Study in Italy
Studying in Italy is possible at top and reputable universities such as the University of Bologna and the Polytechnic University of Milan with low and affordable costs. Immigration to Italy and study there is much easier compared to other countries
There is also the opportunity for free education in Italy through various scholarships that are available in this country. All these scholarships are awarded for different educational levels. Even if you have a low financial status, it may still be possible to obtain these scholarships. Furthermore, students can enroll in universities in Italy with a diploma and take advantage of free or low-cost education.
To successfully obtain a student visa for Italy, you must fully meet the following conditions:
- Have an Italian or English language certificate
- Official translation of previous academic qualifications into Italian or English
- Previous academic qualifications
- Motivation letter and recommendation
- Have sufficient financial means for living and study expenses
Studying in Italy is more affordable than in many other European countries like France or Germany. Public university tuition typically ranges from €1,000 to €4,000 per year, while monthly living expenses are around €700–€1,200. Students can work up to 20 hours per week, earning €7–€10 per hour. You can also bring your family while studying in Italy.
For expert advice and a free consultation, contact the experienced team at Malekpour Immigration Institute.
Study Conditions in Italy
Studying in Italy is attractive for international students for various reasons, such as high-quality education, rich and historical culture, and relatively reasonable costs. Here, we will discuss the conditions and steps for studying in Italy:
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Language | If the program is in Italian, proficiency in Italian is required. For English-taught programs, proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS 6-7 or TOEFL, is usually required. |
| Academic Documents | Official translation of previous academic documents into Italian or English. |
| Resume | Includes educational and work history. |
| Motivation Letter | Explanation of the reasons for choosing the course and university. |
| Recommendation Letter | From professors or employers. |
| Online Application | Submit your application through the website of the chosen university. |
| Application Fee Payment | Many universities charge a fee for processing the application. |
Benefits of Studying in Italy
Studying in Italy has many advantages that have made it one of the popular destinations for international students. Below are some of the most important advantages of studying in this country:
- Reputable and long-standing universities
- Affordable tuition
- Availability of various scholarships
- High quality of education
- Rich cultural and historical environment
- Education in English
- Work and residence opportunities
- Relatively affordable living costs
- Ability to travel to Europe
- Interaction with international students
Admission Steps in Italy
The admission steps for studying in Italy are divided into several main stages, each of which includes specific details. We will discuss these steps below:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Research and choose the course and university |
| Step 2 | Check entry requirements and necessary documents |
| Step 3 | Complete application forms and submit documents |
| Step 4 | Take exams and interviews (if required) |
| Step 5 | Receive admission |
| Step 6 | Apply for a student visa |
| Step 7 | Prepare for travel |
| Step 8 | Register at the university and obtain residence |
| Step 9 | Start classes and adjust to the new environment |
Required Documents for Study in Italy
The required documents for studying in Italy depend on the type of program (bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate) and the desired university. However, generally, the following documents are usually required for migration to Italy via study:
- Academic certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Language certificate
- Recommendations
- Motivation letter
- Resume
- Valid passport
- Personal photo
- Financial certificate
- Health insurance
Studying in Italy at Different Educational Levels
Studying in Italy for different educational levels can be an attractive and suitable option. Below, a brief explanation of each level will be provided.
- Study in Italian Schools
- Study in Italy for Undergraduate Degree
- Study in Italy for Master’s Degree
- Study in Italy for PhD Degree
Study in Italian Schools
Studying in Italian schools is an attractive option for families intending to migrate to this country or wanting their children to benefit from the European education system. Italy has public, private, and international schools that offer educational programs in both Italian and English. The Italian education system comprises three main levels:
| Education Level | Age Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool Education (Scuola dell’Infanzia) | 3 to 6 years old | Optional education for young children. |
| Primary Education (Scuola Primaria) | 6 to 11 years old | Compulsory education for children. |
| Secondary Education (Scuola Secondaria) | 11 to 19 years old | Includes first cycle (11-14 years) and second cycle (14-19 years), covering technical, vocational, and academic high schools. |
The cost of studying in Italian schools and high schools in public schools is free and in private and international schools, annual tuition fees range from 5,000 to 30,000 euros depending on the school and city.
Studying in Italy at the Bachelor’s Level
Italy is one of the top destinations for studying at the bachelor’s level, attracting international students with reputable universities, affordable tuition, and scholarship opportunities. For studying at the bachelor’s level in Italy, students must present the following documents:
- High school diploma equivalent to 12 years of education (must be verified)
- Language certificate, for English-language courses, IELTS (minimum 6) or TOEFL and for Italian-
- language courses, CILS or CELI certificate (minimum level B2)
- Admission to the entrance exam, some fields such as medicine and architecture require an exam.
Some of the reputable universities in Italy for studying at the bachelor’s level include: the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, Polytechnic University of Milan, and the University of Padua. Tuition fees in Italy at the bachelor’s level at public universities range annually between 1,000 to 4,000 euros, and at private universities, between 6,000 to 20,000 euros.
Studying in Italy at the Master’s Level
The cost of studying at the master’s level in Italy at public universities ranges from 1,000 to 5,000 euros per year and at private universities from 6,000 to 20,000 euros per year. The admission requirements for studying at the master’s level in Italy are:
- A valid bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- Language certificate, for English-language courses: IELTS (minimum 6 to 6.5) or TOEFL and for
- Italian-language courses: CILS or CELI certificate (minimum level B2)
- Motivation letter and recommendation
- Work sample (for art and design majors)
Some of the top universities in Italy offering master’s programs include: Polytechnic University of Milan, University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and the University of Pisa.
Studying in Italy at the Doctorate Level
The cost of studying at the doctorate level in Italy at public universities ranges annually from 3,000 to 5,000 euros and at private universities from 8,000 to 20,000 euros. Admission to doctorate programs in Italy requires submitting the following documents:
- Master’s degree related to the desired field
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) including academic and research background
- Research Proposal explaining the topic and objectives of the research
- Language certificate, for English-language courses, IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL and for
- Italian-language courses, CILS or CELI certificate (minimum level B2)
- Published scientific articles (if any)
- Recommendation letters from professors
Costs of Studying in Italy
The cost of studying in Italy depends on several factors, including the level of study, the type of university (public or private), fields of study in Italy, and the city in which you study. Below, we will discuss the various costs associated with migrating to Italy for study purposes:
| Level of Education | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Primary and Secondary (Public) | Nearly free |
| Primary and Secondary (Private) | 3,000 to 20,000 EUR |
| Undergraduate (Public) | 900 to 4,000 EUR |
| Undergraduate (Private) | 6,000 to 20,000 EUR |
| Master’s Degree (Public) | 1,000 to 5,000 EUR |
| Master’s Degree (Private) | 5,000 to 25,000 EUR |
| Doctoral Degree (Public) | 1,000 to 3,000 EUR |
| Doctoral Degree (Private) | 5,000 to 20,000 EUR |
In addition to tuition fees, the cost of living in Italy must also be considered. This includes housing, food, transportation, health insurance, and other daily expenses. Overall, the monthly living cost for a single individual, excluding rent, is about 856 euros. This cost for a family of four is about 2,988 euros per month.
| Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center | 760 EUR |
| Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the suburbs | 573 EUR |
| Monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center | 1,368 EUR |
| Monthly rent for a three-bedroom apartment in the suburbs | 967 EUR |
| Budget restaurant | 15 EUR |
| Public transportation | 35 EUR |
Best Universities in Italy
In 2024, several universities in Italy are recognized as top universities. These universities are known for their high-quality education, research, and facilities for studying in Italy. Below is the list of universities in Italy where you can find the best universities:
| University Name | Website |
|---|---|
| University of Bologna | www.unibo.it/en |
| Polytechnic University of Milan | www.polimi.it |
| Sapienza University of Rome | www.uniroma1.it/en/pagina-strutturale/home |
| University of Padua | www.unipd.it/en/ |
| Polytechnic University of Turin | www.polito.it |
Best Fields to Study in Italy
Italy, as the cradle of art, architecture, culture, and civilization, is one of the top study destinations in Europe. Reputable universities in Italy offer a broad range of educational programs in various fields. The best fields to study in this country are recognized due to the high quality of education, prominent faculty, and job opportunities after graduation.
Art and Design
- Fashion Design
- Visual Arts
- Interior and Graphic Design
Architecture
- Modern Architecture
- Preservation of Historical Monuments
- Sustainable Architecture
Engineering
Popular fields include mechanical engineering, civil engineering, aerospace engineering, and computer engineering.
Medicine and Dentistry
Popular medical fields include general medicine, dentistry, and various medical specialties. One of the conditions for studying medicine in Italy is to have high grades and GPA. Some of the important top universities in Italy for medical studies are: the University of Pavia, Sapienza University of Rome, and Federico II University of Naples.
Studying in Italy with a Diploma
Studying abroad in Italy with a diploma is available for applicants, and those with a diploma can participate in the LAUREA program, which is a 3-year course. To enroll in this program, applicants must earn 180 credits. This program is designed for obtaining further education at university levels in Italy and enables applicants to obtain preliminary training in various educational fields. For more information on studying in Italy with a diploma, you can refer to the relevant article.
Scholarships in Italy
Italian scholarships provide international students with an opportunity to continue their studies in this beautiful country rich in culture and history. These scholarships are offered by universities, the Italian government, and various organizations. Below are a few examples of famous scholarships in Italy:
- Italian Government Scholarships
- University Scholarships
- Erasmus+ Programs
- DSU Scholarships
- Scholarships from Private Foundations and International Organizations
Free Study in Italy
If you are considering migrating to Italy through education, one of your biggest concerns may be the costs of studying and living, and you might be looking for conditions for free education in Italy. Free education in Italy is not feasible, but you can apply to Italian public universities to study at very low costs.
However, if you can obtain a scholarship in this country, you will be eligible for free education in Italy. Furthermore, considering that doctorate applicants in Italy receive salaries, the conditions for free education in Italy are also possible at this level.
| University Name | Faculties |
|---|---|
| University of Florence | Arts, Agriculture, Architecture, Law, Engineering, Education, Mathematics, Physics and Natural Sciences, Medicine and Surgery, Political Sciences, Pharmacology, Psychology |
| University of Turin | Arts and Humanities, Life Sciences and Medicine, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences and Management, Physics |
| University of Milan | Economics and Business, Arts and Humanities, Engineering and Technology, Life Sciences and Medicine, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences and Management, Mathematics |
| University of Camerino | Science and Technology, Law, Pharmacy, Life Sciences and Veterinary, Architectural Design |
| Ca’ Foscari University of Venice | Management, Economics, Philosophy and Cultural Heritage, Molecular Science and Nanotechnology, Environmental Sciences and Computer Science, Humanities, Linguistics and Comparative Cultural Studies, Asian and Mediterranean Studies |
Dependent Student Visa for Italy
The dependent student visa allows the spouse, children, and sometimes parents of international students to live in Italy. Applicants must have a valid student visa and provide proof of family relationship, financial means, and health insurance.
The process includes filling out an application, scheduling an embassy interview, and submitting documents. The visa is issued for the duration of the student’s studies and can be extended. Dependents can live, participate in daily activities, and work in Italy.
Working While Studying in Italy
International students in Italy can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays. Job options include restaurants, cafes, shops, and university positions like research or teaching assistantships.
No separate work permit is required, but a valid residence permit is mandatory. Knowing Italian improves job prospects, though some positions are available in English. Wages typically range from €7–€10 per hour, helping students cover living expenses and gain valuable work experience.
Residence After Study in Italy
Foreign students in Italy can extend their stay after graduation by converting their student visa to a work visa for up to 12 months. Required documents include a job contract, academic certificates, ID, and proof of financial means.
After obtaining a work visa, graduates can apply for long-term residency in Italy. Key requirements include a valid degree, job offer, financial stability, and sometimes a language certificate. Residency after study in Italy provides career opportunities, high quality of life, and the potential to migrate to other European countries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Italy
- How much does it cost to study in Italy?
Tuition for public universities ranges from 900 to 4,000 euros per year, and for private universities, from 6,000 to 20,000 euros.
- Is IELTS required for Italy?
International students are advised to have proficiency in English. The minimum required scores for admission to universities in Italy are: IELTS 5.5 and TOEFL 507 to 557.
- Is the student visa for Italy easy to obtain?
The process of applying for an Italian student visa becomes straightforward after receiving your university offer letter. Apply to a university in Italy and wait for the acceptance letter. Depending on the course of study, choose the appropriate visa type.
- Can I study in Italy in English?
Yes, English is often sufficient for living and studying in Italy, especially in larger cities and universities offering English-language programs. However, learning some basic Italian can greatly enhance your experience and aid in daily interactions.
- What are the disadvantages of studying in Italy?
Disadvantages of studying in Italy include: language challenges with Italian, lengthy administrative processes, high competition for scholarships, and high living costs in large cities.
- What are the age requirements for studying in Italy?
Italy is a popular study destination for international students and does not have strict age restrictions for university admission. Generally, the age limit for undergraduate programs is between 18 and 25 years. For master’s degree programs, the typical age for admission is between 22 and 30 years.
- What are the GPA requirements for studying in Italy?
Italy is a popular study destination in Europe, with prestigious universities and excellent facilities, but its admission conditions are competitive. The minimum GPA required for public universities in Italy is generally between 13 to 14 out of 20. For more competitive fields (such as medicine or architecture), a higher GPA (around 15 or 16 out of 20) may be needed.
Conclusion:
Studying in Italy is an exceptional opportunity for international students seeking high educational quality and rich cultural experiences. With reputable universities such as Bologna and Polytechnic Milan, students can enjoy diverse fields across various levels. Tuition fees typically range from 1,000 to 4,000 euros per year, and scholarship options help to reduce these costs. The dependent visa also allows family members to live alongside the student.
In addition, students can work while studying and benefit from job and residency opportunities in Italy after graduation. For further information regarding studying in Italy and other countries, you can contact Malekpour Immigration Institute and find answers to your questions during a free telephone consultation.
