For students planning to pursue a Master’s degree in Italy, the September intake remains the most favorable option. This intake aligns with the main academic calendar, provides access to nearly all master’s programs, and includes the majority of scholarship opportunities in Italy.
Intakes in Italy for Indian Students 2026: Months & Deadlines
Italian universities primarily offer two annual intakes: the main Fall intake in September/October and a smaller Spring intake in February/March. Both bachelor’s and master’s programs follow the same schedule, with Fall intake covering most courses and scholarships offers in Italy, making early preparation crucial for international students. The Spring intake is limited and strategic, so aligning your application timeline with the academic calendar is essential for Indian students to secure admission, financial support, and apply study visa.
What are the Annual Study Intakes in Italy for Indian Students?
Italian universities have 2 main annual study intakes for indian students discussed below.
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Fall/Autumn Intake (September/October) – This is the primary intake, covering around 80% of all programs, including most competitive bachelor’s and master’s courses. Most scholarships and financial aid are allocated during this intake. High competition and early application preparation are required during the Fall intake in Italy.
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Spring/Winter Intake (February/March) – This is a secondary, limited intake, offering roughly 30% of programs, usually in specific departments or niche areas. Scholarships are limited, competition is lower, and visa processing is generally faster.
What is the Difference Between Fall & Spring Intake in Italy?
The main differences between fall and spring intake in Italy are mentioned in the table below.
| Feature | Fall/Autumn Intake (September) | Spring/Winter Intake (February) |
|---|---|---|
| Start Date | Mid-September to Early October | Mid-February to Early March |
| Program Availability | ~80% of programs: full range of Bachelor’s and Master’s courses, including the most competitive programs | ~30% of programs: limited selection, often specific departments only |
| Competition | High: largest application volume; requires early preparation | Lower: fewer applicants; better chance in niche programs |
| Scholarships | Highest availability: most major institutional and regional scholarships allocated in Fall | Limited: only residual scholarships; fewer opportunities for new applicants |
| Visa Processing | Can take longer due to volume; plan ahead | Usually faster due to lower demand |
| Best For | Students aiming for maximum program choice, full scholarship access, and competitive degrees | Students with flexible timelines or targeting specific programs with less competition |
What is the Application Time for September Intake in Italy?
Applications for September (Fall) typically open between February and April, depending on the public university and program. For competitive bachelor’s and master’s courses, especially English-taught programs, early preparation is essential, including document verification, pre-enrollment on the Universitaly portal, and scholarship applications. Deadlines usually close by June or July, giving students enough time for visa processing before the semester starts in mid-September to early October.
What are the Benefits of Applying in the September Intake in Italy?
The main benefits of applying in the September/Fall Italy intake are mentioned below.
Widest Program Choice: Access to most bachelor’s and master’s programs, including competitive English-taught courses.
Better Scholarship Access: Majority of institutional and merit-based scholarships are allocated in Fall.
Availability of Accommodation: It is easier for international students to get an accomodation when applying in the September intake.
Aligned Administrative Timeline: Sufficient time for pre-enrollment, document verification, and visa processing.
What are the Deadlines for September Intake in Italy?
Deadlines for Italy’s September intake vary significantly by university and program, but generally fall between December and August, with earlier deadlines (March-April) for non-EU visa applicants.
What is the Application Time for February Intake in Italy?
The February (Spring) intake in Italy is a smaller, secondary intake, offering limited programs. Applications generally open between September and November of the previous year, depending on the university and course. Deadlines usually close by December or early January, giving students time for pre-enrollment, document verification, and student visa processing before classes start in mid-February to early March.
What are the Benefits of Applying in the February Intake in Italy?
Given below are the benefits of applying in the February/Spring Intake in Italy.
Lower Competition: Higher chance of admission to niche programs.
Flexible Preparation: Extra time for documents, exams, and visa processing.
Faster Visa Approval: Less crowded intake allows quicker processing.
Targeted Programs: Access to programs or specializations offered only in Spring.
What are the Deadlines for February Intake in Italy?
Deadlines for Italy’s February intake vary widely by university and program, but generally fall between late 2025 and early 2026, with many Master’s applications closing around January-March 2026
Which Annual University Intake in Italy is Best for Indian Students?
The September (Fall) intake is generally the best choice for Indian students applying study visa of Italy because because it offers maximum program options, higher scholarship opportunities, a larger international peer network, and sufficient time for pre-enrollment and visa processing. The February intake is a limited alternative with fewer programs, scholarships, and networking opportunities.
How Many Annual Intakes Are Available in Italy?
Annually, there are two intakes available, the Fall/September intake and Spring/February intake. International students have to choose one of these intakes to study abroad in Italy.
Which Intake is Best to Apply for Masters in Italy?
Does Italy Provide Free Education in Both Intakes?
Getting free education in education in Italy has no relation with the intakes. Whether a student will study for free or pay the fee entirely depends upon the selected public university and scholarship grants.
Which Public Universities to Apply for September Italy Intake?
The public universities to apply for September intake in Italy include Politecnico di Milanol, University of Bologna, University of Pisa, University of Padua, University of Florence, University of Siena, and University of Trento.
How to Maximize the Chances of Admission During September Intake in Italy?
To Improve admission chances for September intake in Italy, follow the tips mentioned below.
Start Early Preparation
Begin planning at least 10–12 months in advance to manage course selection, documents, and timelines without pressure.Shortlist Programs Strategically
Focus on programs that match your academic background and eligibility instead of applying broadly without alignment.Apply Early in the Cycle
Submit applications as soon as portals open to improve selection chances and avoid last-minute issues.Prepare Strong Academic Documents
Ensure transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters are clear, accurate, and well-structured.Track Universitaly Pre-Enrollment
Complete Universitaly pre-enrollment carefully, as it is mandatory for most non-EU students.Apply for Scholarships Alongside Admission
Submit scholarship and tuition waiver applications early, since most funding is assigned during Fall intake.Meet Language Requirements Clearly
Confirm whether the program accepts alternatives to IELTS or requires proof of English proficiency.- Apply with Trusted Study Abroad Consultant: At PathwaytoOverseas.com, we assist students from India to stay ahead in applying university admission and visa application.