The Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI) is one of the most prestigious fully funded international scholarship programs in Europe, created to strengthen cultural, scientific, and technological cooperation between Italy and countries around the world. Offered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), this scholarship supports foreign students and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE) who aspire to pursue advanced studies in Italy.
For the 2026–2027 academic year, applications remain
open until 16 May 2025 at 14:00 CET, and all submissions must be
completed via the official Study in Italy portal
(https://studyinitaly.esteri.it).
The MAECI scholarship is uniquely comprehensive in its academic coverage. It supports students enrolling in Master’s degree programs (Laurea Magistrale, 2nd Cycle), PhD programs, Higher Education in Arts, Music and Dance (AFAM), Research projects under academic supervision, and advanced Italian language and culture programs.
These opportunities are hosted at public universities, legally
recognized private institutions, AFAM academies, and accredited research
centers, including prestigious institutions such as CNR, INAF, and INFN.
A FullyFunded Scholarship Designed for Global Talent
One of MAECI’s greatest strengths is the financial support it provides. Scholars receive a €10,800 grant, disbursed in three installments across the academic year. This support allows students to live and study comfortably in Italy while focusing entirely on academic growth.
For short-term Italian
language and culture courses, scholars receive a separate €3,000 grant.
Beyond monetary support, the scholarship includes health and medical
insurance for the entire duration of the award, ensuring students are
protected while studying abroad. In many cases, institutions also grant full
or partial tuition fee exemptions, significantly reducing financial
barriers.
Scholarship
Duration and Renewability
The MAECI scholarship covers nine months of study for most programs, while Italian language and culture courses receive three months of funding. Importantly, the scholarship is renewable, giving high-performing scholars the chance to continue their studies into the next academic year.
Renewals are typically based on academic achievements, including satisfactory
progress such as earning required university credits (for example, 25 CFU for
degree programs). Research progress for PhD candidates is verified through
supervisors’ evaluations.
Eligibility and Admission Requirements
The scholarship is open to both foreign citizens and Italian citizens residing abroad (IRE), making it a truly global program. However, applicants must meet specific age criteria: up to 28 years for Master’s and AFAM programs, up to 30 years for PhD applicants, and up to 40 years for those applying to research programs under academic supervision.
Bachelor’s degree options are offered exclusively to students graduating from
Italian schools abroad. Applicants must also present the appropriate
educational qualifications required for their chosen course.
Language
requirements vary based on the medium of instruction. Programs taught in
English require B2 English proficiency, while Italian‑taught programs
require B2 Italian. Italian language courses require A2‑level Italian,
supporting progressive linguistic immersion. Research and PhD programs may not
always require formal language certificates, though applicants must still meet
host institution requirements.
Fields of Study and Academic Benefits
Students
can choose from a wide range of disciplines across engineering, science,
humanities, social sciences, arts, music, healthcare technologies, and advanced
research fields. MAECI’s goal is not only to promote academic excellence but also to enhance cultural diplomacy by encouraging cross‑cultural exchange,
innovation, and collaboration. Certain African scholars also benefit from
parallel programs such as the WikiAfrica Higher Education Initiative,
which extends the scholarship’s cultural impact.
How to Apply Through the Study in Italy Portal
Applicants
must create an account on the Study in Italy portal, upload documents
such as academic transcripts, passport copies, and language proficiency
certificates, and submit their application before the deadline. All applicants
are encouraged to check program requirements through both the Study in Italy
portal and the Universitaly platform to ensure eligibility and proper pre‑enrollment
procedures.