The Italian Government Scholarship, provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), is an esteemed initiative aimed at aiding international students and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE) in their pursuit of higher education in Italy. For the academic year 2025–2026, this scholarship persists in its goal of fostering international cooperation in areas such as education, culture, science, and technology by presenting fully funded opportunities for study at leading Italian universities and institutions.
This program is crucial in improving Italy’s global presence and cultural diplomacy. It allows recipients to immerse themselves in Italy’s esteemed academic landscape, rich cultural history, and vibrant lifestyle. By assisting foreign students and researchers, the initiative reinforces Italy’s academic relationships with other nations and promotes mutual understanding and collaboration worldwide.
The scholarship is offered for various programs, such as Master’s degrees, Ph.D. programs, AFAM (Higher Education in Arts, Music, and Dance), research projects supervised by faculty, and courses in Italian language and culture. These programs are held at Italian institutions recognized by the government, ensuring adherence to high academic standards and quality education.
Along with a monthly allowance of €900, the scholarship generally covers tuition fee waivers, health and medical insurance, and other supportive measures to ease the recipient’s stay in Italy. This all-encompassing support positions it as one of the most appealing scholarship programs in Europe for students looking to study abroad.
Eligible candidates must satisfy specific academic, age, and language criteria. For instance, applicants aiming for Master’s programs should be under 28 years old and possess a relevant undergraduate degree, while Ph.D. candidates must be under 30 and hold a Master’s degree. Depending on the program’s language of instruction, proficiency in either Italian or English is also required.
The application process is conducted via the official Study in Italy portal, with a submission deadline of June 14, 2025, for the 2025–2026 academic year. Applicants will be chosen based on their academic achievements, motivation, and how well their objectives align with the selected program.
In summary, the Italian Government Scholarship serves as an entryway to top-tier education, cultural exchange, and worldwide academic collaboration, granting students the chance to develop personally and professionally in one of the most historic and inspiring nations globally.
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Italian Government Scholarship 2025-2026:
Table of Contents
Country:
- Italy
Programs:
- Masters and PhD
Nationality:
- All International
Italian Government Scholarship 2025-2026 Benefits:
- Monthly Allowance
Recipients receive a monthly allowance of €900.The stipend is disbursed every three months directly into the recipient’s bank account in Italy. - This financial assistance aids in covering living costs such as housing, meals, transportation, and educational materials.
- Tuition Fee Waiver
Students with scholarships are usually exempt from paying tuition and enrollment fees at public universities in Italy. - The degree of exemption may differ based on the policies of specific institutions.
- This waiver does not apply to courses in Italian language and culture.
- Health and Medical Coverage
- Recipients are provided with health and medical insurance by MAECI throughout the entire grant period.
- The insurance includes coverage for illnesses and accidents but does not cover pre-existing conditions.
- This ensures recipients have access to medical services during the scholarship term.
- Study at Renowned Italian Institutions
Scholars have the opportunity to study at prestigious public universities, AFAM institutes (focused on music, arts, and dance), and research centers officially recognized by the Italian government. - These institutions provide high-quality education, modern facilities, and programs that are recognized internationally.
- Cultural and Academic Enhancement
Scholars integrate into Italy’s rich academic and cultural environment. - There are opportunities to engage in seminars, conferences, art exhibitions, and cultural activities.
- This allows for a deep immersion in Italian culture, language, and history.
- Academic Disciplines and Flexibility
- The program is open to a variety of study options: Master’s degrees, PhD programs, AFAM courses, research projects, and courses in Italian language and culture.
- Applicants can select from hundreds of programs offered in English or Italian that cater to global academic and professional demands.
Italian Government Scholarship 2025-2026 Eligibility Criteria:
- Citizens from qualifying foreign nations.
- Italian nationals residing outside the country (IRE).
- Applicants must not be living in Italy while applying.
- Applicants are required to fulfill the minimum academic qualifications necessary to enroll in their selected program at an Italian university.
- Master’s Degree: A recognized Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
- PhD Program: A legitimate Master’s degree or its equivalent.
- AFAM (Arts, Music): A high school diploma along with additional qualifications.
- Research Projects: Documentation of academic background pertinent to the research.
- Italian Language & Culture Courses: Enrollment in a university course outside of Italy.
- Candidates must not be older than the specified age limits by June 14, 2025:
- Master’s / AFAM: 28 years maximum (born after June 14, 1996).
- PhD Programs: 30 years maximum (born after June 14, 1994).
- Research under supervision: 40 years maximum (born after June 14, 1984).
- A minimum B2 level in Italian (CEFR).
- A language certificate or previous academic studies in Italian are mandatory.
- A minimum B2 level in English (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or a letter issued by the university).
- Proficiency in Italian is not required in this scenario.
- Language certificates are not necessary for PhD and research programs unless specifically requested by the hosting university.
- Applicants must have already been accepted to or satisfy the admission requirements for an eligible program at an Italian university.
- The admission process is separate and must be conducted independently by the applicant.
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Application Procedure for Italian government Scholarship 2025-2026:
Before you begin your application, ensure that you fulfill the eligibility requirements:
- Nationality or residency conditions
- Age restrictions
- Educational credentials
- Language skills (Italian or English, as per the chosen program)
Acceptance to or eligibility for an Italian university program
- Master’s Degree
- Ph.D.
- AFAM (Arts, Music, and Dance)
- Research under academic supervision
- Italian Language and Culture Courses
Identify the Italian university or institution that provides your selected program.
It’s not necessary to have final admission when applying, but being accepted enhances your application.
- Valid passport or national ID
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – detailing academic history and relevant experiences
- Academic transcripts and qualifications
- Language proficiency proof (Italian or English at B2 level)
- Letter of admission (if available)
- Research proposal (for research candidates)
- Recommendation letters (optional but advantageous)
- Confirm that all documents are in PDF format, not password-protected, and named correctly.
- Register on the Study in Italy Portal
- Create an account by providing:
- Your full name
- Email address
- Nationality and country of residence
- A valid password
- A confirmation email will be sent to activate your account.
- Complete the Online Application
Log into the portal using your credentials. - Fill out all sections of the application form:
- Personal information
- Educational history
- Program and university selection
- Language abilities
- Upload the necessary documents
- Submit the Application
- After completing all sections and uploading documents, submit your application before the deadline:
- Late submissions or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
- Applications will be assessed by an international selection committee.
- Selection will be based on academic merit, motivation, and alignment with Italy’s academic and cultural objectives.
- Results are usually announced between August and September 2025 through the same portal.
Application Deadline:
The Application Deadline For Italian government Scholarship is July, 2025.