Study in Italy Without IELTS 2026: Universities, Process, Tips
Studying in Italy without IELTS is possible when applying as an international student from India. Public institutions in Bologna, Milan, Siena, Florence, Pavia, Padua, Pisa, and Rome invite students to enroll in English-taught programs without providing an IELTS certificate. Italian universities accept a MOI (Medium of Instruction Certificate), English interviews, or tests like Duolingo and PTE as an altenative to IELTS. Italy student visas proceed with an admission letter from a public Italian university, not IELTS scores. Once students arrive in Italy, the university may ask them to take a B2 Level test to prove English level proficiency. While most Italian universities that accept MOI, English-taught programs still require a proof of English language proficiency.
Can You Study in Italy Without IELTS?
Yes, study in Italy without IELTS is possible at bachelor’s, with higher possibility at master’s, and PhD levels. Most Italian universities state that IELTS is optional if a student submits a MOI (Medium of Instruction Certificate), passes an English interview, or presents an alternative test like Duolingo or PTE. Some institutions reserve the right to ask students to take a B2-level English test after arrival in Italy to confirm academic readiness.
IELTS is not a requirement for the Italy student visa because Italian embassies rely on the university admission letter as proof of language suitability. Language assessment stays under university authority, not the visa office. Once a university in Italy accepts a student without IELTS, the embassy evaluates the application based on admission, finances, and intent to study, not a specific English test score.
Which Universities in Italy Accept International Students Without IELTS?
The table below mentions the public universities in Italy that accept international students without IELTS.
| University | Degree Levels Accepting Students Without IELTS* |
|---|---|
| University of Insubria | Master’s, PhD |
| University of Bergamo | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| University of Brescia | Master’s, PhD |
| University of Verona | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| University of Parma | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| University of Modena and Reggio Emilia | Master’s, PhD |
| University of Genoa | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| University of Trieste | Master’s, PhD |
| University of Udine | Master’s, PhD |
| University of Pisa | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| University of Florence | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| University of Siena | Master’s, PhD |
| University of Macerata | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| University of Camerino | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| Sapienza University of Rome | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| University of Salerno | Bachelor’s, Master’s |
| University of Naples Federico II | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD |
| University of Salento | Master’s, PhD |
| University of Calabria | Master’s, PhD |
IELTS waiver usually applies through a Medium of Instruction certificate, English interview, or alternative language proof. Degree eligibility depends on the specific program and faculty.
IELTS waiver usually applies through a Medium of Instruction certificate, English interview, or alternative language proof. Degree eligibility depends on the specific program and faculty.
How to Study in Italy Without IELTS for Indian Students?
The step by step process to study in Italy without IELTS is mentioned below.
Step 1: Obtain a Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
A Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate is an official document issued by a school, college, or university confirming the language used for teaching during a student’s degree program. It is necessary to provide a MOI certificate to study in an Italian university without IELTS. Refer to your previous university or school confirming your studies were in English.
Step 2: Search IELTS-Free Italian Universities
Search for Italian universities that accept students without IELTS or allow alternative proof of English. Review official admission pages for English-taught programs. The toè niversities in Italy that accept international students without IELTS include University of Bologna, University of Pisa, University of Padua, University of Pavia, University of Siena, and Sapienza University of Rome.
Step 3: Apply for Admission
Once you have chosen the preferred course, apply for the admission by providing necessary documents mentioned in the application portal. Attach the MOI or any other IELTS alternative document such as Duolingo, PTE, etc if required. Once the required documents have been attached, pay the admission fee and wait for the interview by the admission committee.
Step 4: Attend the Online Interview
Public universities in Italy might conduct an interview to know about your study intentions and English-language proficiency. Many Italian universities replace IELTS with interviews or online tests. Once the interviews has been conducted by the university, you will be notified later on whether your application has been accepted or rejected.
Step 5: Apply Italy Student Visa
The Italian Embassy generally does not require IELTS for a applying student visa if you have an acceptance letter from an Italian university, though they may evaluate your language skills during an interview or by conducting online/on-campus B2 Level test.
What are English Language Alternatives to Study in Italy Without IELTS?
The most common alternatives to study in Italy without IELTS include:
-
Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate: A letter from your previous school or university confirming your courses were taught in English.
-
University Interviews: Some universities conduct video or in-person interviews to assess your English skills.
-
Alternative English Tests: Accepted tests may include Duolingo English Test, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English qualifications.
-
B2-Level Assessment After Arrival: Certain universities require students to pass a B2-level English test once in Italy to ensure classroom readiness.
Is IELTS Required for Italy Study Visa?
No, IELTS is not required for an Italy student visa. The Italian embassy issues a Type D student visa based on your university admission letter, proof of funds, and intent to study. The visa process does not mandate an English language test, even if your program is taught in English.
Universities handle the assessment of your English proficiency, either through MOI certificates, alternative tests like Duolingo or PTE, or interviews. Some programs may require a B2-level English assessment after arrival, but this is for academic readiness, not visa approval.
Can I Study in Italy with MOI Instead of IELTS?
Yes, you can study in Italy using a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate instead of IELTS. A MOI is an official document from your previous school or university confirming that your courses were taught in English. Italian universities widely accept it for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs, especially for English-taught courses.
Is Studying in Italy Without IELTS Safe for Future Jobs & PR?
Yes, studying in Italy without IELTS is safe for future jobs and long-term residence, but career outcomes depend more on language use at work than on the test you skipped. IELTS matters for admission, not employment. Employers focus on skills, experience, and daily working language. In Italy, Italian is used frequently in workplaces, government offices, and PR processes. Strong Italian improves job stability and long-term settlement prospects.
Is Scholarship in Italy Possible Without IELTS?
Yes, scholarships in Italy are possible to study free in Italy without IELTS when the university accepts alternative proof of English. Scholarship providers follow the admission rules of the university, not a fixed language test. When a university grants admission using a Medium of Instruction certificate, interview, or alternative test, scholarship eligibility remains intact.
Does IELTS Improve Admission Chances at Italian Universities?
Yes, IELTS strengthens admission confidence for Italian universities, especially for competitive English-taught programs. A strong score gives admissions teams clear proof of academic English readiness. Some universities still admit students through MOI or interviews, yet IELTS reduces follow-up checks and interview rounds. Students seeking admission in an international university often prepare for IELTS exam through PathwaytoOverseas consultants in India, who provide focused guidance to support secure international university admission.