Introduction
Italy is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations in Europe, especially for students from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other South Asian countries. Every year, thousands of international students apply for Italy scholarships for its world-class universities, affordable tuition, and generous scholarships. What makes Italy even more attractive is the possibility of securing regional scholarships and excellence grants, which often cover tuition fees, living costs, and provide a monthly stipend.
If you’re planning to apply for the September 2026 intake, you need to understand the admission process, pre-enrollment steps, scholarship opportunities, and visa requirements. This guide will walk you through every detail—from how to apply to Italian universities to securing scholarships and preparing your visa application.
Why Study in Italy?
Before jumping into deadlines and procedures, let’s understand why Italy stands out for international students:
- 🎓 Top-ranked universities like the University of Milan, Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico di Milano
- 💶 Low tuition fees compared to other EU countries
- 🏛️ Rich cultural and historical experience
- 🏆 Access to regional scholarships worth €6000–€8000 per year
- 🌍 Growing South Asian student community in Italy
- 💼 Opportunities for post-study work permits in Europe
For students from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, Italy offers a perfect balance of affordable education, scholarships, and international exposure.
If you want to avail our services for complete process, you can contact us now.
Step 1: Choosing Universities in Italy for 2026 Intake
Italy has more than 90 universities, with a mix of public and private institutions. The majority of international students prefer public universities because they offer:
- Lower tuition fees (around €500–€3000 per year, but waived off with scholarships)
- More regional scholarship opportunities
- A wide range of programs in English
Popular Universities for South Asian Students:
- University of Milan
- University of Bologna
- Sapienza University of Rome
- Politecnico di Milano
- University of Padua
- University of Turin
- University of Pisa
When applying, you should shortlist at least 3–4 universities since admission is competitive. As mainly admission is based on your CGPA and interview if it will be conducted.
Step 2: Admission Timeline for September 2026 Intake
Admission for Italian universities generally opens about one year in advance. Here’s the expected timeline for 2025–2026 (based on past years):
- October 2025 – January 2026 → Universities publish open calls for applications on their own website. But you can also visit Universitaly website, to check all the universities and their programs and available admission option. It will show all open programs, universities and their deadline.
- January – April 2026 → Application submission deadline for most universities
- March – May 2026 → Evaluation of documents and admission results for all universities.
- May – June 2026 → Pre-enrollment for Italian embassies begins.
- July – August 2026 → Apply for visa
- September- October 2026 → Semester starts in Italy
Step 3: Admission Requirements for Pakistani, Indian & Bangladeshi Students
Admission requirements vary slightly by university, but typically you need:
- Academic transcripts (10+2 for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s degree for Master’s, etc.)
- Valid passport
- English language proof (IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL, or medium of instruction certificate)
- Motivation letter
- CV/Resume
- Recommendation letters (for Master’s/PhD)
- Application fee (usually €30–€60)/ university.
👉 Pro Tip: Many Italian universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate instead of IELTS, which is highly beneficial for South Asian students.
Step 4: Pre-Enrollment Process at the Italian Embassy
Pre-enrollment is a mandatory step for international students from non-EU countries like Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. It confirms your intention to study in Italy and is required before applying for a student visa.
Pre-enrollment process for 2026 intake:
- Once you receive admission, register on the Universitaly portal.
- Select your university and upload your admission letter.
- Submit required documents online (passport, educational certificates, etc.).
- Choose your Italian embassy/consulate in your home country.
- Wait for embassy confirmation and search for appointment for visa processing.
Expected dates: Pre-enrollment opens in April-May 2026 and runs until mid-July 2026.
Step 5: Scholarships in Italy for 2026 Intake
Italy is one of the best countries in Europe for scholarships. Unlike many countries, even average students can secure regional scholarships that fully cover their studies., stipend and accommodation.
1. Regional Scholarships (DSU / Lazio Disco / EDISU / ERSU, etc.)
- Provided by regional authorities like DSU, Toscana, Lazio Disco (Rome), EDISU (Turin), etc. Your region will depend on your university.
- Benefits include free tuition, free accommodation, free meals, and €6000–€8000 stipend annually
- Selection is based on family income certificate (ISEE + financial documents), not academic excellence
- Deadline: Usually July–September 2026
2. Italian Government Scholarships
- Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Covers tuition, monthly stipend (~€900), and health insurance
- Focused mainly on Master’s and PhD students
- You will also see the details on university website.
3. Excellence Scholarships (University-specific)
- Awarded based on academic performance and merit
- In most universities, you don’t need to apply separately. Your application will be considered automatically if you got admission.
- After admissions are closed, you will be notified about results/ university will publish on their site.
- Examples: Politecnico di Milano Merit Scholarships (€5000–€10,000), University of Bologna Excellence Grants, University of Milan Excellence, University of Padua Excellence scholarship.
4. Other Scholarships
- Erasmus+ exchange grants (After you start studying, you can go to 6 months to 1 year, Erasmus exchange or traineeship programs)
- Research fellowships at specific institutions
Step 6: Expected Stipend Amounts
Students under regional scholarships typically receive:
- €6000–€8000 per year (disbursed in 2–3 installments)
- Free or subsidized accommodation and meals
- Tuition waiver
Excellence scholarships vary but can provide €7000–€12,000 per year.
Step 7: Visa Process for Italy 2026 Intake
Once you’ve secured admission and completed pre-enrollment, the next step is applying for your Italian student visa (Type D). This is one of the most important parts of your journey.
Documents Required for Italian Student Visa
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Admission/acceptance letter from an Italian university
- Pre-enrollment confirmation (Universitaly portal)
- Proof of accommodation (university dormitory or rental contract)
- Proof of financial resources (minimum €6,000–€7,000 per year in your account or parents’ account)
- Scholarship confirmation letter (if applicable)
- Bank statements for the last 6 months
- Family income documents (for South Asian students applying for DSU scholarship)
- Health insurance valid in Italy for one year (~€100)
- Flight reservation and passport-size photographs
Visa Timeline for 2026 Intake
- May–June 2026 → Start preparing financial documents
- July 2026 → Book visa appointment at Italian embassy/consulate in your country
- July–August 2026 → Attend interview and submit documents
- August 2026 → Visa approval and collection
- September 2026 → Fly to Italy and begin classes
👉 Pro Tip: Book your embassy appointment early because Italian embassies in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh get fully booked months before the deadline.
Step 8: Enrollment After Arrival in Italy
Once you arrive in Italy, you need to finalize your enrollment at the university by:
- Submitting original documents
- Paying any remaining fees (if not covered by scholarships), but mostly it is covered.
- Applying for codice fiscale (tax code)
- Applying for permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) within 8 days of arrival
Step 9: Financial Documents for Regional Scholarships
One of the most common mistakes South Asian students make is not preparing their financial documents properly for regional scholarships. These documents are crucial because DSU/EDISU/Lazio Disco scholarships are based on family income and assets.
Required Financial Documents
- Family income certificate (from local revenue authority or government body)
- Property/land ownership certificate (if applicable)
- Affidavit of financial status
- Bank account details (yours or parents’)
- Translations into Italian (if required) and attestation by embassy
The income threshold for DSU scholarships is usually around €23,000 family income per year. If your family’s annual income is lower, you will get the scholarship.
Step 10: Accommodation in Italy for Students
International students can choose between:
- University dormitories (often free or subsidized under Regional/ Excellence scholarships)
- Private housing → €250–€400 per month (shared apartments in Milan, Rome, Bologna, etc.)
- Student hostels → Short-term stay when you first arrive
👉 Students from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh usually prefer dormitories because they reduce living costs significantly.
Step 11: Work Opportunities in Italy
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Italy is the ability to work part-time while studying.
- Students can work 20 hours per week (around 1,040 hours per year)
- Typical student jobs: restaurants, delivery services, retail shops, university assistant roles
- Average wage: €7–€10 per hour
Post-Study Work
After graduation, students can apply for a post-study work visa (job-seeking visa) which is valid for 12 months. If you secure employment, you can then switch to a work permit and stay in Italy/Europe long-term.
Step 12: Cost of Living in Italy
The cost of living depends on the city, but here’s an approximate monthly breakdown for students:
- Accommodation: €300–€400 (free if scholarship dorm)
- Food: €100
- Transport: €25–€35 (student pass)
- Miscellaneous: €50
Total: Around €500–€600 per month (covered easily by regional scholarship stipend).
Step 13: Visa Success Tips for Pakistani, Indian & Bangladeshi Students
- If you got excellence scholarship, include the scholarship confirmation letter in your visa file—it increases approval chances.
- Maintain a bank balance of at least €7,000 for the last 6 months before your visa application.
- Prepare your financial documents carefully and get them attested.
- Provide a clear Motivation Letter in your visa interview (why Italy, why your program, your career goals).
- Book your appointment as soon as the embassy opens slots.
Benefits of Studying in Italy for South Asian Students
- Tuition fees almost fully waived under scholarships
- Living costs covered by regional scholarships (DSU, Lazio Disco, EDISU, etc.)
- Monthly stipend up to €500–€600
- Strong South Asian student community for support
- Opportunity to work during and after studies
- Pathway to European career opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions – Study in Italy 2026
1. Is studying in Italy free for Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi students?
Yes, with regional scholarships like DSU or Lazio Disco, your tuition, accommodation, and living costs are fully covered.
2. How much bank balance is required for an Italy student visa?
At least €6,000–€7,000 in your account or your sponsor’s account, maintained for 6 months.
3. Do I need IELTS to study in Italy?
Not always. Many universities accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate instead of IELTS.
4. How much stipend do regional scholarships provide?
Between €6,000–€8,000 per year, along with free meals and dormitory accommodation.
5. What is the deadline for September 2026 intake?
University applications close between February–April 2026. Pre-enrollment begins in May 2026, and visa applications are submitted in July–August 2026.
6. Can students work in Italy while studying?
Yes, up to 20 hours per week during semesters. And full time work in summer.
7. Is it easy to get a job after graduation in Italy?
Yes, you can apply for a job-seeking visa after graduation, giving you time to find employment in Italy or other EU countries.
8. Which Italian cities are best for international students?
Milan, Rome, Bologna, Turin, Padua, and Florence are among the top choices.
9. What is the average living cost in Italy for students?
Around €500–€600 per month, often covered by scholarships.
10. Can I bring my family while studying in Italy?
Yes, but you need to prove financial stability and accommodation before applying for a dependent visa.
Conclusion
Studying in Italy for the September 2026 intake is one of the best opportunities for international students, especially those from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. With affordable tuition, generous scholarships, and opportunities to work during and after studies, Italy provides a complete package for students seeking quality education in Europe. If you start preparing now, focus on admission deadlines, scholarship applications, and proper financial documentation, your dream of studying in Italy can become a reality.
👉 Official Portal: Universitaly – Official Italian Admission and Pre-enrollment Portal
