Apply for Fully Funded Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2025/26 – Study in Italy for Free

If you dream of studying in Italy but lack the financial resources, the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2025/26 could be your gateway to a fully funded academic journey. Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), this scholarship supports international students and Italians living abroad to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees at public or legally recognized universities in Italy.

With no application fee, generous financial benefits, and access to world-class education, this is one of the most inclusive and attractive scholarships available in Europe. Applications are now open for candidates from 141 eligible countries.

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Overview of the MAECI Scholarship Program

• Host Country: Italy 🇮🇹

• Scholarship Name: MAECI (Study in Italy)

• Degree Levels: Master’s, PhD, AFAM (Arts, Music, and Dance), Research Projects

• Financial Coverage: Fully Funded

• Application Deadline: 16th May 2025

• Eligibility: Applicants from 141 countries

This initiative reflects Italy’s commitment to fostering international cooperation in education and strengthening cultural exchange across borders.

How the MAECI Scholarship Works

The MAECI scholarship simplifies the process of studying in Italy:

• You do not need prior admission to a university before applying for the scholarship.

• If awarded the scholarship, you will then secure admission to an Italian public or legally recognized university.

• Most public universities in Italy support and accept the MAECI scholarship.

This flexible process allows students to focus first on securing funding before worrying about university enrollment.

Comprehensive Financial Coverage

The MAECI Scholarship is fully funded and offers the following benefits:

• Full exemption from tuition and enrollment fees

• Medical and accident insurance coverage

• €9,000 total stipend, disbursed in three installments:

  • First payment: €4,500

  • Second payment: €2,500

  • Final payment: €2,000

This financial support ensures that recipients can fully concentrate on their studies without financial stress.

Types of Programs Funded

The scholarship covers four distinct study pathways:

1. Master’s Degree Programs

2. AFAM (Higher Education in Arts, Music, and Dance)

3. PhD Programs

4. Research Projects under academic supervision

These study schemes are available at various public and accredited institutions across Italy.

Eligibility Criteria for MAECI Scholarship 2025/26

To be eligible for the Italian Government Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Citizenship: Must be from one of the 141 eligible countries

• Educational Qualifications:

  • Master’s Applicants: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree

  • PhD Applicants: Must hold a Master’s degree

• Age Limit:

  • Under 28 for Master’s degree applicants

  • Under 30 for PhD candidates

• Language Proficiency: Must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or a university-issued English proficiency certificate

The scholarship supports a broad range of students, provided they meet the academic and age requirements.

See Also: Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship 2025/26 – Fully Funded Master’s Programs

List of Eligible Countries

The scholarship is available to nationals from countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Here are a few examples:

• Asia: India, Pakistan, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Iran, Jordan

• Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia

• Europe: Albania, Serbia, Ukraine, Belarus, North Macedonia

• Latin America: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Peru

• Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Turkey

• Others: Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, Russia

For the full list of 141 eligible countries, refer to the official MAECI scholarship page.

How to Apply for the Italian MAECI Scholarship

The application process is fully online and separate from the university admission process.

Application Steps:

1. Visit the official “Study in Italy” portal

2. Fill out the MAECI scholarship application form

3. Submit required documents through the online platform

4. Once selected, apply separately to an Italian university of your choice

Important: You do not need to be enrolled in a university to apply for the scholarship. Admission comes after scholarship selection.

See Also: Fully Funded DAAD EPOS Scholarship – Study in Germany with All Expenses Covered

Universities That Accept MAECI Scholarships

All public universities and legally recognized higher education institutions in Italy are eligible under the MAECI scheme. Some of the top institutions include:

• University of Bologna

• Sapienza University of Rome

• University of Milan

• University of Padua

• Politecnico di Milano

• University of Pisa

• University of Florence

These institutions offer globally ranked programs in engineering, business, social sciences, arts, and humanities.

Why Choose the MAECI Scholarship?

• Study in one of the most culturally rich countries in the world

• Get access to high-quality education and research facilities

• Receive full financial support without the need for personal funding

• Connect with a global community of international scholars

• Improve your career prospects with a European degree

Final Thoughts

The Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2025/26 offers an incredible chance to earn a graduate degree in Italy without financial constraints. Whether you’re passionate about science, the arts, or research, this scholarship will support your academic journey from start to finish.

With generous funding, streamlined applications, and access to some of the best universities in Europe, there’s no better time to apply.

Deadline to apply: 16th May 2025

Apply Here!