Applications are now open for the Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027, but time is short. The deadline hits on March 26, 2026, at 14:00 Italian time. These scholarships from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) fund study, training, and research at Italian institutions. They support Bachelors, Masters, PhD programs, and more to build cultural and scientific ties.
This guide covers who can apply, the types of scholarships, key benefits, how to submit an application, and useful tips. Foreign students and Italians living abroad have a chance to study onsite in Italy.
Deadline Alert: Apply by March 26, 2026, 14:00 Italian time via the Study in Italy portal.
Key Takeaways
- Applications for Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027 close on March 26, 2026, at 14:00 Italian time via the Study in Italy portal.
- Eligible applicants include foreign students and Italians residing abroad in specific countries, for programs like Master’s, PhD, research, and Italofonia courses.
- Scholarships provide 10,800 euros in installments, tuition exemptions at many schools, and health insurance for onsite study in Italy.
- Apply by registering on the portal, uploading documents, and meeting your chosen institution’s qualification rules.
Eligibility Requirements for Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027
Selection starts with citizenship. Applicants pick just one country to apply under.
General Requirements
Scholarships go to foreign students and Italians Residing Abroad (IRE). They cover study, training, or research at public or private Italian institutions. All programs require onsite attendance in Italy.
IRE scholarships target Italians living abroad in specific countries. Here is a full list:
| Country | Notes |
|---|---|
| Argentina | IRE residents only |
| Australia | IRE residents only |
| Brazil | IRE residents only |
| Chile | IRE residents only |
| Colombia | IRE residents only |
| Egypt | IRE residents only |
| Ethiopia | IRE residents only |
| France | IRE residents only |
| Germany | IRE residents only |
| Kenya | IRE residents only |
| Lebanon | IRE residents only |
| Morocco | IRE residents only |
| Peru | IRE residents only |
| United Kingdom | IRE residents only |
| Senegal | IRE residents only |
| Spain | IRE residents only |
| South Africa | IRE residents only |
| Tunisia | IRE residents only |
| Uruguay | IRE residents only |
| Venezuela | IRE residents only |
Citizenship Rules
Dual citizens with Italian and foreign passports apply through the foreign country. They list their foreign citizenship on the portal. Those with multiple foreign citizenships choose one beneficiary country and use that citizenship.
Types of Scholarships Available
MAECI offers five main types. Each fits different goals and levels.
- Master’s Degree programmes (Laurea Magistrale): 9 months, renewable.
- AFAM programmes: 9 months, renewable for fine arts, music, dance.
- PhD programmes: 9 months, renewable.
- Research projects: 9 months, not renewable.
- Italofonia scholarships: 3 months for language and culture.
Master’s Degree Programmes (Laurea Magistrale, 2nd Cycle)
These last 9 months and can renew. Applicants need a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent to enter the first year.
Higher Education for Fine Arts, Music and Dance (AFAM) Programmes
AFAM covers 1st and 2nd cycle programs for 9 months, renewable. Students must meet the institution’s academic qualifications.
PhD Programmes
PhD scholarships run 9 months and can renew. Applicants need the right qualifications and must pass the institution’s admission test.
Research Projects
These fund 9 months of work under supervision at universities, research centers, museums, or archives. They do not renew.
Italofonia Scholarships
For 3 months of intensive Italian language and culture courses. Applicants need at least A2 level in Italian per CEFR.
WikiAfrica Education Initiative
African grantees who speak African languages can join this program. It partners with Aurora Foundation, Moleskine Foundation, and Wikimedia. Students add Africa-focused content online.
Benefits of the MAECI Scholarships
Winners gain strong support. Most types renew after the first 9 months, except research projects.
Financial Support
- Tuition exemptions: Many universities waive fees for recipients. Rules vary by school, so check ahead. Regional fees apply and stay with the student.
- Health insurance: Covers illness or accidents during the scholarship period.
- Cash payment: Total of 10,800 euros in three installments to an Italian bank account.
Key Stat: 10,800 euros total, paid in 3 installments to your Italian account.
Additional Perks
Insurance comes from MAECI directly. Tuition refunds do not happen if fees apply.
How to Apply for Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027
Follow these steps only through the portal.
- Register on the Study in Italy portal with an email you check often.
- Fill and submit the online form by the deadline.
- Upload all documents via the portal. No other method works.
Use this timeline to stay on track:
| Step | Deadline/Action | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Register | As soon as possible | Pick a reliable email. |
| Prepare documents | Before March 26, 2026 | Match institution needs. |
| Submit application | By 14:00 Italian time, March 26, 2026 | Double-check everything. |
See full details on the official webpage.
Additional Tips and Selection Insights
Selection looks at citizenship first, then academic fit. Each institution sets qualification rules. For PhDs, pass their admission test.
- Use an email you check daily for updates.
- Research tuition and fees with your chosen school early.
- Confirm qualifications match the program’s needs.
- Note onsite study only, no remote options.
- Check the portal for eligible institutions and renewal rules.
The Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027 offer great chances for foreign students and Italians abroad to study in Italy with financial support, tuition exemptions, and health insurance. With the deadline at 14:00 Italian time today, March 26, 2026, act fast to submit your application through the Study in Italy portal. Don’t miss this opportunity to advance your education and build international ties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027?
Foreign students and Italians residing abroad (IRE) in listed countries can apply for onsite study, training, or research at Italian institutions.
What benefits do the scholarships offer?
Recipients get 10,800 euros paid in three installments, tuition exemptions at many universities, and health insurance covering illness or accidents.
How do I apply for these scholarships?
Register on the Study in Italy portal, fill out the online form, and upload all required documents by the deadline—no other methods work.
What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline is March 26, 2026, at 14:00 Italian time, so submit early to avoid issues.
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