The Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad in Italy 2023

Are you looking forward to starting your study abroad journey to Europe while making the most out of your student life, that too on an affordable budget? Well, then, Italy is the best option to study in Europe. The country’s stunning landscapes, picturesque coastlines, mountains, and lakes, provide a beautiful backdrop for your study experience. Along with this, you’ll also be able to gain an outstanding quality education within your budget. 

So if you are planning to study in Italy, let us guide you with some basic information.

Studying in Italy can offer numerous advantages and unique opportunities for international students. Here are some reasons why studying in Italy can be a great 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 a wide range of English-taught course options at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. 

• Compared to other study destinations, Italy offers relatively affordable education. Tuition fees at public universities are generally 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. The country offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a vibrant and diverse cultural environment. Apart from this, there are plenty of 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 is home to numerous multinational companies and has a strong industrial sector. Studying 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 during your time 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. 

Now, let’s explore some of the courses for which Italian universities are famous! 

• Fashion Designing

• Hospitality & 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 in Italy for international 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 

Let us tell you that 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, this cost can be reduced through scholarships and grants.

Moreover, 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 can cost you somewhere between €200 to €600 per month. 

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 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.

All international students need to meet the eligibility criteria to study in Italy. Here are the basic eligibility criteria for international students to enrol in universities in Italy:

• 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

• 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 (12^th and bachelor’s mark sheet)

• Degree of your bachelor’s 

• Valid Passport

• Update CV

• SOP (Personal Statement)

• LOR (Letter of Recommendation) 

Q: When can I apply for 2023 in Italy?

A: 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 2023 September intake in August 2022. Whereas the universities stop accepting applications from international students in April end or mid-May.

Q: How much study gap is acceptable in Italy?

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

Q: Is IELTS required for an Italy student visa in 2023?

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

We hope that we have provided sufficient information about studying 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.