Top Scholarships for International Students in Italy in 2025

Italy continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for international students in 2025. With its rich history, world-class universities, and relatively affordable tuition compared to other European countries, it draws thousands of students every year. Yet, the biggest challenge for many remains financing. To address this, Italian institutions, regional governments, and private organizations offer numerous scholarships that cover tuition, accommodation, and sometimes even full living expenses. In this article, we will explore the top scholarships available for international students in Italy in 2025, looking at eligibility, benefits, and application processes in depth.

Overview
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers one of the most significant opportunities for international students every year. These scholarships target students pursuing Master’s degrees, PhDs, and advanced courses in arts, music, and Italian language studies.

Eligibility
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic backgrounds and, in many cases, proficiency in English or Italian. Age limits usually apply—Master’s applicants should be under 28, while PhD candidates should be under 30 at the time of application.

Coverage
The government scholarship typically covers:

• Full or partial tuition fee waiver
• Monthly allowance (around €900 per month)
• Health and medical insurance during the study period

Why it Matters in 2025
For students aiming at highly competitive programs such as Political Science, International Relations, or Arts at public universities, this government funding remains a pathway to access education without heavy financial burden.

Overview
Italy’s regional governments run scholarship programs based on the “right to education” principle. Regions like Lombardy, Tuscany, Piedmont, and Lazio are notable for offering generous support.

Eligibility
These grants are awarded primarily on two grounds: financial need and academic performance. International students must provide documents proving family income levels, often translated into Italian and legalized.

Coverage

• Free or subsidized accommodation in university residences
• Free meals at university canteens
• Full or partial tuition fee waivers
• Annual stipends ranging between €2,000–€5,000

Example: EDISU Piemonte Scholarship
Students enrolled at universities in Piedmont (including the University of Turin and Politecnico di Torino) can access this program. It is particularly attractive for engineering and architecture students because the Politecnico is among Italy’s most prestigious technical universities.

Bocconi University Merit and International Awards
Bocconi University in Milan, a leader in economics, finance, and business studies, provides scholarships for international students that cover tuition (up to €14,000 annually) and, in some cases, full living costs. These awards are based on outstanding academic records and test scores.

University of Bologna – Study Grants for International Students
The University of Bologna, one of the oldest universities in the world, offers “Unibo Action 1 & 2” grants. These scholarships provide up to €11,000 gross per year and cover tuition fees for both Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.

Politecnico di Milano Scholarships
Politecnico di Milano offers merit-based scholarships to international Master’s students. Categories include the Platinum Scholarship (worth €10,000 plus tuition waiver), Gold Scholarship, and Silver Scholarship. Engineering, design, and architecture students particularly benefit here.

Sapienza University of Rome Grants
Sapienza University, the largest in Europe, provides grants worth around €4,000 annually for international students enrolled in Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.

Overview
Erasmus+ is a European Union program that funds student mobility across Europe. Italy, being an active participant, hosts thousands of exchange students every year.

Eligibility
Students must be enrolled at a partner institution and selected by their home university. Erasmus+ applies mainly to short-term mobility (3–12 months) but also funds joint Master’s programs (Erasmus Mundus).

Coverage

• Monthly living stipend (between €300–€450 depending on host country)
• Travel cost contribution
• Tuition fee exemption at the host institution

Value for 2025 Students
In 2025, Erasmus+ continues to support not only mobility but also internships and research placements. International students already studying in Europe can leverage Erasmus to spend part of their program in Italy.

Italian Universities with Partner Foundations
Several universities in Italy collaborate with private foundations to support global talent. For example, the “Fondazione Edu” supports African students studying in Italy.

Invest Your Talent in Italy Program
This unique initiative, backed by the Italian government and corporate partners, focuses on attracting students from specific countries (such as India, Indonesia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Vietnam). Students admitted to selected Master’s programs benefit from:

• Full or partial tuition fee waivers
• Monthly stipend of €900
• Internship opportunities with leading Italian companies

Scuola Normale Superiore Fully Funded Scholarships
This elite institution in Pisa offers full scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, covering tuition and living costs entirely. Competition is fierce, but the scholarship is considered one of the most prestigious in Europe.

Start Early
Most scholarship deadlines for 2025 fall between March and May. Some, like Erasmus Mundus or Bocconi, close even earlier.

Document Preparation
International students must prepare financial documents, academic transcripts, translated records, and proof of language proficiency. Apostille stamps or legalization may be required depending on the country of origin.

Leverage Multiple Options
Students are encouraged to apply simultaneously for government, regional, and university-specific scholarships. In many cases, it is possible to combine smaller awards to cover total expenses.

Focus on Merit and Need
Even when financial need is a primary criterion, strong academic records significantly increase chances. Motivation letters, CVs, and recommendation letters should highlight both academic achievement and future goals.

Scholarships usually offset tuition and living expenses, but students should be aware of average living costs in Italy in 2025:

• Accommodation: €300–€600 per month (cheaper in southern cities, more expensive in Milan or Rome)
• Food and meals: €200–€300 per month
• Public transportation: €35–€50 monthly pass
• Health insurance: often covered by scholarships, otherwise around €120 annually

When planning, students should calculate realistic budgets and not rely solely on partial scholarships unless they have personal savings or family support.

Conclusion

In 2025, Italy remains a highly accessible destination for international students due to its wide range of scholarship opportunities. From prestigious government and university awards to regional grants and specialized programs like “Invest Your Talent in Italy,” there are pathways for students of all backgrounds. While competition can be intense, careful preparation, strong academic performance, and timely applications significantly improve chances of success. For students who combine passion for their chosen field with diligent scholarship planning, Italy offers both academic excellence and cultural enrichment, making it one of the best study-abroad destinations in Europe today.