The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in Italy 2024

 Studying Abroad in Italy can offer numerous benefits and unique opportunities for international students. Here are some reasons why study in Italy for Indian Students can be the best choice for you. 

• Italy has a rich academic heritage with several prestigious universities known for their high-quality education and research programs. You can easily find many English-taught course options at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. 

• Compared to other study destinations, Studying Abroad in Italy offers relatively affordable education. Tuition cost at public universities in Italy are lower than those in other European countries. You can find scholarships and grants available for international students. The quality of education you’ll receive while studying abroad will exceed the cost of your tuition fee. 

• Italy is known for its rich cultural history, art, and architecture. Studying in Italy offers a unique opportunity to immerse in a vibrant and diverse cultural environment. Apart from this, there are some places to explore and enjoy your weekend, including bars, cafes, restaurants, and museums. Moreover, from Renaissance masterpieces to ancient ruins, Italy's historical significance provides a stimulating backdrop for intellectual and personal growth. 

• Italy has numerous multinational companies and a strong industrial sector. Studying Abroad in Italy can provide access to valuable networking opportunities and internships, increasing your chances of securing employment in Italy or other countries.

• Italy's location makes it an ideal base for exploring other European countries. With its excellent transportation network, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries and experience diverse cultures and landscapes in Italy. Also, Italy is a part of the Schengen region; therefore, with an Italian student visa, you can travel to around 26 European Schengen countries. 

• The Italian student visa allows international students to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. This is a great opportunity for international students to gain practical work experience and immerse themselves in Italian culture.

• Italian universities have active student communities, offering a vibrant social life and a chance to make lifelong friends. From sports clubs to cultural events and student organisations, there are plenty of opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities and enrich your university experience.  

Well, let us tell you that Italian culture is quite inclusive, and the people there are welcoming and warm. So, you are going to love the cities and have the best of your time while studying in Italy. Additionally, the cities are quite affordable, which works as a cherry on top. Let us take a closer look at the top cities in Italy and the average cost of living there.

Before applying for universities in Italy, it is important to know the top courses and universities that provide quality education and ample job opportunities for international students. You can check the details below.

Now, let’s explore some of the top courses to study in Italy for Indian students. 

• Fashion Designing

• Hospitality and Tourism Management

• Architecture

• Arts

• Business Management

• Sustainability Management

• Cultural Studies

• Social Science and Humanities

• Medicine

Here is a list of some of the best universities to study in Italy for Indian students.

• Sapienza University of Rome 

• University of Bologna 

• University of Padua 

• University of Milan

• University of Trento

• Polytechnic University of Rome 

• University of Rome 

• University of Turin 

• University of Naples Federico

• Bocconi University 

There are 2 intakes to study in Italy for Indian students – September and February intake. However, the major intake is September intake in Italy, as all universities participate and accept applications from international students.

On the other hand, the Feb intake is less popular, and only a few universities allow international students to study in Italy. You can apply for any intake in Italy to study undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

The cost of studying in Italy is quite affordable compared to other study-abroad destinations. However, it varies depending on the educational institution, program, and location.

On average, public universities' tuition fees range from €900 to €4,000 annually. Further, if we talk about the cost of living in Italy for international students it is somewhere between €700 to €1,500 per month. Accommodation costs approximately €300 to €600 per month. Expenditure on food would be around €150 to €200 per year. Additional expenses include textbooks, transportation, and personal expenses, which can cost you somewhere between €200 to €600 per month.

However, the cost of studying in Italy and living costs can be reduced through scholarships and grants. The government and the universities offer the Italy Scholarship for Indian Students, which provides benefits of free tuition fees, reduced academic costs, reduced accommodation costs, and many other benefits.

Some institutions allow international students to apply for the ISEEU parificato, which is the ISEE equivalent. Be aware that ISEE is a drawn-out, bureaucratic procedure, even if it reduces your tuition.

After getting admitted through ISEE or other courses your university provides, you can apply for financial help. Students from developing nations and non-OECD countries pay less at many colleges.

Italy is an attractive country for students seeking a high-quality education without breaking the bank. With numerous universities offering tuition-free or low-cost education, studying abroad in Italy can be a budget-friendly option.

Moreover, universities in Italy are renowned for their rich history, cultural diversity, and academic excellence. Many programs are available in English, making them accessible to international students. From art and design to science and technology, Italy provides a wide range of courses to suit various interests.

In addition to academic benefits, Italy also offers numerous scholarships and grants for Indian students, easing the financial burden for international students. These opportunities cover a variety of fields and academic levels, making it possible for deserving students to pursue their dreams.

Besides the classroom, students can easily take advantage of Italy's strategic location to travel and explore other European countries. The affordable cost of living and the chance to learn a new language make studying Abroad in Italy an attractive prospect for those seeking an enriching and cost-effective educational experience. 

All international students need to meet the eligibility criteria to study in Italy. Here are the essential eligibility criteria to study in Italy for Indian students.

Here is the basic eligibility requirement for undergraduate study in Italy for Indian students. 

• 12 years of education at the school level with a minimum overall percentage of 60%. 

• IELTS overall score of 6.0 bands with not less than 5.5 in any module. 

• Some universities may require an entrance exam for a few courses like English TOLC-I, TIL.

Check the eligibility criteria to apply for postgraduate study in Italy for Indian students.

• Minimum 15 years of education in relevant field (12 years of schooling + 3 years of bachelor’s) 

• A student must score at least overall 60% in a bachelor’s degree

• Few universities may conduct interviews for some courses

• IELTS overall score of 6.0 bands with not less than 5.5 in any module.

Some of the basic documents required for the university application as well as an Italian student visa are:

• Academic documents and transcripts (12th and bachelor’s mark sheet)

• Degree of your bachelor’s 

• Valid Passport

• Update CV

• SOP (Personal Statement)

• LOR (Letter of Recommendation)

 Applying to universities in Italy involves several steps. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:

Begin by researching universities and programs to study in Italy for Indian students. Consider factors such as course offerings, language of instruction, and location. Ensure that the chosen program aligns with your academic and career goals.

Review the admission requirements for your selected program. These may include academic transcripts, a recognised bachelor's degree, language proficiency tests (such as IELTS or TOEFL), and a curriculum vitae (CV).

If your chosen program is taught in Italian, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in the language. Take language tests, such as the CILS or CELI, and submit the results along with your application. For the English-taught program, take the IELTS Exam.

Gather all necessary documents to study in Italy. Ensure that these documents are translated into Italian or English if required.

Most Italian universities accept online applications. Create an official account on the university's website and carefully follow the instructions. You may need to upload your documents and fill in your details.

Complete the online application form, providing accurate information. Pay attention to deadlines, as you need them to ensure your chances of admission. Submit the required application fee, if applicable.

After submitting your application to study in Italy, patiently await the admission results. Check the university's application portal or email regularly for updates. Some Italian universities may conduct interviews as part of the selection process.

If you receive an offer of admission, carefully review the details and conditions. Accept the offer within the specified timeframe. You may need to pay a confirmation fee and provide additional documentation for enrollment.

Once accepted, apply for a student visa at the Italian consulate or embassy in your home country. Provide the required visa documents, including the university acceptance letter, financial Proof means, and a valid passport.

Plan your arrival in Italy well in advance. Attend any orientation sessions organised by the university, and familiarise yourself with the campus and local facilities.

To study in Italy for Indian students, securing a student visa is essential. It is a pathway to study at your dream university. The Italian government provides student visas for international students only after getting an acceptance letter from the university.

For this, candidates have to apply for pre-enrollment at the Italian embassy and submit academic documents. Once the Embassy approves your application, you will receive a Student Visa to study in Italy.  

Above, we have covered all the essential details of studying abroad in Italy. Candidates can plan to study in Italy and apply for the September intake in Italian universities. However, following the correct procedure to apply for the universities mentioned above is important.

We hope that we have provided sufficient information about studying abroad in Italy. If you are still unsure or would like to get deeper insight, we encourage you to have a word with our team of expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC). If you are unable to travel to our offices, we offer online counselling services via our website. Our dedicated counsellors will provide you with the best guidance regarding your application to study in Italy. Don’t hesitate to contact us at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.

Q1. When can I apply for 2024 in Italy?

Ans. The application opening date and deadlines vary from university to university and course to course. However, most universities in Italy start accepting applications for the 2024 September intake in August 2023. Subsequently, the universities stop accepting applications from international students at the end of April or mid-May.

Q2. How much study gap is acceptable in Italy?

Ans. In Italy, the acceptability of a study gap can vary depending on the specific Italian institution and program you are applying to. Generally, for bachelor, universities may accept 1-2 years of a gap but with proper justifications. At the master’s level, universities may accept 4-5 years of gap with proper justifications.

Q3. Is IELTS required for an Italy student visa in 2023?

Ans. No, showing an IELTS score for an Italian student visa is not mandatory. Few universities may accept students’ applications based on MOI (Medium of Instruction).