Step-by-Step Guide to Studying in Italy (For Indian Students)

Step 1: Research & Choose a Course

1.1 Select a Degree & University

Italy hosts world-renowned universities offering degrees in engineering, arts, business, fashion, design, and humanities. Top institutions include:

Politecnico di Milano (Engineering, Architecture, Design)
Sapienza University of Rome (Science, Medicine, Arts)
University of Bologna (Oldest university in the world)
Bocconi University (Business & Economics)
Politecnico di Torino (Engineering)

👉 How to Research?

Check university websites (universitaly.it)
Explore English-taught programs if you don’t know Italian
Compare tuition fees, scholarships, and course structure

Step 2: Check Eligibility & Admission Requirements

2.1 Academic Requirements

For Bachelor’s (Laurea Triennale)

Completed 10+2 (12 years) of education
Minimum 60% in Class 12
Some universities may require an entrance exam

For Master’s (Laurea Magistrale)

A 3- or 4-year undergraduate degree
Minimum 55–60% marks
Strong SOP and LORs

2.2 Language Requirements

English-taught: IELTS 6.0+ / TOEFL 80+
Italian-taught: B1/B2 level (CILS or CELI exam)

Step 3: Apply to Universities

3.1 Where to Apply?

Directly on the university website
Via Universitaly Portal for centralized applications

3.2 Documents Required

✅ Passport (valid for at least 18 months)
✅ 10th & 12th Mark Sheets (MEA attested)
✅ Bachelor’s Degree & Transcripts (for Master’s)
✅ IELTS/TOEFL Certificate
✅ SOP & LORs
✅ Resume/CV
✅ Portfolio (design, architecture programs)
✅ Italian Language Certificate (if applicable)

3.3 Application Deadlines

September Intake (Main): November – April
February Intake: June – October

Step 4: Apply for Scholarships

Italy offers generous scholarships for Indian students.

4.1 Popular Scholarships

Italian Government Scholarship – Tuition + €900/month
DSU Regional Scholarship – Tuition, accommodation, meals
Invest Your Talent in Italy – For Master’s students
Erasmus+ – For exchange students

👉 How to Apply?

Check your university’s financial aid page
Apply early (deadlines mostly March–May)

Step 5: Pre-Enrolment via Universitaly

After receiving your admission letter:

Create an account at universitaly.it
Fill personal details & upload documents
Select your university and program
Submit and wait for approval

⏳ Processing Time: 4–8 weeks

Step 6: Apply for Student Visa (Type D – Long Stay Visa)

6.1 Where to Apply?

Italian Embassy/VFS centers in:

New Delhi
Mumbai
Kolkata
Chennai
Bangalore

6.2 Visa Requirements

Valid Passport
University Admission Letter
Pre-Enrolment Confirmation
Proof of Funds (€6,000 balance for past 3 months)
DSU Scholarship Letter (if applicable)
1-Year Health Insurance (min. €30,000 coverage)
Flight Booking & Accommodation Proof
Visa Fee: ₹8,000 – ₹9,000

⏳ Processing Time: 4–6 weeks

Step 7: Prepare for Departure

7.1 Book Accommodation

University dorms
Private apartments (Spotahome, Uniplaces)

7.2 Open a Bank Account

Common student-friendly banks:

UniCredit
Intesa Sanpaolo
Banca Sella

7.3 Pack Essentials

Convert INR → Euros (€)
Warm clothes
Indian spices & medicines

Step 8: Arriving in Italy – Apply for Permesso di Soggiorno

Within 8 days of arrival:

Visit the Post Office
Fill the Kit Permesso di Soggiorno
Submit documents + fee (~€100)
Attend biometrics appointment at Questura

⏳ Processing Time: 1–3 months

Step 9: Start Your Studies & Settle in Italy

🎓 Attend orientation & join student groups
💼 Look for part-time jobs (20 hrs/week allowed)
💳 Apply for Codice Fiscale (tax code) for jobs & rentals

Final Tips

✅ Apply early
✅ Learn basic Italian
✅ Apply for DSU scholarship (most Indian students qualify)
✅ Connect with Indian communities in Italy