Fully Funded Italy Government (MAECI) Scholarships 2026
Organization: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), Government of Italy
Host country: Italy
Degree level: Masters, Doctoral
Funding: Fully Funded
Deadline: May 16, 2026
Eligible countries: Over 100 eligible partner countries globally (refer to the official MAECI list for exact details)
Fields of study: All academic disciplines offered by recognized Italian Higher Education Institutes, Arts, Music, Dance, Italian Language and Culture
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) offers grants to foreign citizens and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE) to foster international cooperation in cultural, scientific, and technological fields.
The scholarship covers a wide range of academic paths including Master's degrees, PhDs, AFAM programs, and research projects. Grantees receive a generous monthly allowance, health insurance, and potential tuition fee exemptions, providing an incredible opportunity to experience Italy's world-class education, rich culture, and historic heritage.
Benefits
- Monthly allowance of €900 paid quarterly to an Italian bank account
- Exemption from enrollment and tuition fees (depending on the university's policy; regional taxes may still apply)
- Health and medical/accident insurance contracted by MAECI for the duration of the grant
Eligibility
- Master's/AFAM/Language Courses: Maximum 28 years old by the application deadline
- PhD Programs: Maximum 30 years old
- Research Projects: Maximum 40 years old
- Must hold an appropriate academic qualification required to enroll in the chosen Italian institution
- English-taught courses: Minimum B2 level CEFR in English
- Italian-taught courses: Minimum B2 level CEFR in Italian (A2 for Italian language and culture courses)
Requirements
- Admission or pre-enrollment at a recognized Italian university
- Strong academic performance and curriculum vitae (CV)
- Research proposal for PhD and research applicants
- Submission of application exclusively through the Study in Italy portal
Required Documents
- Valid passport or identity document
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- CV/Resume detailing educational and professional background
- Proof of language proficiency (English or Italian B2 certificate)
- Letter of admission from an Italian university (if available)
- Recommendation letters
- Research proposal (for PhD/Research applicants)
Programs of Study
- Master's Degree (Laurea Magistrale 2° ciclo)
- PhD Programs
- Courses of Higher Education in Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM)
- Research under academic supervision
- Advanced Courses in Italian Language and Culture
Application Process
- Register an account on the official 'Study in Italy' portal
- Fill out the online application form and select up to three course options/institutions
- Upload a legible copy of a valid passport and all required academic documents
- Submit the application before the mid-May deadline
How to Apply
- Check the Universitaly portal to find eligible courses and secure university admission or pre-enrollment early
- Ensure language certificates (B2 level) are ready before the application opens
- Submit all required documentation correctly, as incomplete applications are automatically disqualified
Selection Process
- Applications are evaluated based on academic merit, CV, and requirements
- The Italian Diplomatic Mission in the applicant's country conducts a comparative assessment
- Selected grantees and reserve candidates are published by the relevant Diplomatic Mission