MAECI Scholarships offer a rare opportunity for international students and Italian citizens living abroad to pursue academic excellence in Italy without financial burdens. Administered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), this scholarship scheme is designed to foster global academic collaboration, cultural diplomacy, and the promotion of the Italian language and heritage. With coverage that spans tuition, living stipends, health insurance, and potential fee waivers, this program is tailored for ambitious individuals ready to explore education in one of Europe’s most culturally rich countries.
Scholarship Overview
MAECI Scholarships are part of Italy’s broader strategy to strengthen cultural and scientific ties with other nations by welcoming students from all over the world. They are open to a variety of academic levels and disciplines, including Bachelor’s (for graduates from Italian high schools abroad), Master’s (Laurea Magistrale), PhD, Research under supervision, AFAM (Arts, Music, Dance), and advanced Italian language and culture courses. Scholarships are awarded for an initial duration of 9 months and can be renewed based on satisfactory academic performance.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must fulfill the following requirements:
- 1Must apply via the official portal: Study in Italy
- Must hold the academic qualifications required for the selected program.
- Age limits as of May 16, 2025:Bachelor’s/Single
Cycle Programs:
- Up to 23 years oldMaster’s / AFAM / Language Courses: Up to 28 years old
- PHD Programs: Up to 30 years oldResearch Projects: Up to 40 years old
Language proficiency:
- Italian-taught courses: B2 level in Italian
- English-taught courses: B2 level in English.
- PhD/Research: Language proof not mandatory unless requested by host institution
Application Procedures
To apply, follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal at Study in Italy.
- Register an account and fill in your personal and academic details.
- Select your intended course and institution in Italy.
- Upload necessary documents such as:Academic transcripts and degree certificatesProof of language proficiency (as applicable)Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Submit your application before the deadline: May 16, 2025, at 14:00 CET
- Double-check for accuracy and completeness to avoid disqualification.
- Submit early to prevent last-minute portal issues.
Benefits of MAECI Scholarships
The MAECI scholarship covers a comprehensive range of benefits:
- A total grant of €9,000 (disbursed in three installments) for:Bachelor’s, Master’s, AFAM, PhD, and Research Programs.
- €3,000 lump sum for Italian Language and Culture Courses.
- Health and medical insurance for the entire duration in Italy.
- Possible tuition fee exemption, subject to host institution policies.
- Access to Italian academic networks, research institutions, and cultural events.
- Participation in exclusive initiatives such as:Attanasio Grants for students from Morocco, Nigeria, and DRCCostruiamo il Futuro Grants for select African countries, WikiAfrica Higher Education Initiative for knowledge exchange via Wikipedia.
Why Choose MAECI Scholarships?
Italy, with its centuries-old academic institutions and world-class universities, offers more than just formal education.
Studying under the MAECI scholarship means immersion in a country known for its Renaissance legacy, architectural marvels, culinary excellence, and innovation-driven institutions.
Programs are designed to combine theoretical learning with real-world applications, bolstered by Italy’s research-driven higher education landscape.
Moreover, international students benefit from the welcoming nature of Italian campuses, networking opportunities, and a chance to build a global career from the heart of Europe.With robust academic coverage, generous financial support, and a global networking platform, this opportunity is not one to miss.
Application and Deadline
Interested applicants must complete and submit their application by May 16, 2025, at 14:00 CET via the Study in Italy portal.
Funding periods are as follows:
General Programs: November 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026
Language Courses: January 1 – September 30, 2026
Installments are paid in phases:1st: €4,500 (Nov 2025)
2nd: €2,500 (Feb 2026)
3rd: €2,000 (June 2026)
Applicants must ensure they are available for full-time, on-site study in Italy and that they are not beneficiaries of other scholarships from Italian public institutions. Physical presence in Italy is compulsory, and absences exceeding 15 consecutive days could lead to forfeiture of the scholarship.
Official Scholarship Website : https://www.esteri.it/en/opportunita/borse-di-studio/per-cittadini-stranieri/borsestudio_stranieri/