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Italian Government MEICI Scholarship in Italy 2026 | Fully Funded

1. What Is the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship?

The MAECI Scholarship (Italian Government Scholarship) is a fully funded international scholarship offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) of Italy. It is designed to promote international cooperation in culture, science, and education and to support international students to study, research, or train in Italian universities and higher education institutions.

Scholarships are awarded to foreign citizens not residing in Italy and to Italian citizens living abroad (IRE).

Who Can Apply

Eligible Applicants

  • Foreign nationals from eligible countries
  • Italian citizens living abroad (IRE)
  • You must not be residing in Italy at the time of application.

Academic Levels Covered

MAECI scholarships are available for the following study and training opportunities in Italy:

  • Master’s degree programmes (Laurea Magistrale / 2nd cycle)
  • PhD programmes
  • Research projects under academic supervision
  • Higher Education courses in Fine Arts, Music and Dance (AFAM)
  • Italian language and culture advanced courses
  • Bachelor’s and single cycle degree programmes (depending on the specific call)

Scholarship Benefits (Fully Funded)

The MAECI scholarship is considered fully funded, meaning it covers the essential costs of studying and living in Italy:

Financial Support

  • Monthly stipend/allowance of approximately €900 per month (net), paid quarterly into an Italian bank account (for most programmes).
  • Tuition fee exemption (you may be exempt from enrolment and tuition at public universities).
  • Health and accident insurance coverage for the duration of the scholarship (coverage negotiated by MAECI).

Other Benefits

  • Participation in local academic and cultural activities.
  • Support services from host universities during enrolment and study.
  • Networking and cooperation opportunities.

4. Eligibility Criteria

General Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Hold the required academic qualification for the programme they apply to (Bachelor’s for Master’s, Master’s for PhD, etc.).
  • Meet the age limits specified in the official call (for previous academic year, Master’s applicants were typically required to be under 28 years old; PhD candidates under 30; research projects under 40 check specific call).
  • Provide proof of language proficiency:
    • Italian-taught courses: typically Italian B2 (CEFR)
    • English-taught courses: typically English B2 (CEFR)
    • Language certification must be uploaded if required by the course.

Residence and Documentation

  • Must apply from outside Italy
  • Valid passport or identity document must be uploaded in the application system.

5. Application Timeline (Expected for 2026–2027)

While the official call and exact dates are published yearly on the Study in Italy portal, based on previous cycles you can expect:

  • Application opens: Spring 2026 (typically April/May 2026)
  • Application deadline: Usually around May 2026 (mid-month deadline is common; students must check the official call when released)
  • Evaluation period: Late spring to early summer 2026
  • Results announced: Summer 2026
  • Academic year starts: Autumn/Winter 2026

Note: Official dates for the 2026–2027 call will be confirmed on the Ministry’s website once published.

6. How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Choose Your Course

Decide which programme or training course you want to pursue in Italy and ensure you meet the academic requirements.

Step 2: Register on the Official Portal

Create a profile and register on the official “Study in Italy” platform.
This is the official submission portal for MAECI scholarships.
Official portal:
https://studyinitaly.esteri.it/

Step 3: Fill in the Online Application

Provide:

  • Personal details
  • Academic history
  • Course choices (up to three options may be allowed)
  • Language proficiency certificates
  • Passport copy

You must be careful to select the correct programme type you intend to pursue.

Step 4: Submit Before Deadline

Complete all required fields and documents before the deadline indicated in the official call.

Step 5: Wait for Results

Follow updates via your Study in Italy profile or official communication. Invitations to enrol will follow if you are selected.

Official Links You Will Need

Use these official resources to apply and find full details when the 2026–27 call is published:

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Start Early: Begin preparing documents and research programmes well before the application period opens.
  • Proof of Admission: Some schools require pre-enrolment or official acceptance before scholarship award.
  • Language Tests: If applying for an Italian-taught programme, plan to obtain an Italian language certificate at B2 CEFR level; for English-taught courses, ensure you meet the English language requirement.
  • Strong Personal Statement: Your motivation letter should clearly articulate your academic goals and how studying in Italy will contribute to your career and home country.
  • Check Age Limits: Ensure you meet any age requirement specified in the call.
  • Valid Passport: Make sure your passport does not expire soon after your intended study period.

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