Discover top places to apply for Italy scholarships that cover tuition and living costs. Learn eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and expert tips for winning funding.
Explore full-coverage Italian scholarships including stipend and housing.
Introduction
Italy is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations in Europe, known for its world-class universities, breathtaking culture, and high academic standards. Every year, thousands of international students choose Italy for its affordable education system and wide availability of fully funded scholarships. However, the biggest challenge international students face is managing living expenses—which include accommodation, meals, transport, books, and personal costs.
The good news? Italy offers several scholarships that not only cover tuition fees but also provide generous living-cost stipends. These are offered by the Italian government, regional authorities, universities, and private institutions.
If you’re searching for Where to apply for Italy scholarships that cover living costs, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every option, application platform, eligibility requirements, timelines, tips, and frequently asked questions.
Why Choose Italy for Studying Abroad?
Before exploring scholarship options, it’s important to understand why Italy is considered a top study destination.
1. Affordable Education System
Public universities in Italy have lower tuition fees compared to other European countries. Scholarships help reduce this further—sometimes bringing tuition to zero.
2. High-Quality Academic Programs
Italy is home to top-ranking universities such as University of Bologna, Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza University of Rome, and University of Padua.
3. Rich Cultural Experience
Students experience art, architecture, history, fashion, food, and Italian lifestyle firsthand.
4. Job Opportunities in Europe
International students can stay after graduation under job-seeking visas and work across the EU.
5. Scholarships Include Living Cost Support
Many scholarships offer:
- Monthly stipends
- Free meals
- Accommodation support
- Travel reimbursement
- Health insurance
Where to Apply for Italy Scholarships That Cover Living Costs?
There are five main sources where you can apply:
- Italian Government Scholarships
- Regional Government Scholarships (DSU Scholarships)
- University-Specific Scholarships
- Private/Foundation Scholarships
- International Organization Scholarships
Let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI Scholarships)
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) offers fully funded scholarships to international students.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Tuition fee waiver
- Monthly allowance (approx. €900–€1000)
- Health insurance
- Renewable for multiple years
Programs Covered
- Master’s Degrees (Laurea Magistrale)
- Research programs
- Higher Education in Arts, Music & Dance (AFAM)
Eligibility Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree for Master’s
- Age normally below 28–30 (varies by program)
- Good academic record
- Strong motivation letter
- English or Italian proficiency
Where to Apply
You apply directly on the Italian government scholarship portal (name only). No links added as requested.
Why It’s a Great Option
This is one of the few scholarships in Italy that provides a high monthly stipend that fully supports living expenses.
2. Regional Scholarships (DSU Scholarships) – Fully Funded with Living Cost Support
The DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) scholarships are funded by Italian regional governments. These are among the most generous and most popular fully funded scholarships in Italy.
Each region offers its own DSU scheme.
Major Regions Offering DSU Scholarships
- Lazio (LAZIODisco Scholarship)
- Tuscany (DSU Toscana Scholarship)
- Lombardy (DSU Politecnico di Milano Scholarship)
- Piedmont (EDISU Piemonte Scholarship)
- Emilia Romagna (ERGO Scholarship)
- Veneto Region Scholarships (University of Padova, Venice, Verona)
What DSU Scholarships Cover
- No tuition fees
- Free meals at university cafeterias
- Free or subsidized accommodation
- Annual stipend (approx. €5000–€7000)
- Study material grants
- Transport support
Who Can Apply
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students
- International and EU students
- Based on family income (ISEE or equivalent) and academic merit
Where to Apply
You apply on the regional scholarship portal or through the university scholarship portal (name only, no links).
Why Students Prefer DSU
It is easy to apply, and acceptance rates are high. Tens of thousands of international students receive DSU every year.
3. University-Specific Italy Scholarships That Cover Living Costs
Many Italian universities offer their own internal scholarships that cover living costs, tuition, or both.
Below are some of the top universities and their funding programs.
a) University of Bologna Scholarships
One of the oldest universities in the world, it offers:
- Tuition waivers
- Study grants
- Living-cost support
Students can apply for both DSU and University of Bologna funding.
b) Politecnico di Milano Merit Scholarships
Highly competitive scholarships for engineering, design, and architecture.
Covers
- Full tuition fee
- €5000–€10,000 yearly stipend
- Bonus for top students
c) University of Padua Excellence Scholarships
These scholarships cover:
- Tuition fees
- €8000 annual living cost stipend
Padua is one of the most generous universities for international students.
d) Sapienza University of Rome Scholarships
Sapienza offers:
- DSU scholarships
- Merit-based scholarships for bright students
- Research and PhD student stipends
e) University of Milan Scholarships
The University of Milan and Politecnico di Milano have strong scholarship programs:
- Income-based
- Merit-based
- Fully funded PhD grants
f) University of Turin Scholarships
The popular EDISU scholarships cover:
- Tuition
- Meals
- Accommodation
- Income and merit-based funding
4. Private/Foundation Scholarships
Several private organizations and foundations in Italy provide funding for international students.
These include:
- Banking foundations
- Cultural foundations
- Research institutes
- Private donors
Examples of Programs
- Merit and need-based grants from Italian foundations
- Scholarships for art, music, and culture students
- Research fellowships in science and technology
These scholarships often cover:
- Tuition fees
- Monthly scholarship amounts
- Travel
- Books/materials
- Living expenses
5. International Organization Scholarships
Students can also apply for scholarships offered by:
- EU institutions
- UN organizations
- Nonprofit organizations
- Foreign embassies
- Cultural missions
These scholarships may provide:
- Monthly stipends
- Research funds
- Travel reimbursement
- Tuition waivers
Some programs support students studying within EU countries, including Italy.
Documents Required for Italy Scholarship Applications
While requirements vary, these are usually mandatory:
- Passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificate
- CV
- Motivation letter or statement of purpose
- Recommendation letters
- Income certificate (for DSU)
- Language certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or Italian proficiency)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
How to Write a Strong Motivation Letter for Italy Scholarships
A good motivation letter increases your chances of winning.
Include the following:
- Why you chose Italy
- Why you chose that university
- Your academic achievements
- Financial need (if required)
- Career goals
- How the scholarship will help you
- Your contribution to the university
Keep the tone formal, clear, and impactful.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning an Italy Scholarship
- Apply early – Do not wait for the deadline.
- Prepare documents correctly – Mistakes lead to rejection.
- Write a strong motivation letter – This is a key deciding factor.
- Keep income documents accurate (for DSU).
- Maintain good grades – Many scholarships require academic merit.
- Apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously.
Cost of Living for Students in Italy Scholarships
Italy Scholarships amounts are often calculated based on average living costs.
Monthly Expenses
- Accommodation: €250–€450
- Food: €200–€300
- Transport: €25–€35
- Books/Misc: €50–€100
A scholarship covering €500–€800 per month is usually sufficient.
Why Italian Regions Provide Living-Cost Support
Italy promotes inclusive education and attracts global talent by offering benefits such as:
- Affordable education
- Subsidized student housing
- Free cafeteria meals
- Flexible work-study opportunities
Italy’s goal is to make universities accessible to all—regardless of financial background.
Timeline for Applying to Italy Scholarships
General Timeline
- January–March: University applications open
- April–June: Scholarship applications open
- July–August: DSU applications
- September–October: Scholarship results
- October–November: Enrollment and arrival in Italy
Also Read: Which Canadian Scholarships Are Available for International Students in 2025?
Sources
FAQs
1. Which scholarship is best for covering living costs in Italy?
The DSU regional scholarships are the best, offering free accommodation, meals, and €5000–€7000 yearly stipends.
2. Can international students apply for fully funded Italy Scholarships?
Yes. Italy Scholarships welcomes international students and provides many fully funded scholarships through government, regional, and university programs.
3. Do I need IELTS to apply?
Not always. Many Italian universities accept English proficiency letters from previous institutions.
4. Is Italy expensive for students?
Italy Scholarships is more affordable than many European countries. Scholarships significantly reduce total expenses.
5. Can I work while studying in Italy Scholarships?
Yes. International students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week).
6. Which Italian cities are cheapest for students?
Cheapest options include:
- Pisa
- Turin
- Pavia
- Bari
- Padua
7. How competitive are DSU Italy Scholarships?
Moderately competitive, but international students have high success rates due to income-based selection.
8. Can I apply for multiple Italy Scholarships at once?
Yes, Italy Scholarships and it increases your chances of receiving funding.
9. Do scholarships cover accommodation?
Most DSU scholarships provide free or subsidized dormitory accommodation.
10. Is Italy a good place to study engineering or design?
Yes, Italy Scholarships institutions like Politecnico di Milano are world leaders in design, architecture, and engineering.