Last Updated on September 30, 2024
As of 2024, 6000 Indian students are studying in various Italian universities, attracted by the country’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant student life, and diverse academic programs. This growing trend is fuelled by Italy’s renowned educational institutions, which offer various affordable fees, scholarships, and English programs. 30% of international students apply to Italian universities rather than other European countries because of its top-ranked universities offering specialized courses and houses—some of the leading brands of the world and cost-effective living costs.
The cost of living in Italy is almost 40% lower than in the top countries like the USA, UK, Australia, and Canada, which is why International students want to study in Italy. Regarding ROI, Italy boasts of a high return on investment with little finances. They also provide free education at the undergraduate and post-graduate levels, which is another reason students prefer going to Italy instead. Its educational system is highly regarded worldwide.
This blog will help you determine the cost of study in Italy for Indian students. Scholarships can lower this cost and top universities for international students.
Study in Italy for Indian Students: Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
| Top Italy universities for International students | University of Bologna, Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza, University of Rome |
| Popular Courses to Study in Italy for Indian Students | Engineering, Business, Arts, Medicine |
| Scholarships to reduce the cost of study in Italy for Indian students | Invest Your Talent in Italy: Pays INR 7L – INR 9L annuallyItalian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students: Pays INR 3.5L – INR 6L annually |
| Living Costs | Accommodation: INR 20,000 – INR 50,000/month, Transportation: INR 2,000 – INR 5,000/month, Food: INR 15,000 – INR 25,000/month |
| Free Universities | 10 |
| Popular Company HQs | Enel, Prada, Moncler, Ferrari, Uni, Credit, etc. |
| Work While Studying | Up to 20 hours per week during term, full-time during holidays |
| High-Paying Jobs | INR 80L – INR 2Cr |
Why Study in Italy for Indian Students?
Why should you choose Italy over the other countries? A few reasons why a study in Italy for Indian students might be the most ideal situation are mentioned below-
Firstly, the presence of English medium instruction for international students helps with better understanding and does away with the need to learn the Italian language tool to study the course they have selected. Secondly, the cost of starting in Italy and the living costs in Italy are generally lower than in other European countries, making it cost-effective for the more Italian universities to provide top-notch quality education, modern facilities, and infrastructure and ensure a great learning environment.
Italy’s higher education system includes various institutions, each of different levels of education, like universities offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and programs, as well as polytechnic universities focusing on engineering and technical disciplines. Higher schools are specialized institutions for advanced studies and research, and finally, there are institutes for higher artistic education. AFAM provides dance, music, and fine arts education, combining practical training with higher studies. Higher technical institutes and IT provide vocational training in tourism design, technology, and fashion sectors, bridging the gap between dedication and industry needs.
Top Universities to Study in Italy for Indian Students
Italian University consistently performs well in the QS world University rankings due to several key features like academic excellence for its high standards of teaching and research, and its well-known international faculty and students, making a diverse community contributing to the global learning environment, comparing and choosing an institution that would fit your needs, must be tiring And it should so check out the detailed table of the best universities you can consider below-
| Best Universities to Study in Italy for Indian Students | QS World Ranking 2024 | Annual Tuition Fee (INR) |
| University of Bologna | #154 | 1L – 2.5L |
| Sapienza University of Rome | #134 | 80,000 – 2L |
| University of Milan | #276 | 1.2L – 3L |
| Politecnico di Milano | #123 | 1.5L – 3.5L |
| University of Padua | #219 | 90,000 – 2.5L |
| University of Pisa | #349 | 70,000 – 2L |
| Politecnico di Torino | #252 | 1.4L – 3L |
Popular Courses to Study in Italy for Indian Students
Choose a course related to your field of choice by learning about these universities’ various popular courses and make your pick-
| Best Universities to Study in Italy for Indian Students | Popular Courses to Study in Italy for Indian Students |
| University of Bologna | Fine Arts, Music, Literature, Business Management |
| Sapienza University of Rome | Arts, Humanities, Business Administration, Engineering |
| University of Milan | Medicine, Business, Social Sciences |
| Politecnico di Milano | Engineering, Architecture, Design, MBA |
| University of Padua | Medicine, Engineering, Natural Sciences |
| University of Pisa | Engineering, Computer Science, Physics |
| Politecnico di Torino | Engineering, Architecture, Industrial Design |
Master’s in Italy for Indian Students
Italy offers diverse master programs that are popular with students due to their quality and international recognition; the table below the overview of the same-
| Name of the university to study in Italy for Indian students | Popular master programs to study in Italy for Indian students |
| Politecnico di Milano | Engineering, Architecture, Design |
| University of Bologna | Law, Humanities, Business Management |
| Bocconi University | Business, Economics, Finance |
| Sapienza University of Rome | Arts, Sciences, Engineering |
| University of Padua | Medicine, Engineering, Natural Sciences |
Popular Courses Taught in English
Various institutions offer popular programs.in English for international students? This makes it easier for non-English speakers to pursue their education without the language barrier. Additionally, several universities provide admission opportunities without required IELTS scores, making them more accessible.
Programs in English to study in Italy for Indian students-
- Business and management- Bocconi University and Politecnico di Milano offer MBA and other business-related programs and require an overall IELTS band score of 6.5+
- Engineering- Politecnico di Torino provides a range of engineering courses in English requiring an IELTS overall band of 6+
universities with No IELTS requirement-
- University of Bologna- programs except alternative English proficiency, test, or previous education, medium of instruction in English as proof.
- The University of Milan offers an international medical School program in English.
- Sapienza University of Rome- offers various programs with flexible language requirements.
These options make it an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education in an accommodating and diverse environment. However, if you wish to submit your application to your desired university in Italy, read the next section thoroughly. We are detailing the entire admission process so that you have your best foot when the time comes.
Intakes to Study in Italy for Indian Students
Italian universities typically offer the central intake for Indian students, providing flexibility for whenever you can start your studies in Italy.
Fall Intake (September/October)
This intake usually opens in November of the previous year and closes around April to June. There are specific guidelines that might be by program and university. So, check the exact dates on the universities. The official website is essential. Most undergraduate and postgraduate programs are offered during the fall intake, which is the central intake period and includes various courses across multiple disciplines. This allows students to begin their studies at the start of the academic year, providing a full year of research and offering the broadest section of programs and courses.
Spring intake (February)
The application period for spring intake generally opens in July and closes around November to December of the previous year. Specific deadlines may be, and so verifying. The dates for your chosen program are crucial. It offers mainly postgraduate courses compared to the fall intake and is ideal for students who have missed the fall application deadlines or want to start their studies in the second semester. Beginning in the spring can be advantageous for students who need extra time to prepare for their applications and complete the prerequisite courses or language studies before starting the main program.
Application Guide to Study in Italy for Indian Students
It is essential to ensure you understand the entire application process to prepare beforehand and keep the documents ready for a study visa in Italy.
- Pre–application
Identify the programs and universities that align with your interests and goals. This research should review the specific requirements for each program. After the stack of eligibility, gather the necessary documents such as a recommendation, letter, valid passport, and academic transcripts.
- Application
Fill out the online application form on the university’s official website, and upload and submit all the required documents, including your CV and personal statement. Pay the application fee if applicable.
- Post application
Some programs require an interview either in person or online. Wait for the admission results, which are typically communicated through mail.
- Admission announcement
Receive an offer letter if accepted, confirm your acceptance, and pay the necessary deposits. Apply for a student if required.
Documents Required To Study In Italy For Indian Students
- Academic transcripts of previous academic records
- English language proficiency proves like IELTS or TOEFL scorecards (Italian. programs might require proof of Italian language proficiency required)
- A valid passport with sufficient validity
- Two or three recommendation letters from academic or professional references
- An essay outlining your motivation and goals
Visa Requirements to Study in Italy for Indian Students
International students must obtain a student Visa to study in Italy. Here is a step-by-overview of the entire process-
- Apply at your home country, Italian consulate, or embassy.
- After receiving an acceptance letter from an Italian university, provide the required documents like proof of financial means, accommodation, details, and health insurance.
- Apply at least three months before your intended departure date
Procedure for Obtaining a Residence Permit
Upon arrival in Italy, students must obtain a residence permit. Firstly, they must apply at the local post office within eight days of arrival. Documents such as a passport, visa, university, enrollment certificate, health insurance, proof of financial means, and a completed application for the permit duration are usually valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Scholarships in Italy for Indian students
Studying in Italy can sound a little expensive, but scholarships are a way to deal with this significantly for Indian students.
- University Scholarships: Each university may offer scholarships for international students.
- Italian Government Scholarships: Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- Regional Scholarships: Some regions in Italy provide scholarships based on merit and need.
Here’s a table on scholarships for international students studying in Italy, including examples and average scholarship amounts you can hope to get!
| Scholarships in Italy for Indian students | Examples and Average Scholarship Amounts (INR) |
| Italian Government Scholarships | Invest Your Talent in Italy: INR 7L – INR 9L annuallyItalian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students: INR 3.5L – INR 6L annually |
| University Scholarships | Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships: INR 5L – INR 8L annuallyBocconi University Scholarships: INR 6L – INR 10L annuallyUniversity of Bologna Study Grants: INR 3L – INR 4.5L annually |
| Regional Scholarships | LazioDisco Scholarships (Lazio Region): INR 3L – INR 5L annuallyEDISU Piemonte Scholarships (Piedmont Region): INR 2.5L – INR 4.5L annually |
Education loans can be made available through various banks and financial institutions for your student’s arrangements based on their finances; budgeting for tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses is another way of planning. However, there are merit-based scholarships, and their benefits include academic excellence. These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, and there is also financial relief as they cover living expenses, tuition costs, or both. Even enhanced opportunities include additional support like career services and mentorship.
Top High-Paying Jobs after Study in Italy for Indian Students
How much can you earn after pursuing an education in Italy? We have covered you and listed below the highest-paid jobs in Italy that you can set your eyes on.
| Job Title | Annual Salary (INR) |
| Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | INR 2Cr – INR 2.5Cr |
| Investment Banker | INR 1.4Cr – INR 2Cr |
| IT Director | INR 1.2Cr – INR 2Cr |
| Marketing Director | INR 1Cr – INR 6Cr |
| Legal Advisor | INR 1Cr – INR 1.5Cr |
| Software Engineer | INR 90L – INR 1.2Cr |
| Financial Analyst | INR 80L – INR 1.1Cr |
| Data Scientist | INR 70L – INR 1Cr |
| Project Manager | INR 60L – INR 90L |
| University Professor | INR 50L – INR 80L |
Cost of Study in Italy for Indian Students
Studying in Italy is a dream for many Indian students. It offers a blend of rich cultural experiences and high-quality education and is known as an affordable education system compared to other Western countries that start from around INR 70,000, making it an attractive destination for students on a budget; public universities typically have lower tuition fees ranging from INR 70,000 to INR 2,50,000 per year. However, private universities have higher tuition fees ranging from INR3 lakhs to INR8 lakhs per year as a table below detailing the expected costs of private and public universities based on the location in Italy-
| Name of the city | Tuition fees (public) | Tuition fees (Private) |
| Rome | INR 1 lakh-INR 2.5, lakh | INR 4,00,000-INR 8,00,000 |
| Milan | INR 1.2 lakh-INR 3,00,000 lakhs | INR 4.5 lakhs- INR 7.5 lakhs |
| Bologna | INR 90,000-INR 2.5 lakhs | INR 3.5 lakhs-INR 7,00,000 |
| Florence | INR 80,000-INR 2,00,000 lakhs | INR 3,00,000-INR 6,00,000 |
| Turin | INR 70,000-INR 2,00,000 lakhs | INR 3,00,000-6,00,000 |
Average Living Costs for Students
Living costs in Italy for Indian students vary by location and lifestyle. We have provided the breakdown of the average price range. You can expect there-
| Expense Category | Monthly cost in INR |
| Accommodation | INR 20,000-INR 50,000 |
| Transportation | INR 2000-INR 5000 |
| Food and miscellaneous | INR 15,000-INR 25,000 |
These costs vary according to the place or city you’re living in Italy, so you can change your location, preferably smartly, within a realistic budget to lower your cost of living in Italy.
| Name of the city | Monthly Living costs (INR) |
| Rome | INR 60,000 – INR 80,000 |
| Milan | INR 70,000 – INR 90,000 |
| Bologna | INR 50,000 – INR 70,000 |
| Florence | INR 55,000 – INR 75,000 |
| Turin | INR 45,000 – INR 65,000 |
Part-time work and Career Prospects
Indian students in Italy are allowed to work part-time while studying. Students from non-EU countries can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester and full-time during holidays. While the student visa allows part-time work, students must also obtain a residence permit known as “Permesso di Soggiorno” in Italy, which includes work authorization.
Italian institutions even provide robust career services to assist students and graduates with Career centers that offer counseling, resume workshops, job placement services, job fairs, and networking events to connect students with potential employers and provide internships for practical experience and, again, networking opportunities.
Check other Countries for Study abroad:
Post-Study Work and Residency Options for Indian Students
After completing their studies, international graduates have several options. They can apply for a temporary residence permit for job search or self-employment, valid for up to 12 months. If the graduates find jobs, they can apply for a work permit and convert their student residence permit to a work residence permit. However, after five years of legal residence in Italy, Indian graduates can apply for a long-term EU residence permit.
Conclusion
Studying in Italy presents a fantastic opportunity for Indian students to gain a high-quality education while experiencing rich cultural immersion. The famous universities with affordable education, numerous scholarships, and decadent historical and cultural richness provide excellent career prospects—post-graduation. The cost of living is a budget-friendly option compared to other European destinations. Working while studying can help them support their studies. Therefore, it combines academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and affordability, making it an ideal destination for higher education.
FAQs
Q. What is the overall cost of studying in Italy, including living expenses?
The overall cost of studying in Italy includes tuition fees and living expenses. Tuition fees at public universities range from INR70,000 to INR2,50,000 per year, while private universities charge between INR3,00,000 and INR8,00,000 annually. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs, typically range from INR50,000 to INR90,000 per month. Students can reduce costs by taking advantage of scholarships, discounts, and affordable housing options.
Q. Are Italian universities tuition-free for Indian students?
In some cases, Italian universities are tuition-free for Indian students since they offer full scholarships to academically strong students. The amounts may vary with each university.
Q. How can students manage the cost of studying in Italy?
Students can manage studying costs in Italy by applying for scholarships and financial aid, which can significantly reduce tuition fees and living expenses. Working part-time during their studies is another option, as international students can work up to 20 hours per week. Choosing affordable accommodation, such as university residences, and taking advantage of student discounts on transportation and other services can also help manage costs effectively.
Q. Which are some of the cheapest universities in Italy?
A lot of tuition fees are reimbursed for international students studying in Italy. So these are a couple of cheap universities in Italy, which include the University of Pisa, the Free University of Bozen Bolzano, the University of Padua, the University of Naples, et cetera.
Q. Can Indian students learn Italian for free while studying at Italian universities?
Yes, each Italian university conducts extra classes to teach the Italian language to international students, which can be attended free of cost. This can be beneficial for the students.
Linette Shoji is a seasoned content writer specializing in guiding students through the complexities of applying to universities abroad. Her well-researched, clear, and practical articles break down intricate information into easy-to-understand advice. Linette’s work empowers students to make informed decisions, ensuring a smooth and successful journey to higher education.
