Are you dreaming of studying in Italy but worried about expenses? The Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity designed to support international students and Italian citizens living abroad.

Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, this prestigious scholarship allows students from 141 eligible countries (including Bangladesh) to pursue Master’s, PhD, AFAM, and research programs at top Italian universities.

🎓 Scholarship Overview

  • Host Country: Italy

  • Scholarship Provider: MAECI (Italian Government)

  • Degree Levels: Master’s, PhD, AFAM, Research

  • Application Fee: ❌ None

  • Deadline: May 26, 2026

💰 Financial Benefits

Selected students will receive:

  • ✅ Full Tuition Fee Waiver

  • ✅ Health & Medical Insurance

  • ✅ €10,800 Annual Stipend, paid in 3 installments:

    • €5,500 (1st installment)

    • €2,300 (2nd installment)

    • €3,000 (Final installment)

👉 This funding covers accommodation, food, and daily living expenses.

📚 Available Study Programs

1. Master’s Degree

  • Duration: 2 Years

  • Age Limit: Maximum 28 years

  • Requirement: Bachelor’s Degree

2. PhD Programs

  • Duration: 3 Years

  • Age Limit: Maximum 30 years

  • Requirement: Master’s Degree

3. AFAM Programs

  • Arts, Music, Dance Institutions

4. Research Projects

  • Short-term academic research under supervision

🌍 Eligible Countries

Students from 141 countries worldwide can apply, including:

  • Asia: Bangladesh, India, China, Japan

  • Europe: EU Countries

  • Americas: USA, Canada, Brazil

  • Africa & Middle East: Egypt, UAE, Turkey, etc.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To apply, you must:

  • Be a citizen of an eligible country

  • Meet age limits:

    • Master’s: ≤ 28 years

    • PhD: ≤ 30 years

  • Hold required academic degrees

  • Provide English proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)

  • Have a strong academic background

📄 Required Documents

Prepare the following:

  • Passport Copy

  • Academic Transcripts & Certificates

  • CV/Resume

  • Motivation Letter

  • Language Certificate

  • Research Proposal (for PhD)

Optional:

  • Recommendation Letters

  • Portfolio (for Arts programs)

📝 Application Process (Step-by-Step)

  1. Check Eligibility

  2. Prepare Documents

  3. Apply Online via “Study in Italy” Portal

  4. Wait for Selection Results

  5. Apply for University Admission (after selection)

  6. Complete Enrollment & Visa Process

⚠️ Important:
You do NOT need university admission before applying for the scholarship.

🏫 Top Universities in Italy

You can study at leading institutions such as:

  • University of Bologna

  • Sapienza University of Rome

  • University of Milan

  • Polytechnic University of Milan

  • University of Padua

👉 All Italian public universities accept MAECI scholarship holders.

💡 Tips to Get Selected

  • Apply early (avoid last-minute issues)

  • Write a strong motivation letter

  • Ensure valid IELTS/TOEFL score

  • Double-check all documents

  • Clearly align your goals with your chosen program

❓ FAQs

✔ Is there any application fee?
No, it’s completely free.

✔ Do I need admission first?
No. Apply for the scholarship first.

✔ What does it cover?
Tuition, insurance, and €10,800 stipend.

✔ Deadline?
👉 May 26, 2026

🔗 Official Website

👉 https://www.esteri.it/en/opportunita/borse-di-studio/per-cittadini-stranieri/borsestudio_stranieri/

🎯 Final Words

The MAECI Scholarship 2026 is one of the best fully funded opportunities in Europe. With zero application fee, full financial support, and access to top universities in Italy, this is your chance to build a global academic career.

📢 Apply before May 26, 2026 and start your journey to Italy!