Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy for International Students 2026. Apply for fully funded scholarships here. Italy is one of the most popular study destinations in Europe, famous for its rich history, cultural diversity, and top-ranked universities. The best news for international students is that many fully funded scholarships in Italy are now available for the 2026 intake. These scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, living allowance, and other expenses, making it possible for students from around the world to pursue their academic dreams in Italy.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: Italy
- Degree Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded (tuition fees, accommodation, monthly allowance, and more)
- Eligible Nationalities: All international students
- Application Deadline: Varies by program/university
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy 2026—including types of scholarships, eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, deadlines, and FAQs.
Fully Funded UK Universities Scholarships Without IELTS
Types of Scholarships in Italy 2026
Here are some of the most popular and fully funded scholarship programmes available in Italy:
1. Italian Government Scholarships
-
Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI).
-
Available for master’s and PhD programmes.
-
Covers tuition fees, monthly allowance, and health insurance.
2. University of Bologna Scholarships for International Students
-
Available for bachelor’s and master’s programmes.
-
Includes tuition fee waivers and study grants.
3. Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships
-
For master’s students in engineering, architecture, and design.
-
Covers full tuition fees + additional living stipends.
4. University of Padua Scholarships (Padua International Excellence Scholarship)
-
Open to highly talented international students.
-
Covers tuition fees and provides a living allowance.
5. EDISU Piemonte Scholarships
-
Available for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students studying in Piedmont region universities.
-
Covers accommodation, meals, and study grants.
6. Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships
-
Fully funded for PhD students.
-
Covers tuition, accommodation, research expenses, and a monthly stipend.
Korean Scholarships Fully-Funded | Study in South Korea
Eligibility Criteria (Explained Simply)
The eligibility criteria differ by programme, but generally you must:
- Be an international student (non-Italian nationality).
- Hold the required academic qualifications (high school diploma for bachelor’s, bachelor’s degree for master’s, master’s degree for PhD).
- Meet the academic excellence criteria (good grades or merit-based requirements).
- Provide proof of English or Italian language proficiency (depending on the programme).
-
-
Many universities accept Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or a certificate of prior education in English.
-
-
Submit all required documents before the deadline.
Application Process
- Choose a scholarship/university programme that matches your degree level.
- Visit the official application portal of the chosen scholarship.
- Register and create an account to start your application.
- Upload required documents (see below).
- Submit the application before the deadline.
- Wait for admission and scholarship results.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Austria for International Students
Required Documents
- Valid Passport/ID
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates
- Degree Certificates (if applying for a master’s or PhD)
- CV/Resume
- Motivation Letter or Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (2–3)
- Proof of English or Italian proficiency
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
Important Dates & Deadlines
- Italian Government Scholarships 2026: Expected deadline – June 2026
- University of Bologna Scholarships: Usually open from January to April 2026
- University of Padua Scholarships: Deadline around February–March 2026
- Politecnico di Milano Scholarships: Deadlines vary (typically in March & September 2026)
- EDISU Scholarships: Deadlines usually in July 2026
- Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships: Applications close around November 2025 – January 2026
👉 Always check the official university/scholarship website for the most updated deadlines.
600 Graduate Research Scholarships at University of Melbourne
FAQs
Q1: Are these scholarships fully funded?
✅ Yes, they cover tuition, accommodation, living stipends, and sometimes travel and insurance.
Q2: Can bachelor’s students apply?
✅ Yes, some programmes like Bologna and EDISU support undergraduate students.
Q3: Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
❌ Not always. Some universities accept alternative proofs like Duolingo or a certificate of prior English-medium education.
Q4: How many scholarships can I apply for?
✅ You can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
Q5: Is there an application fee?
❌ Some universities may charge a small application fee, but many government scholarships are free to apply for.
ElT Graduate Scholars Program in UK (Fully Funded)
Conclusion
The Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy 2026 are a golden opportunity for international students to pursue their bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees in one of Europe’s most beautiful and academically strong countries. With numerous scholarships offered by the Italian Government and top universities like Bologna, Padua, and Politecnico di Milano, students can enjoy world-class education while having their expenses fully covered.
👉 Don’t wait—start preparing your documents today and apply to secure your spot!
1. Scuola Normale Superiore Ph.D. Scholarships
- Institution: Scuola Normale Superiore
- Level of Study: PhD
- Click here for deadlines and a step-by-step application process.
2. Arturo Falaschi Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Institution: ARES
- Level of Study: Postdoctoral
- Click here for deadlines and a step-by-step application process.
3. Bocconi University Scholarships
- Institution: Bocconi University
- Level of Study: Undergraduate / Masters
- For Merit Awards (Undergraduate): Click Here
- For Merit Awards (Graduate): Click Here
- For International Awards (Undergraduate): Click Here
- For International Awards (Graduate): Click Here
4. University of Bologna Scholarship
- Institution: University of Bologna
- Study in: Italy
- Level of Study: Undergraduate/Masters
- Click here for deadlines and a step-by-step application process.
5. Italian Government Scholarship
- Institution: Italian Higher Education Institutes
- Study in: Italy
- Level of Study: PhD/Masters
- Click here for deadlines and a step-by-step application process.
6. NATO Defense College Fellowships
- Institution: NATO Defense College (NDC)
- Study in: Italy
- Level of Study: Research
- Click here for deadlines and a step-by-step application process.
7. Gran Sasso Science Institute Ph.D. Program
- Institution: Gran Sasso Science Institute (GSSI)
- Study in: Italy
- Level of Study: PhD
- Click here for deadlines and a step-by-step application process.
8. Bocconi University Scholarships 2025 in Italy (Funded)
Bocconi University Scholarships 2025 Details:
| University: | Bocconi University |
| Degree Level: | Bachelors, Masters |
| Scholarship coverage: | Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | Italy |
| Last Date: | Open Now |
Official Link Bachelors
Official Link Masters
9. University of Camerino Scholarship 2025-26 in Italy (Without IELTS)
University of Camerino Scholarship 2025 Details:
| University: | University of Camerino |
| Degree level: | Bachelors, Masters, One-Tier Master |
| Scholarship coverage: | Fully Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | Italy |
| Last Date: | 31 March 2025 |