Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI) 2026

The Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI) is a study support programme offered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. It is designed for foreign students and Italian citizens living abroad (IRE) who wish to pursue eligible academic courses in Italy.

The programme is intended to strengthen international cooperation in cultural, scientific, and technological fields, promote Italian language and culture, and support Italy’s international engagement. Awards are for study activities carried out on Italian territory only. Depending on the annual call, the scholarship may support different types of higher education study, so applicants should review the current call carefully.

Funding is provided by the Italian Government, but the exact benefits can vary by year and by eligible study type. Applicants should consult the official call for the most accurate information on what expenses are covered, the duration of support, eligible countries or territories, and any limits linked to the course or institution.

Applications are generally submitted exclusively through the Study in Italy portal. Students are usually required to check the annual call notice, confirm that their nationality or territory is eligible, and prepare the documents requested for their chosen course and scholarship category. Because eligibility, language expectations, and academic requirements may differ by programme, candidates should read the current guidelines carefully before applying.

This scholarship is a strong option for students seeking government-backed support to study in Italy and engage with the country’s academic and cultural environment.