Why Study in Italy?

Italy is home to the oldest university in the Western world (Bologna, 1088). It is a global leader in Design, Architecture, Fashion, and Engineering. Italy offers some of the lowest tuition fees in Europe based on family income (ISEE). Additionally, the government offers “Invest Your Talent in Italy” scholarships and regional grants (DSU) that cover tuition and provide a stipend, making it accessible for students from all backgrounds.

Key Facts to Know

  • Language: Italian (Undergrad), English (Masters).
  • Cost of Study: €500 – €3,000/year (Public), €10,000+ (Private).
  • Funding: DSU Regional Scholarship (Income-based), MAECI.
  • Required Exams: TOLC (Undergrad), IELTS 6.0.
  • Degree Levels: Laurea (Bachelor), Laurea Magistrale (Master).
  • Intakes: September (Single major intake).
  • Visa: D-Visa (Study).

Popular Courses for International Students

  • Architecture & Urban Planning
  • Fashion Design & Management
  • Automobile Engineering
  • Medicine & Surgery (IMAT)
  • Business & Management
  • Restoration & Arts

Top Universities in Italy for International Students

Requirements for Admission

Requirements differ by program level:

Bachelor’s Degree

  • Completion of 12 years of Schooling.
  • TOLC Exam: Required for Engineering/Business/Science.
  • IELTS 6.0.
  • Declaration of Value (DoV) or CIMEA Statement of Comparability.

Master’s Degree

  • Relevant Bachelor’s degree (15 years of education acceptable).
  • IELTS 6.5.
  • Portfolio (for Architecture/Design).

Exams & Documents Required

  • Academic Transcripts (Apostilled & Translated).
  • Pre-enrollment Summary from UNIVERSITALY portal.
  • CIMEA Statement or Declaration of Value (DoV).
  • Form A (if applying via Embassy).
  • Proof of English Proficiency.
  • Passport Copy.

Visa Requirements (National D-Visa)

  • Research Note: Financial requirement for 2025 is approx €534.41/month (Official) but recommended to show more.
  • Valid Passport.
  • Pre-enrollment Summary: Validated by the university on Universitaly.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Rental contract or hotel booking (min 30 days).
  • Proof of Funds (2025): Minimum €6,000 – €7,000 per year (approx. €535/month). Recommended to show €9,000+.
  • Health Insurance: Coverage of €30,000.
  • Flight Itinerary: One-way ticket booking.
  • Visa Fee: €50.

Living Expenses in Italy for International Students

Milan and Rome are expensive (€1,000+), while cities like Turin, Padua, and Naples are much cheaper. DSU scholarships can cover accommodation and meals.

These basic steps can prove to be effective to ensure you get to live the best experience whilst your time of Study in Italy. Need more information? Feel free to Connect with Edvisa- Your Study Abroad Expert, Today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DSU Scholarship?

It is a "Right to Study" regional scholarship based on family income (ISEE). If your family income is low (often under €24,000/year), you can get free tuition, free accommodation, free meals, and a cash stipend of €6,000+.

What is CIMEA?

CIMEA is an organization that issues a "Statement of Comparability" to prove your foreign degree is equivalent to an Italian one. It is faster and easier than getting a "Declaration of Value" from the embassy.

Can I stay after graduation?

Yes. You can apply for a 12-month "Permesso di Attesa Occupazione" (Job Seeker Permit) after graduating to find a job.

Is Italian required?

Not for English-taught degrees. However, finding a part-time job without Italian is very difficult. We strongly recommend learning basic Italian.

What is the IMAT?

The International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT) is the mandatory entrance exam for studying Medicine in English at public universities. It is highly competitive.