Your Gateway to Elite Education, Cultural Richness, and a Global Future
Italy blends centuries of academic prestige with modern innovation, making it a standout destination for international students. From world-renowned universities and design schools to fully funded scholarships and affordable living, this guide covers it all—visa process, student housing, part-time jobs, and vibrant campus life. Perfect for students from South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and beyond looking to experience a rich cultural and educational journey.
Studying in Italy as an international student has many challenges—but this guide will assist international students specially from South & South East Asia and Africa.
Top Universities of Italy
| Rank | University | QS World Ranking 2026 | THE World Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Politecnico di Milano | #98 | 201–250 |
| 2 | Sapienza University of Rome | #128 | #185 |
| 3 | University of Bologna | #138 | #146 |
| 4 | University of Padua | #233 | 201–250 |
| 5 | Politecnico di Torino | #242 | 401–500 |
| 6 | University of Milan (Statale) | #276 | 301–350 |
| 7 | University of Pisa | #343 | 351–400 |
| 8 | University of Rome Tor Vergata | #355 | 301–350 |
| 9 | University of Naples Federico II | #379 | 351–400 |
| 10 | University of Florence | #404 | 351–400 |
Preferred list of Universities for international students
| University | QS Ranking 2026 | Tuition Fees (€/year) | Living Cost (€/month) | Placement & Employability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Politecnico di Milano | #98 | €3,500 – €4,000 | €900 – €1,200 | ✅ Excellent (STEM & Design) |
| Sapienza University of Rome | #128 | €1,000 – €2,500 | €800 – €1,100 | ✅ Very Good (Medicine, Engineering) |
| University of Bologna | #138 | €2,000 – €3,000 | €850 – €1,000 | ✅ Excellent (Humanities, Research) |
| University of Padua | #233 | €2,500 – €2,900 | €700 – €950 | ✅ Very Good (STEM & Medical Sciences) |
| Politecnico di Torino | #242 | €2,600 – €2,800 | €700 – €900 | ✅ Excellent (Engineering, Architecture) |
| University of Milan (Statale) | #276 | €2,000 – €2,800 | €900 – €1,200 | ✅ Good (Sciences, Biotech) |
| University of Pisa | #343 | €2,400 – €2,800 | €700 – €900 | ✅ Good (STEM & Research) |
| University of Rome Tor Vergata | #355 | €2,000 – €2,500 | €750 – €1,000 | ✅ Good (Economics, IT, Business) |
| University of Naples Federico II | #379 | €1,000 – €2,500 | €600 – €850 | ✅ Moderate (STEM & Engineering) |
| University of Florence | #404 | €1,800 – €2,600 | €850 – €1,100 | ✅ Good (Arts, Humanities, Medicine) |
✅ Key
- QS Ranking 2026: International reputation based on research, teaching, and global presence.
- Tuition Fees: Approximate annual cost for international students.
- Living Costs: Monthly estimated expenses including housing, food, and transport.
- Placement: Based on employer reputation, alumni network, and job outcomes.
👉 Essential Resources for Studying in Italy
Universitaly Portal – Central hub for applications, pre-enrolment, entry requirements, visa info:
https://www.universitaly.it universitaly.it+1universitaly.it+1
CIMEA (ENIC-NARIC Centre) – Recognizes foreign qualifications, accreditation checker:
https://www.cimea.it eurydice.eacea.ec.europa.eu+13cimea.it+13universitaly.it+13
Italian Government Study Info – Scholarships & residency for foreign/global students:
https://www.esteri.it/studiare-in-italia UniPage+15esteri.it+15universitaly.it+15
Uni‑Italia Centres Abroad – Support services via Italian cultural centres worldwide:
https://www.uni-italia.it Uni-Italia+1eurydice.eacea.ec.europa.eu+1
Study in Italy (StudyLink) – Visa guidance, cost breakdown, living info:
https://studylink.com/countries/italy/ uniRank+12StudyLink+12esteri.it+12
Times Higher Education Guide – Info on programs, especially medical/private universities:
https://www.timeshighereducation.com (search for Italy guide)
👉 Want to explore other destinations
✨ Also explore: Top UK Universities
✨ Also explore: Top US Universities
🎓 1. Italian Government Scholarships for Foreign Students
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) offers scholarships for international students pursuing Master’s degrees, PhDs, and research programs in Italian public universities.
- 📌 Eligibility: Open to students from select countries (Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America).
- 💰 Coverage: Tuition fee waiver, monthly allowance (€900), and health insurance.
- 📅 Application Timeline: Typically opens in April–May every year.
👉 Apply on the official MAECI website
🏛️ 2. Regional Scholarships (DSU, EDISU, LAZIODISCO, etc.)
Each region in Italy offers need-based scholarships through its regional agency. These cover tuition fees, accommodation, meals, and stipends.
- 📍 Examples:
- EDISU Piemonte – for students in universities like Politecnico di Torino and University of Turin
👉 https://www.edisu.piemonte.it - DSU Toscana – covers universities like University of Florence, Pisa, and Siena
👉 https://www.dsu.toscana.it - LAZIODISCO – supports students in Rome (Sapienza, Tor Vergata, Roma Tre)
👉 https://www.laziodisco.it
- EDISU Piemonte – for students in universities like Politecnico di Torino and University of Turin
- 📌 Eligibility: Based on family income (ISEE), merit, and residency status.
- 💰 Benefits: Up to €5,000/year + canteen access and housing discounts.
🏅 3. University-Specific Scholarships for International Students
Many Italian universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for foreign students.
Here are some notable examples:
- 🎓 Politecnico di Milano Merit-Based Scholarships
Full and partial tuition waivers + living cost support.
👉 https://www.polimi.it/en/international-prospective-students/scholarships - 🎓 University of Bologna – Unibo Action 1 & 2
- Action 1: Tuition fee waivers
- Action 2: €11,000 grant
👉 https://www.unibo.it/en/services-and-opportunities/study-grants-and-subsidies
- 🎓 University of Padua Scholarships for International Degree Students
Full tuition fee waiver + €8,000/year
👉 https://www.unipd.it/en/scholarships - 🎓 University of Pavia – CICOPS and MERIT scholarships
Targeting students from developing countries and high performers.
👉 https://web.unipv.it/international-activities/financial-support/
🌍 4. Italy-Specific Erasmus+ Opportunities
If you are enrolled in a partner university in Europe, you can apply for Erasmus+ mobility programs to study in Italy for one or two semesters.
- 💰 Coverage: Monthly grant (€250–€600), travel allowance, and tuition waiver.
- 📌 Eligibility: Enrolled in a European HEI + nomination by home university.
- 👉 More info at Erasmus+
🤝 5. Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries
Several Italian institutions offer targeted scholarships for students from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
- 🌍 Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT)
For Master’s programs in engineering, design, economics.
👉 https://investyourtalentapplication.esteri.it - 🌍 Scuola Normale Superiore PhD Scholarships
Fully-funded doctoral programs including stipend and research costs.
👉 https://www.sns.it/en - 🌍 University of Brescia Scholarships for Low-Income Countries
Covers full tuition + support allowance.
👉 https://en.unibs.it
📌 6. External Funding Options & Resources
- 💸 Bilateral Government Agreements: Some countries offer scholarships to study in Italy via bilateral programs.
- 🌐 DAAD, Fulbright, Chevening: May offer exchange or research grants for short-term programs.
- 🧾 Scholarship Portals:
✅ Pro Tips for Applicants
- ⏳ Apply early: Many deadlines are in April–June for September intake.
- 📄 Prepare documents: Academic transcripts, passport, motivation letter, ISEE certificate (for regional aid).
- 📍 Use your university’s international office: They often help process scholarship applications.
- 🇮🇹 Italian language proficiency is not mandatory for most Master’s scholarships, but helpful.
🏢 1. University-Managed Housing (Student Residences)
Most public universities in Italy offer on-campus or affiliated student housing (residenze universitarie), managed by regional authorities (e.g., EDISU, DSU, LAZIODISCO).
- 🛏️ Options include: shared rooms, single rooms, basic facilities, and subsidized rent.
- 📍 Typically located near or within campus zones.
- 💰 Monthly Cost: €150–€400 depending on city and room type.
📌 Useful Links:
- EDISU Piemonte (Turin): https://www.edisu.piemonte.it
- DSU Toscana (Florence, Pisa, Siena): https://www.dsu.toscana.it
- LAZIODISCO (Rome): https://www.laziodisco.it
- ER-GO (Bologna): https://www.er-go.it
➡️ Apply early during your university admission process.
🏙️ 2. Private Student Housing Providers
Several private operators provide fully furnished and modern student housing options in major Italian cities. These come with amenities such as Wi-Fi, laundry, study rooms, and international student support.
- 💡 Best for students who want comfort, privacy, and a community vibe.
- 🛏️ Single and twin rooms, studio apartments.
- 💰 Monthly Rent: €400–€900 based on location and type.
📌 Popular Providers:
- CAMPLUS: https://www.camplus.it
- CX (CampusX): https://www.cx-place.com
- DoveVivo: https://www.dovevivo.com
- Aparto (Milan, Bologna): https://aparto.com
- Beyoo Student Living: https://www.beyoo.it
🏡 3. Global Housing Platforms for Students
International students can also book verified off-campus housing using trusted global platforms. These offer listings tailored to student needs, along with multilingual support and safe contracts.
📌 Recommended Platforms:
- Uniplaces: https://www.uniplaces.com
- HousingAnywhere: https://housinganywhere.com
- Spotahome: https://www.spotahome.com
- Erasmus Play (compare housing by city): https://www.erasmusplay.com
- Student.com: https://www.student.com/it
💡 Tip: Use filters for “near university,” “utilities included,” and “verified landlord” to find the safest options.
🏘️ 4. Private Rentals & Shared Apartments
Many international students in Italy opt for private flats (monolocale/bilocale) or shared apartments (stanze in affitto) – especially for long-term stays.
- 💰 Rent varies by city:
- Rome & Milan: €500–€900/month (shared)
- Bologna, Florence, Turin: €350–€700/month
- Smaller cities: €250–€500/month
- 🧾 Extra expenses: utilities, Wi-Fi, garbage tax (€50–€100/month)
📌 Start your search on:
- Idealista: https://www.idealista.it
- Immobiliare.it: https://www.immobiliare.it
- Subito.it: https://www.subito.it
- Bakeca.it: https://www.bakeca.it
💡 Tip: Beware of scams. Don’t transfer money before verifying contracts or visiting the property.
🤝 5. South Asian & International Student Housing Support
Many international student communities in Italy – especially from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria – actively share rental leads and assist newcomers.
📌 Where to Find Help:
- Local student unions & WhatsApp groups
- Indian/Asian student associations (e.g., ISA Rome, ISA Milan)
- Facebook groups:
- Indians in Italy – Student Housing
- International Students in Milan/Rome/Bologna
📍 Accommodation Application Timeline & Tips
- 🗓️ Apply Early: Accommodation is limited, especially in cities like Milan, Rome, and Florence.
- 📄 Documents Needed: Admission letter, passport/ID, residence permit (if available).
- ✅ Check reviews: Use Google Maps, Trustpilot, and student forums to vet housing providers.
- 🧾 Keep a signed rental contract: Required for residence permit application and university registration.
🛏️ Average Monthly Rent Estimates (2025)
| City | Shared Room | Private Room | Studio Apartment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milan | €500–€700 | €700–€900 | €900–€1,200 |
| Rome | €450–€650 | €650–€850 | €800–€1,100 |
| Florence | €400–€600 | €600–€750 | €750–€1,000 |
| Bologna | €350–€550 | €550–€700 | €700–€950 |
| Pisa/Padua | €300–€500 | €450–€650 | €600–€850 |
| Naples | €250–€400 | €400–€600 | €550–€750 |
🛒 1. Popular Supermarkets & Grocery Chains in Italy
Italy has a wide range of budget and premium supermarkets offering fresh produce, packaged foods, bakery items, and international goods.
- 🛍️ Top Budget-Friendly Chains:
- Eurospin – Cheapest, great for bulk buys → https://www.eurospin.it
- Lidl – Affordable fresh produce and snacks → https://www.lidl.it
- Penny Market – Great for fruits, dairy, and pantry staples → https://www.pennymarket.it
- 🛍️ Mainstream Supermarkets:
- Coop → https://www.coop.it
- Conad → https://www.conad.it
- Esselunga – Good for quality produce and ready meals → https://www.esselunga.it
- Carrefour Italia – Large hypermarkets in cities → https://www.carrefour.it
💡 Tip: Register for loyalty cards to get discounts and coupons.
🧂 2. Buying Indian, Asian & African Groceries in Italy
For students from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, there are many ethnic grocery stores that stock essentials like rice, spices, lentils, frozen foods, and halal meat.
- 📍 Where to Find Them:
- Rome: Mini Market India, Gandhi Bazaar, Asian Market
- Milan: India Market Milan, Bangla Bazaar, Supermercato Asia
- Bologna: Halal Bazar, Pak Indian Market
- Florence: India Bazaar Firenze, Bangladesh Market
- 🛒 Online Delivery Stores:
- Spicy World Italy → https://www.spicyworld.it
- Desi Indian Market → https://desimarketitaly.com
- Asian Food Store EU → https://www.asianfoodstore.eu
🧄 Popular products available:
- Basmati rice, atta (wheat flour), lentils (masoor, moong), pickles, spices, tea, ghee, frozen parathas, Maggi noodles, South Asian snacks.
🍲 3. University Canteens & Mensa Services
Most public universities in Italy offer affordable student canteens (mensa) with subsidized meals through regional agencies like DSU, EDISU, LAZIODISCO, ER-GO.
- 💰 Meal cost: €3 – €5 for a full meal (starter + main + side + fruit)
- 📍 Access: Requires student ID and registration with regional student service body
📌 Useful Links:
- Bologna (ER-GO): https://www.er-go.it/index.php?id=2080
- Florence, Pisa, Siena (DSU Toscana): https://www.dsu.toscana.it
- Rome (LAZIODISCO): https://www.laziodisco.it
- Turin (EDISU Piemonte): https://www.edisu.piemonte.it
🍕 4. Eating Out in Italy on a Student Budget
Italy is known for its delicious yet affordable cuisine. Students can enjoy quick bites or full meals at local eateries, pizzerias, and takeaways.
- 🥪 Cheap Eats:
- Pizza slices (pizza al taglio): €2 – €3
- Panini/Sandwiches: €3 – €5
- Pasta at tavola calda (hot counters): €4 – €6
- 🍽️ Student-Friendly Restaurant Chains:
- Roadhouse Grill, Old Wild West, Spizzico, Autogrill
- 🥗 Vegetarian & Halal Options available in major cities (search via HappyCow or Zomato).
💡 Pro Tip: Many cafes offer student discounts or lunch menus (menu del giorno) at fixed prices.
🍱 5. Cooking at Home: Costs & Essentials
Most international students in Italy prefer home-cooked meals to save money and eat healthier.
- 🧾 Monthly grocery budget: €120 – €180 (cooking 5–6 days/week)
- 🥘 Basic staples:
- Pasta, rice, bread, vegetables, chicken, cheese, legumes, milk, eggs
- Indian/Asian spices and grains for South Asian cooking
- 🔥 Use shared kitchens in dorms or apartments – bring basic cookware or buy locally at IKEA or Eurospin.
📦 6. Online Grocery Delivery Platforms
Don’t want to visit stores often? These platforms deliver groceries to your doorstep:
- Everli – Groceries from local supermarkets → https://www.everli.com
- Carrefour Online → https://www.carrefour.it
- EasyCoop → https://www.easycoop.com
- Amazon Fresh Italy → https://www.amazon.it
💸 Estimated Monthly Food Costs for Students (2025)
| Type of Expense | Estimated Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Groceries (home cooking) | €120 – €180 |
| Eating out occasionally | €50 – €100 |
| Monthly food total | €150 – €250 |
🎒 1. What Is Student Life Like in Italy?
Italy offers a rich, multicultural student life, blending academic tradition, world-class art and architecture, delicious food, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
- 🌍 International Community: Students from India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Vietnam, and Latin America study in cities like Milan, Rome, Bologna, and Florence.
- 🎭 Cultural Activities: Opera, film festivals, student clubs, language exchanges, city tours.
- 🥳 Social Life: Most campuses have student bars, cafes, ESN chapters (Erasmus Student Network), and buddy programs.
- 💼 Part-Time Work: Students can work up to 20 hours/week with a valid residence permit.
- 🧘 Student Support: Career guidance, psychological counselling, language classes, and housing assistance are offered at most universities.
📌 Resources:
- Erasmus Student Network Italy → https://www.esnitaly.org
- Study in Italy official portal → https://studyinitaly.esteri.it
🛂 2. Student Visa Requirements (Non-EU/EEA Citizens)
International students outside the EU (India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, etc.) must apply for a Type D (Long-Stay) Study Visa.
📝 Documents Required:
- University admission letter (from an Italian public/private institution)
- Visa application form
- Valid passport
- Proof of financial means (min. €6,100/year)
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance (valid in Italy)
- Academic transcripts + translations (if required)
📍 Where to Apply:
- Italian Consulate or VFS Global Centre in your home country.
📅 Recommended Timeline:
- Apply 2–3 months before intake (July for September intake).
🧷 Helpful Links:
- Visa info from Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs → https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it
- Book appointments: https://visa.vfsglobal.com
📝 3. Residence Permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) – After Arrival
After arriving in Italy, you must apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno (residence permit) within 8 working days.
🏛️ How to Apply:
- Visit any post office with a “Sportello Amico” desk.
- Submit the Kit Permesso di Soggiorno with:
- Passport + visa copy
- Enrollment letter
- Proof of finances and accommodation
- Insurance
- Book fingerprinting appointment at Questura (police headquarters).
💳 Permit Validity: 1 year (renewable annually based on academic progression).
💰 Fees: Approx. €100 – €150 (including tax stamps and insurance)
📌 More info:
📚 4. Health Insurance & Medical Services
✅ Mandatory for residence permit and visa.
🩺 Options:
- EU Students: EHIC card valid
- Non-EU Students:
- Private health insurance (min. €120/year)
- OR register with Italian NHS (SSN) → €149.77/year (access to GPs, hospitals, mental health support)
💡 Tip: Most universities assist with health insurance formalities during orientation.
💬 5. Language & Integration Support
While many Master’s and some Bachelor’s programs are taught in English, basic Italian language knowledge is crucial for integration and daily life.
🗣️ Universities offer:
- Free or low-cost Italian language classes
- Conversation clubs & integration events
- Language tandems with local students
📘 Free Resources:
- Duolingo (A1–B1)
- https://italianoperstranieri.loescher.it
📌 Learn Italian fast? Try the Dante Alighieri Society or Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (paid schools).
🛍️ 6. Cost of Living for Students in Italy (2025)
| Expense Type | Monthly Estimate (€) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €250 – €700 |
| Food & groceries | €150 – €250 |
| Local transport | €25 – €40 |
| Phone & internet | €20 – €30 |
| Health insurance | ~€10 – €15 |
| Leisure & misc. | €50 – €100 |
| Total (average) | €500 – €1,000 |
🤝 7. Community Life & Student Associations
Connect with international student groups and cultural associations across Italy:
- 🇮🇳 Indian Students in Italy (ISA) – Active in Rome, Milan, Pisa
- 🇳🇬 Nigerian Students in Italy – Often coordinated via embassies
- 🇧🇩 Bangladeshi Students in Bologna/Florence
- ESN (Erasmus Student Network chapters): https://www.esnitaly.org
💬 Join Facebook/WhatsApp communities for housing, visa help, and meetups.
📌 Pro Tips for International Students
- ✅ Apply for visa and accommodation early (March–May for September intake)
- 🎯 Keep both physical and digital copies of documents at all times
- 🗂️ Learn basic Italian for everyday use
- 👩⚕️ Use your student ID to access discounted services (pharmacies, transport, museums)
- 📞 Emergency number: 112 (Italy-wide)
🚋 1. Public Transport in Italian Cities
Most Italian cities have reliable and well-connected public transport systems, including:
- 🚇 Metro (Subway) – available in Rome, Milan, Naples, Turin, Genoa, Catania
- 🚌 Buses – run by regional operators (ATAC, ATM, GTT, etc.)
- 🚊 Trams – popular in cities like Milan, Rome, Florence
- 🚍 Trolleybuses – eco-friendly services in Bologna and Parma
🕒 Operating hours: 5:30 AM – 12:00 AM
🕐 Night buses available in major cities like Milan and Rome
💳 Ticket Types:
- Single Ride Ticket: €1.50 – €2 (valid for 75–100 minutes)
- Daily/Weekly Passes: €4 – €12
- Monthly Student Passes: €25 – €35 (varies by city)
🧾 2. City-Specific Transport Cards for Students
Most cities offer student travel cards with major discounts. You’ll need to present a valid university ID or residence permit.
📌 Key Regional Transport Portals:
| City | Transport Provider | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Rome | ATAC | https://www.atac.roma.it |
| Milan | ATM | https://www.atm.it |
| Bologna | TPER | https://www.tper.it |
| Florence | Autolinee Toscane | https://www.at-bus.it |
| Turin | GTT | https://www.gtt.to.it |
| Naples | ANM | https://www.anm.it |
| Pisa | CPT | https://www.cpt.pisa.it |
🎫 Student subscription often requires:
- Codice fiscale (tax ID)
- Residence address
- Proof of enrollment (letter or student ID)
🚄 3. Intercity & Regional Trains
Students often travel between cities for weekend trips, exams, or to visit friends.
🚄 Italy’s national train services are:
- Trenitalia (state-owned): https://www.trenitalia.com
- Italo (NTV) (private high-speed): https://www.italotreno.it
🧾 Ticket options:
- Regional trains (Regionale): cheap, slower, no seat reservations
- Frecciarossa / Italo: high-speed trains (Rome–Milan in 3 hours)
💰 Discounts:
- Trenitalia Young Card: 30% discount for 18–30-year-olds
- Italo Students Pass: up to 40% discount with university proof
🚲 4. Biking in Italy
Biking is a student-friendly, sustainable transport option in many Italian cities.
🚲 Most cities have bike-sharing services, often integrated with metro/bus apps.
📌 Popular Providers:
- BikeMi (Milan): https://www.bikemi.com
- Roma Servizi per la Mobilità: https://www.romamobilita.it
- RideMovi (Florence, Bologna): https://www.ridemovi.com
💡 Tip: Some universities partner with local bike-sharing platforms to offer discounted subscriptions for students.
🛴 5. E-Scooters, Ride-Sharing & Car Rentals
Italy’s urban transport is evolving with app-based micromobility options:
🛴 E-Scooters & Electric Bikes (via apps):
- Lime → https://www.li.me
- Dott → https://ridedott.com
- Helbiz → https://www.helbiz.com
🚗 Ride-Sharing Apps:
- Uber – limited to major cities like Rome and Milan
- Free Now – taxi aggregator across Italy
- BlaBlaCar – intercity carpooling for budget-friendly travel
👉 https://www.blablacar.it
🚘 Car Sharing:
- Enjoy (by Eni) → https://enjoy.eni.com
- Car2Go/ShareNow → https://www.share-now.com
💡 6. Tips for Using Public Transport Efficiently
- ✅ Validate your ticket before boarding buses or trains (using machines)
- 🛂 Always carry student ID or residence permit when using discounted travel cards
- 📲 Download city transport apps for real-time schedules (e.g., Moovit, Trenìt, Roma Mobilità)
- 🚨 Avoid fines: traveling without a validated ticket can result in penalties of €50–€200
- 📍 Plan trips using https://www.rome2rio.com
💰 Monthly Transport Budget for Students (2025)
| Transport Type | Estimated Monthly Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| City public transport | €25 – €35 (with student pass) |
| Intercity travel | €10 – €50 (occasional) |
| Bike/E-scooter sharing | €10 – €20 |
| Ride-sharing/taxis | €10 – €30 (limited use) |
🆔 1. How to Access Student Discounts in Italy
As an international student in Italy, you’re eligible for a wide range of discounts. To access them, carry any of the following:
- 🎓 University student ID card (tessera studente)
- 🪪 Carta dello Studente (Italian student card)
- 🌍 International Student Identity Card (ISIC) → https://www.isic.org
- 🟦 ESNcard (via Erasmus Student Network) → https://esncard.org
💡 Tip: Show your card at counters or choose the “student” option when booking online.
🚆 2. Transport Discounts
International students in Italy can access heavily subsidized local and intercity transport.
- 🚋 City Transport Passes:
Save 50%+ on metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses in cities like Rome, Milan, Bologna, and Florence. - 🚄 Train Discounts:
- Trenitalia Young: 30% off for 18–30-year-olds → https://www.trenitalia.com
- Italo Student Offers: 30–40% off on high-speed trains → https://www.italotreno.it
- 🚗 Car Sharing & Ride Apps:
- Enjoy: student promo codes and discounts → https://enjoy.eni.com
- BlaBlaCar: low-cost intercity rides → https://www.blablacar.it
🍽️ 3. Food, Cafeterias & Grocery Discounts
Many supermarkets, student cafeterias, and restaurants offer special pricing for students.
- 🥗 University Mensa (canteens): Meals from €3–€5
👉 Apply via regional agencies like https://www.dsu.toscana.it, https://www.er-go.it - 🛒 Supermarket Loyalty Cards (open to students):
- Coop, Conad, Carrefour, Esselunga – points, discounts, cashback
- Register using Codice Fiscale and student ID
- 🍕 Student-Friendly Restaurants: Many cafes and pizza joints near campuses offer “menu universitario” (student meal deals)
🎟️ 4. Museums, Exhibitions & Cinema
Italy offers rich cultural experiences, and students benefit from major discounts or free entry:
- 🏛️ Museums & Archaeological Sites:
- Reduced or free entry to the Colosseum, Uffizi Gallery, Vatican Museums, Pompeii, and more
- EU students under 26 often enter free
- 🎬 Cinemas:
- Discounted tickets every Monday–Wednesday (up to 50% off)
- Special student nights in theatres like The Space Cinema, UCI Cinemas
- 📌 Official list of discounts:
https://www.beniculturali.it
📚 5. Books, Stationery & Online Courses
Students in Italy are entitled to educational discounts on books, learning apps, and academic tools.
- 📕 Bookshops: 10–15% discount with university ID at:
- Feltrinelli, Mondadori, Libraccio
- 💻 Online Learning Platforms:
- Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning often offer student discounts or free courses
- 🧾 Ask for “sconto studenti” when buying any academic resource.
🖥️ 6. Tech, Software & Subscriptions
Many global tech companies extend their student benefits to users in Italy.
- 🎧 Spotify Premium for Students – €4.99/month → https://www.spotify.com/it/student
- 📺 YouTube Premium Student Plan – 50% off → https://www.youtube.com/premium/student
- 💻 Microsoft Office 365 – Free for students at participating universities → https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/products/office
- 👩💻 Adobe Creative Cloud – Discounted student pricing → https://www.adobe.com/it
🛍️ 7. Fashion, Shopping & Phone Plans
Enjoy Italian fashion without the high cost using student discounts.
- 👗 Fashion Retailers:
- H&M, Bershka, ASOS, Levi’s, and Zara offer 10–20% off via UNiDAYS or ISIC
- 👉 https://www.myunidays.com
- 📱 Student SIM Plans:
- Iliad: 100GB for €9.99/month → https://www.iliad.it
- TIM, Vodafone, WindTre – special student packs with data + calls
💡 Tip: Bring a valid ID and codice fiscale when activating any SIM card.
📌 Pro Tips to Maximize Student Discounts
- 🎓 Always carry your university/student card
- 📲 Register on discount platforms like:
- UNiDAYS → https://www.myunidays.com
- ISIC → https://www.isic.org
- ESNcard → https://esncard.org
- 🧾 Keep digital and physical copies of discount IDs for verification
⏰ When to Start Preparing
- Aug–Oct (1 year ahead): Research courses, shortlist universities
- Nov–Feb: Apply via university websites or Universitaly
- Mar–Jun: Apply for visa, arrange accommodation
- Jul–Sep: Final travel, document prep, and arrival
🗣️ English Language Requirements
Many English-taught programs in Italy require proof of proficiency.
| Test | UG Score | PG Score |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0–6.5 | 6.5–7.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | 80–90 | 90–100 |
| Duolingo | 95–105 | 105–120 |
💡 IELTS waiver possible if previous education was in English (varies by university).
🔗 IELTS Registration | TOEFL
📄 Documents Checklist
- Passport, academic transcripts, degree certificates
- SOP, LORs, English test score
- Portfolio (for design/arts), CV
- For visa: LoA, financial proof (€6,100+/year), insurance, housing proof
📌 Apply via: https://www.universitaly.it
🧪 Entrance Exams
Required for a few programs:
- IMAT – Medicine → https://www.admissiontesting.org
- Portfolio – Arts, Design, Architecture
- Aptitude Tests – Engineering (select universities)
🌐 Learn Basic Italian
- Not mandatory for English-taught courses but essential for daily life & internships
- Free/low-cost Italian classes at most universities
- Online: Loescher A1-A2, Duolingo