Studying in Italy is a dream for many students. Italy is famous for its beautiful cities rich history world class universities and amazing culture. The good news is that international students can study there with financial support through the MAECI Scholarship 2026.
This scholarship is offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy.
The program helps talented students from many countries including Pakistan study in Italy with financial support. It covers different programs such as master degrees PhD research and art courses.
In this guide you will learn everything in simple words including benefits eligibility programs and how to apply.
What is the MAECI Scholarship
The MAECI Scholarship is a government scholarship program that supports international students who want to study in Italy.
The goal of the scholarship is to strengthen education culture science and economic cooperation between Italy and other countries.
Every year many students from Asia Africa Europe and Latin America receive this scholarship to study at Italian universities.
For the 2026 to 2027 academic year applications are now open.
What Does the MAECI Scholarship Cover
This scholarship provides strong financial support to help students study in Italy.
Monthly Financial Support
Students receive about €10,800 total funding.
This is usually paid as €900 per month for 9 months.
The money is transferred to your Italian bank account in three payments.
Tuition Fees
Students selected for the scholarship usually receive full exemption from tuition and enrollment fees at many universities.
Health Insurance
The scholarship also provides health insurance coverage during the study period in Italy.
Scholarship Duration
The normal duration is 9 months.
However it can be renewed for longer programs such as master degrees or PhD studies.
Important note
Students must arrive in Italy before mid November 2026 to receive the full scholarship payment.
Who Can Apply for the MAECI Scholarship
The scholarship is available for foreign students and Italian citizens living abroad.
Students from many countries are eligible including Pakistan and several developing countries.
Basic Requirements
Applicants must meet these requirements
- • Have a valid passport
- • Have good academic records
- • Apply from their home country
- • Have admission or acceptance from an Italian university
Age Limits
For most programs the age limits are
Masters programs
Applicants should usually be under 28 years old.
PhD programs
Applicants should usually be under 30 years old.
Some programs such as language courses may have different limits.
Language Requirements
Students must show knowledge of English or Italian language depending on the program.
Some universities require an official language certificate.
Study Programs Supported by MAECI Scholarship
The scholarship supports several types of study programs.
Masters Degree Programs
Students can apply for Laurea Magistrale which is the Italian masters degree.
PhD Programs
Doctoral research programs at Italian universities are also supported.
Research Projects
Researchers can receive funding to conduct research in Italian institutions.
Arts Music and Dance Programs
Students interested in creative fields can study at AFAM institutions which specialize in arts music and dance.
Italian Language and Culture Courses
Students who want to learn the Italian language and culture can also apply.
How to Apply for MAECI Scholarship 2026
The application process is completely online.
Students must apply through the official portal of
Study in Italy Portal.
Step by Step Application Process
- Step 1
Create an account on the official scholarship portal. - Step 2
Fill the online application form carefully. - Step 3
Upload all required documents. - Step 4
Submit your application before the deadline.
Important tip
Use an email address that you check regularly because all updates will be sent there.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the scholarship is
26 March 2026
The deadline time is 2 PM Italian time.
Students should apply early because the website can become slow near the deadline due to heavy traffic.
Required Documents
Students must prepare several documents before applying.
Common documents include
- • Passport copy
- • Academic certificates and transcripts
- • CV or resume
- • Motivation letter
- • Language certificate if required
- • Admission letter from the Italian university
For PhD programs an official admission letter is usually required.
Documents should be in English Italian French or Spanish. If they are in another language they must be translated.
How Students Are Selected
The scholarship selection process mainly depends on documents submitted by the applicant.
Important factors include
- • Academic performance
- • Motivation letter and study goals
- • Language ability
- • Country quota
Most applicants are selected based on document evaluation without interviews.
When Results Are Announced
Scholarship results are usually announced in summer 2026.
Students who receive the scholarship normally start their studies in September or October 2026.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Getting this scholarship is competitive but good preparation can help.
Here are some useful tips
- Apply as early as possible
- Choose programs at public universities
- Write a strong motivation letter
- Explain how the scholarship will help your career
- Learn some basic Italian language
- Prepare all documents before applying
These steps can improve your chances of being selected.
Why Study in Italy
Italy is one of the most attractive destinations for international students.
Students enjoy
- • High quality universities
- • Affordable education
- • Rich culture and history
- • Beautiful cities like Rome Florence and Milan
- • Delicious Italian food and lifestyle
Studying in Italy also allows students to explore Europe and build international career opportunities.
Final Thoughts
The MAECI Scholarship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for international students who want to study in Italy with financial support.
It provides funding for masters programs PhD studies research projects and language courses. With tuition support monthly payments and health insurance students can focus on their studies and personal growth.
Thousands of students apply every year and many succeed.
If you are interested in studying in Italy start preparing your documents now and submit your application before 26 March 2026.
This could be your chance to experience world class education and life in Italy.
