Yes, Scholarships in Italy are competitive, but competition varies by funding type. Merit-based scholarships such as MAECI, Erasmus Mundus, and university excellence awards attract top global applicants and follow strict selection criteria. In contrast, need-based regional scholarships like DSU focus mainly on family income and documentation rather than academic rank, making them more accessible for eligible students. Early application, accurate documents, and clear eligibility alignment greatly improve success rates for Indian students.
Scholarships in Italy 2026 for Indian Students: Need & Merit-Based
Scholarships in Italy for Indian students make higher education accessible through public funding and structured financial support. A scholarship in Italy, often covers tuition fees, living expenses, or both, allowing students to study at globally ranked universities at low cost or study for free. Most popular scholarships in Italy include DSU/EDISU regional scholarships(need-based), MAECI government scholarships, Invest Your Talent in Italy, and university-specific merit-based scholarships, available for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs. These scholarships reduce financial pressure while supporting Indian students throughout their academic journey in Italy. International students must meet the specific requirements and deadlines to avail these scholarships.
What Types of Scholarships are Available in Italy for Indian Students?
Italy offers Regional (need-based), Government, and Merit-based scholarships for Indian students.
- Regional Scholarships: Italian regional scholarships (like DSU, EDISU) are primarily need-based and fully-funded, supporting students with lower family income, though they often include a merit component like passing a certain number of credits to maintain eligibility, covering tuition, accommodation, and meals.
- Government Scholarships: These are financial aid programs funded by the Italian government and aimed at supporting international students, including Indian applicants. These scholarships include programs such as MAECI & Invest Your Talent in Italy allow students to study for free or at significantly reduced costs.
- Merit-based Scholarships: These scholarships in Italy reward international students, including Indian applicants, for outstanding academic performance, research achievements, or exceptional skills. These scholarships are often offered directly by universities and cover tuition fee waivers, partial funding, or full living expense support.
What are the Top Scholarships in Italy for Indian Students?
The top scholarships in Italy (regional, government, and merit-based) are compared in the table below.
| Scholarship Type | Scholarship Name | Benefits (EUR / INR approx.) | Application Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government | Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI) | Tuition waiver + €900/month (~₹95,274/month) | May–June |
| Government | Invest Your Talent in Italy Scholarship | Tuition waiver + €8,100 (~₹8,57,166) | Feb |
| Government | Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus Scholarships | Tuition waiver + €850–€1,200/month (~₹90,981–₹1,27,032/month) | Jan–Mar |
| Regional | DSU Scholarship (Tuscan Region) | Tuition, housing, meals + €3,600–€5,200 (~₹3,81,096–₹5,50,472) | Jul–Sept |
| Regional | EDISU Piemonte Regional Scholarship | Tuition, housing, meals + €3,000–€5,000 (~₹3,17,580–₹5,29,300) | Jul–Sept |
| Merit-Based | University of Bologna Merit Scholarship | Tuition waiver + up to €11,000 (~₹11,64,460) | Mar–Apr |
| Merit-Based | Politecnico di Milano Excellence Scholarship | Tuition waiver + €5,000–€10,000 (~₹5,29,300–₹10,58,600) | Feb–Mar |
| Merit-Based | Bocconi University Financial Aid & Merit Awards | Tuition waiver + €8,000–€12,000 (~₹8,46,880–₹12,70,320) | Jan–Mar |
| Merit-Based | Padua International Excellence Scholarship | Tuition waiver + €8,000 (~₹8,46,880) | Feb–Mar |
| Merit-Based | University of Milan Excellence Scholarship | Tuition waiver + €6,000 (~₹6,35,160) | Mar–Apr |
| Merit-Based | University of Trento Scholarship | Tuition waiver + €6,000–€7,200 (~₹6,35,160–₹7,62,192) | Mar–Apr |
| Merit-Based | University of Pavia Scholarship | Tuition waiver + €7,000–€8,000 (~₹7,41,020–₹8,46,880) | Mar–Apr |
| Merit-Based | Politecnico di Torino International Scholarship | Tuition waiver + €4,000–€8,000 (~₹4,23,440–₹8,46,880) | Feb–Apr |
| Merit-Based | UCSC International Scholarship | Partial tuition waiver + €3,000–€5,000 (~₹3,17,580–₹5,29,300) | Dec–April |
| Merit-Based | Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarship | Tuition waiver + €1,400/month (~₹1,48,204/month) + housing | Feb–Apr |
1. MAECI Italian Government Scholarship
MAECI (Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale) is a fully-funded government scholarship awarded by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to international students. This scholarship includes a stipend of €900/month (equivalent to ₹95,274), health insurance, and public or recognized university fee waivers. The purpose of this scholarship is to promote Italian language, culture, and higher education.
MAECI scholarship in Italy is available to apply for international students, including Indian students planning for Masters studies or PhD research. The application period for MAECI scholarship falls each year between May to June. Indian students applying for September intake can apply for MAECI scholarship before hand.
The elgibility criteria for MAECI scholarship for Indian students is mentioned in the table below.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Under 28 for Master's, under 30 for PhD |
| Academic Qualifications | Necessary academic qualifications for the chosen program |
| Language Proficiency | Proof of B2 level in Italian or English (depending on course language); PhD programs may not require it |
| Application Platform | Must apply via an online platform for Italian public or accredited institutions |
| Documents Required | CV, transcripts, motivation letter, language certificates |
| Submission Deadline | Submit all documents by June |
2. Invest Your Talent in Italy Scholarship
Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) is a government scholarship offered by Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) to attract talented international students to pursue master’s degrees and postgraduate programs in Italy. It offers tuition fee waivers, stipend of €8,100 (~₹8,57,166), and internship opportunities with Italian companies, making it a practical pathway to study and gain industry exposure in Italy.
The table below summarizes the eligibility criteria for Invest Your Talent in Italy Scholarship.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Applicants must be below 26–28 years of age, depending on the academic year. |
| Academic Qualification | Relevant Bachelor’s degree aligned with the chosen Master’s program. |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency at B2 level; IELTS or equivalent accepted. |
| Application Platform | Applications must be submitted through the official Invest Your Talent in Italy online portal. |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, statement of purpose, language proof. |
| Application Deadline | Deadlines usually fall between February and March. |
3. Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus scholarships are fully funded European Union programs designed for high-achieving international students who want to pursue joint master’s degrees across multiple European countries, including Italy. These scholarships offers benefits such as Tuition waiver + €850–€1,200/month (~₹90,981–₹1,27,032/month) for entire Erasmus period. Selected students study at two or more universities in different countries, receive a globally recognized degree, and benefit from full financial support that often allows them to study for free while gaining international academic and cultural exposure.
The eligibility criteria for Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus scholarship is given the table below.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Recognized Bachelor’s degree relevant to the chosen Erasmus Mundus program |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent) |
| Application Platform | Applications must be submitted through individual Erasmus Mundus course websites (no central application portal) |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation letter, language proficiency proof, passport, and recommendation letters |
| Application Deadline | Typically between December and February |
4. DSU Scholarship (Tuscany Region)
DSU Tuscancy is a regional scholarship in Italy and is specific to the students enrolled in public universities in cities including Siena, Pisa, Florence, and Arezzo. The DSU Tuscany scholarship is primarily need-based and helps students study in Italy at very low cost or study for free by covering tuition fees, accommodation support, meals, and a cash stipend of €3,600–€5,200 (~₹3,81,096–₹5,50,472) annually in two installments.
The eligibility criteria for DSU Regional scholarship in Italy is given below in the table.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Must be enrolled in a public university in Tuscany Region, Academic Merit |
| Language Proficiency | Not Required |
| Application Platform | Students must submit the application at DSU Toscana online website |
| Required Documents | Student must provide Family Income & Assets Certificate |
| Application Deadline | Typically between July/August |
5. EDISU Piemonte Regional Scholarship
The EDISU Piemonte Regional Scholarship is a need-based financial aid program funded by the Piedmont region of Italy to support international students, including Indian applicants, enrolled at public universities such as Politecnico di Torino, University of Turin, and University of Eastern Piedmont. The scholarship helps students study at low cost or study for free by covering tuition fees, accommodation support, meals, and an annual cash allowance between €3,000–€5,000 (~₹3,17,580–₹5,29,300), depending on the student’s financial profile.
The eligibility criteria for EDISU Piemonte Regional scholarship is summarized in the table below.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Must be enrolled in a public university in Piemonte Region |
| Language Proficiency | Not Required |
| Application Platform | EDISU Piemonte online portal |
| Required Documents | Student must provide Family Income & Assets Certificate |
| Application Deadline | Typically between July/September |
6. University of Bologna Merit Scholarship
University of Bologna scholarship is a competitive merit-based scholarship offered to outstanding international students, including Indian applicants, enrolling in bachelor’s and master’s degree programs at the University of Bologna. The scholarship supports high academic achievers by providing a partial or full tuition fee waiver and, in many cases, an annual study grant up to €11,000 (equivalent to ₹11,64,460), reducing the total cost of studying at one of the top-ranked public universities in Italy.
The eligibility criteria for Univeristy of Bologna Merit Scholarship is summarized in the table below.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Strong academic records |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | University of Bologna online application system |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation statement, passport, and standardized test scores |
| Application Deadline | Typically between March and May |
7. Politecnico di Milano Excellence Scholarship
The Politecnico di Milano Excellence Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based scholarship awarded to high-performing international students, including Indian applicants, enrolling in master’s degree programs at Politecnico di Milano. The scholarship supports academically strong candidates by offering full or partial tuition fee waivers and, for top-ranked students, a generous annual stipend between €5,000–€10,000 (~₹5,29,300–₹10,58,600), making study at one of Italy’s highest-ranked technical universities more affordable.
The eligibility criteria for Politecnico di Milano Excellence Scholarship is summarized in the table below.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Strong academic records |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | Politecnico di Milano online admission portal |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation statement, passport, and standardized test scores |
| Application Deadline | Typically between February and April |
8. Bocconi University Financial Aid & Merit Awards
The Bocconi University Financial Aid & Merit Awards are designed to support high-achieving international students, enrolling in bachelor’s, master’s, and MBA programs at Bocconi University in Milan. These awards combine merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid, offering partial to full tuition fee waivers and, in select cases, living cost support between €8,000–€12,000 (~₹8,46,880–₹12,70,320), making Bocconi’s globally ranked business and economics programs more accessible.
The eligibility criteria for Bocconi University Financial Aid & Merit Awards is given in the table below.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Academic excellence, test scores, and overall application strength |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | Bocconi online application portal |
| Required Documents | Family Income and Assets, academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation letter |
| Application Deadline | Typically between December and April |
9. Padua International Excellence Scholarship
The Padua International Excellence Scholarship is a highly competitive merit-based award offered by the University of Padua to outstanding international students, including Indian applicants, enrolling in English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. The scholarship supports academic excellence by providing a full tuition fee waiver along with an annual living allowance up to €8,000 (~₹8,46,880), allowing selected students to study at one of Italy’s oldest public universities at minimal cost.
The eligibility criteria for Padua International Excellence Scholarship is provided below in the table.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | University of Padua online admission system |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation letter |
| Application Deadline | Typically between March and April |
10. University of Milan Excellence Scholarship
The University of Milan Excellence Scholarship is a merit-based financial award offered to high-performing international students, including Indian applicants, enrolling in English-taught master’s degree programs at the University of Milan (Statale). The scholarship aims to attract academically strong candidates by offering full tuition fee waivers and, for top-ranked students, an annual cash grant up to €6,000 (~₹6,35,160), reducing the cost of studying at one of Italy’s leading public universities.
The eligibility criteria for University of Milan Excellence Scholarship is provided below in the table.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Recognized bachelor’s degree aligned with the chosen master’s program |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | University of Milan online admission portal |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation letter |
| Application Deadline | Typically between March and May |
11. University of Trento Scholarship
The University of Trento Scholarship is a competitive merit-based funding scheme offered to high-achieving international students, including Indian applicants, enrolling in English-taught master’s and doctoral programs at the University of Trento. The scholarship supports academic excellence by providing a tuition fee waiver and, annucal stipend between €6,000–€7,200 (~₹6,35,160–₹7,62,192), making Trento a strong choice for students seeking research-focused and innovation-driven education in Italy.
The eligibility criteria for University of Trento Scholarship is given below in the table.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Recognized bachelor’s degree aligned with the chosen master’s program |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | University of Trento official website |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation letter |
| Application Deadline | Typically between January and March |
12. University of Pavia Scholarship
The University of Pavia Scholarship includes a range of merit-based and need-based funding options offered to international students, including Indian applicants, enrolling in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs at the University of Pavia. These scholarships help reduce study costs through tuition fee waivers, annual stipends €7,000–€8,000 (~₹7,41,020–₹8,46,880), and accommodation support, making one of Italy’s oldest public universities accessible to qualified students.
The eligibility criteria for University of Pavia Scholarship is given below in the table.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Merit-based awards focus on strong academic records, Family Income Certificate |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | University of Pavia admission and scholarship portals |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation letter |
| Application Deadline | Typically between March and June |
13. Politecnico di Torino International Scholarship
The Politecnico di Torino International Scholarship supports international students, including Indian applicants, who plan to study engineering, architecture, or technology-related master’s programs taught in English. The scholarship reduces the cost of study through tuition fee waivers and, for selected students, financial support between €4,000–€8,000 (~₹4,23,440–₹8,46,880) for living expenses, making Politecnico di Torino a preferred choice for globally oriented technical education.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Strong academic record |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | During the online admission application |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation letter |
| Application Deadline | Typically between February and April |
14. UCSC International Scholarship
The UCSC International Scholarship is a financial support scheme offered by Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (UCSC) to attract talented international students, including Indian applicants, to its bachelor’s and master’s degree programs taught in English or Italian. The scholarship reduces the cost of study mainly through partial tuition fee waivers and cash grant between €3,000–€5,000 (~₹3,17,580–₹5,29,300), making private education at UCSC more affordable for academically strong students.
The eligibility criteria for UCSC International Scholarship is given below in the table.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Strong academic record |
| Language Proficiency | English language proficiency is required for English-taught programs |
| Application Platform | UCSC online admission process |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, motivation letter |
| Application Deadline | Typically between December and April |
15. Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarship
The Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarship is a fully funded doctoral award offered by Scuola Normale Superiore (SNS), one of Italy’s most selective public institutions, based in Pisa. The scholarship supports exceptional researchers pursuing PhD programs in sciences, humanities, and social sciences, covering tuition fees, free accommodation, meals, and a monthly stipend of €1,400/month (~₹1,48,204/month), allowing students to focus entirely on research without financial burden.
The eligibility criteria for Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarship is given below in the table.
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | No strict age limit |
| Academic Qualification | Relevant master’s degree with excellent academic results and a strong research background |
| Language Proficiency | English or Italian language proficiency is required, depending on the doctoral program and research area |
| Application Platform | Scuola Normale Superiore PhD admission portal |
| Required Documents | Academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, research proposal, motivation letter, recommendation letters |
| Application Deadline | Typically between February and April |
What is the Difference Between MAECI vs DSU Scholarship in Italy?
MAECI scholarships are funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and are merit-based, targeting high-achieving international students enrolling in master’s, PhD, or research programs. They usually provide a monthly stipend, health insurance, and tuition fee exemptions, but they do not depend on family income. Selection focuses on academic excellence, academic background, and international cooperation goals.
DSU scholarships, on the other hand, are regional, need-based scholarships funded by Italian regions such as Tuscany, Piedmont, or Lazio. They support students enrolled in public universities based mainly on family income and assets, not grades alone. DSU scholarships often offer tuition fee waivers, free or subsidized accommodation, meals, and a cash allowance, allowing many students to study for free.
The key differences between MAECI and DSU Scholarship are given below in the table.
| Criteria | MAECI Scholarship | DSU Scholarship |
|---|---|---|
| Funding Authority | Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI) | Italian Regional Governments |
| Scholarship Type | Merit-based | Need-based (income-focused) |
| Eligible Study Levels | Master’s, PhD, Research Programs | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| Selection Basis | Academic performance and profile strength | Family income and asset declaration |
| Age Limit | Usually applies (varies by year) | No age limit |
| Tuition Fee Coverage | Partial or full exemption (program-specific) | Full tuition fee waiver |
| Living Cost Support | Monthly stipend | Accommodation, meals, and cash allowance |
| Income Documents Required | No | Yes (mandatory) |
| Application Platform | MAECI official scholarship portal | Regional DSU portals (Tuscany, Piedmont, Lazio, etc.) |
| Application Timeline | April to June | July to September |
| Study for Free Possibility | Limited | High |
MAECI rewards merit and academic potential, while DSU supports students with financial need, and eligible students may apply for both depending on regional rules.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Italy?
To apply for scholarships in Italy, follow the steps mentioned below.
Step 1:Identify and Shortlist Relevant Scholarships
Start by shortlisting scholarships that match your study level, academic profile, course choice, and financial background. Review eligibility rules, coverage details, application timelines, and region or university requirements before finalizing options.
Step 2: Prepare Mandatory Documentation
Organize required documents early, including academic transcripts, CV, Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation, language proficiency proof, valid passport, and income or asset documents where applicable. Ensure documents meet Italian and regional formatting standards.
Step 3: Apply for Admission at Italian Universities
Complete the university admission process first, since most Italian scholarships require confirmed admission or an active application. Submit applications through official university portals within the published deadlines.
Step 4: Submit Scholarship Applications Carefully
Complete scholarship applications through the correct platform, such as MAECI, DSU, or university portals. Review each section carefully, upload verified documents, and submit within the deadline to avoid rejection due to technical or documentation errors.
Step 5: Use Scholarship Assistance Services for Higher Success Rates
Indian students often benefit from professional scholarship assistance services that provide eligibility screening, document verification, income certificate preparation, and error-free submissions. These services improve approval chances by aligning applications with Italian regulations and scholarship-specific requirements.
Can I Get 100% Scholarsip to Study for Free in Italy?
Yes, you can get 100% scholarship to study for free in Italy. Need-based scholarships including DSU Regional Scholarship and EDISU Piemonte offer benefits such as tution waiver, accommodation, daily meals, and annual stipend to international students. Government-funded MAECI scholarships offer monthly stipends, health insurance, and fee exemptions for eligible master’s, PhD, and research students.
Are Scholarships in Italy Competitive?
What are the Main Facilities Offered by Scholarships in Italy?
The main facilities offered by scholarships in Italy include tution waiver, accommodation, daily meals, health insurance, and other living expenses.
How Much Monthly and Annual Stipend Do Scholarships in Italy Provide?
Scholarships in Italy provide monthly and annual stipends that vary by scholarship type and funding body. Government scholarships such as MAECI usually offer a monthly stipend of €900–€1,000, totaling €9,000–€11,000 per year, along with health insurance and fee exemptions. Regional need-based scholarships (DSU) provide an annual benefit of €5,000–€8,000, which may include cash allowance, free accommodation, and meals rather than a fixed monthly payout.
What is the Amount of PhD Scholarship in Italy?
The amount of PhD scholarship in Italy depends upon the scholarship program and univeristy offering it. Generally, the minimum monthly stipend given to PhD researcher between €1000 to €1600.
Can I Apply for Multiple Scholarships in Italy?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships in Italy being an international student from India. However, once you arrive in Italy, you have to choose one to continue your studies.
Which Scholarship in Italy is Easier to Avail for Indian Students?
For Indian students, regional need-based scholarships (DSU) are generally the easiest to avail. DSU funding primarily considers family income and assets rather than academic rank, making it accessible to students who meet financial eligibility.