Apply for Italian government scholarships (MAECI). Fully funded master’s and PhD programs with €900 stipend, tuition waiver, and insurance. Start your journey today.
Overview of Italian Government Scholarships
The Italy Government Scholarship, officially known as the MAECI Scholarship (Italian Government Scholarship), is a prestigious fully funded opportunity for international students who want to pursue higher education in Italy.
Funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), this program supports students enrolling in master’s degrees, PhD programs, and research opportunities at leading Italian universities. The scholarship aims to strengthen academic cooperation, promote Italian culture and language, and support global education partnerships.

Through these fully funded scholarships in Italy for Pakistani students and international applicants, students gain access to world-class universities, advanced research facilities, and internationally recognized degrees. Italy’s higher education system includes 61 public universities, 30 private universities, and more than 339 English-taught programs, making it one of the most attractive study destinations in Europe.
If you want to study in Italy with financial support, this program offers a strong pathway to build your academic and professional future.
Apply now and start your journey today toward studying in Europe.
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Details of the Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI)
- Scholarship Name: Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI Scholarship)
- Host Country: Italy
- Scholarship Provider: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI)
- Degree Level: Master’s Degrees, PhD Programs, Research Fellowships
- Host Institutions: Italian universities recognized by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR)
- Funding Type: Fully Funded Scholarship
- Application Period: Applications usually open April–May and close around mid-June each year.
- Program Location: Top universities across Italy
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Eligibility Criteria for Italy Government Scholarships
To qualify for the Italy Government Scholarship for international students, applicants must meet the following criteria.
- Must be an international student eligible for MAECI programs
- Must apply for master’s, PhD, or research programs at Italian universities
- Must meet the academic requirements of the chosen university
- Must provide proof of Italian or English language proficiency
- Must meet age limits set by the scholarship (usually under 28 for master’s and under 30 for PhD)
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IELTS Requirements for Italy Government Scholarship
For the Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI), there is a language proficiency requirement, but IELTS is not always mandatory for all applicants.
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Many programs do not require IELTS if you can provide alternative proof of English proficiency, such as a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate showing your previous degree was taught in English.
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If you are applying to an English‑taught master’s or PhD program, you typically need to demonstrate at least B2 level English proficiency (which can be shown through IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or equivalent certificates).
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For some research or PhD programs, Italian universities may not strictly require IELTS if other acceptable evidence of language ability is provided.
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IELTS may be required for some programs as proof of English language ability.
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However, many Italian institutions accept alternatives like MOI or other standardized tests, making it possible to apply for the scholarship without IELTS in several cases.
Countries often eligible for IELTS waiver include
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European countries: Germany, France, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden
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Other countries: Turkey, Norway, Malaysia, Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Ghana
Additional Eligibility Conditions
Applicants should also:
- Apply to universities recognized by the Italian Ministry of University and Research
- Submit all required documents before the Italy scholarship deadline
- Follow the official application procedure through the Study in Italy portal
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Benefits of Italian Government Scholarships
The Italian Government Scholarship MAECI is considered one of the most valuable study in Italy scholarships available to international students.
Financial Benefits
Recipients receive:
- Monthly stipend of approximately €900
- Tuition fee exemption
- Health insurance coverage
- Opportunity to study at top universities in Italy
- Access to international academic networks
Additional Advantages
Students also benefit from:
- High-quality European education
- Exposure to international research opportunities
- Cultural and professional networking
- Pathways toward PhD research and academic careers
These fully funded scholarships in Europe help talented students pursue their academic goals without major financial barriers.
Don’t miss this opportunity to secure your future in Europe.
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Duration of the Italy Government Scholarship
The scholarship duration varies depending on the academic program.
- Research Programs: 3 to 9 months
- Master’s Degrees: Up to 2 years
- PhD Programs: Up to 3–4 years depending on university regulations
Students must maintain good academic performance to continue receiving funding.
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Study Tracks and Fields Offered in Italy Scholarships
Students can apply to a wide range of academic disciplines offered by Italian universities.
Popular Fields of Study
- Engineering and Technology
- Architecture and Design
- Economics and Finance
- Business and Management
- International Relations
- Social Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Humanities and Languages
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
- Arts and Cultural Studies
Programs are available in English-taught courses across Italian universities.
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Universities Participating in Italy Scholarships
Students applying for Italy government scholarships for international students can study at many prestigious institutions.
Top Universities in Italy
- University of Bologna
- Sapienza University of Rome
- Politecnico di Milano
- Scuola Normale Superiore
- University of Padua
- Bocconi University
- University of Pavia
- University of Turin
- Politecnico di Torino
- NATO Defense College
These institutions also offer additional scholarship programs such as:
Additional Scholarship Programs in Italy
- Unibo Action 1 and 2 Scholarship
- Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships
- Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships
- Padua International Excellence Scholarship
- Bocconi University Scholarships
- CICOPS Scholarship (University of Pavia)
- EDISU Piemonte Scholarship
- Politecnico di Torino Scholarships
- NATO Defense College Fellowship
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Documents Required for Italian Government Scholarships
Applicants must prepare the following documents when applying.
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Letters of recommendation
- English or Italian language certificate
- Admission letter from the university (if required)
Is a Supervisor Required?
- For Master’s programs: No supervisor is required.
- For PhD or research programs: A supervisor may be required depending on the university and research proposal.
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Application Process for Italy Government Scholarship
The Italian Government Scholarship application process is completed online.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the official Study in Italy portal.
- Create an online account.
- Choose your university and program.
- Upload required documents.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Wait for the evaluation and selection results.
Applicants should also apply for university admission separately, as acceptance into a program is required for final scholarship confirmation.
Apply now and secure your future by studying in Italy.
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Secure Your Future with Italy Government Scholarships
The Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI) offers an incredible opportunity for talented international students to pursue higher education in one of Europe’s most culturally rich and academically prestigious countries. With financial support, global networking opportunities, and access to top universities, this scholarship can open doors to an international career and advanced research opportunities. If you dream of studying in Europe, this is your chance.
Apply now, don’t miss this opportunity, and start your journey today toward studying in Italy.