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Study in Italy: Top Universities, How to Apply, Scholarships, & Accommodation 

Top Universities, How to Apply, Scholarships, & Accommodation in 2025 

Italy, the epicentre of art and culture, is quite famous among students who want to pursue higher studies abroad. This Renaissance country has more than 90 universities offering specialised courses you may not find in any other country. How to apply for fully funded scholarship in 2025 for italy.

What motivates international students to pursue higher studies in Italy is the affordability and high quality of education. Moreover, the cost of living in the country is almost 40% less than in other European countries. 

Italy is a go-to place for people who want to pursue history or other creative studies. They offer globally recognised degrees and a vibrant student life wherein you can explore this beautiful country’s culture, food, and lifestyle. 

What Does Studying in Italy Look Like?

Studying in Italy is a unique experience, as you get to experience its rich culture while attending a globally recognized university with a decent tuition fee. Italian universities offer a welcoming environment, especially for people who want to pursue their careers in arts, design, humanities, and social sciences. 

Here are a few reasons to study in Italy: 

  • Focus on Discussion and Debate
    In Italy, education encourages active participation and critical thinking, with many opportunities for classroom discussions and debates. 
  • Top Universities
    Italy is home to prestigious universities like the University of Bologna (one of the oldest in the world), Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico di Milano, which are known for their high academic standards. 
  • Affordable Tuition
    Tuition fees in Italy are usually lower than in many other European countries, making it a more affordable option for international students. 
  • Lively Student Life
    Cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan offer vibrant student life, with many cultural events, festivals, and social activities to enjoy. 

Top Public and Private Universities

Public Universities in Italy

Public universities in Italy are government-funded institutions that typically offer lower tuition fees than private universities. They have a long history and are known for their diverse programs. Following are the top public universities that offer a diverse range of courses.

UniversityLocationEstablishment YearAverage Tuition Fees (UG)Average Tuition Fees (PG)Top Courses Offered
Politecnico di MilanoMilan1863€3,900 – €5,000€3,900 – €5,000Architecture, Engineering, Design
Sapienza University of RomeRome1303€1,600 – €2,924€1,500 – €3,000Humanities, Engineering, Social Sciences
University of BolognaBologna1088€2,500 – €3,500€2,500 – €4,000Law, Medicine, Business
Politecnico di TorinoTurin€1,859€2,500 – €3,500€2,500 – €3,500Engineering, Architecture
University of Naples Federico IINaples1224€1,000 – €4,000€1,500 – €5,000Medicine, Engineering
University of TurinTurin1404€1,000 – €4,000€1,500 – €5,000Humanities, Sciences
University of FlorenceFlorence1321€1,000 – €4,000€1,500 – €5,000Arts, Sciences
University of PisaPisa1343€1,000 – €4,000€1,500 – €5,000Computer Science, Engineering
University of Rome Tor VergataRome1982€1,000 – €4,000€1,500 – €5,000Economics, Law
University of PaviaPavia1361€5,000€10,000Medicine, Humanities
Private Universities in Italy

Private universities in Italy are funded through tuition fees and donations. They often provide specialized programs and have a more flexible admission process. Here are the top private universities that you can consider for distinctive courses.

Private UniversityLocationEstablishment YearAverage Tuition Fees (UG)Average Tuition Fees (PG)Top Courses Offered
Bocconi University (Università Bocconi)Milan1902€7,400 – €9,200€11,000 – €13,000Economics, Management, Finance, Law
LUISS Guido CarliRome1974€9,200 – €11,000€11,000 – €13,000Economics, Business, Law, Political Science
IULM University (Libera Università di Lingue e Comunicazione IULM)Milan2006€10,000 – €16,000€10,000 – €16,000Communication, Languages, Tourism
Università Cattolica del Sacro CuoreMilan (with campuses in Rome)1921€5,500 – €7,400€7,500 – €9,200Business Administration, Economics, Psychology
European School of EconomicsMultiple locations2006Approximately €10,000Approximately €15,000Business, Economics, Marketing
NABA (Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti)Milan1980Approximately €10,000Approximately €15,000Fine Arts, Design, Fashion
Istituto MarangoniMilan and Florence1935Approximately €18,000Approximately €20,000Fashion Design and Management
Istituto Europeo di Design (IED)Multiple locations1966Approximately €12,000Approximately €15,000Design, Fashion, Visual Communication
John Cabot UniversityRome1972Approximately $25,000Approximately $25,000Liberal Arts, Business Administration
The American University of RomeRome1969Approximately $25,000Approximately $25,000Arts and Humanities, Business

Scholarships for Studying in Italy

There are many scholarships available for students who want to study in Italy. These scholarships can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Here are some of the most popular options: Study in Italy with fully funded scholarship.

University Scholarships

Many Italian universities offer scholarships based on academic performance. Some of these include:

  • Bocconi Merit and International Awards
  • University of Bologna Study Grants
  • Padua International Excellence Scholarship Program
  • Politecnico di Milano Scholarship
  • University of Milan Excellence Scholarships

MAECI Grants

The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) also offers scholarships for foreign students and Italian citizens living abroad. These grants encourage international cooperation in cultural, scientific, and technological areas while promoting the Italian language and culture. Benefits include: How to apply for fully funded scholarship in 2025 for italy

  • A monthly allowance of €900 (paid quarterly)
  • Exemption from university tuition fees, excluding regional tax and stamp duties

Ministry of Interior Scholarships

For students with international protection status (refugees, asylum seekers), the Italian Ministry of Interior offers scholarships for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs.

Other Scholarships

There are also other scholarship opportunities, such as:

  • Scholarships by EDISU Piemonte
  • National and international scholarship programs

Stipends While Studying

International students in Italy are allowed to work part-time while studying. Here are some options:

  • On-Campus Jobs: Many universities offer part-time positions for students within their facilities.
  • Off-Campus Jobs: Students can also seek employment in cafes, restaurants, or retail shops. The average hourly wage is around €8 to €12.
  • Internships: Some academic programs include internships that provide practical experience and may offer stipends.

Average Stipend Amounts 

  • MAECI Scholarship: €900/month
  • Italian Government Scholarship: €900/month
  • University-specific scholarships vary widely; for example, Bocconi offers significant financial support covering tuition and living costs.

Accommodation in Italy

If you are looking for accommodation for foreign students in Italy, here’s an overview of the most common housing options:

  • University-Managed Housing
    Most Italian universities provide accommodation through their international relations offices, which is the least complicated method. These addresses are cheap, and most of them are built to adjust to the requirements of students.
  • Student Dormitories
    Student dormitories owned by the university are the most popular way of accommodation for international students. These typically provide accommodation that comes with WLAN, a lounge, and occasionally a kitchen. Most budget options cost between € 250 to € 550 per month, depending on the city and the room type.
  • Private Apartments
    It is possible to rent and get a private apartment, yet it can be a bit costly compared to renting a house, and of course, it may be a little bit challenging to search for a rental place around the area. As for the duration, more extended contracts are signed, and the procedure can be somewhat lengthy for students who might not understand local rental laws.
  • Online Platforms
    To help you start your search easier, you can use the following platforms: Housing Anywhere, Uniplaces, and Erasmusu, which provides a list of accommodations for students. These platforms can be filtered according to the city of your choice and the price range.

Visa and Documentation

If you plan to study in Italy, you must apply for a student visa. There are two main types of visas, depending on the length of your study program: Study in Italy with fully funded scholarship

Visa Types for Studying in Italy

  • Visa Type C (Short-Stay Visa): This is for stays up to 90 days. It’s often used for short courses, language programs, or if you’re just visiting Italy for part of your studies.
  • Visa Type D (Long-Stay Visa): This is required for study programs lasting more than 90 days, like undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
  • Starting the Application Process
    Start your visa application well in advance, as processing can take time. Once you have your acceptance letter from an Italian institution, contact the nearest Italian embassy or consulate to book an appointment. Be aware that appointment slots can fill up quickly. Keep in mind that visa application rules may change, so check with the embassy for the latest information.
  • Reporting Your Arrival
    If you’re applying for a Visa Type D, you must report to the Questura (police station) within 8 days of arriving in Italy. After that, you’ll receive a residence permit confirming your legal status in the country.
Documents You’ll Need

When applying for a student visa, be ready to submit the following documents (note that some might vary depending on the specific embassy):

  • Valid passport with at least two blank pages and valid for 3 months beyond your study program’s end date.
  • Letter of acceptance from your Italian university.
  • Completed visa application form.
  • Travel itinerary (your flight details to and from Italy).
  • Proof of no criminal record. How to apply for fully funded scholarship in 2025 for italy.
  • Language proficiency (proof that you can study in either Italian or English, depending on the language of your program).
  • Proof of financial support, showing that you have between €450 and €515 per month to cover your living expenses.
  • Accommodation details for where you’ll be staying in Italy.
  • Health insurance that covers you during your stay.
  • Visa application fee (proof of payment).

Life in Italy as a Student

From exploring stunning historical sites to enjoying mouthwatering food, life as a student in Italy is full of exciting opportunities. While Italy offers a welcoming environment and plenty of things to do, learning Italian can help you better connect with the culture and make local friends.

  • Cultural Experience
    Italy is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, world-famous museums, or charming cobblestone streets, you’ll always find something to discover. The country’s long history makes it a perfect place for students who love to learn outside the classroom.
  • Food and Dining
    One of the best parts of living in Italy is the food. With fresh pasta, pizza, and gelato, you’ll have endless opportunities to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. Dining is an experience in itself, and the Italian café culture means you can enjoy long meals and socialize with friends in a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Affordable Living
    Italy offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other European countries, especially regarding accommodation and food. You’ll find that the overall lifestyle is budget-friendly, especially if you use student discounts and local markets.
  • Travel and Adventure
    Italy’s compact size makes it easy to travel around, and there’s something for everyone, from the stunning beaches of the Amalfi Coast to the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites. As a student, you’ll have the perfect base to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural regions.
  • High-Quality Education
    Italy is home to some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities, particularly renowned for their art, design, architecture, and humanities programs. Studying in Italy means accessing top-tier education in a country that has shaped global culture for centuries.

Conclusion

Studying in Italy is a good idea for those who want to study in highly regarded universities that rank top in the QS ranking and offer affordable tuition fees. With 61 public universities, Italy is among the top countries for international students, with 20 of them ranking globally. 

By evaluating factors such as academic reputation, program options, and cost of living, international students can make informed choices about their experience with studying abroad in Italy. If you are planning to study abroad and unsure where to start, reach out to us. Our top counselling experts at Abrostudies will make studying in Italy relatively easy for you. Study in Italy with fully funded scholarship with Abrostudies.

FAQs

Q1. Is it possible to get a 100% scholarship in Italy?

Yes, it is possible to get a 100% scholarship in Italy. Many universities offer full scholarships based on merit or financial need. Additionally, the Italian government and specific programs like the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs provide scholarships to international students.

Q2. Is Italy a good place for Indians to study? 

Yes, Italy is a great place for Indians to study. It offers high-quality education, especially in fields like design, architecture, engineering, and business. Italy’s rich cultural history, diverse student community, and relatively affordable living costs make it an attractive destination for Indian students.

Q3. Do I need IELTS to study in Italy? 

IELTS is not always required to study in Italy, but it depends on the course and university. Many universities accept other English proficiency tests like TOEFL or offer programs in English where proof of English language skills may be required, but IELTS specifically is not mandatory.

Q4. Which course is the best for studying in Italy?

Popular courses in Italy include design, fashion, architecture, arts, engineering, and business studies. Italy is particularly known for its high-quality programs in fashion design, fine arts, and culinary arts. 

Q5. Is Italy affordable for study abroad?

Italy is generally affordable compared to other European countries. Tuition fees for public universities are moderate, ranging from €900 and €4,000 per year. Meanwhile, for private universities, the tuition fees annually cost between €6,000 and €20,000.

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