The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) has officially opened applications for the 2025/26 academic year under its fully funded scholarship initiative. Tailored for international students and Italian nationals residing abroad, the MAECI Scholarship supports individuals aiming to pursue postgraduate education in Italy.
This includes Master’s degrees, PhD programs, AFAM (Arts, Music, and Dance) higher education courses, and supervised research initiatives at Italian public universities or accredited institutions.
Why Study in Italy with the MAECI Scholarship?
Italy offers a unique blend of high-quality education, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant student life. MAECI scholars benefit not only from financial support but also from the opportunity to study at some of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities. The scholarship opens doors to academic excellence and cross-cultural exchange in the heart of Europe.
Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2025/26 Overview
- Host Country: Italy
- Funded by: Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI)
- Academic Levels: Master’s, PhD, AFAM, and Research Projects
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: May 16, 2025
What Does the MAECI Scholarship Cover?
The scholarship offers comprehensive financial support to ease the burden on international students:
- Full exemption from tuition and enrollment fees at participating institutions
- Health and medical/accident insurance coverage
- A total grant of €9,000 distributed in three installments:
- €4,500 (first installment)
- €2,500 (second installment)
- €2,000 (final installment)
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a citizen of one of the 141 eligible countries
- Hold a bachelor’s degree if applying for a master’s program
- Be under the age of 29 for Master’s and under 31 for PhD programs by the application deadline
- Provide proof of English proficiency through IELTS or an equivalent language certificate. Alternatively, applicants may submit a university-issued English language proficiency letter.
Participating Universities
The MAECI Scholarship is available for programs at all Italian public universities and accredited institutions. Applicants can apply for their desired program independently of the scholarship application. Once awarded, students will need to secure admission into their selected university.
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Fields of Study
The scholarship encompasses a diverse range of disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Engineering and Technology
- Natural Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Visual and Performing Arts (AFAM)
- Health Sciences
List of Eligible Countries
Citizens from countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania are welcome to apply. A detailed list of the 141 eligible countries is provided on the Study in Italy website.
How to Apply for the MAECI Scholarship 2025/26
The application process is entirely online:
- Visit the official Study in Italy portal
- Register and create your account
- Fill in the application form with accurate personal and academic information
- Upload the required documents
- Submit your application before the deadline
Note: Applying for the scholarship does not require prior university admission. However, scholarship awardees must later secure enrollment at a recognized Italian higher education institution.
