MAECI Italian Government Scholarship 2026 – Complete Guide (Updated)
Are you a passionate student. Who wants to study abroad. This is the best…
Are you a passionate student. Who wants to study abroad. This is the best opportunity to get foreign Government scholarship in a country like Italy. This is the best chance for you. Here’s a detailed information written below.
Deadline: March 26, 2026 (2:00 PM Italian Time)
What is MAECI Scholarship?
The MAECI (Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale) scholarship is a fully-funded Italian government scholarship for international students. It is designed to promote cultural exchange and provide opportunities for studying in Italy.
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Types of Scholarships
MAECI scholarship is available for:
| Program Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Master’s Degree (Laurea Magistrale) | 2 years |
| PhD Programs | 3–4 years |
| AFAM (Arts, Music & Dance) | Varies |
| Research Projects | 3–9 months |
| Italian Language & Culture Courses | 3–9 months |
Financial Benefits
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Stipend | Euro(€) 900 (approx) |
| Total Amount | €2,700 – €8,100 (depending on duration) |
| Payment Schedule | 3 installments |
| Tuition Fees | Usually waived (university dependent) |
| Health Insurance | Medical + accident coverage |
| Regional Tax | Euro140 (student pays) |
| Duty Stamp | Euro 16 (student pays) |
Eligibility Criteria
Age Limits
| Program | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| Master’s Degree | 28 years |
| PhD | 30 years |
| Research Projects | 40 years |
Age is calculated on the application deadline date.
Academic Requirements
| Program | Required Education |
|---|---|
| Master’s | 16 years (Bachelor’s degree) |
| PhD | 18 years (Master’s degree) |
| Research | Relevant academic background |
Tip: Strong academic record (CGPA) significantly increases your chances.
Language Requirements
| Program Language | Requirement |
|---|---|
| English-taught programs | IELTS/TOEFL (B2 level) |
| Italian-taught programs | Italian B2 (CILS/CELI) |
Some universities may conduct their own language tests.
Required Documents
Prepare these documents before starting your application:
- Passport copy (valid)
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s/Master’s)
- Degree certificates
- CV – Europass format preferred
- Motivation letter
- 1–2 recommendation letters
- Language certificate (IELTS/TOEFL/CILS/CELI)
- University admission letter (recommended)
How to Apply – Step by Step
Step 1: Register on Official Portal
Go to the official portal and create your account.
Step 2: Complete Application Form
Fill in all personal, academic, and program details.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload all required documents in the specified format.
Step 4: Submit Before Deadline
Submit your application before March 26, 2026 (2:00 PM Italian Time) .
Important: University Admission First
Critical Point – Don’t Miss This!
The MAECI scholarship does NOT provide direct admission to universities.
Correct Process:
- First: Apply to an Italian university and secure admission
- Second: Apply for the MAECI scholarship through the portal
- Third: If selected, the scholarship covers your tuition + stipend
Without university admission, your scholarship application may be rejected.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
| Criteria | Weight |
|---|---|
| Academic Merit (CGPA) | High |
| Motivation Letter | High |
| Research Proposal (PhD) | Very High |
| Language Skills | Medium |
| Interview (if required) | Medium |
Official Links
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| Login / Register | https://studyinitaly.esteri.it/Auth/Login |
| Main Portal | https://studyinitaly.esteri.it |
| MAECI Official Announcements | https://www.esteri.it/en/opportunita/borse-di-studio/ |
| FAQs / Help | https://studyinitaly.esteri.it/Static/FAQ |
Common Issues & Solutions
Issue 1: Register button not showing
Solution: Try incognito mode, different browser, or wait a few hours. The portal may be under maintenance.
Issue 2: OTP/Email not arriving
Solution: Check spam folder. Gmail may delay. Wait 15–20 minutes and try again.
Issue 3: Portal slow or crashing
Solution: Avoid applying on the last day. Submit at least 3–4 days before the deadline.
Issue 4: Application portal shows “No Call Available”
Solution: The call may not be open yet. Keep checking regularly.
Deadline Reminder
| Event | Date & Time |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | March 26, 2026 |
| Italian Time | 2:00 PM |
| Pakistan Time | 5:00 PM |
Pro Tips for Success
- Start early – University admission takes time
- Strong motivation letter – Make it personal and specific
- CGPA matters – Keep your grades competitive
- Apply to multiple Italian universities – Increase your chances
- Check university websites – Each has its own admission requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply without IELTS/TOEFL?
Some Italian universities accept English proficiency certificates from your previous institution. Check with your target university.
Q2: Is there an application fee?
No, MAECI scholarship application is free.
Q3: Can I apply for multiple programs?
Yes, but you must choose one program in the final application.
Q4: When will results be announced?
Results are usually announced 4–6 months after the deadline.
Q5: Can I work while on scholarship?
Non-EU students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year.
