Study in Italy — Complete Guide
Academic pathways, costs, scholarships and immigration info for international students. Data approximate — always confirm on official sites.
Language Study (Italian & English courses)
Italy offers Italian language courses at universities (Centro Linguistico di Ateneo) and private schools. English preparatory courses are also offered before degree study.
Typical costs
| Course type | Price range |
|---|---|
| Short intensive Italian (4–12 weeks) | €400 – €1,200 |
| University semester Italian | €1,000 – €2,500 |
| English preparatory (1 semester) | €1,500 – €3,000 |
Official source: Italian language resources via Study in Italy (MAECI)
Bachelor’s Degree
Duration: 3 years (180 ECTS). Available in Italian and increasingly in English at top universities.
Fees
| Student type | Annual tuition |
|---|---|
| EU/EEA | €1,000 – €3,500 |
| Non-EU/EEA | €1,500 – €5,000 (varies by university) |
Living costs
- Rent: €300 – €600 (depends on city)
- Food & transport: €250 – €400
- Total: ~€700 – €1,200 per month
Official info: Check bachelor programmes at Universitaly portal.
Master’s Degree
Duration: 2 years (120 ECTS). Strong international focus with many English-taught MSc and MA programmes.
Tuition
- EU/EEA: €1,000 – €3,500
- Non-EU: €1,500 – €5,000 (average, some higher for medical/law)
Scholarships
- Invest Your Talent in Italy
- Regional scholarships (e.g. LazioDiSCo, EDISU Piemonte)
Masters often require relevant bachelor + English proof (IELTS/TOEFL). For official details: MIUR (Ministry of University & Research).
PhD Degree
PhDs usually last 3–4 years. Many are funded with research grants or university contracts. Open calls published annually by universities.
Key points
- Doctoral candidates often exempt from tuition fees.
- Stipends: ~€1,000 – €1,500/month (gross).
- Applications require master’s degree + research proposal.
Official info: PhD calls listed at each university and on Euraxess Italy.
Visa & Residence Permit
Steps
- Secure admission letter from an Italian university.
- Apply for student visa (Type D) at Italian embassy/consulate.
- Show proof of funds: ~€6,500/year minimum.
- Show accommodation & health insurance.
- On arrival: apply for residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 days.
Fees
- Visa fee: ~€50
- Residence permit kit: ~€100 – €150