Studying in Italy – the requirements
One of the requirements for studying abroad in Italy is the general higher education entrance qualification. At state universities, a general entrance examination usually has to be taken at the beginning of the winter semester. In subjects with restricted admission, it can be supplemented by so-called competition examinations (esame di concorso). So-called orientation tests may take place in the non-admission-free subjects. See map of Italy on directoryaah.
When applying to study at the laurea magistrale, a first academic degree, i.e. usually a bachelor’s degree, is required. In order to be admitted to the doctorate, a competition examination (concorso) must be taken beforehand.
Another admission criterion for studying in Italy is a good knowledge of the Italian language. Applicants usually have to prove this by means of standardized language certificates or language tests at the respective universities of their choice.
Application documents and deadlines
If you are thinking of studying in Italy, you have to contact the respective university with regard to the application deadlines and inquire about them individually. Common application documents usually include:
- all certificates certified and translated into Italian
- Passport photos
- proof of health insurance
- proof of sufficient financial means for the duration of the study visit
The Italian embassies and consulates general are responsible for the certification of certificates. The declaration of value (dichiarazione di valore) checks the authenticity of the degrees acquired abroad and the corresponding foreign institutions that have awarded them. General assessment criteria are the duration of the course and the amount of credit points acquired. However, the declaration of value only serves to inform the universities and is not an official recognition of the degree or course achievements.
The enrollment takes place at the Italian universities usually in person. Additional documents must be presented here, the scope of which should be clarified in advance.
There is an agreement between Germany and Italy that the laurea corresponds to the bachelor’s degree and the laurea magistrale to the master’s or Magister, diploma or state examination. The Bologna Agreement ensures mutual recognition.
Costs and financing options
Studying in Italy is generally chargeable. The tuition fees in Italy vary by university, professional and study section. Mostly they are between EUR 750 and 3,000 per year. However, they can be much higher at particularly specialized institutions as well as at private institutions.
Cost of living and housing in Italy
The cost of living in Italy is roughly on a German level. However, they differ depending on where you are in the south or north or in a large or small town. They are much lower in southern Italy than in the north. As a student, you can stay in single or shared rooms in the student residences that are affiliated to the universities. If you are interested, you should try to register in good time. Another variant is accommodation with host families or in shared apartments. For a single apartment in Italy, prices of EUR 300 – 500 per month can be expected.
Financial aid for studying abroad in Italy
Various financing options are available to keep the costs of the study visit within reasonable limits. This includes, for example, the Federal Foreign BAföG, which also supports students who do not receive BAföG in Germany. In addition, there are various partial scholarships from political, economic or cultural organizations. A student loan with a low interest rate is also conceivable. However, students can also work themselves. A special work permit is not required for EU citizens.
Visa and entry requirements in Italy
Citizens of an EU member state do not need a visa to stay in Italy. It is sufficient to have a valid identity card or passport with you. However, the arrival should be reported to the local immigration police (ufficio stranieri della questura) and a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno per motivi di studio) applied for within eight days of entering the country.
