MAECI Scholarship 2025-2026: Your Guide to Italian Government Grants

MAECI Scholarship 2025-2026: Your Guide to Italian Government Grants

Dreaming of studying in Italy? The MAECI Scholarship, offered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, presents a golden opportunity for the 2025-2026 academic year. This guide details everything you need to know about these prestigious Italian Government grants for international students and Italians residing abroad (IRE).

What is the MAECI Scholarship?

The MAECI Scholarship (Borse di studio MAECI) is an initiative by the Italian Government aimed at fostering international cooperation in cultural, scientific, and technological fields. It supports foreign citizens and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE) to undertake study, training, or research programs at Italian Higher Education Institutes. These grants are a cornerstone of Italy’s commitment to international education. You can find overarching information on the MAECI grants page.

MAECI Scholarship Benefits: What’s Covered?

• Monthly Allowance: Grantees typically receive a monthly stipend of approximately €900. This amount is usually paid on a quarterly basis directly to the student’s Italian bank account. (Source: University of Pisa, MAECI Scholarship details).
• Tuition Fees: In many cases, MAECI scholarship holders may be exempted from the payment of university tuition fees, depending on the policy of each university and the specific call for applications. It’s crucial to verify this with the chosen institution and the official scholarship announcement.
• Health and Medical Insurance: Awardees are covered by a health and medical/accident insurance policy contracted by MAECI for the entire duration of the grant.

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Eligible Study Programs for the MAECI Scholarship

The MAECI Scholarship supports a variety of programs, generally including:

• Master’s Degree (Laurea Magistrale – 2° ciclo): For students wishing to pursue postgraduate studies.
• Courses of Higher Education in Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM): For study at specialized AFAM institutes.
• PhD Programs: For candidates undertaking doctoral research.
• Research Projects under academic supervision (Progetti in co-tutela): For researchers conducting projects in collaboration with Italian universities.
• Advanced Italian Language and Culture Courses: Typically short-term courses (e.g., 3 months) to deepen knowledge of Italian language and culture.

Eligibility Criteria for MAECI Scholarship Applicants

While specific criteria are detailed in the annual Call for Applications, general requirements often include:

• Academic Qualifications: A relevant previous degree is required (e.g., a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent for a Master’s program; a Master’s degree or equivalent for a PhD).
• Age Limits: Specific age limits usually apply. For example, for Master’s Degree/AFAM/Italian Language courses, applicants generally should not be over 28 years old by the deadline. For PhD programs, the limit might be 30 years, and for research projects, 40 years. These are indicative and subject to change; always consult the official Call for Applications.
• Language Proficiency:
  • For courses taught in Italian: Proof of proficiency in Italian, generally at a B2 level within the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), is required.
  • For courses taught in English: Proof of proficiency in English (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) may be required if English is not your first language. Some universities might also offer an English language test.
• Nationality: The grants are for foreign citizens and Italian citizens residing abroad (IRE). Applicants from certain countries might be prioritized based on bilateral agreements.

How to Apply for the MAECI Scholarship 2025-2026 (Step-by-Step)

• Find the Official Call for Applications: This is typically published annually (around spring) on the Study in Italy portal (the primary platform) and often announced on the MAECI website.
• Register on the “Study in Italy” Portal: Create your personal account if you don’t have one.
• Select Your Course and University: In most cases, you must have already applied for or secured admission to your chosen course at an Italian university/institute *before* applying for the MAECI scholarship, or the processes might be linked. Check the call for specifics.
• Complete the Online Scholarship Application: Log in to the “Study in Italy” portal and fill out the MAECI scholarship application form accurately and completely.
• Prepare and Upload Required Documents: Common documents include a valid passport, a detailed CV (consider the Europass CV format), academic transcripts, degree certificates (with official translations if not in Italian or English), language proficiency certificates (Italian or English as required), a letter of acceptance from the Italian host institution (if required by the call), a research project proposal (for PhD/Research candidates), and motivation letter.
• Submit Before the Deadline: Application deadlines are strictly enforced, usually around May or June for the academic year starting in September/October.

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Comparison: MAECI Scholarship vs. University-Specific Scholarships in Italy

• MAECI Scholarship: Government-funded, centrally managed through the Study in Italy portal, aims for broad international cooperation, often has specific national quotas.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Offered directly by individual Italian universities, funding sources vary (public/private), eligibility and benefits can differ greatly, application is usually directly to the university often alongside program application.

FAQ: MAECI Italian Government Scholarship

Q1: When is the MAECI Scholarship application deadline for 2025-2026?
A1: The deadline is announced annually in the official Call for Applications, typically in the spring (e.g., May/June 2025) for the academic year commencing in late 2025. Monitor the Study in Italy portal.

Q2: Can I apply for the MAECI Scholarship if I am already enrolled in an Italian university?
A2: Generally, the scholarships are for new enrollments or specific years of a program. However, conditions for renewal or application by currently enrolled students can vary; always check the specific call.

Q3: Is knowledge of Italian mandatory for the MAECI Scholarship?
A3: Not necessarily if your chosen degree program is taught entirely in English. However, you’ll need to prove English proficiency. For courses in Italian, a B2 level certificate in Italian is usually required. Basic Italian is always beneficial for daily life.

Q4: How competitive is the MAECI Scholarship?
A4: It is highly competitive, attracting a large number of applicants from around the world.

Q5: Does the MAECI Scholarship cover travel expenses to and from Italy?
A5: Typically, international travel expenses are not covered by the grant. The scholarship usually covers the allowance, insurance, and potentially tuition. Verify this in the official call.

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Conclusion

The MAECI Scholarship is a fantastic gateway to academic excellence and cultural immersion in Italy for 2025-2026. With thorough preparation, careful attention to the official Call for Applications, and a timely submission through the Study in Italy portal, you can significantly enhance your chances. Start your research early and take a step towards an enriching educational journey in Italy!