Last Updated on May 5, 2025
Pasta, Picasso, and post-study placements. For Indian students dreaming оf world-class education, Italy іs fast becoming the most underrated hero іn the study-abroad multiverse. Public universities with tuition as low as €900 per year, globally ranked programs taught entirely іn English, and full-fledged MAECI scholarships that cover your living and academic costs? Yes, Study in Italy for Indian Students іs real—and no, you dо not need Italian fluency tо qualify. Plus, programs under the “Invest Your Talent іn Italy” initiative connect students directly tо internships and post-study job opportunities. Translation: you get a degree and a foot іn Europe’s job market.
In this guide, we break down everything you need tо know about Study in Italy for Indian Students—top universities, budget hacks, best courses, scholarship strategies, and how tо land a placement that justifies. Let’s uncork, shall we? (Prosecco not included). Study in Italy for Indian students: Get 100% scholarships, low tuition, top EU universities & post-study jobs. Apply early with Admissify’s expert help.
Why Should Indian Students Consider Studying іn Italy?
Italy combines globally recognised education, affordable costs, and rich cultural exposure, making it one of Europe’s most appealing study destinations in 2025, especially for Indian students. Here is why Study in Italy for Indian Students stands out:
- Global Degrees with EU Recognition
Italy follows the Bologna Process, which makes your degree automatically recognizable across Europe and many other countries. Plus, top universities like the Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza, and the University of Bologna (founded in 1088) consistently rank among the best in the QS rankings. This makes Study in Italy for Indian Students ideal for careers in engineering, fashion, architecture, or art.
- Low Tuition and Affordable Living
Public universities in Italy charge tuition based on family income, with the average tuition fees ranging between 900–4000 euros. Cities like Bologna, Turin, Padua offer quality housing and lifestyle–all for under 800 euros per month. Making Study in Italy for Indian Students cheaper than other established destinations like the US, UK or Australia. Without compromising on the quality of education, of course.
- Cultural Immersivity Beyond the Classroom
Study in Italy for Indian Students means experiencing for yourself centuries of history, art, cuisine and design. On a day-to-day basis. You will essentially be living in the heart of Europe, with ease of access to museums and landmarks. Plus weekend getaways to France, Switzerland, or Germany as well, if you might. This is certain to expand your global outlook and make you culturally fluent–an asset in any career.
- Access to the Entire European Job Market
Italy, as mentioned previously, is part of the EU. So post-study opportunities span 27 countries. Many degrees offered include internships, with post-study work visas (like the “Permesso di Soggiorno”) providing graduates with time to find employment in Italy. Or even elsewhere in Europe. This, for all intents and purposes, can certainly be a stepping stone to global careers, especially in design, automotive, hospitality, and green energy.
Curious about how Study in Italy for Indian Students compares to other study-abroad destinations in a more structured sense? In terms of tuition, living expenses and job access? Don’t worry. Here is a breakdown for Indian students planning to study abroad in 2025:
Study in Italy vs Other Countries: Cost, Degree Value & Work Opportunities for Indian Students
| Country | Average Annual Tuition (in INR) | Living Costs per Month (in INR) | Language of Instruction | Degree Recognition | Work After Study |
| Italy | ₹80K – ₹3.5L | ₹55K – ₹80K | English (varied by course) | EU-wide, Bologna Process | EU Blue Card access |
| UK | ₹10L – ₹25L | ₹80K – ₹1.3L | English | Global, Top-tier | 2-year PSW visa |
| Germany | ₹0 – ₹2.5L | ₹60K – ₹90K | English (STEM)/German | EU-wide | 18-month job visa |
| Canada | ₹10L – ₹20L | ₹80K – ₹1.2L | English/French | Global | PGWP up to 3 yrs |
| USA | ₹15L – ₹30L | ₹1L – ₹1.5L | English | Global | OPT + H-1B hurdles |
Top Universities for Study in Italy for Indian Students in 2025
Whether looking for cutting-edge engineering, classic liberal arts or affordable medical education or nursing courses, Italy offers the perfect blend–history, quality, and career prospects. All rolled into one. As such, here is a curated list of the top-ranked universities Indian students can target in 2025, complete with courses, costs, rankings and more.
| University | QS World Rank (2025) | Popular Courses for Indians | Annual Tuition Fees (Approx.) | City |
| Politecnico di Milano | #111 | Engineering, Architecture, Design | €1,890.04 (first installment) | Milan |
| University of Bologna | #133 | Arts, Law, Political Science | €157.04 (minimum fee) | Bologna |
| Sapienza University of Rome | #132 | Medicine, Archaeology, Psychology | €2,821 – €2,924 | Rome |
| University of Padua | #236 | Astronomy, Philosophy, Medicine | €2,626 (postgraduate courses) | Padua |
| University of Milan | #285 | Biotechnology, Law, Business | €2,000 – €2,560 | Milan |
Politecnico di Milano: Is It the Best Italian Tech University for Indian Students?
Standing in as Italy’s highest-ranked university (111 in QS Rankings 2025), Politecnico di Milano is famous for its courses in Engineering, Architecture, and Design. The University also has a thriving international community, coupled with industry-focused programs. All of which points towards its appeal for Study in Italy for Indian Students looking to work in Europe post-graduation. Scholarships and English-taught courses further add to its reputation.
Why Indian Students are Choosing the University of Bologna in 2025?
Founded in 1088, the main reason for Indian students choosing the University of Bologna in 2025 is its low tuition. Not to mention its strong reputation in arts, law, and political science. A symbol of academic excellence, the multi-disciplinary programs at the University of Bologna remain highly sought-after to date.
Sapienza University of Rome: Budget-Friendly and Globally Respected
Sapeinza, located in the heart of Rome, combines history with high-impact research. Its medical and psychology programs rank among the very best in Europe. Plus, with a QS ranking of 132 in 2025, it naturally becomes a great fit for Indian students interested in healthcare and humanities. Low tuition fees of about 1000 euros (on account of being a public university) further add to its status as a budget-friendly option for Study in Italy for Indian Students.
University of Padua: Affordable Tuition plus a Nobel-Winning Faculty
Ranked in the top 250 globally, the University of Padua stands out for its science and research programs. It offers Indian students an academic setting that is, on equal parts, rigorous and inspiring. Along with a Nobel laureate-filledd faculty and a history library, it also boasts one of the highest English-taught ratios in 2025.
University of Milan: Career-Ready Courses
Set in Italy’s economic capital, the University of Milan is perfect for students interested in biotech, business and law. With strong career services and a sizeable Indian student presence, it is also well-connected to industry internships across the EU.
Finding it hard to shortlist the right university? Admissify’s 1:1 university mapping service matches your background with the best options in Italy—and beyond.
Popular Courses to Study in Italy for Indian Students (2025)
Having talked about the top 5 universities, you must have realized one thing: from the universities in Bologna to Milan’s cutting-edge fashion industries, Italy offers just about everything for Indian students—globally respected degrees, budget-friendly tuition fees, and the chance to work and live acrossthe EU. But which courses are the smartest bets in 2025? Here is a snapshot of the most popular choices when it comes to Study in Italy for Indian Students–and why they are worth your attention.
| Course Area | Why It’s Popular Among Indian Students (2025) | Top Universities | Career Opportunities in the EU |
| Engineering | Affordable world-class degrees in Civil, Mechanical & Computer Science | Politecnico di Milano, University of Bologna | High – Germany, Netherlands, Italy |
| Business & Management | Strong placement support & scholarships; ties with EU employers | Bocconi University, LUISS Business School | Very High – Finance, Marketing, Analytics |
| Fashion Design & Architecture | Italy is the fashion + design capital; hands-on creative exposure | Politecnico di Milano, Domus Academy | High – Milan, Paris, London |
| Life Sciences & Medicine | Low-cost MBBS equivalents + pharma & biotech demand in Europe | Sapienza, University of Padua | Moderate to High – Pharma, Clinical Research |
Top Scholarships for Study in Italy for Indian Students in 2025
Studying in Italy is not just about world-class universities and highly sought-after courses and programs—it is also surprisingly affordable. All thanks to a range of fully and partially funded scholarships available for Indian students. Whether aiming for Bachelor’s, or Master’s, or PhD programs, several institutions and government-backed programs offer generous financial support, covering tuition fees, living expenses, housing and even internship opportunities.
| Scholarship Program | Eligibility | Benefits | University / Region | Language Requirement |
| Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) | Indian students in STEM & Economics | Full tuition waiver, €900–€1,000/month stipend, internship opportunities | Multiple Italian universities | English (B2) |
| MAECI Scholarships | International students incl. Indians | Tuition waiver, €900/month stipend, health insurance | Government-funded | English or Italian |
| Unibo Action 1 & 2 | UG/PG applicants | Up to €11,000/year + tuition waiver | University of Bologna | English (B2) |
| Politecnico di Milano Merit Scholarship | Master’s applicants | Full/partial tuition + up to €10,000/year for living | Politecnico di Milano | English (B2) |
| University of Padua Excellence Grant | Top international students | Tuition waiver + up to €8,000/year | University of Padua | English (B2) |
| DSU Regional Scholarships | Based on financial need | Tuition fee reduction, housing grant, €2,000–€5,000/year | Lazio, Lombardy, Tuscany etc. | English or Italian |
Italy offers full MAECI and “Invest Your Talent in Italy” scholarships, but the application process is competitive. Admissify’s scholarship strategists help maximise your chances by crafting tailored SOPs and application timelines.
Student Visa, Work Hours, and Post-Study Stay Options in Italy (2025 Guide)
When it comes to Study in Italy for Indian Students in 2025, understanding your visa rights, work limitations, and post-study stay options is crucial. This section breaks down everything from documentation to working hours and stay-back permits for international student. You can visit the official Italian Embassy visa page for updates. And if you want expert help, connect with Admissify’s certified counsellors today.
| Visa Type | Type D – Long Stay (for courses over 90 days) |
| Eligibility | Minimum coverage of €30,000 for the first 6 months (including repatriation) |
| Financial Proof | €460.28/month to prove adequate financial means |
| Health Insurance | Minimum coverage of €30,000 for first 6 months (including repatriation) |
| Biometric Requirement | Mandatory fingerprinting starting January 10, 2025 |
| Work Rights (During Studies) | Up to 20 hours/week during term time and 40 hours/week during holidays |
| Work Permit Condition | Valid “Permesso di Soggiorno” (Residence Permit) must be held |
| Post-Study Stay Option | 12-month “Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione” to look for a job or start a business |
| Conversion to Work Visa | Apply before the current student visa expires; prepare financial and accommodation documents |
| If employment is found, a stay permit can be converted to a work permit | Apply before current student visa expires; prepare financial and accommodation documents |
With access to the EU Blue Card and placement pathways, Indian students can transition from Italian degrees to European jobs. Admissify’s post-study support team provides resume reviews, job-matching tools, and visa extension guidance.
Read Also:
Intakes in Italy: September and February
Cost of Living in Italy For Indian Students
Top 10 Public Universities in Italy for Indian Students
Fully Funded Scholarships For International Students In Italy
Final Thoughts
Italy offers some оf the most affordable tuition fees іn Europe, with world-class universities like the University оf Bologna and Politecnico dі Milano. Along with scholarships covering up tо 100% оf tuition, Indian students can also enjoy career opportunities within the EU post-graduation. Whether you are applying for undergraduate, postgraduate, оr doctoral programs, Admissify provides expert guidance, helping you navigate the application process, secure scholarships, and find post-study job placements іn Italy.
Frequently Asked Questions: People Also Ask
Is education in Italy free for Indian students?
No. Education in Italy is not entirely free for Indian students, but it is highly affordable. Public universities charge low tuition fees ranging from 0 to 4000 euros per year. Indian students are also eligible for generous government and university scholarships, many of which cover 100% tuition and living costs. Admissify helps Indian students secure these scholarships through early application and expert guidance.
Is it good to Study in Italy for Indian students?
Yes. Italian universities like Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza University and the University of Bologna offer globally ranked programs, English-taught courses, and EU-wide career opportunities. Plus, the low cost of living, cultural richness and student friendly policies make Italy a smart and rewarding choice for Indian students. For more information, book a free session with Admissify today:
Is IELTS required for Study in Italy for Indian students?
No, IELTS іs not always mandatory tо study іn Italy, especially for Indian students. Many Italian universities accept alternatives like medium оf instruction (MOI) certificates оr conduct their own English proficiency assessments. However, having an IELTS score improves visa chances and іs required for select programs. Admissify can help you choose IELTS-optional universities and prepare your documentation accordingly.
Is Italy costly for Indians?
No, Italy іs relatively affordable for Indian students compared tо other Western countries. Monthly living expenses (including accommodation, food, and transport) range from €500 tо €900, especially іn student-friendly cities like Bologna and Pisa. With scholarships, discounts, and part-time work opportunities, studying іn Italy can be very cost-effective.
Bhaskarjyoti Paul is a seasoned content writer with over three years of experience within the ed-tech space. Specialising in study abroad and academic content, Bhaskarjyoti excels at creating SEO-optimized articles that drive traffic and engagement and blog and website content that engages and informs readers. Bhaskarjyoti handles social media content for Admissify, designs compelling narratives and spearheads engagement across multiple platforms. With a desire to help students and a keen eye for detail, Bhaskarjyoti brings a wealth of knowledge to every project.
