Italy is one of the most affordable and attractive destinations for international students in Europe. With centuries-old universities, globally recognized degrees, and rich cultural heritage, Italy offers a unique combination of academic quality and affordability.
Over 40 top universities in Italy are ranked internationally, including University of Bologna (the oldest university in Europe), Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico di Milano.
Italy is also part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), which means your degree will be recognized across Europe and beyond, making it an excellent gateway to global careers.
Admission Requirements – Study in Italy
Italy is student-friendly and keeps its application process relatively straightforward:
- High School Diploma / Bachelor’s Degree – depending on the level of study
- English or Italian Proficiency – IELTS/TOEFL (for English-taught programs) or Italian language certificate (for Italian-taught programs)
- Pre-Enrollment at Embassy – compulsory for non-EU students (done at the Italian Embassy in your country)
- Application Form – through university’s admission portal
- Motivation Letter – explaining academic and career aspirations
- Letters of Recommendation – often optional but strengthen applications
- Portfolio – required for design, architecture, arts programs
- Academic Transcripts – with official translations (if not in English/Italian)
- Financial Proof – to obtain a study visa (bank statements/sponsor letter)
👉 At ScholyHub Consultants, we guide you through DSU scholarship applications and embassy pre-enrollment to make the process smooth.
Education System in Italy
The Italian higher education system is divided into public universities, private universities, and technical institutions. Degrees follow the Bologna Process and include:
- Bachelor’s (Laurea Triennale) – 3 years
- Master’s (Laurea Magistrale) – 2 years
- PhD (Dottorato di Ricerca) – 3–5 years
Teaching is research-driven, with a focus on practical learning, internships, and industry exposure, especially in design, architecture, arts, and engineering.
Costs of Studying in Italy
Italy is known for being one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe.
- Tuition Fees: €1,000 – €4,000/year (public universities; lower with regional scholarships)
- Living Costs: €700 – €1,200/month depending on the city (Rome and Milan are more expensive; smaller cities are cheaper)
This makes Italy far more budget-friendly compared to the US, UK, or even other EU countries.
Scholarships in Italy
Italy offers numerous scholarship opportunities for international students:
- DSU Regional Scholarships – Cover tuition fees, accommodation, and meals for eligible students.
- Italian Government Scholarships – For Master’s and PhD students.
- Invest Your Talent in Italy Scholarship – Focused on international students in specific fields.
- University Scholarships – Offered by institutions such as Politecnico di Milano, University of Bologna, and University of Padua.
👉 Check out the latest Italy Scholarships on ScholyHub
Student Life in Italy
Studying in Italy means more than academics—it’s an immersive cultural experience.
- Cultural Heritage – Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan offer world-famous art, history, and fashion.
- International Community – Thousands of students from across the globe choose Italy every year.
- Affordable Lifestyle – With student discounts, regional grants, and lower living costs compared to Western Europe, Italy is a practical choice.
- Travel Opportunities – Italy’s central European location makes it easy to explore France, Switzerland, Germany, and Spain.
Work Opportunities During and After Study
- Part-Time Work – International students can work 20 hours per week during studies.
- Post-Study Opportunities – After graduation, students can extend their stay for job-seeking under the “Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione” (Residence Permit for Job Search), valid for 12 months.
- EU Career Access – A degree from Italy gives you access to career opportunities across the EU.
Italy offers a rare combination of quality education, affordable tuition, and rich cultural experiences. With the right planning and scholarships, studying in Italy can be one of the most rewarding decisions of your life.
How ScholyHub Consultants Supports You
At ScholyHub Consultants, we ensure your journey to Italy is smooth and successful by offering:
- University Selection – Guidance on choosing from affordable yet prestigious public and private universities.
- Scholarship Assistance – Support in applying for fully and partially funded opportunities such as DSU Scholarships, Italian Government Scholarships, and regional funding programs.
- Application Preparation – Help with crafting strong motivation letters, CVs, and recommendation letters.
- Visa Guidance – Complete assistance with Italian Student Visa (Type D) requirements.
- Post-Arrival Support – Housing, residence permit applications, and settling-in advice.
At ScholyHub Consultants, we help you every step of the way—from university applications and scholarships to visas and post-study planning.
👉 Book your consultation today and let us guide you toward your dream of studying in Italy.