Study in Italy with a Fully Funded Government Scholarship

Applications are now open for the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 for international students and Italian citizens living abroad. This prestigious scholarship is funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) and provides financial support for Master's, PhD, AFAM (Arts, Music and Dance), and Research Programs at Italian public universities and recognized higher education institutions.

The scholarship covers tuition fees, health insurance, and provides a generous stipend of €10,800 to support living expenses during studies in Italy.

If you dream of studying in one of Europe's most beautiful and academically respected destinations, the MAECI Scholarship 2026 is an excellent opportunity.

Scholarship Overview

Scholarship NameItalian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026
Host CountryItaly
Funded ByMinistry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI)
Degree LevelMaster's, PhD, AFAM, Research Programs
Financial CoverageFully Funded
Eligible Countries141 Countries
Application FeeNo Application Fee
DeadlineMay 26, 2026

Financial Benefits

Selected applicants will receive the following benefits:

Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Full exemption from enrollment fees

  • Full exemption from tuition fees at participating institutions

Health Insurance

  • Medical insurance coverage

  • Accident insurance coverage during the scholarship period

Monthly Living Stipend

Successful candidates will receive a total scholarship amount of €10,800, distributed as follows:

InstallmentAmount
First Installment€5,500
Second Installment€2,300
Third Installment€3,000
Total€10,800

The stipend can be used for:

  • Accommodation

  • Food and daily expenses

  • Transportation

  • Study materials

Available Study Programs

The MAECI Scholarship supports the following study schemes:

1. Master's Degree Programs

  • Duration: Up to 2 Years

  • Age Limit: Maximum 28 Years

2. PhD Programs

  • Duration: Up to 3 Years

  • Age Limit: Maximum 30 Years

3. AFAM Programs

Higher Education Courses in:

  • Fine Arts

  • Music

  • Dance

  • Design

4. Research Projects

  • Academic research under university supervision

  • Open to researchers and scholars

Eligible Countries

The scholarship is available to applicants from 141 eligible countries, including:

Asia

  • Bangladesh

  • India

  • Pakistan

  • China

  • Japan

  • South Korea

  • Indonesia

  • Vietnam

  • Thailand

Middle East

  • Saudi Arabia

  • United Arab Emirates

  • Turkey

  • Iran

  • Qatar

Africa

  • Egypt

  • Morocco

  • Tunisia

  • Nigeria

  • Kenya

  • South Africa

Europe

  • All EU Member States

Americas

  • United States

  • Canada

  • Mexico

  • Brazil

  • Argentina

  • Chile

  • Colombia

Oceania

  • Australia

  • New Zealand

Applicants should verify their eligibility through the official MAECI website before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Citizenship

  • Citizen of an eligible country

  • Italian citizens residing abroad may also apply

Academic Requirements

For Master's Programs

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent qualification

For PhD Programs

  • Master's Degree or equivalent qualification

Age Requirements

Master's Applicants

  • Must be 28 years old or younger

PhD Applicants

  • Must be 30 years old or younger

Language Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through one of the following:

  • IELTS

  • TOEFL

  • Other recognized English language certificates

  • Proof of previous education in English

Additional Requirements

  • Strong academic record

  • Good health condition

  • Compliance with scholarship regulations

  • Not receiving another Italian government scholarship

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents:

Mandatory Documents

  • Valid Passport Copy

  • Academic Transcripts

  • Degree Certificates

  • English Language Certificate

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • Motivation Letter

For PhD and Research Applicants

  • Research Proposal

Additional Supporting Documents

  • Recommendation Letters

  • Academic Publications

  • Portfolio (for AFAM applicants)

Important: Documents should be translated into English or Italian if required and uploaded in PDF format.

How to Apply for Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026

Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure that:

  • Your country is eligible

  • You meet age requirements

  • You possess the required academic qualifications

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Gather and organize all required documents.

Step 3: Submit Scholarship Application

  • Visit the official Study in Italy portal.

  • Create an account.

  • Complete the online application form.

  • Upload all required documents.

  • Submit before the deadline.

Step 4: Scholarship Evaluation

Applications will be reviewed by the MAECI selection committee.

Step 5: University Admission

If selected:

  • Apply to your chosen Italian university.

  • Submit your scholarship award confirmation.

  • Complete admission requirements.

Step 6: Visa Process

  • Obtain university acceptance.

  • Apply for an Italian student visa.

  • Prepare for your studies in Italy.

Important Deadline

Application Deadline

26 May 2027

Applicants are strongly advised to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid technical issues.

Popular Italian Universities Accepting MAECI Scholars

Students may study at many leading Italian universities, including:

  • University of Bologna

  • University of Padua

  • University of Milan

  • Sapienza University of Rome

  • University of Florence

  • University of Turin

  • University of Pisa

  • University of Naples Federico II

  • Polytechnic University of Milan

  • Polytechnic University of Turin

Tips for a Successful Application

Write a Strong Motivation Letter

Explain:

  • Why you want to study in Italy

  • Your academic goals

  • Your future career plans

Apply Early

Avoid last-minute submission problems.

Prepare Language Proof

Ensure your IELTS or TOEFL certificate is valid and available before the deadline.

Review Your Application

Check all documents for completeness and accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the MAECI Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. It covers tuition fees, health insurance, and provides a €10,800 stipend.

Is IELTS required?

Applicants must provide proof of English proficiency. IELTS is commonly accepted.

Do I need admission before applying?

No. You can apply for the scholarship first and seek university admission after selection.

Can Bangladeshi students apply?

Yes. Bangladesh is among the eligible countries.

Is there an application fee?

No. The application process is completely free.

Conclusion

The Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 offers an outstanding opportunity for international students to pursue higher education in Italy without financial burden. With a full tuition waiver, comprehensive health insurance, and a generous €10,800 living stipend, students can focus entirely on their academic and professional development.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your documents and submit your application before 26 May 2026 to begin your academic journey in Italy.

Official Application Website

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