Introduction
Italy is one of the best places in Europe to study with scholarships and no IELTS. This is a big plus for international students, especially those from Africa and other places where taking the IELTS can be hard or expensive.
Several Italian universities and scholarship programmes let students use other proof of English proficiency, like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate, instead of the IELTS. This is not the case in many other countries.
This in-depth guide will show you the best scholarships in Italy that don’t require the IELTS test, how they work, who can apply, and a step-by-step plan for getting one.
Can you go to school in Italy without taking IELTS?
Yes, it is completely possible.
A lot of Italian universities accept:
- Certificate of Medium of Instruction (MOI).
- Previous study of English
- Language tests for students at university
- Other documents that prove your English
You might only need to show that your last degree was taught in English instead of taking the IELTS.
You still need to be able to speak and write basic English, though, especially during visa interviews, even if you don’t need IELTS.
Best Scholarships in Italy That Don’t Require IELTS
1. Scholarships from the Italian government (MAECI)
This is the most well-known scholarship for international students in Italy.
The Italian government pays for it, and it is available for master’s and doctoral degrees.
What It Covers
- Monthly payment of about €900
- Help with tuition (at many colleges).
- Insurance for your health
- Getting into the best colleges
IELTS Requirement
- You don’t always have to take the IELTS.
- Proof of MOI or something similar is accepted
Important Note
You must use the official Italian scholarship portal to send in your application.
This scholarship is very competitive, but it gives a lot of money to help.
2. Fully funded DSU Regional Scholarships
This is one of the best scholarships in Italy that pays for everything.
Regional authorities offer it, and both EU and non-EU students can use it.
What It Covers
- Free place to stay
- Meals for free
- Free tuition
- Financial help (up to €6,000–€8,000 a year)
IELTS Requirement
- Not needed
Important Requirement
- Based on how much money the family makes
If you meet the income requirements, this is one of the easiest scholarships to get.
3. The Invest Your Talent in Italy Scholarship
This scholarship is for international students who want to study in certain areas.
Areas Covered:
- Building
- Tech
- Money matters
- Leadership
Pros
- Paying for tuition
- Monthly payment
- Internships are available.
IELTS Requirement
- Often not required if you can show that you speak English well.
This scholarship also gives students a chance to learn about the industry, which is great for students who want to work in that field.
4. The Bologna University Scholarship
This scholarship is offered by one of Europe’s oldest and most well-known universities.
Pros
- Grants of up to €11,000
- Free tuition
IELTS Requirement
- Not always necessary
- Accepted MOI
This scholarship is based on merit and is very competitive.
5. Erasmus Mundus Scholarship for Programmes in Italy
Many Erasmus Mundus courses are available in Italy, even though the programme is run by the European Union.
Coverage
- All tuition costs
- Monthly payment
- Money for travel?
- Insurance
IELTS Requirement
- Some programmes may not require it.
This is one of the best options in Europe that is fully funded.
6. Scholarship from the University of Padua
This college has a number of scholarships for students from other countries.
Pros
- Free tuition
- Grants of money
IELTS Requirement
- Not always required
7. Scholarships in specific areas (ERSU, EDISU, ALISEO)
These are scholarships that are only available in certain parts of Italy.
For example,
- ERSU in Sicily
- EDISU in Piedmont
- ALISEO (in Liguria)
Pros
- Free place to stay
- Help with food
- Money allowance
- Paying for school
IELTS Requirement
- Not needed
These scholarships are some of the easiest fully funded options in Italy.
Different Types of Scholarships
Knowing the different kinds of scholarships can help you make a good choice.
Scholarships with Full Funding
These include:
- Fees for school?
- Housing
- Cost of living
- Go on a trip
For example,
- DSU
- Mundus Erasmus
- A few government programmes
Scholarships that are only partially funded
These two give:
- Lower tuition
- Grants that don’t change
For example,
- Bologna University
- Padua University
Scholarships Based on Need
These depend on how much money you have.
For example,
- DSU
- Scholarships for specific areas
Requirements for Eligibility
Most scholarships have similar rules, but the requirements are different for each one.
General Requirements
- You have to be an international student.
- You must apply to an Italian university.
- Must meet academic standards
Requirements for School
- A strong academic background
- Degree that is relevant
Language Requirement (No IELTS Needed)
You can send:
- Certificate of MOI
- Letter of English proficiency
- Previous study of English
Documents Needed
- Transcripts from school
- Certificates of degree
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Letters of recommendation
- Copy of your passport
How to Apply Step by Step
Step 1: Pick a college
Choose colleges that don’t require the IELTS test.
Some popular choices are:
- Bologna University
- Padua University
- Genoa University
- Siena University
Step 2: Get the MOI Certificate
Ask your old school for a Medium of Instruction letter that says your classes were in English.
Step 3: Fill out an application for admission
Send in your application to the university of your choice.
Step 4: Apply for financial aid
Some scholarships are given automatically, while others need a separate application.
Step 5: Get ready for your visa
You must do the following even if you don’t have IELTS:
- Show that you can speak English well
- Show proof of your finances
- Send in the necessary papers
How much it costs to study in Italy
Compared to other European countries, Italy is not too expensive.
Fees for School
- €1,000 to €3,000 a year
Costs of Living
- €600 to €900 a month
Scholarships can cut these costs down a lot or even get rid of them completely.
Can you study and work at the same time?
Yes, students from other countries can work part-time.
- As many as 20 hours a week
- Helps pay for living costs
- Gives you work experience
Things You Shouldn’t Do
- If IELTS isn’t important at all (you still need proof of English),
- Sending in weak MOI letters
- Not meeting deadlines
- Applying without checking if you meet the requirements
- Bad preparation of documents
How to Win Scholarships Without Taking the IELTS
To give yourself the best chance, do this:
Use Smart
- Apply for the DSU and Italian Government Scholarship
- Include one or two college scholarships
Use MOI the Right Way
Make sure your MOI says clearly:
- The language of your course was English.
- Length of study
Pick universities that are flexible
Target universities that are known to accept MOI instead of IELTS.
Apply soon
Early applications have a better chance of getting accepted.
Last Thoughts
Italy is one of the few places in Europe where you can study with scholarships and not have to take the IELTS test. This makes it a very appealing place for international students.
You can study for free or very little money with scholarships from the Italian government, DSU, and Erasmus Mundus.
The most important things are to get ready, use the right strategy, and send in a strong application.
If you really want to study in Italy without taking the IELTS, it’s not only possible, it’s very likely.