MAECI Italian Government Scholarship 2026 – Complete Guide (Updated)

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.

Government Scholarship

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 TypeDuration
Master’s Degree (Laurea Magistrale)2 years
PhD Programs3–4 years
AFAM (Arts, Music & Dance)Varies
Research Projects3–9 months
Italian Language & Culture Courses3–9 months

Financial Benefits

BenefitDetails
Monthly StipendEuro(€) 900 (approx)
Total Amount€2,700 – €8,100 (depending on duration)
Payment Schedule3 installments
Tuition FeesUsually waived (university dependent)
Health InsuranceMedical + accident coverage
Regional TaxEuro140 (student pays)
Duty StampEuro 16 (student pays)

Eligibility Criteria

Age Limits

ProgramMaximum Age
Master’s Degree28 years
PhD30 years
Research Projects40 years

Age is calculated on the application deadline date.

Academic Requirements

ProgramRequired Education
Master’s16 years (Bachelor’s degree)
PhD18 years (Master’s degree)
ResearchRelevant academic background

Tip: Strong academic record (CGPA) significantly increases your chances.


Language Requirements

Program LanguageRequirement
English-taught programsIELTS/TOEFL (B2 level)
Italian-taught programsItalian 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:

  1. First: Apply to an Italian university and secure admission
  2. Second: Apply for the MAECI scholarship through the portal
  3. 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:

CriteriaWeight
Academic Merit (CGPA)High
Motivation LetterHigh
Research Proposal (PhD)Very High
Language SkillsMedium
Interview (if required)Medium

Official Links

PurposeLink
Login / Registerhttps://studyinitaly.esteri.it/Auth/Login
Main Portalhttps://studyinitaly.esteri.it
MAECI Official Announcementshttps://www.esteri.it/en/opportunita/borse-di-studio/
FAQs / Helphttps://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

EventDate & Time
Application DeadlineMarch 26, 2026
Italian Time2:00 PM
Pakistan Time5:00 PM

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Start early – University admission takes time
  2. Strong motivation letter – Make it personal and specific
  3. CGPA matters – Keep your grades competitive
  4. Apply to multiple Italian universities – Increase your chances
  5. 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.