Types of Scholarships for Italy for Indian Students
In terms of studying in Italy, Indian students have a good opportunity to save money on tuition fees and living costs and still receive quality higher education with the help of scholarships for Italy. These are Italian government, European Union, regional government, universities, and private foundations' scholarships.
Each type of scholarship offers unique benefits, from full fee waivers and stipends to housing and meal support. We can now break down the key categories.
Government-Funded Scholarships in Italy
The Italian government plays a major role in promoting international education by offering multiple scholarships for Italy for Indian students. These programs take the broad spectrum of requirements tuition, living expenses, research, and even cultural training. The following is the overview of the main options.
1. MAECI Scholarships (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation)
Overview:
One of the most recognized government-funded scholarships, offered annually to international students, including Indians.
Eligibility:
Open for Master’s, PhD, and advanced courses in art, music, and Italian language.
Applicants must have strong academic records and meet age limits (typically under 28 for Master’s, under 40 for PhDs).
Benefits:
Full or partial tuition fee exemption.
Comprehensive health insurance.
Monthly stipend of around €900 (₹93,065)
Renewable annually based on academic performance.
Coverage:
Supports education at Italian public universities and recognized institutions.
2. Invest Your Talent in Italy Program
Overview:
This program combines academic learning with professional training, making it one of the most career-focused scholarships for Italy.
Eligibility:
Open to students from India and other eligible countries.
Primarily for Master’s programs in Engineering, ICT, Economics, and Management.
Applicants must submit a study plan and motivation letter.
Benefits:
Full or partial tuition coverage.
Mentorship and training from Italian universities.
Internship placements with leading Italian companies.
Networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Coverage:
Encourages students to directly connect academic work with career opportunities in Italy.
3. Regional Government Scholarships (DSU – Diritto allo Studio Universitario)
Overview:
While technically managed at the regional level, DSU scholarships are heavily subsidized by the Italian government.
Eligibility:
Open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Based on family income and academic merit.
Indian students must show financial need along with academic performance.
Benefits:
Free or subsidized accommodation in university hostels.
Free meals or meal vouchers.
Coverage for study materials and transport.
Partial tuition fee waivers.
Coverage:
Available across multiple regions such as Tuscany, Lazio, and Lombardy.
4. Italian Language and Culture Scholarships
Overview:
Designed to promote Italian culture worldwide, these short-term programs are supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Eligibility:
Open to students, teachers, and professionals interested in learning Italian.
Basic knowledge of the language may be required.
Benefits:
Tuition fees fully covered.
Accommodation and meals provided.
Small stipend for personal expenses.
Coverage:
Focuses on short courses at Italian universities and cultural institutions.
5. Research Grants and PhD Funding
Overview:
The Italian government funds several research initiatives, encouraging Indian students to pursue advanced studies.
Eligibility:
Open to postgraduate students and researchers in STEM, arts, and humanities.
Strong academic background and a clear research proposal are required.
Benefits:
Tuition fee waivers for doctoral programs.
Monthly research allowances.
Living stipends and lab support.
Coverage:
Collaborative projects with universities and research centers across Italy.
Planning for a master’s degree? Masters in Italy breaks down top universities and what to expect.
EU-Funded Scholarships
The European Union also sponsors international mobility and education by offering EU-funded scholarships to Indian students in Italy, along with government schemes. These are programs to bring global talent, cultural exchange, and strong international research and academic partnerships.
The most important options for Indian students are listed here:
1. Erasmus+ Scholarships
Overview:
One of the most prestigious EU-funded programs that supports study in multiple European countries, including Italy.
Eligibility:
Open to undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and exchange students.
Applicants must meet academic and language proficiency requirements.
Indian students can apply through Erasmus+ partner universities in Italy.
Benefits:
Full tuition fee coverage.
Monthly stipend between €850–€1,200 (₹76,925–₹1,08,600) depending on the country.
Travel and visa expenses covered.
Health insurance included.
Coverage:
Supports study in Italian universities as part of joint or double-degree programs.
2. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
Overview:
Aimed at research and innovation, MSCA is one of the top EU-funded opportunities for postgraduate researchers and doctoral candidates.
Eligibility:
Open to PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and academic staff.
Indian applicants must propose a research project with an Italian or European institution.
Benefits:
Monthly living allowance of around €3,000–€4,000 (₹2,71,500–₹3,62,000).
Research and travel grants.
Networking and international collaboration opportunities.
Coverage:
Applicable to a wide range of disciplines in partnership with Italian research centers and universities.
3. Horizon Europe Research Grants
Overview:
Horizon Europe is the EU’s largest research and innovation program, providing grants to international students and researchers.
Eligibility:
Open to advanced researchers and PhD students.
Applications must align with EU research priorities such as sustainability, digital transformation, and health.
Benefits:
Coverage:
Research projects can be based in Italian universities and institutions as part of wider European collaborations.
4. Jean Monnet Scholarships
Overview:
Focused on European integration studies, these scholarships allow students to specialize in areas like EU law, economics, and political science.
Eligibility:
Open to postgraduate students from non-EU countries, including India.
Strong interest in European studies is essential.
Benefits:
Coverage:
Available for Italian universities offering programs in European law, policy, and economics.
Many scholarships go to students at public colleges. Read about how Public Universities in Italy work and why they matter.
Regional Scholarships in Italy
Equal access is accorded much weight by the higher education system of Italy. To prove this, all regions provide regional scholarships to India to study in Italy through local authorities.
They are usually need-based, and students of all economic backgrounds can access higher education in Italy through these scholarships. They are operated by local organizations and are directly connected to the universities in that area.
1. DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) Scholarships
Overview:
DSU is one of the most popular regional scholarships offered in Tuscany (Florence, Pisa, Siena). It supports both Italian and international students, including Indians.
Eligibility:
Benefits:
Tuition fee waiver.
Free or subsidized meals at university cafeterias.
Accommodation in university hostels or financial support for housing.
Annual grant to cover living expenses.
2. LazioDisco Scholarships
Overview:
Available in the Lazio region (Rome), LazioDisco supports students studying at major universities such as Sapienza University, University of Rome Tor Vergata, and Roma Tre.
Eligibility:
Open to international students, including Indian applicants.
Awarded primarily based on financial background and academic merit.
Benefits:
Partial or full tuition coverage.
Housing assistance or hostel allocation.
Meal plans and book allowances.
3. EDISU Piemonte Scholarships
Overview:
Offered in the Piedmont region (Turin), EDISU supports students enrolled at the University of Turin and Polytechnic University of Turin.
Eligibility:
Requires proof of financial need.
Open to international students at undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD levels.
Benefits:
Tuition reduction or full waiver.
Accommodation in university hostels.
Meal vouchers and travel allowances.
4. ERSU Sicily Scholarships
Overview:
ERSU (Ente Regionale per il Diritto allo Studio Universitario) operates in Sicily, offering support to students at the University of Palermo, Messina, and Catania.
Eligibility:
Open to financially disadvantaged students, including those from India.
Requires proof of academic progress.
Benefits:
University-Specific Scholarships in Italy
Italy has several of the best universities, which offer their own merit-based and need-based scholarships to Indian students. The scholarships are designed specifically to appeal to high-achieving international candidates and make the cost of studying overseas more affordable.
Compared to government or regional scholarship, university-specific awards tend to be more flexible, and may or may not include tuition waivers plus stipends or housing benefits.
1. Bocconi University Merit and International Awards
Eligibility: Awarded to outstanding students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs.
Benefits: Full or partial tuition fee waivers, with some awards covering up to €13,000 (₹11,76,500) per year.
Highlight: One of the most competitive scholarships in Italy, ideal for business and economics students.
2. Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships
Eligibility: Offered to talented international students in engineering, architecture, and design fields.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees and includes a living allowance of up to €5,000 (₹4,52,500) annually.
Highlight: Students also get mentorship and access to professional opportunities.
3. University of Bologna Study Grants for International Students
Eligibility: Open to Indian students pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or single-cycle degree programs.
Benefits: Grants worth up to €11,000 (₹9,95,500) annually to cover tuition and living costs.
Highlight: Bologna, being one of the oldest universities in the world, attracts top global talent.
4. Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships
Eligibility: For PhD students with exceptional academic backgrounds.
Benefits: Full tuition waiver, free meals, and a stipend to cover accommodation and living expenses.
Highlight: Highly prestigious, designed for research-focused students.
5. University of Padua Excellence Scholarships
Eligibility: Awarded to academically excellent international students.
Benefits: Full fee waiver plus €8,000 (₹7,24,000) annual living allowance.
Highlight: Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs across multiple disciplines.
Private and External Scholarships in Italy
Other than the government, EU, regional, and university grants, Indian students have access to other private and external scholarships to study in Italy.
These scholarships are sponsored by endowments, international agencies, and individual entities in a bid to promote cultural exchange, academic development, and international cooperation. They tend to be used in various Italian universities and majors, providing students with more freedom.
1. Italian Government and Private Foundations (Einaudi, Cariplo, ENI)
Eligibility: Open to international students in social sciences, economics, and research-focused programs.
Benefits: Tuition fee support, research funding, and living cost coverage.
Highlight: The Luigi Einaudi Foundation, for instance, is known for supporting political science and economics research.
2. Rotary International Scholarships
Eligibility: Awarded to students pursuing studies in peace, conflict resolution, health, and community development.
Benefits: Tuition coverage, living expenses, and travel costs.
Highlight: Indian students applying to Italian universities with social impact-focused programs have a strong advantage.
3. Fulbright Program (for Exchange Opportunities in Italy)
Eligibility: Though primarily for U.S.-Italy exchange, some bilateral fellowships allow Indian researchers to collaborate with Italian universities.
Benefits: Full funding, including tuition, stipend, travel, and health coverage.
Highlight: Ideal for PhD and postdoctoral scholars.
4. DAAD (Germany) + Italy Collaboration Grants
Eligibility: Indian students doing joint programs or research projects between Germany and Italy.
Benefits: Research funding, travel support, and partial tuition coverage.
Highlight: Perfect for STEM and research-heavy disciplines.
5. Global Corporates & NGOs (ENEL Foundation, World Bank, etc.)
Eligibility: Focused on sustainable energy, environment, economics, and development studies.
Benefits: Grants for tuition fees, research funding, and internship opportunities.
Highlight: ENEL Foundation often partners with Italian universities to fund Indian students in energy and climate studies.
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships in Italy for Indian Students
Before you apply, it is important to know the eligibility requirements of scholarships in Italy. Although individually, there are different rules in every scholarship program, the majority of the Italian government, EU, university, and other privately funded scholarship programs have common requirements. This fulfills requirements that make you more likely to land financial aid.
Below are the Common Eligibility Requirements:
Most scholarships require a strong academic record, typically a minimum of 65–75% in undergraduate studies. Competitive programs like Erasmus Mundus may expect even higher grades.
English/Italian Language Proficiency
Proof of English proficiency through IELTS/TOEFL(commonly IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent).
For programs taught in Italian, a minimum B2 level in CEFR or certification like CILS is mandatory.
Course and University Selection:
Scholarships are usually tied to specific degree levels (Master’s, PhD, or research) and must be pursued at recognized Italian institutions.
Indian students are eligible for multiple scholarships for Italy, but some programs are restricted to candidates from partner countries.
Many government scholarships have age caps:
Students applying for regional or need-based grants must provide income and family financial documentation.
A compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of recommendation play a big role in selection.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Italy for Indian Students
Applying to scholarships for Italy for Indian students may seem daunting, but having a list of steps to follow makes it easy. Most applications have a structured route, whether it is an EU, government, regional, or university-funded program. This is a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
1. Start Research Early
Begin at least 8–12 months before your intake. Explore all categories of scholarships—government, EU, regional, university, and private. Create a shortlist that matches your academic profile, financial needs, and course preferences.
2. Secure Admission in an Italian University
The majority of scholarships have the requirement that students must be admitted to an Italian university first. The selection of your program needs to be a wise choice because it has to qualify under the scholarship scheme. As an example, there are grants that apply to Master or PhD students.
3. Prepare Key Documents
A strong application depends on complete and well-prepared documents. Typically required are:
4. Register on Official Portals
Depending on the type of scholarship, applications must be submitted via:
Government scholarships → Italian MAECI portal
EU scholarships → Erasmus Mundus portal
Regional scholarships → Regional authority websites (e.g., LazioDiSCo)
University scholarships → University’s official scholarship page
5. Submit the Application on Time
Deadlines vary depending on the provider:
Government and EU scholarships: December to March
Regional scholarships: March to May
University scholarships: March to June (varies by institution)
Late submissions are not accepted, so track timelines carefully.
6. Attend Interviews or Tests (if required)
Some programs, especially competitive ones like Erasmus, may involve interviews, written tests, or video assessments to evaluate motivation and suitability.
7. Wait for Selection Results
The decision to award scholarship is typically made between 1-3 months of the deadline. Provided that you get selected, you will get an award letter including the benefits (tuition coverage, stipend, accommodation aid, etc.).
8. Apply for a Student Visa
Once you have the scholarship confirmation, proceed with your visa application. The award letter strengthens your case at the Italian Embassy or Consulate in India.
Your SOP can really impact your application. This guide on SOP for Italy shows how to write one that stands out.
Documents Required for Scholarships in Italy for Indian Students
A complete set of documents is required to successfully apply for scholarships in Italy among Indian students. Lost or improperly formatted papers are one of the leading causes of rejection.
The checklist below is exhaustive and can be found in most scholarship applications, be they government, EU, regional, or university-specific.
Essential Documents Checklist
Academic transcripts and Certificates
High school mark sheets (for undergraduate programs)
Bachelor’s degree transcripts (for Master’s programs)
Master’s transcripts (for PhD programs)
Certified translations in English or Italian if needed
Proof of Language Proficiency
Passport
Statement of Purpose (SOP)/ Motivation Letter
Explains your study goals, career aspirations, and why you chose Italy
Tailor it to the specific scholarship program
Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
Academic achievements, projects, internships, and relevant skills
Include extracurricular activities or awards
Letters of recommendation (2–3)
Proof of Admission / Conditional Offer
Financial Documents (for need-based scholarships)
Passport-Sized Photographs
Additional Documents (if required)
Research proposal (for PhD/Research scholarships)
Portfolio (for arts/design programs)
Any certifications relevant to the course (e.g., coding, language, or professional certificates)
Conclusion
Securing scholarships for Italy for Indian students is the first step toward an affordable and world-class education in one of Europe’s most vibrant academic environments. From government-funded programs and EU grants to regional, university-specific, and private scholarships, there are multiple options catering to different needs and fields of study.
By understanding eligibility criteria, preparing documents carefully, and applying strategically, Indian students can maximize their chances of receiving full or partial financial support. Early research, timely applications, and strong academic records are key factors for success.
With the right scholarship, studying in Italy becomes not just possible but also rewarding, opening doors to high-quality education, cultural immersion, and global career opportunities. Start your research today and take the first step toward a fully funded education in Italy.
If you are still unsure about your options, you can book a free counseling session with upGrad and seek professional guidance! We’d be happy to help you figure this out.
