Scholarships and funding

In short

• The biggest help for most students is the regional DSU scholarship: money, and sometimes a room and meals.
• It depends on your family income, with limits that differ from region to region. International students usually need an ISEE parificato, or a certificate from the Italian embassy if they come from a particularly poor country.
• The Italian government (MAECI) also offers scholarships through the Study in Italy portal. The 2026/2027 call closed in March 2026.
• Calls close early, often before classes start. Check the dates as soon as you choose your university.

1. Regional DSU scholarships

Each region funds scholarships for students enrolled in its universities, including international students. Depending on the region, the call is run by a regional DSU agency or by the university itself, and each region sets its own income limits and amounts. For example, the University of Verona’s 2026/2027 call (Veneto region) uses:

• Family ISEE up to €26,306.25 and ISPE up to €43,125.94.
• For students who live away from their family: €8,246 per year for the lowest incomes, €7,171.11 in the middle band, and gradually less (down to €3,585.50) near the income limit.

You also need to pass a minimum number of credits each year to keep the scholarship. Read your region’s call carefully.

2. The ISEE parificato

If your family’s income and property are abroad, you need an ISEE parificato, issued in Italy by an authorised tax assistance centre (CAF) using documents from your country. Students from the ministry’s list of particularly poor countries need a certificate from the Italian embassy instead. Start early: documents from your country may need translation and legalisation.

3. Italian government scholarships (MAECI)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs offers scholarships to foreign students from the countries on its list. You apply only through Study in Italy. The 2026/2027 call closed on 26 March 2026, so check the portal early for the next one.

4. University scholarships and fee waivers

Many universities have their own scholarships or lower fees for international students. Look at the “scholarships” or “fees” page of each university.

5. Other funding

Some governments, foundations and international organisations fund study abroad. Ask in your country too.

See the full list in our scholarships directory, and how fees work in How much it costs.

This site gives general information only. Rules change often, so always check the official sources.