MAECI Scholarship 2026 Pakistan: Fully Funded Study in Italy

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani students aiming to pursue higher education in Europe have a valuable opportunity as Italy has officially announced the MAECI Scholarship 2026-2027 Programme. Offered by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), the fully funded scholarship allows international students, including Pakistanis, to study at leading Italian universities.

The MAECI scholarship 2026 is designed to strengthen international academic collaboration while promoting Italian language, culture, and research excellence. Selected candidates will have the chance to enrol in some of Europe’s most historic and globally recognised institutions, such as the University of Bologna, Sapienza University of Rome, and Politecnico di Milano.

Financial Benefits

The MAECI Scholarship 2026–27 provides comprehensive financial support to ease the burden of studying abroad. Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend of €900, helping cover living expenses throughout their stay in Italy. In addition, students are granted full exemption from tuition and enrolment fees at public universities, although minor regional or administrative charges may still apply.

The scholarship also includes health and accident insurance for the entire duration of the award. Depending on the programme, scholarships may be granted for three, six, or nine months, with renewal options available for longer academic degrees.

Eligibility Requirements

Pakistani nationals are eligible to apply under different academic categories, subject to age and qualification criteria:

• Master’s Degree: Applicants must be under 28 years of age and hold a relevant bachelor’s degree.

• PhD Programmes: Candidates must be under 30 years old, possess a master’s degree, and provide an acceptance or admission letter from an Italian university.

• Research Projects (Under Supervision): Applicants should be under 40 years of age.

Applicants must also meet language requirements, depending on whether their chosen programme is taught in English or Italian.

Application Procedure

All applications must be submitted online through the official Study in Italy portal. Interested candidates are required to create an account, select an eligible course at a recognised Italian institution, and complete the application form within the specified timeframe.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following documents as part of their online application:

• Valid passport copy

• Curriculum Vitae (Europass format preferred)

• Academic degrees and transcripts

• Statement or letter of motivation

• Language proficiency certificate (English or Italian)

• Admission or pre-acceptance letter (for Master’s and PhD programmes)

• Research proposal (for PhD and research applicants)

Application Deadline

The expected deadline for submitting applications for the 2026–27 MAECI Scholarship is mid-June 2026. Applicants are advised to complete their documentation and apply well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

The MAECI Scholarship remains one of the most attractive fully funded opportunities for Pakistani students seeking high-quality education and international exposure in Italy.