Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027: Fully Funded Master’s, PhD, AFAM, and Research Opportunities in Italy for International Students

Are you an ambitious international student dreaming of earning a world-class Master’s or PhD degree in Italy without worrying about tuition fees or living expenses? The Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027 is your gateway to one of Europe’s most culturally rich and academically excellent destinations. Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), this prestigious, fully funded scholarship supports foreign students and Italian citizens living abroad who want to study at top Italian public universities and legally recognized institutions.

Whether you’re targeting a 2-year Master’s program, a PhD, specialized courses in Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM), or short-term research projects, the MAECI Scholarship 2026 removes financial barriers and lets you focus entirely on academic excellence. With full tuition waivers, comprehensive health insurance, and a generous €10,800 stipend, this opportunity is open to citizens from eligible countries worldwide. There is no application fee, and you do not need a university admission offer before applying.

In this comprehensive guide on ScholarsRoad.org, we cover everything you need to know about the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027 — including updated eligibility, exact financial benefits, step-by-step application process, required documents, and expert tips to strengthen your application.

About the MAECI Scholarship: Purpose and Key Features

The MAECI Scholarship is part of Italy’s commitment to international cultural, scientific, and technological cooperation. Administered under Italian Law 288/55, it aims to:

• Promote global academic exchange and strengthen ties between Italy and other nations
• Attract talented students who cannot afford to study abroad
• Support the study of Italian language, culture, and innovation

Key Highlights of the MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027

• Fully funded for Master’s, PhD, AFAM, and Research programs
• Available at all Italian public and legally recognized universities
• No application fee
• Open to eligible foreign citizens and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE)
• Full tuition exemption + health insurance + €10,800 stipend
• Apply directly through the official Study in Italy portal

This scholarship is highly competitive but accessible — selected scholars receive the award first and then secure university admission.

Financial Benefits of the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship

Selected candidates enjoy complete financial security throughout their studies in Italy:

Tuition and Enrollment Fees Full exemption from enrollment and tuition fees at most Italian public universities (as per Legislative Decree 68/2012). Note: Regional fees may still apply and are not covered by MAECI.

Health and Medical Insurance Comprehensive collective insurance policy covering illness and accident expenses during the scholarship period. Pre-existing conditions and dental care are excluded. EU citizens are advised to bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as a backup.

Monthly Stipend – €10,800 Total The stipend is paid directly into an Italian bank account in three installments (for 9-month programs):

• First installment: €5,500 (November 2026, after confirming presence and enrollment)
• Second installment: €2,300 (February 2027, upon continued enrollment)
• Third installment: €3,000 (June 2027, after achieving required academic progress — typically 27 CFU credits or equivalent)

This amount is designed to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and daily living expenses in Italy. In most Italian cities, monthly costs range from €800–€1,200, so the scholarship provides comfortable support.

Available Study Schemes and Programs

The MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027 supports four main categories (plus Italian language courses):

1. Master’s Degree Programs
   • Duration: 9 months (renewable)
   • Age limit: Born on or after 27 March 1997 (maximum 28 years at deadline)
   • Requires a Bachelor’s degree equivalent
2. Higher Education Courses in Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM)
   • Specialized programs at academies and conservatories
   • Age limit: Same as Master’s (28 years)
3. PhD Programs
   • Duration: 9 months (renewable)
   • Age limit: Born on or after 27 March 1995 (maximum 30 years at deadline)
   • Requires a Master’s degree and admission to a PhD program
4. Research Projects under Academic Supervision
   • Short-term research at universities, archives, or research centers
   • Age limit: Maximum 40 years
   • Requires an official invitation letter from a supervisor

Programs generally run from November 2026 to July 2027 and must be attended in person in Italy.

How the MAECI Scholarship Works

Important: Scholarship application and university admission are two separate processes.

1. Apply for the MAECI Scholarship first via the official portal.
2. If selected, you receive the official award letter.
3. Then apply for admission to your chosen Italian public university, mentioning the MAECI Scholarship.
4. Complete enrollment and apply for your student visa at the Italian embassy/consulate in your country.

Most Italian public universities fully support MAECI scholars.

Eligible Countries for the Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027

The scholarship is open to citizens of a wide range of countries (approximately 140+ eligible territories) plus specific Italian citizens living abroad (IRE) in countries such as Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Kenya, Lebanon, Morocco, Peru, UK, Senegal, Spain, South Africa, Tunisia, Uruguay, and Venezuela.

Check the complete official list of eligible countries here (PDF available on the portal). Citizens with dual or multiple citizenships must follow specific rules.

Eligibility Criteria for MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027

To qualify, you must meet these requirements:

• Hold citizenship of an eligible country (or be an Italian citizen living abroad in the specified list)
• Meet the age limits mentioned above
• Possess the required academic qualification (Bachelor’s for Master’s/AFAM; Master’s for PhD)
• Have a strong academic record
• Provide proof of English (B2 level) or Italian proficiency depending on the program language
• Not be receiving any other Italian government scholarship
• Be in good health

Required Documents for MAECI Scholarship Application

Prepare these documents in PDF format (translated into English or Italian if necessary):

• Valid passport or ID copy
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent B2 level)
• CV/Resume
• Motivation letter
• Research proposal (for PhD and Research applicants)
• Supervisor invitation letter (for Research projects)
• Recommendation letters (optional but recommended)
• Portfolio (for AFAM programs)

Pro Tip: Upload clear, high-quality scans. Some documents can be declared as “pending” and uploaded later if needed.

Step-by-Step Application Process for MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027

1. Verify Eligibility – Confirm your country is eligible and you meet age/academic requirements.
2. Gather Documents – Prepare and translate everything in advance.
3. Register on the Official Portal – Go to the Study in Italy portal → https://studyinitaly.esteri.it/
4. Complete the Online Form – Create an account, fill in personal and academic details, choose your program type.
5. Upload Documents – Submit all required files before the deadline.
6. Submit Application – Double-check everything and submit (no changes allowed after submission).
7. Wait for Results – Results are announced on the portal; selected candidates are notified by email.
8. Secure University Admission – Use your scholarship award to apply to Italian universities.
9. Enroll and Get Visa – Complete enrollment and apply for your Italian student visa.

Official Application Portal: Study in Italy – MAECI Scholarships

Application Deadline for Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027

Deadline: 26 March 2026 at 14:00 (Italian time / CET) Applications received after this time will not be accepted. Apply early to avoid technical issues!

Where Can You Study? Top Italian Public Universities Accepting MAECI Scholars

You can choose any public or legally recognized institution. Popular options include:

• University of Bologna
• University of Padua
• University of Milan
• Sapienza University of Rome
• University of Florence
• Polytechnic University of Milan
• University of Turin
• University of Pisa
• University of Naples Federico II

All AFAM institutions (conservatories, academies of fine arts, dance schools) are also eligible.

Expert Tips for a Winning MAECI Scholarship Application

• Apply Early – Don’t wait until the last week.
• Craft a Powerful Motivation Letter – Explain your academic goals, why Italy, and how the program aligns with your future career.
• Secure Strong Recommendations – Choose professors who know you well.
• Highlight Language Skills – B2 level is mandatory for most programs.
• Tailor Your Research Proposal – Make it specific, feasible, and relevant to Italian expertise.
• Proofread Thoroughly – Errors can weaken your application.
• Check Eligible Country List – Confirm your eligibility before starting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who can apply for the MAECI Scholarship 2026? Foreign students from eligible countries and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE) in the specified list.

Q2: Is there an application fee? No – the entire process is free.

Q3: What does the scholarship cover? Full tuition waiver (where applicable), health insurance, and €10,800 stipend.

Q4: Do I need university admission before applying? No. Apply for the scholarship first.

Q5: What is the age limit? 28 years for Master’s/AFAM; 30 years for PhD (as of the deadline).

Q6: Is IELTS/English proficiency required? Yes – B2 level proof is needed for English- or Italian-taught programs.

Q7: When is the deadline? 26 March 2026 at 14:00 CET.

Q8: Which universities accept this scholarship? All Italian public universities and AFAM institutions.

Why Study in Italy with the MAECI Scholarship?

Italy offers affordable living, historic campuses, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant lifestyle. From engineering at Politecnico di Milano to arts at the Academy of Fine Arts, you’ll gain international exposure and valuable networks.

Stay Connected for More Scholarship Opportunities

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Conclusion

The Italian Government MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027 is a life-changing, fully funded opportunity to study in Italy at zero cost. With €10,800 stipend, tuition coverage, and health insurance, you can focus on academic growth in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.

The deadline is fast approaching — 26 March 2026. Prepare your documents, visit the official portal today, and take the first step toward your Italian academic journey.

Official Website & Application Portal: Study in Italy – MAECI Scholarships

Start your application now and turn your study-in-Italy dream into reality!

Last updated: March 2026 | ScholarsRoad.org

Muqadas Hameed

Muqadas Hameed is a scholarship researcher and education writer who specializes in international scholarships, fellowships, and study-abroad opportunities. She helps students discover fully funded programs, application strategies, and academic opportunities worldwide.