of arrival.
- Documents Needed: Passport, visa, university enrollment certificate, proof of financial means, health insurance, and a completed application form.
- Duration: The permit is usually valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Also read: Invest Your Talent in Italy Program 2024
Scholarships in Italy for Indian students
The cost of studying in Italy can sound a little expensive, but scholarships are a way to deal with it. How? That’s because scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of study in Italy for Indian students. Read ahead to learn about the different types of financial aid available if you choose to study in Italy!
- Italian Government Scholarships: Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- University Scholarships: Each university may offer its own scholarships for international students.
- Regional Scholarships: Some regions in Italy provide scholarships based on merit and need.
Here’s a table on scholarships for international students studying in Italy, including examples and average scholarship amounts you can hope to get!
| Scholarships in Italy for Indian students | Examples and Average Scholarship Amounts (INR) |
| Italian Government Scholarships | Invest Your Talent in Italy: INR 7L – INR 9L annually Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students: INR 3.5L – INR 6L annually |
| University Scholarships | Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships: INR 5L – INR 8L annually Bocconi University Scholarships: INR 6L – INR 10L annually University of Bologna Study Grants: INR 3L – INR 4.5L annually |
| Regional Scholarships | LazioDisco Scholarships (Lazio Region): INR 3L – INR 5L annually EDISU Piemonte Scholarships (Piedmont Region): INR 2.5L – INR 4.5L annually |
Guidance on Education Loans and Financial Arrangements
- Education Loans: Available from various banks and financial institutions.
- Financial Planning: Budgeting for tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.
Merit-Based Scholarships and Their Benefits
- Academic Excellence: Awarded based on academic performance.
- Financial Relief: Cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both.
- Enhanced Opportunities: This may include additional support like mentorship and career services.
Top 10 Highest-Paying Jobs in Italy
Wondering how much you can earn after pursuing an education in Italy? We’ve got you covered; listed below are the highest-paid jobs in Italy that you can set your eyes on!
| Job Title | Annual Salary (INR) |
| Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | INR 2Cr – INR 2.5Cr |
| Investment Banker | INR 1.4Cr – INR 2Cr |
| IT Director | INR 1.2Cr – INR 2Cr |
| Marketing Director | INR 1Cr – INR 6Cr |
| Legal Advisor | INR 1Cr – INR 1.5Cr |
| Software Engineer | INR 90L – INR 1.2Cr |
| Financial Analyst | INR 80L – INR 1.1Cr |
| Data Scientist | INR 70L – INR 1Cr |
| Project Manager | INR 60L – INR 90L |
| University Professor | INR 50L – INR 80L |
Cost of Study in Italy for Indian Students
Studying in Italy is a dream for many Indian students. It offers a blend of rich cultural experiences and high-quality education. But how much does this dream cost? Italy is known for its affordable education system compared to other Western countries (starting from INR 70,000), making it an attractive destination for students on a budget.
Tuition Fees Comparison Between Public and Private Universities
- Public Universities: Typically lower tuition fees ranging from INR70,000 to INR2,50,000 per year.
- Private Universities: Higher tuition fees range from INR 3L to INR 8L per year.
Here is a helpful table detailing the expected fees of public and private universities based on location.
| City | Tuition Fees (Public) | Tuition Fees (Private) |
| Rome | INR 1L – INR 2.5L | INR 4L – INR 8L |
| Milan | INR 1.2L – INR 3L | INR 4.5L – INR 7.5L |
| Bologna | INR 90,000 – INR 2.5L | INR 3.5L – INR 7L |
| Florence | INR 80,000 – INR 2L | INR 3L – INR 6L |
| Turin | INR 70,000 – INR 2L | INR 3L – INR 6L |
Average Living Costs for Students
Living costs in Italy for students vary by location and lifestyle. But to clarify things, we have listed the average range of prices you can expect.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (INR) |
| Accommodation | INR 20,000 – INR 50,000 |
| Transportation | INR 2,000 – INR 5,000 |
| Food and Miscellaneous | INR 15,000 – INR 25,000 |
Breakdown of Tuition Fees and Cost of Living by City
You’ll find that you can drastically lower your cost of living in Italy by changing your location. Being smart about these decisions ensures you can move to Italy within a realistic budget.
| City | Monthly Living Costs (INR) |
| Rome | INR 60,000 – INR 80,000 |
| Milan | INR 70,000 – INR 90,000 |
| Bologna | INR 50,000 – INR 70,000 |
| Florence | INR 55,000 – INR 75,000 |
| Turin | INR 45,000 – INR 65,000 |
Working While Studying and Career Prospects
International students in Italy are allowed to work part-time while studying:
- Work Hours: Students from non-EU countries can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays, totalling no more than 1,040 hours per year.
- Work Permits: While the student visa allows part-time work, students must also obtain a “Permesso di Soggiorno” (residence permit), which includes work authorisation.
Employment Outlook and Career Services Provided by Universities
Italian universities provide robust career services to assist students and graduates:
- Career Centers: Universities have dedicated career centres that offer counselling, resume workshops, and job placement services.
- Job Fairs: Regular job fairs and networking events are organised to connect students with potential employers.
- Internships: Many programs incorporate internships, providing practical experience and networking opportunities.
Post-Study Work and Residency Options for International Graduates
After completing their studies, international graduates have several options:
- Post-Study Work: Graduates can apply for a temporary residence permit for job search or self-employment, valid for up to 12 months.
- Employment: If graduates find employment, they can apply for a work permit and convert their student residence permit to a work residence permit.
- Permanent Residency: After five years of legal residence in Italy, international graduates can apply for a long-term EU residence permit.
Conclusion
Studying in Italy presents a fantastic opportunity for Indian students to gain a high-quality education while experiencing rich cultural immersion. Here’s a quick recap:
- Popular Universities: Top institutions like the University of Bologna, Politecnico di Milano, and Sapienza University of Rome offer diverse programs.
- Affordable Education: Public universities have lower tuition fees, while numerous scholarships help manage costs.
- Cultural and Career Benefits: Students enjoy Italy’s historical and cultural richness, with excellent career prospects post-graduation.
- Living Costs: Monthly living expenses range from INR 50,000 to INR 90,000, making it a budget-friendly option compared to other European destinations.
- Work While Studying: International students can work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, to support their studies.
Italy combines academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and affordability, making it an ideal destination for higher education.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are the benefits of choosing to study in Italy?
A. Studying in Italy offers numerous benefits, including access to high-quality education at globally renowned universities such as the University of Bologna and Politecnico di Milano. Students experience rich cultural immersion in Italy’s historic and artistic heritage. The diverse range of programs available in both Italian and English caters to various academic interests. Additionally, Italy’s strategic location in Europe makes it easy for students to travel and explore neighbouring countries. Affordable tuition fees and numerous scholarships further enhance Italy’s appeal as a study destination.
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Q. Which are the top Italy universities for international students?
A: Top universities in Italy for international students include the University of Bologna, renowned for its law and humanities programs, and Politecnico di Milano, which excels in engineering and architecture. Sapienza University of Rome is another leading institution, offering a wide array of programs in arts and sciences. These universities provide comprehensive support services for international students, ensuring a smooth transition and enriching educational experience. Additionally, they offer numerous English courses catering to non-Italian-speaking students’ needs.
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Q: What are the popular masters in italy for indian students?
A. Popular master’s programs in Italy for Indian students include engineering at Politecnico di Milano, business and economics at Bocconi University, and art and design at institutions like the Florence Academy of Art. These programs are recognised for their academic rigour and practical training components, which help students gain valuable skills and knowledge. Many of these master’s programs are taught in English, making them accessible to international students. Scholarships and financial aid options are also available to help offset the cost of education.
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Q: Are there study in Italy scholarships available for Indian students?
A: Yes, there are several scholarships available for Indian students looking to study in Italy. The Italian Government Scholarships provide financial support for various levels of higher education. Additionally, universities like Politecnico di Milano and the University of Bologna offer merit-based scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses, making it more affordable for Indian students to pursue their studies in Italy.
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Q: What is the cost of study in Italy for Indian students?
A: The cost of studying in Italy for Indian students varies depending on the university and program. Public universities typically have lower tuition fees, ranging from INR70,000 to INR2,50,000 per year, while private universities can cost between INR3,00,000 and INR8,00,000 annually. In addition to tuition, students should budget for living expenses, ranging from INR50,000 to INR90,000 per month, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.
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Q: What documents are required for a study visa in Italy?
A: To apply for a study visa in Italy, students must provide several documents, including a valid passport, acceptance letter from an Italian university, proof of financial means, and health insurance. Additionally, they must submit a completed visa application form, recent passport-sized photographs, and details of accommodation in Italy. For non-EU students, proof of language proficiency in either Italian or English may also be required, depending on the program of study.
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Q: How can Indian students apply for scholarships in Italy?
A: Indian students can apply for scholarships in Italy by first identifying their eligible scholarships, such as the Italian Government Scholarships or university-specific scholarships. They must gather necessary documents like academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statements. Applications are typically submitted online through the university or scholarship provider’s website. It is important to check deadlines and specific application requirements for each scholarship.
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Q: What is the overall cost of studying in Italy, including living expenses?
A: The overall cost of studying in Italy includes both tuition fees and living expenses. Tuition fees at public universities range from INR70,000 to INR2,50,000 per year, while private universities charge between INR3,00,000 and INR8,00,000 annually. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs, typically range from INR50,000 to INR90,000 per month. Students can reduce costs by taking advantage of scholarships, discounts, and affordable housing options.
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Q: What are the top scholarships available for Indian students to study in Italy?
A: Top scholarships for Indian students to study in Italy include the Invest Your Talent in Italy program, which provides financial support for master’s courses in English, and the Italian Government Scholarships, which cover various levels of higher education. University-specific scholarships, such as those offered by Politecnico di Milano and the University of Bologna, also provide significant financial aid. These scholarships can help cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.
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Q: What career opportunities are available for graduates from Italy universities?
A: Graduates from Italy universities have diverse career opportunities across various sectors, including engineering, business, finance, and technology. High-paying roles such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), investment banker, IT director, and marketing director are available, with salaries ranging from INR50,00,000 to INR2,50,00,000 annually. Additionally, Italy’s strategic location in Europe offers graduates opportunities to work in multinational companies and explore careers across the continent.
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Q: What are the admission requirements for masters in Italy for Indian students?
A: Admission requirements for master’s programs in Italy for Indian students typically include a relevant bachelor’s degree with a minimum overall percentage (usually around 60%), proof of language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs), and academic transcripts. Additional documents may include a CV, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and sometimes an entrance exam or interview. Each university and program may have specific requirements, so checking the details on the respective university’s website is important.
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Q: How can students manage the cost of studying in Italy?
A: Students can manage studying costs in Italy by applying for scholarships and financial aid, which can significantly reduce tuition fees and living expenses. Working part-time during their studies is another option, as international students can work up to 20 hours per week. Choosing affordable accommodation, such as university residences, and taking advantage of student discounts on transportation and other services can also help manage costs effectively.
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