By logical dot 
Italy is a dream destination for many students. It offers delicious food, beautiful art, and some of the oldest universities in the world. But more importantly, Italy provides high-quality education at affordable prices. If you want to Study in Italy for International students, the best time to start is the September intake. This guide will explain everything: universities, courses, fees, and the visa process in simple words.
Why Study in Italy?
Italy has many advantages for foreign learners. Tuition fees are much lower than in the UK or USA. Public universities charge between €900 and €4,000 per year. Living costs are also reasonable, especially in smaller cities like Padua or Bologna. Plus, Italian degrees are recognized across Europe. For international students, Italy offers a great mix of history, culture, and career opportunities.
September Intake: The Main Admission Season
Italian universities have two intakes: September/October (Fall) and February/March (Spring). However, the September intake universities in Italy offer the largest number of courses. Most bachelor’s and master’s programs start in September. The academic year runs from late September to June. By applying for this intake, you get the widest choice of subjects and more scholarship options.
Top September Intake Universities in Italy
Here are some of the best public and private universities that welcome international students in September:
- University of Bologna – Founded in 1088, it is the oldest university in the world. It offers many English-taught programs in economics, engineering, and humanities.
- Politecnico di Milano – One of Europe’s top engineering schools. It is famous for design, architecture, and computer science.
- Sapienza University of Rome – The largest university in Europe. Great for natural sciences, medicine, and law.
- University of Padua – Known for research and affordable fees. It has a special scholarship for international students.
- University of Turin – Offers strong programs in business, political science, and economics.
September Intake Universities in Italy for Indian Students
Indian students are choosing Italy more than ever. The reasons are simple: low fees, English courses, and easy visa processes. Here are the best September intake universities in Italy for Indian students:
- Politecnico di Milano – Many Indian students study engineering here. The university offers merit-based scholarships and has an active Indian student association.
- University of Bologna – Has a dedicated help desk for international students. Indian students find support for accommodation and visa documents.
- University of Padua – Offers the “Padua International Excellence Scholarship” (€8,000 per year). Many Indian students have won this.
- Sapienza University of Rome – Provides online pre-enrolment support and guides Indian students through the “Universitaly” portal.
- University of Pavia – Located close to Milan. It offers low-cost housing and a simple admission process for Indian applicants.
These universities also accept Indian qualifications like the 12th standard marks (for bachelor’s) and bachelor’s degree (for master’s).
Courses Available in September Intake
You can find almost any subject in the September intake. Popular choices include:
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Computer, Automotive)
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Business Administration and Economics
- Fashion and Luxury Brand Management
- Medicine and Surgery (taught in English with an entrance exam)
- Arts, History, and Cultural Heritage
Most of these courses are available in English, especially at the master’s level. For bachelor’s degrees, some programs are taught in English, but many require Italian language skills.
Tuition Fees and Living Costs
Fees depend on the university and your family income. Public universities use ISEE (a calculation of your financial situation). If your family income is low, you may pay as little as €200 per year. The maximum fee is usually €3,500 to €4,000.
Living costs range from €700 to €1,200 per month, covering rent, food, transport, and health insurance. Smaller cities like Perugia or Siena are cheaper than Milan or Rome.
Scholarships for International Students
You do not need to be rich to Study in Italy for International students. Many scholarships are available:
- Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI) – Covers tuition and gives a monthly allowance of €900.
- EDISU Regional Scholarships – Based on income. They can pay for accommodation, meals, and tuition fees.
- University Scholarships – For example, Politecnico di Milano offers the “Merit Award” (€8,000 per year) and the University of Padua offers full fee waivers plus €8,000.
- Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) – For students from India and other selected countries. Includes internship opportunities.
Apply for scholarships as soon as you receive your admission letter. Deadlines are usually between March and May for September intake.
Student Visa Guide for September Intake
If you are a non-EU student (including Indian), you need a Type D study visa. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Get Admission – Apply to one of the September intake universities in Italy for Indian students and receive your acceptance letter.
Step 2: Pre-enrol on Universitaly – Register on the Italian government’s Universitaly portal. The university must confirm your enrolment online.
Step 3: Gather Documents – You will need:
- Valid passport (with blank pages)
- Acceptance letter
- Proof of financial means (approx. €6,000–7,000 per year)
- Accommodation proof (or a hotel booking for the first few weeks)
- Health insurance valid in Italy
- Pre-enrolment summary from Universitaly
Step 4: Book Visa Appointment – Visit the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your country. In India, the consulates are in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.
Step 5: Attend Interview – Bring your original documents. Answer simple questions about your study plans.
Step 6: Receive Visa & Travel – Processing takes 15 to 30 days. After arriving in Italy, you must apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days.
Final Tips for Indian Students
- Apply early – Deadlines for September intake are usually from January to April.
- Learn basic Italian – It helps with daily life, even if your course is in English.
- Part-time work – You can work 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during holidays.
- Join student groups – Indian student associations in Milan, Rome, and Bologna are very helpful.
Conclusion
Italy welcomes students from all over the world. With affordable fees, generous scholarships, and a clear visa process, there is no better time to apply. Focus on the September intake universities in Italy to get the best choice of courses. For Indian students, the September intake universities in Italy for indian students provide extra support and guidance. Start your application today, and you could be enjoying pizza, art, and world-class education by next September. Buona fortuna! (Good luck!)