Studying in Italy: Government Scholarships, Regional Aid and Procedures

Italy combines a great university tradition, a lively student life and tuition fees that are often adjusted to the family's economic situation. For Moroccan students, several funding routes exist, between national scholarships and regional aid.

The Italian system

Programmes come as laurea triennale (bachelor's, three years), laurea magistrale (master's, two years) and dottorato. The offer in English is growing, especially at master's level, but Italian remains useful. Public universities calculate registration fees according to an income indicator: it can be advantageous to have it established.

The main scholarships

• Italian government scholarships (MAECI): the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers scholarships every year to foreign students and researchers, some of them reserved for particular countries or profiles.
• Right to university education (DSU): the regions grant scholarships and housing to students according to their resources, including foreign students, after an income file is assembled.
• University scholarships: several institutions fund international students on merit criteria.

Access procedure

Foreign students residing abroad must first pre-enrol on the Universitaly platform, which validates the eligibility of the diploma and serves as the basis for the visa application. The university may then require an admission test and proof of language. For a master's or doctorate, a complete academic file and a motivation letter are expected.

Visa and residence

The study visa is issued by the consulate on presentation of the pre-enrolment certificate, proof of resources and housing, and insurance. On arrival, you must apply for a residence permit within the following days.

Budget

Milan and Rome are expensive, especially for housing; Bologna, Turin, Padua, Naples or smaller cities are more affordable. University canteens and reduced student rates ease the budget. Find out about DSU aid as soon as you enrol.

Advice

• Start the Universitaly pre-enrolment as soon as the calendar is published.
• Have your diplomas legalised and obtain a declaration of value if it is requested.
• Learn the basics of Italian: it is an asset for integration and finding housing.