Why Regional Scholarships Make Italy a Top Destination for International Students

What Are Regional Scholarships?

In Italy, public universities offer financial aid to students with low to medium income through regional scholarship programs. These are known as DSU scholarships (Diritto allo Studio Universitario). The benefits can include:

  • Full or partial tuition fee waivers

  • Free or discounted meals

  • Accommodation support for eligible students

  • Grants for study abroad periods

  • Graduation awards for completing your degree on time

These scholarships are funded by regional governments and managed by specific agencies or universities.


Who Can Apply

You can apply if you meet both:

  • Economic requirement: Your family’s income and assets fall below a certain threshold, based on the ISEE or ISEEU Parificato

  • Merit requirement: You must earn a minimum number of university credits (CFU) during your studies

Eligible applicants include:

  • EU and Non-EU students

  • First-year or continuing students

  • Students enrolling in Bachelor’s, Master’s, single-cycle degrees, or PhD programs at public universities

Benefits at a Glance

Category Details
Tuition Fees Waived or significantly reduced
Scholarship Grant Up to €7,000 per year (based on status)
Meals 1–2 free or discounted meals per day
Housing University residence or rental support
Study Abroad Support Additional funding for mobility programs
Graduation Reward Bonus if you graduate on time

Required Documents

To apply, students must submit:

EU Students:

  • ISEE Università (income certificate)

  • Tax code

  • Valid ID/residence permit (if applicable)

Non-EU Students:

  • ISEEU Parificato (based on:

    • Family income (2023)

    • Property ownership

    • Family composition

    • Translations(required) and legalizations if required)

  • Tax code and passport

  • University admission/enrollment confirmation

You can get our help to apply and prepare your scholarship documents so you study free in Italy. Contact us

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