Italy is a fast-growing destination for international students, thanks to its world-famous institutions, vibrant culture, and selection of fully funded scholarships in Italy for international students.
No matter if you wish to pursue an undergraduate degree, master’s, or PhD, there are numerous scholarship opportunities available that can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and even study travel.
Universities like the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico di Milano, as well as government and private organizations, offer liberal funding in order to attract outstanding students from around the world.
This blog explores the best fully funded scholarships in Italy for international students for 2025/2026 so that you can identify the best scholarship to sponsor your studies.
Why Study in Italy on a Fully Funded Scholarship?
First, Italy has the best schools in the world. You have the opportunity to study art, design, engineering, science, or business.
Second, international students are well-received by most Italian universities.
Third, it is a great cultural immersion to reside in Italy. You will learn in the city and on campus.
Finally, fully funded scholarships break the financial barrier. That is, you will be able to focus on learning.
Read Also – Italy Fully Funded Scholarships 2026 – No IELTS, Monthly Stipend, and Full Benefits
Who Is Eligible to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy?
Generally, completely funded scholarships in Italy are meant for international students from various countries across the globe.
Undergraduates and graduates are eligible. However, the eligibility might be based on a particular scholarship.
They generally require good academic records, motivation letters, recommendation letters, and sometimes language proficiency certificates in English or Italian.
Also Read – Study in UK: 2025/26 Fully Funded Scholarships at University of Southampton
Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy for International Students
1. Italian Government Scholarships for International Students
The Italian Government offers scholarships to foreign students and Italian nationals abroad through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI).
The scholarships are available for master’s and doctoral level studies in various fields.
It is a prestigious opportunity for students who can pursue their studies in Italy without worrying about expenses since it covers health insurance, living expenses, as well as tuition fees.
Eligibility:
- Available for international students from eligible countries
- Must be enrolled in a master’s or PhD at an Italian university
- English or Italian language proficiency evidence
What it includes:
- Waiver of full fee tuition
- €900 monthly stipend
- Health coverage
2. University of Bologna Scholarships
The University of Bologna, one of the oldest and most renowned in Italy, provides ample scholarships to foreign students pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
These scholarships are established to attract outstanding students from around the world, enabling them to study at an internationally recognized university without financial strains.
The scheme recognizes academic excellence and merit, thus enabling top students to be granted the opportunity to achieve their educational goals in a multicultural and dynamic environment.
Eligibility:
- Open for non-EU international students
- Applying for a bachelor’s or master’s degree
- SAT, GRE, or TOLC test scores may be required
What it offers:
- Waiver of the total tuition fee
- Award of €11,000 annually
Read Also – Fully Funded Scholarships in the UK for International Students 2025
3. Politecnico di Milano Scholarships
Politecnico di Milano, a premier technical university in Italy, awards highly competitive scholarships to international students pursuing master’s courses in engineering, architecture, and design.
The awards are competitive and awarded based on academic merit with an outlook towards attracting the best talent from around the world.
The scholarship scheme assists students in alleviating their financial stress while gaining world-class education and Italian career prospects.
Eligibility:
- Available for international students seeking a master’s degree
- Solid academic record
- No individual application; nominees are automatically shortlisted
What it covers:
- Complete tuition fee exemption
- Monthly stipend of €5,000 – €10,000 annually
4. Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships
Scuola Normale Superiore offers very competitive scholarships fully covering PhD students from various disciplines, i.e., humanities, sciences, and social sciences.
The scholarship scheme provides full cost coverage in the form of tuition charges, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. Scholars have access to state-of-the-art research infrastructures, seasoned academics, and an academically demanding environment that fosters high academic standards.
This chance enables students to concentrate solely on their research without the burden of money, hence it’s among the most competitive PhD scholarships in Italy.
Eligibility:
- Available to international PhD candidates
- Should possess a good academic background and research proposal
What it covers:
- Total exemption of tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation and research grant
5. EDISU Piemonte Scholarships
EDISU Piemonte provides scholarships to students attending Piedmont region universities, including the University of Turin and Politecnico di Torino.
Scholarships are awarded on a combination of academic ability and financial need, ensuring talented students from poor backgrounds can pursue higher education.
The program sponsors students via tuition waivers, stipends for living, and housing assistance, hence the best option for international students seeking quality education in Northern Italy without paying a penny.
Eligibility:
- Open to international students pursuing studies within the Piedmont region
- Must be pursuing full-time undergraduate or master’s education
- Awarded on merit and need basis
What it covers:
- Waiver of tuition charges
- Grant periods and accommodation
Also Read – Study in USA: 2026 Fully Funded Scholarships at Louisiana State University
6. Bocconi University Scholarships for International Students
The University of Bologna, Italy’s most ancient and prestigious university, provides generous scholarships to international students pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
The scholarship will inspire the best students from around the world to come and pursue their studies without any financial constraints.
The scheme rewards academic achievement and financial hardship to ensure bright students are able to pursue their academic ambitions within a vibrant and ethnically diverse study community.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-Italian students pursuing a degree at Bocconi University
- Strong academic performance
- Financial hardship can be considered
What it covers:
- Remission of the entire tuition fee (€12,000 – €14,000 per annum)
- Grant for living cost
7. University of Padua Scholarships
University of Padua provides fully funded scholarships for international students seeking admission to bachelor and master courses.
With its reputation for high academic excellence and revolutionary research, the university offers a plethora of English-based courses in numerous disciplines.
The scholarships enable outstanding students from around the world, foster a diverse student community, and enable scholars to attain quality education without the burden of costs.
Eligibility:
- Accessible for non-EU foreign students
- Must apply for an English-language program by the University of Padua
What it covers:
- Waiver of the full tuition fee
- Annual stipend of €8,000
- Regional scholarship awards
Read Also – Study in UK: 2025/26 Fully Funded Scholarships at University of Southampton
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy?
Application for these scholarships can differ depending on the organization or university awarding them. Below are common steps you can follow:
- Research: Start early by figuring out which scholarships you qualify for. Visit official university sites and government sites.
- Prepare Documents: In the majority, you will need academic transcripts, a CV, letters of recommendation, motivation and personal statements, and proof of language skills.
- Submit Application: Most scholarships are online-based, but some might need hard copies mailed in.
- Attend Interviews: Interviews may be part of some scholarships, meant to test your qualifications and motivation.
- Wait for Results: Upon submission, wait for official announcements or emails from the scholarship bodies.
How to Search for the Best Fully Financed Scholarships
Start with these:
- Use official portals. For Italy, the “Study in Italy” portal publishes MAECI calls. It is the government grants reference point of first call.
- Consult university funding portals. Look at the websites of the universities on your list of interest. They publish calls and merit scholarship notices.
- Check Erasmus Mundus program listings. If you’re interested in moving between nations, search the Erasmus+ Joint Master catalogue.
- Monitor research institute announcements. If you desire a PhD, monitor PhD calls in laboratories and research schools.
- Use scholarship aggregators with care. Aggregators will point you in the direction of programs. But check absolutely everything on the website before you apply.
Also Read – Apply Now: Fully Funded Scholarships at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse 2025
Tips to Increase Your Chance to Receive a Fully Funded Scholarship
- Apply as soon as possible and spare time to read all scholarship conditions.
- Highlight your academic record and experience clearly.
- Write a sincere and strong motivation letter.
- Get a good letter of recommendation from lecturers or employers.
- Improve your language skills if needed.
- Follow up politely if not heard back within expected time frames.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which are the best fully funded Italy scholarships available for international students?
The top fully funded choices include the Italian Government Scholarships, University of Bologna Scholarships, and Politecnico di Milano Scholarships.
Can international students apply for scholarships in Italy?
Yes, there are many different types of scholarships available for international students coming to Italy from all over the world.
Do scholarships in Italy cover tuition and living costs?
Most Italian fully funded scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and in a few cases, even travel.
Are there fully funded PhD scholarships in Italy?
Yes, Scuola Normale Superiore and some universities provide fully funded PhD scholarships.
When do I apply for a scholarship in Italy?
Scholarship deadlines vary, so check the official websites for the exact dates and apply well in advance.
Conclusion
Learning in Italy is a dream for many foreign students, and the presence of completely funded scholarships in Italy for 2025 makes it more easily affordable.
Regardless of the scholarship you opt for, you stand with great chances of learning in top-world institutions without financial constraints.
To enhance your opportunities in winning a scholarship, ensure to do proper research on the requirements, have strong application documents, and apply early before the deadline.
References
- Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy for International Students
- Scholarships in Italy for International Students 2025
