The Italian Government Scholarships, officially known as MAECI Grants (from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation – Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale), represent one of Italy’s flagship initiatives to promote international cultural, scientific, and technological exchange. These grants support foreign citizens living abroad, and Italian citizens residing abroad, known as IRE, in pursuing higher education, advanced training, or research in Italy. The program aims to strengthen global partnerships, boost knowledge of Italian language and culture, and enhance Italy’s economic presence worldwide, in line with national laws supporting educational diplomacy.

University of Adelaide Global Academic Excellence Scholarship

For the 2026–2027 academic year, the scholarships continue to offer substantial financial aid, enabling recipients to focus on studies at prestigious Italian universities, academies, and research institutions. Awards are highly competitive, with selections emphasizing academic merit, potential impact on home-country development, and alignment with Italy’s priorities in innovation, sustainability, and cultural cooperation.

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits

MAECI grants provide comprehensive support, typically including:

• A monthly stipend of around €900 paid in installments to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, and daily needs.
• Full exemption or waiver of tuition and enrollment fees at public universities or approved institutions.
• Health and medical/accident insurance coverage for the duration of the grant.
• In some cases, a contribution toward initial travel or settlement costs.
• Duration varies by program: usually 6–9 months for master’s or advanced courses, up to 9 months (renewable) for PhD or research projects.

The grant does not cover family accompaniment, additional travel beyond the initial arrival/departure, or personal extras. Recipients must maintain satisfactory progress and comply with academic rules to continue receiving payments.

Eligible Programs and Levels

The scholarships support a wide range of opportunities at Italian higher education institutions:

• Master’s Degree programs (Laurea Magistrale – 2-year cycle): For students with a completed bachelor’s equivalent.
• PhD programs (Dottorato di Ricerca): Including co-tutela research projects under academic supervision.
• Higher Education in Arts, Music, and Dance (AFAM): Advanced courses at conservatories, academies, and fine arts institutions.
• Research projects under supervision: Short- to medium-term stays for post-graduates.
• Italian Language and Culture advanced courses: Intensive programs for language proficiency and cultural immersion.

Programs are primarily in Italian or English (depending on the institution), with priority often given to fields like engineering, sciences, economics, agriculture, health, and cultural studies.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet specific criteria, which are strictly enforced:

• Be a foreign citizen residing outside Italy or an Italian citizen living abroad (IRE).
• Hold the required prior qualification (bachelor’s for master’s entry, master’s for PhD/research).
• Demonstrate strong academic performance and relevant background.
• Meet age limits:
  • Up to 28 years for master’s, AFAM, or language courses.
  • Up to 30 years for PhD.
  • Up to 40 years for research projects.
• Provide proof of language proficiency: B2 level in Italian (CEFR) for Italian-taught programs, or B2 English for English-taught ones (certificates like IELTS/TOEFL accepted).
• Have secured (or be pursuing) admission/pre-enrollment at an eligible Italian institution.
• Show genuine financial need or alignment with development goals in some priority cases.

Eligible countries vary annually but include many from Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.

Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme 2026–2027

Application Process and Timeline for 2026–2027

Applications are submitted exclusively online through the dedicated Study in Italy portal. The process involves:

1. Register on the portal and complete the online form.
2. Upload required documents: passport/ID copy, academic transcripts/diplomas, language certificate, admission/pre-enrollment proof, motivation letter, CV, and health declaration.
3. Submit by the deadline May 16 at 2:00 PM CET.
4. Local Italian embassies/consulates or MAECI offices may conduct initial screening or interviews.
5. Final selections announced in summer, with studies starting in fall/winter 2026.
6. Official Page
7. Application Page

The portal provides detailed guidelines, eligible country lists, and program information. Early preparation is essential, as spots are limited and competition is intense.