University of Milan Scholarships 2026 in Italy | Fully Funded

If you dream of studying in Italy—one of the world’s most culturally rich and academically prestigious destinations—the University of Milan Scholarships 2026 can make that dream a reality. Every year, the University of Milan (La Statale) offers fully funded scholarships for international students, covering tuition, living expenses, accommodation, and additional benefits. These awards include both the Excellence Scholarships (merit-based) and the DSU Scholarships (need-based), creating opportunities for students from all academic and financial backgrounds.

With Milan recognized as the economic and fashion capital of Europe, pursuing a degree here gives students access not only to world-class education but also to countless career opportunities. The University of Milan Excellence Scholarship provides €8,000 per year plus full tuition coverage, while the DSU Regional Scholarship supports students with free housing, meals, tuition waivers, and living stipends. This makes it one of the most attractive study abroad scholarships in Europe.

In this detailed guide, we will break down the benefits, eligibility requirements, required documents, and a step-by-step application process for both the Excellence Scholarships and DSU Scholarships at the University of Milan. Whether you are applying for a Master’s program or pursuing higher education with financial constraints, this resource will help you secure a fully funded scholarship in Italy 2026.

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Benefits of the University of Milan Scholarships 2026

Excellence Scholarship (Merit-Based)

• €8,000 annual allowance (taxable under Italian law).
• Full tuition fee exemption for the entire study period.
• Automatic consideration when applying for a Master’s program (no separate application needed).
• Awarded based on academic excellence and merit only.
• Total number of awards:
  • 60 scholarships with €8,000 + tuition exemption.
  • 100 scholarships with tuition exemption only.

DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) Scholarship (Need-Based)

• Full tuition fee waiver.
• Free or subsidized accommodation in university residence halls.
• Meal services provided at university canteens.
• Monthly living stipend up to approx. €7,000 per academic year.
• Extra financial support for:
  • Students with disabilities.
  • Students with special needs.
  • Students requiring mobility assistance.
• Available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, Single-cycle Master’s, and PhD programs.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure you qualify, check the following requirements:

Excellence Scholarship

• Must be an international student applying to a Master’s program at the University of Milan.
• Submit your program application by May 31, 2025 (for 2026 intake, deadlines are usually similar).
• Scholarships are awarded based on previous academic performance (GPA, ranking, academic achievements).
• Must meet English or Italian proficiency requirements as per the chosen program.

DSU Scholarship

• Open to EU and non-EU students (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD).
• Must demonstrate financial need, with family income within the ISEE threshold (~€23,000 per year) or equivalent proof of low income (for international students).
• First-year students are ranked only by financial status.
• Continuing students must also demonstrate academic progress (minimum CFU/credits passed).
• Must apply via the regional DSU portal within the official call period (usually July–September).

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Required Documents

When preparing your application, make sure you gather the following documents:

For Excellence Scholarship (through admission application):

• Bachelor’s degree certificate (or equivalent qualification).
• Official academic transcripts.
• English proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL or proof of medium of instruction).
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) with academic achievements.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Motivation Letter.
• Letters of Recommendation (if required by program).
• Valid passport.

For DSU Scholarship:

• ISEE certificate (for Italian residents) OR equivalent financial documentation (for international students).
• Income certificate issued by competent authority in your country of residence.
• Family composition certificate.
• Copy of passport or valid ID.
• Proof of enrollment or university admission letter.
• Housing contract (if applying for accommodation support).
• Disability certificate (if applying under special support categories).

How to Apply for University of Milan Scholarships 2026

1. Choose a Program – Select a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD course at the University of Milan.
2. Apply for Admission – Submit your online application by May 31, 2025. Admission automatically enters you for the Excellence Scholarship.
3. Prepare Financial Documents – Collect income, family, and ID documents (translated and legalized if needed).
4. Apply for DSU Scholarship – Submit your application through the DSU portal (July–September).
5. Check Results – Excellence Scholarship results come in July; DSU rankings are out in October/November.
6. Confirm and Enroll – Accept your scholarship and complete enrollment to activate benefits.
7. Plan Finances – DSU payments usually begin in December, so arrange funds for your first semester.