Study in Italy for Indian Students

In Italy, there are lower college fees, low living standards as well as numerous scholarships (in particularly in the state universities). It has more than 500 English courses in these areas as engineering, fashion, and business, making it extremely friendly to the Indian students. The nation combines the ancient academic achievement with the new, practical education. Residing in Italy also presents cultural exposure and the possibility to travel across Europe using the Schengen visa.

Italy follows the Bologna Process, which aligns its degrees with other European nations for global recognition. The structure is divided into:

• Laurea (Bachelor’s Degree) – 3 years
• Laurea Magistrale (Master’s Degree) – 2 years
• Dottorato di Ricerca (PhD) – 3 to 5 years

Italian higher education institutions include public universities, private universities and institutes of AFAM (art, music and design). Majority of the public universities provide low fee, good quality education particularly to international students. More degrees are increasingly provided in English and this makes it not only accessible to Indian students.

Italy carries the best institutions in the world, particularly in art, design, architecture, business and science.

Let’s talk about the top universities to study in Italy for Indian students, along with their QS rankings for 2026:

Note: The amount may vary depending on the courses, program level & currency exchange rate.

The leading universities in Italy, as listed in this table, offer internationally recognised education at affordable prices, particularly in publicly owned institutions such as Politecnico di Milano and the University of Bologna. These are the universities that are famous for courses in engineering and the arts, as well as business. The privately owned universities, such as Bocconi, are more expensive but have good connections in industry. On balance, students receive quality teaching and good exposure on the international level.

Indian students choose Italy for world-class courses in design, fashion, architecture, and engineering, blending historic culture with modern innovation. Here is the list of popular courses to study in Italy in 2026-2027:

Note: The amount may vary depending on the program level & currency exchange rate.

These programs, as discussed in the table, closely match the strengths of Italy in fashion, design, engineering, arts, and gastronomy. Fashion as well as business courses expose an individual to the industry directly, particularly in places such as Milan. The engineering courses have powerful links with the industry, and culinary and hospitality schools equip students to work in the international market. In general, all the courses will improve the employability in Europe.

Italy has many cities that provide wonderful campuses and exceptional education. Now, let’s look at some of the best cities in Italy to live in. 

Each Italian city has its academic strengths, cost of living, and student culture. Here's a quick overview:

• Milan – the capital of both finance and fashion, a wonderful place to study any kind of business, fashion or design.
• Rome – A perfect place humanities, arts, architecture, and city affairs.
• Turin – A place associated with engineering, automobile and industrial design.
• Bologna – Historic student city and home to the world’s oldest university.
• Florence – Best for art, design, and architecture.
• Padua – provides wonderful offerings in science, medicine and research.

Italy also has two large cycles of admission, whereby the international student has the option of scheduling their studies. Intake selection is of importance because courses and scholarships do not always occur on the same intake.

Most Italian universities have the Fall semester as the main admission period with the highest possibilities of receiving a scholarship and studying in English. Spring admission is less regular, and fewer courses are offered. The recommended period to apply as an Indian student in a competitive program is the Fall, and the Fall applications usually run between November and January.

Admission requirements in Italy are course and university-specific, but here’s a general overview:

For Bachelor’s Programs:

• 12 years of education (10+2 pattern)
• Minimum 65%+ in Class 12 (varies by university)
• IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 78+ (if English-taught)
• Portfolio (for design, architecture, or arts programs)

For Master’s Programs:

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum 3 or 4 years, depending on the university)
• IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 85+
• CV, Statement of Purpose, Letters of Recommendation
• GRE/GMAT for certain programs (mostly business or economics)

Applying to universities in Italy involves a step-by-step process, which differs slightly for public and private institutions. Here's a typical application flow:

1. Shortlist Programs and Universities: Use platforms like Universitaly or check the university websites.

2. Eligibility Check: Ensure your academic qualifications align (12 years for UG, 15/16 years for PG).

3. Language Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs or Italian B2 for programs in Italian.

4. Prepare Documents: SOP, LORs, CV, academic transcripts, passport, and portfolio (if applicable).

5. Apply Online: Most applications go through the university portal or Universitaly.

6. Pre-enrolment via Universitaly: Required for Indian students before applying for a visa.

7. Receive Acceptance Letter: Usually takes 4–8 weeks.

8. Apply for a Visa: Once the offer is confirmed.

Universities like Politecnico di Milano, University of Bologna, and Sapienza follow structured deadlines. Early applications boost your chances for both admission and scholarships.

Italy is among the least expensive study destinations in Europe, particularly since the cost of tuition and living expenses in its public universities is low, especially for an Indian student. The breakdown is as follows:

Note: The amount may vary depending on the universities, location, program level & currency exchange rate.

Italy offers quality education at affordable tuition costs, especially in its public universities. With globally respected institutions and diverse English-taught programs, the cost of studying in Italy provides international exposure without overwhelming student debt.

Cost of Living in Italy for Indians in 2026

Living expenses vary by city. Rome and Milan are on the higher side, while cities like Bologna, Pisa, and Turin are more affordable. Indian students often qualify for regional financial aid and housing benefits, which makes the cost of living in Italy more budget-friendly.

Italy finances international students abundantly by providing government-financed, university-based, and local scholarships. These may include tuition fees, living and even travel expenses.

Popular Scholarships for Indian Students:

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1. Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI)

This scholarship was provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and includes the tuition fee, a monthly stipend in the amount of €900 (~₹91,277) and health insurance only in cases with a Master’s degree and PhD courses.

2. DSU Regional Scholarships

It can be found in almost every publicly funded university. Depending on the family income, it provides tuition waivers, free meals, accommodation, as well as a yearly stipend between €3,000 to €5,200 (~₹3.04L to ₹5.27L).

3. Invest Your Talent in Italy

Master student majoring in engineering, management and architecture. Brings with it tuition waivers, internship positions, and a stipend of €900 (~₹91,277) a month.

4. University-Specific Scholarships

• Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships: Covers full or partial tuition + €5,000 – €10,000 (~₹5.07L - ~₹10.14L) grant.
• University of Bologna Study Grants: Up to €11,000 (~₹11.15L) for Bachelor’s and Master’s students.
• Sapienza University Scholarships: Offers full tuition waivers and performance-based stipends.

There are many more options available, so be sure to check each university’s international student page. You can also explore scholarships in Italy tailored for Indian students.

To study in Italy, Indian students have to obtain a National Visa (Type D Visa) for Italy, which is a Long-Stay Visa. This is what is needed:

Documents Required for Italy Student Visa:

• Valid passport (minimum 2 blank pages, valid for 3+ months after course ends)
• University acceptance letter
• Proof of accommodation in Italy
• Proof of sufficient funds (approx. €6,100 or ₹6.18L/year)
• Health insurance (valid in Schengen countries)
• Pre-enrolment via Universitaly
• Visa application form + photographs
• Academic transcripts & language certificates
• Return flight reservation (optional but recommended)

The application of visas has to be done at the VFS Italy Visa Application Centre within your geographical location. The time involved in processing is approximately 3-6 weeks therefore, apply early.

Student life in Italy is about the perfect balance between academics and experimentation, amidst the laid-back atmosphere of the Mediterranean. Students have a balanced lifestyle both in lively university towns such as Bologna and Padua and big international cities such as Rome and Milan.

Most colleges offer student associations, career services and events throughout the year. Transportation is accessible to students, food is cheap, and regional discounts help to move around in Italy easily. There is a broad use of the English language in the cities, and you can find it popular in all campuses. However, it will be an added advantage should you learn Italian.

The increasing Indian community also found other cultural activities and Indian restaurants to the amusement of many Indian students in cities like Milan and Rome.

Italy offers international learners a good employment experience during and at the end of their studies. This is the way you can get the best out of them:

• Part-Time Work Opportunities
  • The duration of work that international students are permitted to work is up to 20 hours a week during the academic period and full-time during the holidays.
  • Popular occupations consist of working in a cafe, restaurants, libraries and merchandise stores. Not only are they useful in meeting daily costs, but they also provide cultural exposure and work experience in the location.
• Post-Study Employment
  • Upon graduation, students are able to submit a temporary stay permit (max 12 months) during which time they seek employment in Italy.
  • After getting a good position, they are able to transform the same into a working permit, which then, in the future, can be channelled to a permanent residence.

You will also be able to find a job in Italy with international companies such as Ferrari, Luxottica, Leonardo, Enel, Eni, UniCredit, that consider international and bilingual employees. Explore jobs in Italy available for international students and post-graduates.

Once you have graduated, as an international student, you can obtain a post-study work visa within Italy to seek employment that is valid up to 12 months. After landing a job, you can get an upgrade to a Work Visa (Type D).

In areas of high demand, there are high chances of work permit to acquire Permanent Residency in the future. After 5 years of legal stay, which also includes the study years, the students may apply to become a PR (on certain terms). In Italy, too, there is the opportunity with the EU Blue Card procedure of bringing highly qualified workers.

Individuals who switch to work permits after being students in areas of high demand have a better chance of obtaining a long stay or a PR. Italy also has a post study work permit in Italy where international students have a chance to acquire professional experience and establish their careers in the country.

Italy combines world-class education, affordable tuition, and a vibrant lifestyle, making it a top destination for Indian students looking for value and global exposure. With English-taught programs, scholarship support, and growing work opportunities, it’s easier than ever to plan your future in Italy.

Whether you’re aiming to study art in Florence, architecture in Milan, or business in Rome, Italy offers a complete academic and cultural package.

How can Leap Scholar help you in your Study abroad journey?

LeapScholar can help you choose the right university, prepare your documents, secure scholarships, and guide you through the visa process step by step. Start your study in Italy journey with confidence.