Italy's Scholarship System

Learn how international students can get their tuition fees waived and receive a yearly stipend for living costs.

Most Popular

1. Need-Based Scholarships (DSU)

This is the most common and powerful scholarship for international students. It is **not** based on your grades or test scores, but on your family's financial situation. It is also called the **"Right to Study"** scholarship or **DSU** (Diritto allo Studio Universitario).

What You Need: The ISEE

To apply, you must get an **ISEE (Indicatore della Situazione Economica Equivalente)** certificate. This is a document that proves your family's annual income and assets are below a certain threshold (usually under €23,000 per year).

What You Get:

  • Total Tuition Fee Waiver: You pay almost no university fees.
  • Yearly Stipend: A cash payment for living costs, which can be over **€7,000+ per year**.
  • Other Benefits: Access to subsidised university housing and discounts at university canteens.

Note: Each region has its own DSU office (like *LazioDisco* in Rome or *DSU Toscana* in Florence). The application deadline is very early, often in August or September, *before* you are even fully enrolled.

Competitive

2. Merit-Based Scholarships

These scholarships are awarded based on your academic achievements, such as high grades, a high IMAT/TOLC score, or a strong application portfolio. They are more competitive but often easier to apply for.

Types of Merit Scholarships:

University-Specific Grants

Many universities offer their own grants to attract talented international students.

  • Example: The "Padua International Excellence Scholarship" offers a full fee waiver and €8,000 per year.
  • Example: The University of Bologna's "Unibo Action" grants offer €11,000.

MAECI Scholarships

These are offered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI). They are typically for Master's or PhD students and are highly prestigious.

Strategy: You can (and should) apply for **both** need-based and merit-based scholarships to maximize your chances of receiving funding.