Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026

The Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 is now accepting applications from international students and Italian citizens living abroad. Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI) , this fully funded scholarship supports Master's and PhD degrees at Italian public or legally recognized universities. Citizens from 141 countries are eligible to apply. Selected scholars receive exemption from enrollment and tuition fees , health insurance , and a total stipend of €10,800 distributed in three installments (€5,500 + €2,300 + €3,000). The scholarship is available for Master's programs (age limit 28) and PhD programs (age limit 30). There is no application fee. The application deadline is May 26, 2026. Read on for complete details about eligibility, financial benefits, and how to apply.

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Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded

Do you dream of studying in Italy – the land of art, culture, and world-class education – but worry about the cost? The Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 is designed exactly for you. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI) offers this prestigious scholarship to foreign students and Italian citizens living abroad. It provides full financial support to students who cannot afford to study in Italy. Citizens from 141 countries are eligible to apply.

This scholarship covers Master's and PhD programs at Italian public universities. You can also apply for Higher Education Courses in Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM) , and Research projects under academic supervision. The best part? There is no application fee. You do not need to secure admission first – you can apply for this italy scholarship directly. If selected, you will then complete your university admission.

Selected scholars receive a €10,800 stipend , full tuition waiver , and health insurance. The stipend is paid in three installments to support your living expenses throughout the academic year. If you are looking to gain admission to an Italian university but lack sufficient funds, the MAECI Scholarship is your opportunity. In this guide, we will cover everything about the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 , including eligibility, financial benefits, study schemes, and the step-by-step application process.

About MAECI Scholarship

MAECI stands for Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale – the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Purpose

Promote international cultural and academic exchange
Support students who cannot afford to study in Italy
Strengthen ties between Italy and other countries
Attract talented students from around the world

Key Features

Fully funded scholarship for Master's and PhD
Available at all Italian public universities
No application fee
Open to citizens of 141 countries
Tuition waived + stipend + health insurance

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Host Country: Study in Italy

Host Organization: MAECI (Study in Italy) by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Financial Coverage: Fully funded Scholarship in Italy

Degree: Master’s or PhD Degree Programs

What are Financial Benefits of Italian Government MAECI Scholarship?

Selected scholars receive comprehensive financial support:

Tuition and Fees:

Full exemption from enrollment and tuition fees
No cost for your degree program

Health Insurance:

Health and medical/accident insurance coverage
Peace of mind during your stay in Italy

Monthly Stipend (€10,800 Total):

The stipend is distributed in three installments :

First Installment €5,500
Second Installment €2,300
Third Installment €3,000
Total €10,800

This stipend covers your living expenses including accommodation, food, and daily needs.

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What Degree Programs / Study Schemes Available?

The MAECI Scholarship offers four different study schemes :

1. Master's Degrees

Duration: 2 years
Age limit: 28 years or younger
Open to students with Bachelor's degree

2. Higher Education Courses in Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM)

Specialized programs in Italian art and music institutions
Age limit varies by program

3. PhD Programs

Duration: 3 years
Age limit: 30 years or younger
For students with Master's degree

4. Research Projects under Academic Supervision

Short-term research opportunities
For scholars and researchers

How the MAECI Scholarship Works?

If you are looking to study in Italy but lack sufficient funds:

Apply for the MAECI Scholarship through the official "Study in Italy" website
You do not need to secure university admission first
Most Italian public universities support the MAECI Scholarship Program
If selected, you will receive the scholarship award
Then you must secure admission to an Italian public university
When applying to the university, select the MAECI Scholarship option

Important

Scholarship application and university admission are two separate processes
Apply for the scholarship first
After selection, apply for university admission

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What are the Eligible Countries for Italian Government Scholarship?

The MAECI Scholarship is open to citizens of 141 countries. Eligible countries include:

All EU member states
North America: USA, Canada, Mexico
South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, and others
Asia: China, India, Japan, South Korea, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam, and others
Africa: Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and others
Middle East: Turkey, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and others
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand

Check the official MAECI website for the complete list of eligible countries.

What is the Eligibility Criteria for Government of Italy Scholarship?

To qualify for the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 , applicants must meet these requirements:

Citizenship

Open to citizens of eligible countries (141 countries)
Italian citizens living abroad may also apply

Age Limits

Master's Degree: Maximum 28 years old at the time of application
PhD Program: Maximum 30 years old at the time of application
AFAM and Research programs have specific age limits

Academic Qualifications

Master's applicants: Must hold a Bachelor's degree
PhD applicants: Must hold a Master's degree
Degrees must be recognized by Italian authorities

Language Proficiency: Must prove English proficiency through:

IELTS
TOEFL
Other recognized language certificates
Proof of English-medium education

Other Requirements

Strong academic record
Good health condition
Not receiving other Italian scholarships

What are the Required Documents for Apply?

Prepare these documents for your application:

Essential Documents

Passport Copy – Valid for the duration of your studies
Academic Transcripts – From all previous education
Degree Certificates – Bachelor's or Master's as applicable
Language Certificate – IELTS, TOEFL, or other English proof
CV/Resume – Highlighting education and achievements
Motivation Letter – Explaining why you want to study in Italy
Research Proposal – For PhD and Research applicants

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

Recommendation Letters – From professors or employers
Publications List – For research applicants
Portfolio – For Arts, Music, and Dance programs

Document Tips

Translate documents into English or Italian if not already
Scan clearly in PDF format
Keep copies for future reference

What is the application Process for Apply?

Follow these steps to apply for the MAECI Scholarship 2026.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Verify your country is on the eligible list
Confirm you meet age requirements
Ensure you have required academic qualifications

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Gather all required documents listed above
Translate documents if necessary
Save in PDF format

Step 3: Apply for Scholarship

Visit the "Study in Italy" official website
Find the MAECI Scholarship application portal
Create an account
Complete the online application form
Upload all required documents
Submit before May 26, 2026

Step 4: Wait for Results

Applications reviewed by MAECI committee
Selected candidates notified by email
Results announced on the official portal

Step 5: Apply for University Admission

If selected, choose an Italian public university
Apply for admission to your chosen program
When applying, select MAECI Scholarship option
Provide your scholarship award letter

Step 6: Complete Enrollment

Receive university acceptance
Complete enrollment procedures
Apply for student visa at Italian embassy
Prepare for your journey to Italy

What is the application deadline for 2026 Italian Government Scholarship?

The deadline is May 26, 2026!

Where Can You Study under MAECI Scholarship?

The MAECI Scholarship is available at Italian public universities and legally recognized higher education institutions.

Public Universities (Partial List)

University of Bologna
University of Padua
University of Milan
Sapienza University of Rome
University of Florence
University of Turin
University of Naples Federico II
Polytechnic University of Milan
Polytechnic University of Turin
University of Pisa

AFAM Institutions

Conservatories of Music
Academies of Fine Arts
Dance Academies
Higher Institutes for Art Industries

All public universities in Italy accept MAECI scholarship holders.

Tips for a Strong Italy MAECI scholarship Application

1. Apply Early

Do not wait until the last day
Prepare documents well in advance
Avoid last-minute technical issues

2. Write a Strong Motivation Letter

Explain why you want to study in Italy
Connect your goals to your chosen program
Show your passion and commitment
Be specific about your academic interests

3. Meet Age Requirements

Ensure you are within the age limits
Master's: 28 or younger
PhD: 30 or younger
Check specific age for other programs

4. Prepare Language Proof

IELTS or TOEFL required
Get your certificate well before deadline
Keep valid scores (usually within 2 years)

5. Check Eligible Country List

Confirm your country is on the list
Only citizens of eligible countries can apply

6. Proofread Everything

Check for spelling and grammar errors
Ensure all information is accurate
Ask someone to review

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Who can apply?

Citizens of 141 eligible countries and Italian citizens living abroad.

Q2: Is there an application fee?

No. The application is completely free.

Q3: What does the scholarship cover?

Full tuition waiver, health insurance, and €10,800 stipend.

Q4: How is the stipend paid?

In three installments: €5,500 + €2,300 + €3,000.

Q5: What is the age limit?

Master's: 28 years; PhD: 30 years.

Q6: Do I need IELTS?

Yes. English proficiency proof is required.

Q7: Do I need university admission first?

No. Apply for scholarship first, then university admission after selection.

Q8: When is the deadline?

May 26, 2026.

Q9: How do I apply?

Apply online through the "Study in Italy" website.

Q10: Which universities accept this scholarship?

All Italian public universities and legally recognized institutions.

Q11: Can I apply for Master's without Bachelor's?

No. You must hold a Bachelor's degree.

Q12: Is health insurance included?

Yes. Medical and accident insurance is provided.

Conclusion

The Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded opportunity to study in one of Europe's most beautiful and culturally rich countries. With full tuition waiver , a €10,800 stipend , and health insurance , selected scholars can focus entirely on their studies.

Open to citizens of 141 countries , this scholarship supports Master's, PhD, AFAM, and Research programs at Italian public universities. There is no application fee , and you can apply without securing university admission first.

If you are aged 28 or under for Master's, or 30 or under for PhD, and you have strong English proficiency, this could be your gateway to an Italian education.

The deadline is May 26, 2026. Visit the "Study in Italy" website, prepare your documents, and submit your application today. Your Italian adventure awaits.

Official Website: [https://www.esteri.it/en/opportunita/borse-di-studio/per-cittadini-stranieri/borsestudio_stranieri/]