Italy is one of the most affordable places in Europe for Indian students. Public universities set fees according to family income, regional DSU scholarships can cover fees, a stipend and accommodation, and universities such as Politecnico di Milano lead in engineering, architecture and design. Applicants pre-enrol through the Universitaly portal before applying for a Type D study visa.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Italy?
At public universities, tuition is linked to your family's income and assets, so many international students pay a few thousand euros a year or less. Private universities such as Bocconi charge considerably more. Living costs are highest in Milan and lower in cities like Padua, Turin and Bologna.
What Are DSU Scholarships?
DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) scholarships are need-based awards run by each Italian region. Depending on the region and your family income, they can include a tuition waiver, a cash stipend, free or subsidised accommodation and meals. Applications require income and asset documents from India, translated and legalised, so start preparing them early.
What Is Universitaly?
Universitaly is the Italian government portal where international students submit a pre-enrolment request for their chosen program. The university assesses it, and the Italian embassy or consulate then processes your study visa.
Are Programs Taught in English?
Many master's programs are taught in English, especially in engineering, architecture, design, economics and management. Most bachelor's programs are in Italian, though English-taught bachelor's are growing.
Can I Work While Studying?
Yes. International students can work up to 20 hours a week, or 1,040 hours a year.
Can I Stay in Italy After Graduating?
Graduates can convert their study permit into a permit to look for work for up to 12 months, and then into a work permit once they have a job.
When Are the Intakes and Deadlines?
Most programs start in September or October, with some February intakes. Many universities open admissions between November and April, and DSU scholarship deadlines usually fall in the summer before you start.
How Does Versa Global Help?
We shortlist programs, manage applications and Universitaly pre-enrolment, help you prepare DSU documentation and file your visa. See our Study in Italy guide and the Engineering abroad course page.
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