Study In Italy 2021: Tuition Fee, Cost Of Living, Eligibility & Requirements – Italy is a great place for pursuing your study abroad dream, and, surprisingly, it does not imply paying high tuition fees or living costs. You can get high-standards of education in one of the most renowned universities in the world and also see some of the most famous attractions, steeped in history and culture, all at very affordable prices. Here is some detailed information about the costs of living in Italy for international students.
About Italy
A European country along the Mediterranean coastline, surrounded by various islands consisting of a peninsula, Italy is one of the most visited European destinations and in the world in general. It is known for its cuisine, historic treasures, natural landscape, architectural brilliance, and its pleasant Mediterranean weather. It continues to draw visitors to date as it used to be centuries ago. This is the birthplace of Renaissance and home to some of the world’s most coveted artworks by legendary painters, sculptors, etc.
It is here that you will find the canals of Venice, the Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, and of course, its capital city of Rome which is home to Ancient Roman ruins that archaeologists and historians still explore. It shares open land borders with France, Slovakia, Austria, and Slovenia, meaning that from Italy, it is easy to go anywhere in Europe just by hopping onto well-connected and efficient trains.
The cultural significance of Italy dates back to ancient times as is evident to students of history and archaeology. While in Rome, one can feel its significance as the epicenter of an empire that stretched from Britannia, all the way to Syria. The ancient Roman monuments which are preserved and maintained with great care stand testimony of the time when it was in full glory.
The Renaissance that took birth in Italy influenced art, architecture, philosophy, religion, and science across the continent from the 14th to the 17th century. The intellectual activity that blossomed at that time is still carried on in the country. The Basilica of St. Mark in Venice is the most famous structure from the Byzantine period.
The city of Milan, besides being the business and economic hub of the country is also host to one of the biggest fashion events in the world- Milan Fashion Week where veteran designers and design houses showcase their collection every year which inspires the world. Fashion stalwarts like Gucci, Armani, Prada, Versace, Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni, Fendi, Moschino, Max Mara, Trussardi, and Ferragamo are all from Italy. Besides, Italy is known for being big on design and architecture and thus attracts multitudes of students from this field every year.
As for the cuisine of Italy, it is one of the best and most popular in the whole world. From the most authentic pizzas to gelatos, the pasta Bolognese (from bologna) to a wide variety of cheese and wine that dominate the world market, Italian people’s love for food is no secret. Not only are they known to enjoy their food but are extremely hospitable when it comes to hosting and treating others. They are also big on their coffee and desserts and every region in Italy, being diverse and unique in its traditions, have their own distinct recipes all worth trying.
The career scope after study in Italy
Students are welcome to work after studying in Italy for which they will be asked to apply for a work permit. The scope for career opportunities in Italy after finishing your studies is endless. From design houses to big MNCs, Italy is home to some of the biggest names in businesses across the spectrum which dictates world economics.
Foreign student life in Italy
Students in Italy enjoy a very high standard of living and have testified to a happy and contented life in the country. The universities offer great accommodation options for the students and they also have the option of renting privately. If living in Rome, Milan, Bologna, or Florence, you will have easy access to all the modern amenities that you need for your day to day life.
Italy is a highly multicultural country with people from all over the world who have called it their home. It is safe and its cities have a much lower crime rate. People are extremely warm and welcoming and you will face no problem settling in. The weather in Italy is also very pleasant throughout the year.
With European countries like Austria, France, Slovakia a stone throw’s distance, and others easily accessible by the efficient train systems, students can utilize their stay in Italy to explore the neighboring countries. The cuisine of the country is one of its most distinctive features and easy to adapt to because of its global fame. No matter which field you are pursuing, you are bound to enjoy its many historical sites and beautiful beaches for an ideal getaway.
Language requirements to study in Italy
Students from English speaking countries or students who had English as their second subject will be required to prove their proficiency in the language through IELTS or TOEFL since the majority of courses are taught in English. Yet it is advised to acquire at least a little working knowledge of Italian as the locals might not be too conversant in English.
Introduction About the Study in Italy
Students from all over the world take life-changing decisions regarding the pursuit of higher studies be it a Bachelor’s degree or Masters. Now whether they want to pursue it in their home country or look for better opportunities abroad varies from individual to individual. A lot of factors and thought goes into making this crucial decision. Sometimes, choosing to study abroad doesn’t depend only on the university, the course, and the curriculum but also about what the country as a whole has to offer.
If one has to live there for a prolonged period of time, it makes sense to know all that the country has to offer in terms of people, their culture, living conditions, climate, availability of Indian food, etc. Italy is easily the most popular among tourists as it is famous for its culture, history, people, natural beauty, infrastructure, modern amenities, food, fashion, lifestyle, and of course, some of the best universities in the whole world. It is surely one of the most visited countries in the world for its distinct appeal.
Why study in Italy?
Italy is home to some of the most renowned holiday destinations and historical sites, and among the cities, Milan is considered as the global capital of fashion and design and is home to some of the international fashion brands such as Prada. Italy is also the birthplace of pizzas, pasta, and cheese that people can’t get enough of. The ruins of the Ancient Roman Empire can still be seen in Italy as well as the renaissance in Florence which has left indelible marks in the culture and traditions of the whole country. Its capital city Rome is known as the ‘Eternal City’ and is one of the most well-preserved cities in the world.
Italy’s mesmerizing beauty and historic treasures are truly captivating making it a sought after destination by one and all. The Italian Universities strive to keep up with the changing times and demands of the ever-evolving education system. Their efforts towards developing programs especially for international students is evident from the fact that there are currently more than 500 English taught study programs. It is in such an environment that students who opt to study in Italy are welcomed by some of the top universities who are leading the way with examples. While it is no surprise that history, literature, and fashion students find Italy to be one of the most favored study destinations in the world.
Italy has a highly multicultural environment given that students from all over the world make this country their home and seek a career here. It is home to the University of Bologna which marks the origin of the Western higher education system as the oldest university in Europe. It also welcomes the highest number of Erasmus students. There are many public and private institutions in Italy offering a range of programs in technical, business, management, humanities, science, marketing, etc. which cover both major as well as specialized areas of interest.
It is also one of the most affordable countries for students to live and study in although the capital city of Rome, Milan, and Bologna are on the more expensive side. The medium of teaching is mostly in English although there are obviously many Italian courses as well. However, for those who aren’t proficient in the language may want to learn the basics for living and sustaining oneself in the country.
Top places to study in Italy
Once you decide to study abroad in Italy, the next step is to choose the city and the university. Each city of Italy has a distinct cuisine, culture, and dialect and has unique experiences to offer. Since there are many students who opt to study in Italy,it may sometimes be overwhelming to choose which city is the best in terms of environment, student culture, and lifestyle. The following cities in Italy have so far been considered some of the best by the innumerable students who have pursued an academic career there:
Rome
Being the capital city, Rome has the advantage of offering courses in various fields of study and in different levels as well. Be it Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D., in Rome, the public and private universities have courses and curriculum that are at par with the Western and European standards that are coveted by students worldwide.
Particularly favored by students of art, design, architecture, and history, its ancient buildings and the exquisite university campuses feel like a sight right out of the 18th century; Rome is and has always been one of the top choices for students. Commuting is easy and comfortable. Science and technology students may also opt for Rome as they get to learn the contribution of the country in modern science and technology.
Milan
Located in Italy’s Lombardy Region, Milan is another of the best cities to study in Italy which is also the second-largest city in the country. Milan hosts some of the world’s most high-end events like Design Week and the world-renowned Milan Fashion Week which dictates fashion trends throughout the world. It has been the economic hub of Italy since the Industrial Revolution, meaning that students interested to study economics and international business will find this environment of Milan most suitable for their discipline of study.
The city is home to some of the most thriving vineries in all of Italy and its nightlife is worth experiencing. While Rome may bag the majority of credits for its history and culture, Milan is not far behind for it shelters Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous work of art- The Last Supper in Basilica di Santa Marie Delle Grazie.
Florence
If you are interested in history and liberal arts, the city of Florence or Firenze may just be the best choice, for this is the birthplace of the Renaissance. The Arno River on the side and the Italian countryside lining Florence makes it one of the best destinations for students to study in Italy.
It is the best place for those who wish to pursue history and art. It is also great for students seeking short term courses and gives them the opportunity to interact with students from all over the world, for the international student community in Florence is thriving. The culture here revolves around its history, art, and the region’s cuisine.
Bologna
The University in Bologna was founded way back in 1088 and is considered the oldest in Europe, the epicenter of Western higher education. It may not be one of the Italian marquee destinations but its educational and academic offerings are world-class and should make any student consider studying here, as it did even back in The Medieval Ages when students from all over Europe used to attend the University of Bologna. It wins hands down as the best city to study in Italy if you wish to specialize in Italian art, history, and literature. It also offers other subjects like economics, business, politics, and finance programs. The city’s history dates back to the Etruscan period and it has embraced it beautifully, as is visible in every nook and cranny of this city. It is here that the world-famous dish of Pasta Bolognese was invented.
List of Universities in Italy
There are 90 universities in Italy, a majority of which are publicly funded, besides polytechnics and specialized postgraduate centers. After a change in the higher education system, Italy now offers a three-year bachelor’s degree program to students which can be followed by a two-year master’s degree.
As many as 30 out of 90 universities in Italy feature in the QS World ranking, which further testifies to the quality of education offered here. Amongst these, the following are considered to be the best:
- Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics
- Accademia Italiana
- The American University of Rome, The
- Basilicata University Potenza
- Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome
- Catholic University of the Sacred Heart
- Domus Academy
- Dutch University Institute for Art History (DUIA)
- European School of Economics (Rome, Milan, Florence)
- European University Institute
- Free International University of Social Studies
- Free University “Maria Santissima Assunta”
- Free University Institute “Carlo Cattaneo”
- Free University Institute of Bio-Medicine Rome
- Free University of Bozen
- Higher School of University and Advanced Studies Pisa
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
- International Higher School for Advanced Studies Trieste
- John Cabot University
- Johns Hopkins University, SAIS Bologna Center
- Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti
- Polimoda Institute of Fashion Design
- Polytechnic Institute of Bari
- Polytechnic Institute of Milan
- Polytechnic Institute of Turin
- Pontificia Università Gregoriana
- Pontificia Università Lateranense
- Pontificia Università S. Tommaso
- School of Education Pisa
- Second University of Naples
- John’s University, Rome Campus
- Third University of Rome
- Università Bocconi
- Università Pontificia Salesiana
- University Institute of Architecture in Venice
- University Institute of Modern Languages
- University Institute of Naval Studies
- University Institute of Oriental Studies
- University Institute of Teacher Training “Suor Orsola Benincasa”
- University of Ancona
- University of Bari
- University of Bergamo
- University of Brescia
- University of Cagliari
- University of Calabria
- University of Camerino
- University of Cassino
- University of Catania
- University of Chieti
- University of Commerce Luigi Bocconi
- University of Ferrara
- University of Florence
- University of Genoa
- University of Italian Studies for Foreigners of Perugia
- University of Italian Studies for Foreigners of Siena
- University of Lecce
- University of Macerata
- University of Messina
- University of Milan
- University of Milan – Bicocca
- University of Modena
- University of Molise
- University of Naples Federico II
- University of Padua
- University of Palermo
- University of Parma
- University of Pavia
- University of Perugia
- University of Pisa
- University of Reggio Calabria
- University of Roma “La Sapienza”
- University of Roma “Tor Vergata”
- University of Salerno
- University of Sannio
- University of Sassari
- University of Siena
- University of Teramo
- University of Trento
- University of Trieste
- University of Turin
- University of Udine
- University of Urbino
- University of Venice
- University of Verona
- Viterbo State University
- Yorker International University, Milano
Top courses to study in Italy
The best courses to study in Italy, as determined by the preference of international students from all over the world, are as follows:
- Business studies
- Art Studies
- Engineering Studies
- Journalism and Mass Communication
- Social Sciences
- Economic Studies
- Humanities Studies
- Design Studies
- Education
- Management Studies
- Technology Studies
- Natural Sciences
- Performing Arts
Eligibility to study in Italy
The eligibility criteria to study in Italy differ from university to university as there are no national qualifying tests. Students will, however, need to check with the concerned university whether they are eligible to apply. They will also need to prove their proficiency in English in order to have their application considered for admission. The Italian embassy or consulate in your home country will verify the same and on approval, you can further apply for the Italian visa.
Education cost to study in Italy
Italy is considered to be one of the relatively cheaper cities to study in Europe. Given that what it offers transcends far beyond just commendable courses and exciting curriculum along with highly skilled staff who are some of the best in their respective fields, every penny you spend in the tuition fees in Italy will be worth it. Also, both the Universities and their courses are internationally acclaimed and approved.by almost all the major countries in the world. This means that your investment to study in Italy will be duly rewarded with fruitful career options where you can choose what suits your interests the best.
While tuition fees differ in every university all across Italy, expect to pay more in private universities than in public ones. They also vary according to the nationality of the students. If from Europe, students pay similar tuition fees as the Italian students. However, if you are a non-EEA/EU student, expect higher tuition fees as compared to EU/EEA students.
A bachelor’s course for a study in Italy will cost €900 to €4,000 on average, per year at a public institution while fees at a private institution are usually around €6,000 to €20,000 per year.
Students, both European as well as international, can apply for financial aid to support their education. This funding is decided on the basis of the financial condition of the student and their merit. Such funding covers your tuition fees, accommodation, and other living costs. Contact the respective university for information on the kind and extent of financial support they can offer.
Documents required for visa process for admission in Italy
If you are a Non-EU student and don’t belong to one of the EFTA countries of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, you will be required to apply for a visa. After getting your visa approved, you will need to apply for a residence permit which needs to be done within 8 days of your arrival in Italy from the nearest post office.
The university will be able to guide international students for the same. For the visa application, you will need a set of documents and fulfill certain prerequisites to be considered eligible for admission and stay in Italy. The documents you will need for your Italian visa application are as follows:
- Completed visa application form;
- Evidence of having paid the visa application fee (if applicable);
- Passport validity for at least three months after your course ends;
- Two recent passport-sized photographs, one of which you must sign.
Students are also required to fulfill the following set of criteria to be eligible for an Italian visa:
- You will need proof of having suitable accommodation in Italy;
- You must have sufficient funds to cover all costs you might incur while studying in Italy (this includes tuition, accommodation, transport, textbooks, and living costs). This is currently deemed to be €5,824,91 (~US$6,600);
- You must have sufficient funds to be able to travel back to your country of origin at the end of your studies or a proof that shows that you have already purchased a return ticket;
- You need to show proof that you are entitled to medical care in Italy, either through private health insurance or an agreement between your home country and Italy;
- You might also need to show proof of a certificate of payment in full for your degree program.
The admission process to study in Italy
The admission process to study in Italy starts with the student deciding on which city he/she wishes to study in. As mentioned above, Rome, Florence, Milan, and Bologna are some of the best and the most favored options, and that applies for streams across the spectrum. After you have decided on the city, your educational needs and financial status will decide whether you want to enroll in a public or a private university. The best courses to study in Italy are also mentioned above.
After you have selected the university which suits your requirements, it is important to keep an eye out for the dates of the applications. You will need to get in touch with your chosen university to check the requirements for admission for your preferred subject of study. If your eligibility is confirmed, you will then have to submit a pre-application request to the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country and get the required documents to be translated into Italian by a translator. The following are the documents you will need during your pre-application request for study in Italy.
- Completed application form to receive a Letter of Academic Eligibility and Suitability (Dichiarazione di Valoro in Loco/ DV);
- Completed relevant pre-enrolment form;
- Copy of your school leaving qualification if you are an undergraduate applicant, or copy of your undergraduate qualification certificate if you are a postgraduate applicant;
- Transcript of exams, including the name of each passed exam and syllabi of each course, attended;
- Two passport-sized photographs, one of which you must sign;
- Any other documentation that can support your application (translated into Italian);
- You may also need to provide proof of proficiency in Italian by presenting the results of an Italian language exam.
Then, the Italian embassy will verify if your application meets the criteria for study in Italy. Upon selection, you start the visa application process, the details of which are mentioned above.
Qualifying Exams to study in Italy
There are no national qualifying tests held in Italy. However, the case may be different for different universities across Italy which may have their own set of rules that you need to adhere by. In that case, it is advised that the students get in touch with the respective university to find out if there is any entrance test required for admission. Otherwise, for students opting for a course in English, some universities require you to provide IELTS/TOEFL scores to prove your proficiency in the language.
Scholarships to study in Italy
There are a number of scholarships offered to international students to study in Italy to support their tuition fees, living and accommodation costs, although the latter depends on the extent of the funding of the scholarship. International students are entitled to the same funding and scholarships as Italian students.
Some are offered by the universities while some by the government. The eligibility is decided solely on the financial standing of the student and merit. Scholarships to study in Italy are aplenty but these are the top 10 that you can find, irrespective of your field of study:
- EDISU Piemonte Scholarships
- Bologna University Study Grants for International Students
- University of Pavia International Scholarships for Developing Country Students
- Bocconi Merit and International Awards
- Politecnico de Milano Merit-Based Scholarships for International Students
- Politecnico di Torino International Scholarships
- Università Cattolica International Scholarships
- University of Padova Scholarships for All Degree Courses
- Scuola Normale Superiore Ph.D. Scholarships
- Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students
Benefits of studying in Italy
- The inspiring and mesmerizing beauty of the country: If you see the Italian landscape, countryside, experience its cuisine, culture, architecture, history, and art, you will know exactly why so many students from all over the world enroll at Italian universities, both public and private, for their higher education. Students choose to study abroad in Italy not only for a fulfilling and educational curriculum but also to develop a wholesome personality. With endless opportunities, it is impossible to tire of Italy.
- World-class standards of education: Italy is considered one of the best places to study history, arts, humanities, language, and fashion. The country itself is so inspiringly beautiful and full of historic sites and wonders that a substantial part of your education will take place outside the class itself.
This is where Renaissance saw its birth and it is also Italy where the first university of Europe was founded, holding key to the centuries of history and art that is all compressed into the curriculum that you study at your Italian university. Besides, even the newer universities have, over the years, gained substantial recognition worldwide and featured on the top in the QS World Ranking.
It is the education system that is so progressive, comprehensive, and international in its approach that makes them some of the best, no matter which field you’re coming from. Moreover, the fact that most of its major courses and the ones which make study in Italy favorable for international students are conducted in English which allows easy interaction.
- Benefits of a multi-cultural influence: Italy is one of the best places in Europe to meet like-minded students from all over the world who bring their home country’s heritage, culture, language, and individual ideas to the table. As a result, the Italian universities are a melting pot of innovative ideas which not only take the education system and its development forward but also ensure that the learning process doesn’t stop when you step out of the classroom or the university. It is easy to socialize here in Italy and make friends for a lifetime.
- Historic treasures and heritage wonders: The capital city Rome, known as ‘The Eternal City’, still preserves the ruins of Ancient Rome, the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Leonardo da Vinci’s most coveted piece of work. No matter which stream you belong to, you can’t help but be taken in by these grandiose remnants of history. In fact, Italy’s cultural and historic heritage is such that it is the only country to have as many as 55 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all within your reach if you wish to study abroad in Italy.
It would be a shame to have the opportunity to acquire education in Italy and not learn of its glorious past which continues to amaze historians, archaeologists, artists, architects, painters, and sculptors alike Visit the Vatican City, the Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, the canals of Venice, Pompei, and Mt. Vesuvius to have an idea of the magnanimity of this country’s beauty and appeal.
Disadvantages of studying in Italy
- Language: The biggest disadvantage of studying in Italy is the language barrier that might arise with the locals. For daily transactions with the locals, working knowledge of Italian is essential. Italians are extremely proud of their language and this will prove to be an advantage if you know it.
- Cuisine: Although Italy is well known for its pizzas and plates of pasta, there is only so much you can consume. For vegetarians especially the options are few and far between. It could take a while to adapt to the local cuisine.
- Traffic congestion: Touristy cities like Rome and Milan have a high motorbike population which sometimes leads to congestion on the roads. The traffic is higher during peak tourist seasons and weekends when people travel to Italy from all over Europe and the world.
Study in Italy FAQ’s
Q1: What are the requirements to study in Italy?
Ans: To apply for a study abroad program in Italy, you will need to follow a few steps. The primary requirement is the selection of the city and the university you wish to study in. Secondly, you will be required to submit a pre-application request to the Italian embassy in your home country. Finally, your application will be verified and if deemed fit with those of the university and the requirements of the country’s academic standards in general, you will be sent an admission letter. On getting a positive nod, you will then be able to apply for your visa.
Q2: Is it good to study in Italy?
Ans: Italy is ranked amongst one of the top study abroad destinations in Europe because of its thriving education system, student life, and of course, the history, culture, art, and architecture. Besides, it also has some of the finest universities, both public and private, in the entire world. About 30 universities out of the 90 in Italy feature in QS World Rankings. Bologna in Italy is also the epicenter of Western higher education in Europe with the University di Bologna being the oldest university in Europe. Besides, students can also work after finishing their studies in Italy program on acquiring a work permit and visa.
Q3: Can I work and study in Italy?
Ans: There is a restriction on the number of hours that students can work in Italy while on vacation which needs to be verified both with the concerned university and the workplace you wish to work in. In general, Italian law permits a student to work 4 hours a day and a maximum of 20 hours a week. You will need to start out as an intern, irrespective of your experience. Expect to be paid around 600-1000 Euros. However, paid internships in Italy are rare.
Q4: What is the cost of living in Italy for students?
Ans: The cost of living in Italy for international students depends on their lifestyle, the nature of their accommodation, and also of course on the city they are living in. On average, you can expect to spend about 350-600 Euros depending on your expenses and lifestyle.
Q5 : How much does it cost to study abroad in Italy?
Ans: In Italy, you can expect to spend about €900-€4000 a year for public universities and about €6,000 to €20,000 a year for private universities. The fees vary from university to university and across programs, and hence, it is suggested that you check the same direction with the concerned university.
Q6: What are the best programs to study abroad in Italy?
Ans: Italy is popular for the following courses:
- Fashion
- Law
- Medicine
- Art and Design
- Animal Care
- Computer Science
- Political Marketing
- Management
- Humanities
Q7: Can international students get scholarships for higher studies in Italy?
Ans: Yes, international students can get scholarships for pursuing higher studies in Italy. The Italian Government gives the chance of a scholarship to both – the Italian citizens and international students.
Q8: How to study in Italy without IELTS?
Ans: A lot of European countries like Italy allow you to study without giving the IELTS or TOEFL provided you fulfill the criteria stated below:
- If your previous education has been in the English language and you can prove that you have good communication skills.
- If you have been educated in the English language during the past five years of recent study and English was the first language at the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) or O level (Ordinary Level).
- If you have a degree that has been entirely taught in English.
Q9: Why do you want to study abroad in Italy?
Ans: Italy is home to some of the most exotic locales, breathtaking countrysides, natural and diverse landscapes, and a true haven for the avid traveler. Apart from being known for its food, art, and fashion, Italy boasts of some of the oldest universities that offer a wide range of courses ranging from degree programs to certificate courses and even distance programs that can be studied online. It offers top-rated programs by excellent and skilled faculty and provides world-class facilities and infrastructure that make Italy one of the most preferred destinations to study abroad. All this put together to enable students to find tremendous professional success in their lives.
Q10: How to study a Ph.D. in Italy?
Ans: In general you will be required to submit an online application form and pass an oral exam although this may vary slightly depending on the university and subject.
To do a Ph.D. in Italy you need to have a second-cycle qualification (Laurea Magistrale) or equivalent in a relative field. If a student has obtained a degree outside of Italy then he/she has to ask the university for an assessment of their eligibility. Once done you have to obtain the official document recognizing the qualification. Students who aren’t residents of Italy need to submit their application and necessary documents to the Italian diplomatic representative in their country of residence.
Regarding language requirements, you may need to prove your proficiency in the English language with a suitable certificate of TOEFL or TOEIC or IELTS or C1 Advanced. You may also need to prove your proficiency in the Italian language with certificates from CILS or CELI.
The application process is usually online and is required to be accompanied by the following:
- Academic documentation – Including certificates, CV, academic transcripts, etc.
- Academic references – letters of reference from academicians you have worked with.
- Statement of Purpose/letter of motivation – why you think you are suitable for this program.
- Research proposal – You may be required to submit a research proposal depending on the subject.
- Portfolios – of any published articles (if available).
Q11: What are the types of doctoral programs offered in Italy?
Ans: There are two types of Ph.D. programs offered in Italy; the Dottorato(Ph.D.), awarded by universities, and the Diploma accademico di formazione alla ricera (research academic diploma) that can be obtained at one of the High-level Arts and Music Education Institutions(Afams).
Some universities also offer collaborative doctorates such as International doctorate with universities abroad and Industrial doctorate with industries. The usual length of the course is 3-4 years depending on the institution and the course.
The study includes mostly original research work along with taught courses. You may also be required to tutor for as many as 40 hours per year as part of your module. At the end of the course, you are expected to have written a doctoral thesis depending on your department’s requirements.
Q12: What is the fee structure for Ph.D. in Italy?
Ans: The fees for application in state universities may be around €30-50 whereas the tuition fee can range from €800-1,000 per year. Annual enrolment in some institutions may be around €150.
It is important to note that private universities may be more expensive than public ones.
Q13: What is the way to change University in Italy and does it affect the scholarship?
Ans: One can change universities as long as they are public universities. The scholarship could be sought for the remaining period of study.
Q14: What is the budget required to study in Italy?
Ans: The cost of studying and living in Italy is lower as compared to Europe or North America.
The cost of tuition will vary depending on the institution and the course. Needless to say, private universities are more expensive than public universities.
On average a bachelor’s course will cost you €900 to €4000 per year at a public university. For private universities, the fees range from €6,000 to €20,000 per year.
Of course, there are scholarship options to fund your education. This scholarship is merit-based and the decision lies solely with the administration and management of the university. Scholarship can include tuition fees, accommodation costs as well as other living costs.
In terms of accommodation costs, private renting is far more expensive so plan your budget wisely.
Prices vary from city to city or even with regions. Generally one could look forward to spending between 350 – 600 euros depending on your location and average expenses.
- Rent for Accommodation: Shared: € 150 – 300 and Non-Shared: € 200 – 500
- Additional Expenses : Utilities: €50 (gas, electricity, water, trash) | Internet: €30 (divided by the number of room-mates)
- Supermarket: For an average person cooking at home would be approximately 50 Euros/week.
- Buses: 1 ticket costs 1.20 Euro and lasts for 1 hour from the time it is validated. You can purchase a 25 day pass for 22 Euros.
- Taxis: On an average about 10-30 Euros-depending on frequency.
- Trains: On an average about 80-100 Euros/month-depending on your travel.
- Pizza and a drink: 8-20 Euros approximately.
- Dinner in a restaurant: 15- 35 Euros approximately.
- Public Laundry: Washing 3.50 Euros | Drying 3.50 Euros.
- Internet point: 10 minutes costs 1 Euro | 30 minutes costs 2.50 Euros | 1-hour costs 3 Euros | 24 hours costs 20 Euros | Weekly subscription 20 Euros | Monthly subscription costs 75-80 Euros.
Q15: What subjects are available for study in Italy?
Ans: The list of various subjects available for study in Italy are as follows:
Accounting, Agribusiness, Agriculture, Architecture, Biology, Business Management, Chemistry, Computer Science, Data Science, Economics, Environmental Science, Fashion Design, Finance, Fine Art, Food Science, Geography, Graphic Design, Hospitality Management, Insurance, Interior Design, International Business, Investment, Journalism, Law, Leadership, MBA, Marketing, Mathematics, Medicine, Philosophy, Photography, Physics, Political Science, Product Design, Psychology, Public Health, and Sociology.