Italy Regional Scholarships 2026: Full Guide, Eligibility & How to Apply

Everything You Need to Know About Italy Regional Scholarships

Italy is a top destination for international students, not only for its historic universities and vibrant culture but also for its affordable tuition fees. However, an often-overlooked funding opportunity is the Italy Regional Scholarship, officially known as the Diritto allo Studio Universitario (DSU). This guide covers everything you need to know about these region-specific financial aids.

What are Italian Regional Scholarships?

Unlike national scholarships offered by the Italian government (MAECI) or individual universities, regional scholarships are funded and managed by each of Italy’s 20 regions (e.g., Lombardy, Lazio, and Tuscany). Their goal is to guarantee the right to study for all students, regardless of economic background. In practice, this means providing financial support to eligible students enrolled at universities within a specific region.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility is based on two main criteria: economic need and academic merit. You do not need to be an EU citizen.

1. Economic Need (ISEE): You must submit an ISEE (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator) statement. This is calculated using your family’s income and assets from your home country. Each region sets a maximum ISEE threshold (e.g., under €26,000 per year). Lower ISEE values typically result in higher awards
2. Academic Merit: You must complete a minimum number of credits (CFU) per academic year. For bachelor’s students, this is often around 20-25 CFU in the first year and 40-50 CFU thereafter. Master’s students need approximately 30-40 CFU per year.
3. Residence & Enrollment: You must be enrolled full-time at a university located in the region offering the scholarship. International students must hold a valid study visa.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

Regional scholarships are comprehensive. A typical DSU package includes:

• Tuition Fee Waiver: Full or partial exemption from university tuition fees (often the most valuable component).
• Cash Stipend: A yearly sum ranging from €5,000 to €8,000, paid in installments. This helps cover living expenses.
• Free Meals: One or two free meals per day at university canteens.
• Accommodation: A free or heavily subsidized place in a university dormitory (subject to availability).

In some regions, you may also receive additional funding for study abroad (Erasmus+) or extra tutoring.

How to Apply – Step by Step

The application process is centralized through each region’s DSU agency, not the individual university. Common agencies include DSU Lazio (Rome), DSU Toscana (Florence, Pisa, Siena), and EDISU (Piedmont – Turin).

Step 1: Calculate Your ISEE: Obtain your ISEE certification through the Italian consulate in your home country or via a designated “CAF” center in Italy. This is mandatory.

Step 2: Find the Regional Call: Visit the official website of the DSU agency for the region where your university is located. Look for the “Bando” (call for applications) for the upcoming academic year (usually published between June and September).

Step 3 Register and Submit: Create an account on the agency’s online portal. Upload your ISEE, passport, study visa, university enrollment proof, and any requested academic transcripts.

Step 4: Rank & Award: Applicants are ranked by lowest ISEE (greatest need). Scholarships are awarded until funds run out. Successful candidates are notified via email.

Key Deadlines & Tips

• Deadlines: Typically early September to mid-October. Late applications are rarely accepted.
• Tip 1: Apply before you enroll at the university. Many regions allow “conditional applications” for prospective students.
• Tip 2: If you fail to meet the credit requirement in year one, you may have to repay the scholarship. Maintain your grades.
• Tip 3: Some competitive regions (e.g., Lombardy) have limited funds, so apply early.

Regional Differences to Note

• Lombardy (Milan): Uses the “Lombardia per il Diritto allo Studio” (LDS) portal. Highly competitive but offers generous stipends.
• Lazio (Rome): Managed by DiSCo Lazio. Known for fast processing and good accommodation options.
• Emilia-Romagna (Bologna): Managed by ER.GO. Offers one of the highest cash stipends (up to €7,000).
• Sicily & Campania (Naples): Lower competition, but accommodation quality varies. Always check student reviews.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For international students, winning a regional scholarship can reduce annual living costs from €12,000–15,000 to just €3,000–5,000 out of pocket. Combined with Italy’s excellent public universities, it represents one of Europe’s best value-for-money study opportunities.

Final word: Do not confuse regional scholarships with university “fee reductions.” These are full, state-backed awards. Start your ISEE calculation early and track regional deadlines religiously, and you could be studying in Rome, Milan, or Bologna for a fraction of the expected cost.