Italy enrols about 32,000 international students annually in universities. Learn why Italy is the perfect study destination, understand visa types, document needs and more.
Italy enrols about 32,000 international students annually in universities. Learn why Italy is the perfect study destination, understand visa types, document needs and more.
Do you know education in Italy is free and mandatory for children aged 6 to 16? Italy is a prime destination for international students. This is due to its renowned educational institutions and historic contributions to academia. It is home to some of the oldest universities in the world, such as the University of Bologna. Italy has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence.
With a welcoming environment for international students, studying in Italy enhances knowledge. Further, it provides valuable cultural competencies in one of Europe’s most dynamic countries.
Italy attracts many international students each year for several key reasons:
Italy offers high-ranking public and private universities with tuition fees ranging from €0 to €5,000 per year. You can find degrees in various fields, such as design, business, science, and engineering, across its 60 ranked universities.
With over 185 Bachelor's, 700 Master's, and 70 PhD programs in English, Italian degrees are recognized across Europe. It facilitates further studies in other European countries.
Italy offers a lively social scene with many restaurants, bars, cafes, and nightclubs. International students enjoy discounts on museum entries and travel. This makes it easy to explore the country.
Italy is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities, such as the University of Bologna, founded in 1088.
Obtaining a Type-C Student Visa is straightforward for courses longer than three months. Living in Italy also provides an immersive environment to learn Italian, enhancing your resume.
Non-EU/EEA students need to apply for one of two types of study visas to study in Italy. The
Short-Stay Visa (Type C): It is intended for those enrolling in language courses or short-term programs lasting less than 90 days. This visa allows for stays of up to 90 days. It is necessary for students from countries that do not have visa exemptions for short stays.
Long-Stay Visa (Type D): This visa is for students pursuing degree programs that last more than 90 days and require at least 20 hours of classes per week (or 80 hours per month). Upon arrival with a Type D visa, students must report to the local Questura (police headquarters) within 8 days to obtain a residence permit. This is to confirm their legal residency status in Italy.
To apply for a study visa for Italy, you'll need:
First of all, you need to identify the Italian consulate or embassy responsible for handling visa applications based on your current residence in India.
Next you must decide whether you need a Short-Stay Visa (Type C) for stays up to 90 days or a Long-Stay Visa (Type D) for stays exceeding 90 days. It depends on your study program duration.
Once you decide on the visa type, the next step is to gather all required documents, including:
Thereafter, schedule an appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) for submitting your application and biometric data.
Next, you need to download and fill out the Italian visa application form. Ensure all information is accurate and matches the supporting documents.
Visit the Visa Application Centre on the scheduled date and time to submit your completed application form, along with the required documents.
In this step, you need to pay the visa application fee, in the local currency, at the Visa Application Centre. Fees may vary depending on the type and duration of the visa.
After that, have your fingerprints and photograph taken at the Visa Application Centre as part of the biometric information collection process.
Next, use the reference number provided to track the status of your visa application online. Updates may also be available via SMS or email.
Once a decision is made on your visa application, collect your passport from the Visa Application Centre. Ensure to bring the necessary receipt and identification.
If your visa requires a report-back notice, follow the specific instructions provided by the consulate or embassy upon your return from Italy.
Plan your travel to Italy based on the visa validity dates and any additional requirements or recommendations provided by the consulate or embassy.
Short Stay: The visa for study purposes is free of charge.
Long Stay: The administrative fee for processing the visa application is €50.00 (INR 4520.65). It is payable in the local currency at the application centre.
The processing time of your application may take between 1–3 weeks. In some cases, it can take longer.
The Italy Student Visa is initially valid for up to one year, with the option to renew it for the duration of your academic program. Renewal depends on passing all your yearly university exams.
Italy offers two study intakes each year for international students, providing flexibility based on individual preferences:
|
Intake |
Study Program |
Admission Deadlines |
|
Autumn |
Undergraduate and Postgraduate |
September to December |
|
Spring |
Undergraduate and Postgraduate |
January to May |
You can bring your spouse or children to Italy on a student visa. But they must first apply for an Italy family visa, which requires you to get an authorization called “Nulla Osta”. This authorization is processed by the immigration office in your local area.
Once approved, you'll receive the Nulla Osta to forward to your family members abroad and the Italian embassy or consulate in your home country. After obtaining the Nulla Osta, your family members can then apply for the Italy family visa.
|
Rank |
QS World University Rankings 2024 |
Institution |
Location |
|
1 |
123 |
Polytechnic University of Milan |
Milan |
|
2 |
134 |
University of Rome - La Sapienza |
Rome |
|
3 |
154 |
University of Bologna |
Bologna |
|
4 |
219 |
University of Padua |
Padua |
|
5 |
252 |
Polytechnic University of Turin |
Turin |
|
6 |
276 |
University of Milan |
Milan |
|
7 |
335 |
University of Naples Federico II |
Naples |
|
8 |
349 |
University of Pisa |
Pisa |
|
9 |
358 |
University of Florence |
Florence |
|
10 |
364 |
University of Turin |
Turin |
Kansas Overseas Careers stands out as India's premier visa consultancy, having served over 20,000 customers with more than 3,000 active cases. Here’s why we are your best choice for securing your study visa to Italy:
The cost of a student visa for Italy is approximately €50 (INR 4,520.65).
The Type C Italian student visa (short-stay visa) is valid for up to 90 days.
With a student visa (Type D), you can stay in Italy for the duration of your study program. It includes undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
The processing time takes between 1 to 3 weeks from the date of application submission.
Upon arrival in Italy, you may need to present additional documents such as your:
Yes, with an Italian student visa (Type D), you can travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism or business purposes.
Language proficiency requirements vary depending on the university and program. Some programs may require proof of language proficiency, such as IELTS or equivalent scores.
Required documents for an Italian student visa include:
Obtaining an Italian student visa requires meeting specific requirements and providing the necessary documentation. With thorough preparation and meeting all criteria, the process can be straightforward
Yes, some universities in Italy offer scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. It's advisable to check directly with the universities for available options.
To get a study visa for Italy, you need to apply at the Italian consulate in your home country. Further, prepare the required documents, complete the application form, pay the fee, and attend any required appointments or interviews.
Kansas Overseas Careers Pvt Ltd is NOT a RECRUITMENT / PLACEMENT AGENCY, we neither assist in any kind of Job / employment offers nor do guarantee any kind of domestic/International placements.
