Study in Italy – Low Fees, DSU Scholarships & High ROI
Italy’s public universities offer world-class degrees at very low tuition, plus powerful need-based scholarships like DSU that can even cover your living expenses. It’s one of the most affordable ways to earn a recognised European degree.
Low tuition fees
Public universities with fees far below most English-speaking countries.
DSU & regional grants
Need-based scholarships that can support tuition & living.
Schengen access
Study in Italy and travel across 25+ European countries.
We’ll help you with university selection, DSU chances & visa plan.

Italy snapshot
Public universities + DSU grants = high-quality education with one of the best cost-to-value ratios in Europe.
Tuition (public)
~€0–€2,500 / year*
Living costs
~€600–€900 / month*
Work rights
Up to 20 hrs / week
*Indicative ranges. Exact budget depends on university and city.
Why choose Italy for your studies?
Italy combines low tuition, strong scholarships and a vibrant student lifestyle. It’s especially attractive for Indian students who want a recognised degree without taking on a huge loan.
High-ranked public universities
Universities like Bologna, Padua and Sapienza are among Europe’s oldest and most respected institutions.
Scholarship-friendly system
DSU and regional scholarships can cover tuition, housing and even meals for eligible students (need-based).
Safe, student-centric cities
Cities like Milan, Rome, Bologna & Turin have large international student communities and great connectivity.
Top Italian Universities for Global Students
We focus on institutions with excellent rankings and a good selection of English-taught Bachelor's and Master's programs.
*This is a representative list. We help you shortlist based on your specialisation (e.g., Engineering, Design, Finance) and profile strength.
Cost of studying in Italy
Compared to other European destinations, Italy is surprisingly affordable. Most public universities have fees below €2,500/year.
*Exact amounts depend on city, lifestyle and scholarship support.
Maximise Savings with DSU
DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) is a vital **need-based** regional scholarship. Based on your **family income proof** from India, you can receive:
- **Full Tuition Fee Waiver** or near-zero fees.
- **Free or heavily subsidised accommodation/housing**.
- **Yearly cash allowance** (€4,000 - €7,000) for living expenses.
**Crucial Step**: We guide you in preparing the complex CA & family income documents required for DSU submission before the deadline.
Check my DSU eligibility now →Eligibility & entry requirements
Requirements vary by course and university, but here’s a general idea for Indian students:
Bachelors in Italy
- 12 years of schooling (10+2) from a recognised board
- Entrance / subject requirements for specific programs
- English proficiency (IELTS / equivalent) for English-taught courses
- Basic Italian recommended for daily life & part-time work
Masters in Italy
- 3 or 4-year bachelor’s degree with good academic record
- Relevant background to the chosen Master’s program
- English proficiency (often IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent for many public universities)
- Some programs may ask for portfolio / work experience
Application timeline (September Intake)
We guide you across the full journey – from first counselling to landing in Italy. The application window is highly competitive.
Oct – Dec
Initial Planning & IELTS
Shortlist courses, finalise budget, check DSU eligibility, and appear for IELTS/language requirements.
Jan – Mar
Applications & Pre-Enrolment
Prepare SOPs, LORs, CV, submit university applications, and complete the Pre-Enrolment process.
Apr – Jun
Offers, DSU Filing & Financials
Handle conditional offers, prepare complex DSU income documents, arrange Proof of Funds.
Jul – Sept
Visa Interview & Departure
Secure DOV (Declaration of Value) or CIMEA/CIEP certificate, book visa slots, and prepare for departure.
Key documents you’ll typically need
The exact list depends on university & visa category, but usually includes:
- 10th, 12th & bachelor’s mark sheets and certificates
- Passport & photographs
- APS (if applicable for your case)
- IELTS / language test scorecard (if required)
- DOV / CIMEA certification
- Family income proofs (for DSU / scholarships)
- Bank statements / education loan sanction letter
- CA report, ITRs and affidavits as needed
Part-time work & after graduation
Part-time jobs during studies
Students can work up to **20 hours per week** during term. Knowing basic Italian significantly increases your employability for roles both on and off campus.
Post-study opportunities
Graduates can apply for the **Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione** (12-month job search visa) to transition into full-time employment and eventually PR.
We guide you on realistic job expectations, city choices and how to build your profile from day one.
Top cities for Indian students in Italy
Choose a city that fits your budget, lifestyle and course.
Milan
Fashion & business hub with strong design, management, and Polytechnic programs.
Bologna
Historic university town with vibrant student life and high DSU grant prevalence.
Rome
Capital city with top universities (Sapienza) and rich cultural experiences.
Turin & Pisa
Great for engineering, automotive tech, and research-focused programs.
Start Your Affordable European Degree Today
Book a free session to understand DSU income documents, university deadlines, and your Italian visa plan.
Get my Italy profile evaluated now →FAQs – Study in Italy for Indian students
Is Italy affordable compared to other European countries?
Yes. With low public tuition and DSU/regional scholarships, many students manage with a much smaller budget than the UK or US, even including living costs.
Do I need to know Italian to study in Italy?
Many Master’s and some Bachelor’s programs are fully taught in English. However, learning Italian greatly improves your chances of part-time work and integration.
What is the DSU scholarship?
It’s a **need-based regional scholarship** that can cover tuition, accommodation, meals and a yearly allowance, depending on your family income and academic progress.
How can your team help with Italy applications?
We support you with country & course selection, **DSU planning and document filing**, university applications, visa filing (including DOV/CIMEA guidance) and pre-departure support.
