Country guide
Study in Italy 2026: Complete Guide for International Students
Italy combines one of the world's oldest university traditions with affordable, high-quality education. With public tuition starting around EUR 900 per year, more than 500 English-taught programmes, and generous Italian government scholarships, Italy remains one of Europe's most popular study destinations for international students. This guide covers universities, costs, funding, and the visa process so you can plan every step.
Why study in Italy?
Italy is home to the University of Bologna, founded in 1088 and widely considered the oldest university in the Western world. Today the country offers a distinctive combination of academic heritage, affordable education, and strong international rankings.
- Affordable public tuition from about EUR 900 per year
- Over 500 English-taught degree programmes
- World-renowned universities in design, architecture, engineering, and the arts
- Italian government and regional scholarships for international students
- Rich cultural heritage and strategic gateway to Europe
- Post-study stay options for job seeking and work
Key numbers
- Public tuition: EUR 900 to EUR 4,000 per year
- Private tuition: EUR 6,000 to EUR 20,000 per year
- Living costs: EUR 700 to EUR 1,200 per month
- English-taught programmes: 500+
Top universities in Italy
Italy's higher education system includes large state universities, smaller specialized institutions, and prestigious private universities. These are among the most recognized by international students:
| University | City | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| University of Bologna | Bologna | Oldest university in Europe; broad academic offering |
| Sapienza University of Rome | Rome | Largest European university; humanities, sciences, medicine |
| Politecnico di Milano | Milan | Engineering, architecture, and design |
| University of Padua | Padua | Research-intensive; biomedical and sciences |
| University of Milan | Milan | Medicine, economics, and humanities |
| Bocconi University | Milan | Economics, finance, and management |
| University of Turin | Turin | Law, economics, and political science |
Tuition fees and living costs
Italy is one of the most affordable study destinations in Western Europe. Public universities set fees progressively based on family income, so students with lower household income often pay significantly less than the maximum.
Tuition fees
- Public universities: EUR 900 to EUR 4,000 per year, scaled to family income
- Private universities: EUR 6,000 to EUR 20,000 per year
- Some regions grant full fee waivers to international students on scholarships
Living costs
Living costs vary by city. Milan and Rome are the most expensive; smaller cities like Padua, Pavia, and Bologna are more affordable.
- Accommodation: EUR 300 to EUR 700 per month
- Food and transport: EUR 250 to EUR 400 per month
- Total budget: roughly EUR 700 to EUR 1,200 per month
Scholarships and funding for international students
Several funding routes can reduce or eliminate the cost of studying in Italy. The most important are:
- Italian government scholarships (MAECI): funding for international students covering tuition, a monthly stipend, and health insurance for bachelor's, master's, and PhD studies.
- Regional DSU scholarships: need-based funding managed by regional bodies such as Lazio Disco, Ergo, and Edisu, covering tuition, meals, and housing.
- University merit scholarships: many Italian universities award fee waivers or stipends to high-achieving international applicants.
- Invest Your Talent in Italy: a fully funded programme for English-taught master's degrees.
- Part-time work: students may work up to 20 hours per week during term time.
Next step: Browse the verified scholarships in Italy collection and the Italy scholarship category page for programs with open deadlines. For detailed funding and admissions guidance, read the full study in Italy guide.
English-taught programmes in Italy
Italy offers more than 500 degree programmes taught entirely in English, with the strongest selection at the master's level. Popular fields include engineering, business and economics, computer science, design, international relations, medicine, and data science.
Admission to English-taught programmes usually requires an English proficiency certificate such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test. Some universities accept applicants without a formal test if the previous degree was taught in English. If English tests are a barrier, review the scholarships without IELTS guide and the Duolingo English Test guide.
Student visa for Italy
Non-EU students studying in Italy for more than 90 days need a national D-type study visa, issued by the Italian embassy or consulate in their home country. Plan for visa processing times of several weeks, and apply only after receiving an official university acceptance.
Documents typically required
- Valid passport with at least two blank pages
- Official university acceptance or pre-enrollment letter
- Proof of financial means for at least EUR 460 per month
- Proof of accommodation in Italy
- Health insurance covering the Schengen area
- Completed visa application form and photos
After arrival, apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within eight days at the local police station. For a complete walkthrough of the process, see the student visa guide.
Admission requirements and timeline
Italian admissions are rolling and vary by university, but most intakes follow a similar pattern.
Typical application timeline
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Pre-enrollment and applications open | January to May |
| University admission decisions | April to July |
| Student visa application | May to August |
| Arrival and residence permit | September to October |
Documents to prepare
- Certified academic transcripts and degree certificates
- English or Italian language proficiency certificate
- A well-written statement of purpose or motivation letter
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Reference letters where required
Use the application checklist, the statement of purpose guide, and the motivation letter guide to prepare a strong application package.
People also ask
Study in Italy frequently asked questions
Can I study in Italy in English?
Yes. Italy offers more than 500 English-taught degree programmes, particularly at the graduate level. Universities like Bocconi, Politecnico di Milano, and the University of Bologna have extensive English-taught offerings.
How much does it cost to study in Italy?
Tuition at public universities ranges from about EUR 900 to EUR 4,000 per year depending on family income. Private universities charge EUR 6,000 to EUR 20,000 per year. Living costs range from EUR 700 to EUR 1,200 per month.
What scholarships are available for studying in Italy?
Italian government scholarships (MAECI), regional DSU scholarships, university merit scholarships, and the Invest Your Talent in Italy programme are the main options. See the scholarships in Italy page for verified open programs.
Do I need to speak Italian to study in Italy?
For English-taught programmes, no Italian is required for admission, though basic Italian is strongly recommended for daily life. For Italian-taught programmes, you typically need B2 level Italian or higher.
How do I get a student visa for Italy?
Apply for a national D-type study visa at the Italian embassy or consulate after receiving your university acceptance. You need proof of enrollment, financial means, accommodation, and health insurance.
Is it expensive to study in Italy for international students?
Italy is one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe. Public universities charge as little as EUR 900 per year, and scholarships and part-time work can offset living costs.
What are the top universities in Italy?
The University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, Politecnico di Milano, University of Padua, University of Milan, and Bocconi University are among the most highly ranked and internationally recognized Italian universities.
Can I work while studying in Italy?
Yes. Non-EU students on a study visa may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time during holidays. A residence permit allowing work is required.