Italy Fully Funded Scholarships 2026 – No IELTS, Monthly Stipend, and Full Benefits
Are you dreaming of studying in Europe without the burden of tuition fees or the stress of passing IELTS? Italy is opening its doors to international students with fully funded scholarships for the 2026 intake, offering free tuition, monthly stipends, and additional benefits. Many programs do not require IELTS if you can provide alternative proof of English proficiency.
1. Types of Scholarships in Italy
A. Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI)
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI) offers prestigious scholarships for international students pursuing Master’s and PhD programs.
Benefits include:
- Full tuition fee exemption
- Monthly stipend of approximately €900 (paid quarterly)
- Medical and accident insurance
- Possible health coverage
Eligibility:
- Open to students worldwide
- Age limit: 28 years or below for Master’s, 30 years or below for PhD
- IELTS not required if your course is fully taught in English (B2 English proficiency proof may be needed)
Deadline: Usually mid-June (2025 cycle closed June 14, 2025; expect similar dates for 2026).
B. University-Level Scholarships Without IELTS
Many top Italian universities offer scholarships without IELTS if you present a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or other recognized tests such as TOEFL, Duolingo, or Cambridge English.
Benefits vary but may include:
- Full or partial tuition waivers
- Monthly living allowance
- Accommodation support or housing discounts
- Health insurance and travel grants
Example universities offering such scholarships:
- University of Bologna
- Politecnico di Milano
- University of Siena
- University of Pisa
- Sapienza University of Rome
- University of Turin
- University of Florence
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2. Eligibility & Requirements
| Scholarship Type | Who Can Apply | IELTS Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| MAECI Government Scholarship | Master’s & PhD applicants; age limits apply | IELTS not required if course in English; B2 certificate may be needed |
| University Scholarships | All nationalities; Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | IELTS waiver possible with MOI or alternative English test |
Commonly Required Documents:
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Copy of valid passport
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter
- Letters of Recommendation
- English language proof (MOI or test scores)
- Admission offer (for some scholarships)
3. Financial Coverage
- MAECI Scholarship: Tuition fee exemption, €900/month stipend, insurance coverage.
- University Scholarships: May cover full tuition, accommodation, living expenses (up to €10,000/year), and other benefits depending on the program.
4. Deadlines for 2026 Intake
- MAECI Government Scholarship: Opens in spring; closes around mid-June.
- University Scholarships: Deadlines vary between March and July for September intake.
Examples from previous years:
- University of Padua – May
- University of Pisa – September
- University of Bologna – April/May
- University of Turin – April/May
5. How to Apply – Step-by-Step
- Research Programs & Universities – Check if your chosen course waives IELTS and offers scholarships.
- Prepare Documents – Gather transcripts, CV, MOI, passport, recommendations, and motivation letter.
- Apply for Admission – Submit applications through each university’s portal.
- Apply for MAECI Scholarship – Apply via the MAECI portal when open.
- Apply for University Scholarships – Use the respective scholarship portals.
- Wait for Results – Government and university decisions are sent after deadlines.
- Accept Offer & Apply for Visa – Secure your spot, get your Type D student visa, and prepare for travel.
6. Why Choose Italy for Your Studies?
Italy offers world-class education, rich cultural experiences, and an affordable cost of living compared to many other European countries. The added benefit of no IELTS requirement for many programs makes it even more accessible for students from non-English speaking backgrounds.
Summary
- Scholarship Types: MAECI government scholarships + university-level awards without IELTS.
- Coverage: Tuition fees, monthly stipend, accommodation & health benefits.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with strong academic records.
- Deadlines: Government – mid-June; Universities – March to July.
- Application Tip: Apply early, prepare documents in advance, and check official university websites for updates.
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