Sapienza University of Rome, founded in 1303, stands as Italy’s largest and one of Europe’s oldest institutions. With over 120,000 students, it offers 59 English-taught Bachelor’s/Master’s degree paths, 240+ programs in Italian, and extensive PhD opportunities. The university is dedicated to making quality education accessible through a range of scholarship options for the 2025–2026 academic year.
Scholarship Types Available
1. Merit‑Based University Grants
- Most Deserving Students: Significant tuition waivers reducing fees to as low as €30/year.
- Athletic Merit: Tuition exemptions for students excelling in sports.
- School for Advanced Studies: Royal access for top-performing undergraduates and Master’s students—tuition around €30/year, free accommodation, and cross-disciplinary programs.
2. Merit‑Based Graduate Awards
- “Wanted the Best”: €3,000 per year for up to 2 years (Master’s).
- “Don’t Miss Your Chance”: Full tuition waiver plus €4,300 annually for 2 years (Master’s).
3. Need‑Based & Regional Scholarships
- Lazio Region (DSU): Supports students from low-income backgrounds with income thresholds (ISEE). Includes tuition waivers, housing, and health benefits.
- Exemptions for students with disabilities and special social conditions.
4. Post‑Degree & Research Grants
- Monthly stipends up to €1,290 for 6–12 months for post-degree and research pursuits.
- Extra funding for STEM fields, female researchers, and exceptional thesis work.
5. External & National Support
- Italian Government / NAWA / Invest Your Talent, as well as Erasmus+: Cover tuition, travel, living expenses, and health insurance.
Key Dates & Deadlines
- Bachelor’s/Master’s Preselection (Non-EU)
– Deadline: April 29, 2025 (visa-required students) - EU and Other Applicants
– Deadline: July 29, 2025 - Study Visa (Non-EU)
– Required by: June 30, 2025 - Entry-Assessment Payments (for admission)
– Fee: ~€10, paid during specified selection dates (e.g., September–January cycles)
Eligibility Criteria
| Level | Entry Requirement | Language | Scholarships Eligible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | High school diploma + entrance test (TOLC) | Italian/English B2 | Merit/Need-based/regional |
| Master’s | Recognized Bachelor’s degree | English/Italian B2 | Merit awards & need-based |
| PhD | Relevant Master’s degree + research focus | English/Italian B2 | Research grants & external |
Financial need assessed via regional ISEE. Family income must meet thresholds (e.g., < €24,000) for need-based eligibility.
How to Apply
- Choose Program: Browse English or Italian-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs.
- Preselection & Admissions:
- Non-EU: participate in April 2025 cycle for early visa processing.
- EU: apply by July 2025.
- Register via Infostud/IRK Portal:
- Upload transcripts, diplomas, passport, language certificates, CV, motivation letter, and ISEE documentation (if applying for DSU).
- Pay Assessment Fee (~€10): Choose appropriate date for preselection.
- Scholarship Application: Automatically considered once admitted — no separate form required for many internal grants.
- Visa and Enrollment: Await scholarship outcome, then finalize visa (non-EU) and enroll. Lectures typically begin September/October.
Additional Support & Student Life
- Part-Time Collaborations: Paid 150-hour work grants (€1,295–1,500).
- Housing Support: University partners with private residences, church hostels; ESU accommodation available but limited.
- Regional Grants: Cover rent, healthcare, and transportation.
- Cost of Living in Rome: Approx. €800–1,000/month (housing, food, transport, study materials).
Conclusion
Sapienza University offers a rich tapestry of fully and partially funded scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year—spanning Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels. With options for merit, need, athletic achievement, special conditions, regional, government, and research support, Sapienza provides robust pathways to a world-class education in the vibrant heart of Rome.
- Apply early (non-EU: preselection by April; EU: by July)
- Gather documents: academic, language, income statements
- Participate in TOLC tests (for undergraduates) or meet program-specific requirements
With strong preparation and diligent application, you can unlock prestigious funding, enriching student life, and career opportunities at a celebrated European institution.
FAQs
Can non‑EU students apply?
Yes. Preselection (due April 29, 2025) is mandatory for visa purposes.
Is English/Italian proficiency mandatory?
Yes. B2 level required; some English-taught programs may require proof even with prior A‑Levels or equivalents.
Are scholarships renewable?
Merit and need-based awards are renewable yearly based on academic performance and maintained ISEE criteria.
If visa delays occur, can classes start online?
Yes—layered programs offer remote instruction until in-person attendance is possible.
How competitive are scholarships?
Merit-based (Rector’s, School for Advanced Studies) are highly competitive. DSU thresholds depend on ISEE; excellence TOLC awards are tough but attainable with high test scores.
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