Italian Government Scholarships For Foreign Students For 2025/2026 (MAECI). For students seeking to study in Europe on a fully funded academic pathway, the Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students 2025/2026, offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), present a unique opportunity. These prestigious scholarships aim to strengthen international cultural, scientific, and technological ties while promoting Italy’s language, education system, and global presence.
What Is the MAECI Scholarship Programme?
The MAECI Scholarship Programme is a government-funded initiative designed to support foreign citizens and Italian nationals residing abroad (IRE). Through this initiative, the Italian government fosters mutual cooperation and provides access to high-quality education for international students in Italy.
Scholarship Application Deadline:
- Closing Date: 16 May 2025 at 14:00 CET
Study Location:
- Country: Italy
- Mode of Study: On-site (in-person only)
Scholarship Objectives and Scope
The scholarship is more than just financial support—it is a strategic effort by the Italian government to:
- Enhance international cooperation in cultural, scientific, and technological fields
- Expand Italy’s economic and cultural presence
- Promote the Italian language and heritage
- Provide access to world-class Italian universities and institutions
In addition, selected candidates from Africa may take part in the WikiAfrica Higher Education Initiative, led by the Moleskine Foundation, in partnership with the Wikimedia Foundation and Aurora Foundation.
Who Can Apply?
The MAECI scholarship is open to:
- Foreign students from outside Italy
- Italian citizens living abroad (IRE)
General Eligibility Criteria
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Foreign nationals or Italian residents abroad |
| Educational Qualifications | Must meet academic requirements of chosen course |
| Language Proficiency | Varies by course language (see below) |
| Age Limit | Varies by programme level |
Age Requirements (as of 16 May 2025)
| Programme Type | Maximum Age Limit | Eligible Birthdate (After) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s / Single Cycle Degree | 23 years | 16 May 2002 |
| Master’s / AFAM / Language Courses | 28 years | 16 May 1996 |
| PhD Programmes | 30 years | 16 May 1994 |
| Research Projects under Supervision | 40 years | 16 May 1984 |
Language Requirements
| Programme Type | Required Language Proficiency |
|---|---|
| Taught in Italian | Italian (B2 CEFR level) |
| Taught in English | English (B2 CEFR level) |
| Italian Language & Culture | Italian (A2 CEFR level) |
| PhD & Research Programmes | No language certificate required |
Fields of Study Covered
The Italian Government Scholarships 2025/2026 offer funding for a wide range of degree levels and academic disciplines:
Degree Programmes
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- PhD Programmes
- Italian Language & Culture Studies
- Research Projects under Academic Supervision
Non-Degree Programmes
- Higher Education in Fine Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM)
- Advanced Courses in Italian Language and Culture
All course offerings can be searched through the official Universitaly Portal.
Scholarship Benefits
The MAECI scholarship offers a robust set of benefits for international students studying in Italy:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 months (3 months for language/culture courses) |
| Tuition Fees | Possible exemption (regional fees may still apply) |
| Health Insurance | Covered (excludes dental and pre-existing conditions) |
| Monthly Financial Grant | Total of €9,000 (distributed in instalments) |
This level of financial assistance makes studying in Italy affordable for students from around the world, especially those from developing countries.
How to Apply for MAECI Scholarship 2025/2026
All applications must be submitted online through the Study in Italy Portal by the official deadline:
- Application Deadline: 16 May 2025 at 14:00 CET
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the Study in Italy Portal
- Register for an account and complete your profile
- Choose your intended academic programme
- Upload required documents, including:
- A valid passport or national ID
- Academic certificates
- Language proficiency proof (where required)
- Submit your application before the deadline
Contact Details
For technical or application-related questions, contact:
[email protected]
FAQs about Italian Government Scholarships 2025/2026
What does the Italian Government Scholarship 2025/2026 cover?
The MAECI scholarship covers tuition fee exemptions, health insurance, and a monthly stipend totaling €9,000 over a period of 9 months. For language and culture courses, the duration is 3 months.
Can I apply without a language certificate?
Yes, language certificates are not mandatory for PhD programmes and research projects. However, other programmes require proof of Italian or English proficiency (B2 level for most degree courses).
Is there any age limit for applicants?
Yes. The age limits vary:
- Bachelor’s: up to 23 years
- Master’s and AFAM: up to 28 years
- PhD: up to 30 years
- Research: up to 40 years
Conclusion
The Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students 2025/2026 represent more than just a chance to study abroad. They open the door to a life-changing academic and cultural experience in one of the most inspiring countries in the world.
