Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027: Eligibility, Benefits and How to Apply
Imagine studying in Italy with all your expenses covered. The Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027 open doors for students from countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia to pursue Bachelors, Masters, or Ph.D. programs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) runs these scholarships to build ties in culture, science, technology, and Italy’s economy while spreading Italian language and heritage.
These awards support study, training, and research at public or private Italian schools. Only onsite programs in Italy qualify. This article covers who can apply, scholarship types, benefits, how to submit an application, and key dates. With the deadline just days away on March 26, 2026, time is short.
What Are the Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027?
The Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027 target foreign students and Italians living abroad, known as IRE, for the 2026-2027 school year. MAECI aims to foster partnerships in culture, science, and technology. These scholarships also boost Italy’s economy abroad and teach Italian language and customs.
Students must attend classes in person at public or approved private institutions in Italy. No online or distance options count. This setup ensures real immersion in Italian life and learning.
Eligibility Requirements
Selection starts with citizenship. Each applicant picks just one country to apply through.
For IRE scholarships, only Italian citizens living in certain places qualify. These spots include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Kenya, Lebanon, Morocco, Peru, the United Kingdom, Senegal, South Africa, Spain, Tunisia, Uruguay, and Venezuela. They must reside there.
Here are the main rules in a simple list:
- Hold citizenship from an eligible country (foreign or IRE as noted).
- Meet academic needs for your program, like a Bachelor’s equivalent for Master’s entry.
- Pass any required admission tests for Ph.D. or other advanced studies.
- Show Italian skills at A2 level or higher for Italofonia language courses (per CEFR standards).
Special Notes for Dual Citizens
People with Italian and foreign passports apply only as foreigners. List your foreign citizenship on the Study in Italy portal. Those with several foreign passports choose one beneficiary country and use that citizenship.
Types of Scholarships Available
Italy offers several scholarship types to fit different goals. Each lasts up to nine months, with some open to renewal. Check the table below for a quick look at options.
| Type | Duration | Renewability | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master’s Degree (Laurea Magistrale, 2nd cycle) | 9 months | Potentially renewable | Completed Bachelor’s equivalent |
| Higher Education for Fine Arts, Music, Dance (AFAM, 1st/2nd cycle) | 9 months | Potentially renewable | Qualifications set by the institution |
| PhD Programmes | 9 months | Potentially renewable | Admission test passed; institution qualifications |
| Research Projects (under supervision) | 9 months | Not renewable | Conducted at universities, research centers, museums, or archives |
| Italofonia (Italian language and culture courses) | 3 months | N/A | Italian proficiency at A2 CEFR level or higher |
Scholarship Benefits
Winners enjoy strong support to focus on studies. Key perks include:
- A total of €10,800 paid in three installments to an Italian bank account (about €900 per month).
- Full health insurance for illness or accidents during the scholarship period.
- Possible waivers on enrollment and tuition fees—check with your school, as rules vary.
- Access to the WikiAfrica Education Initiative for African grantees, where you can create online content about Africa with partners like Moleskine and Wikimedia Foundations.
Note on Fees: Regional fees must be paid by the student. MAECI does not refund tuition or these costs if charged.
How to Apply for Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027
Applying is straightforward if you follow these steps in order. Start now, as the deadline nears.
- Register on the Study in Italy portal. Use an email you check often for updates.
- Fill out the online form with all required documents.
- Submit by 14:00 Italian time on March 26, 2026—only portal entries count.
- Wait for news through your registered email.
For full details, visit the official MAECI webpage. With today’s date of March 24, 2026, you have little time left. Act fast to avoid missing out.
Important Deadlines and Additional Opportunities
The application closes soon. Mark your calendar.
Deadline: March 26, 2026, at 14:00 Italian time.
African students with scholarships can join WikiAfrica. This program lets you add expert info on Africa to online sources. It partners with groups like Aurora Foundation to boost student voices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Italian Government Scholarships 2026/2027?
Citizens from specific countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia qualify, along with Italians abroad from listed nations, if they meet academic requirements and any language tests.
What benefits do the scholarships provide?
Winners get €10,800 paid in installments, full health insurance, possible tuition waivers, and access to programs like WikiAfrica for African students.
What types of scholarships are available?
Options include Master’s degrees, PhD programs, research projects, fine arts courses, and Italofonia language courses, most lasting nine months.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Register on the Study in Italy portal, fill out the form with documents, and submit by March 26, 2026, at 14:00 Italian time.