What studying in Italy really costs — tuition, rent, food and the one-time costs of the first year. We give honest ranges and the official figures, not promises.
€10,179.85
minimum yearly funds Italy asks you to show for the study visa (2026/27 and 2027/28)
Income-based
public university fees are linked to family income
DSU
regional scholarship can cover money, meals and housing for eligible students
20 hrs
weekly part-time work allowed — useful, but not enough to pay all costs
Monthly costs
What to budget for
| Cost | What affects it | How to keep it low |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | The biggest cost. Big cities such as Milan and Rome cost more than smaller university towns. | Shared flats, university residences, DSU housing |
| Food | Cooking at home is far cheaper than eating out. | University canteens (mense) with student prices |
| Transport | City size and distance from campus. | Monthly student passes; living near campus |
| Phone & internet | Plan and provider. | Prepaid student plans |
| Health cover | Registration with the national health service or private insurance. | Register with the national health service where eligible |
| Books & study | Course and year. | Libraries and second-hand books |
First year
One-time costs to plan for
- Visa fee and VFS service charges
- Flight to Italy
- Rent deposit (often 1–3 months)
- Residence permit kit and fees
- Translation and legalisation of documents
- Declaration of Value or CIMEA fees
- Health insurance for the first months
- Laptop, bedding and winter clothing
Be careful with big promises
Some agents advertise free tuition, guaranteed 100% scholarships or lakhs of rupees in savings from part-time work. Scholarships depend on your documents and the region’s funds, and part-time work is limited to 20 hours a week. Plan your budget without counting on either.
We prepare a city-wise budget for your family using current rents. Ask for your budget →
Italy Campus is an admission guidance service by National Vidya Foundation. We are not a university and not an official Italian body. Admission is decided only by the university; visas are decided only by the Italian consulate. Official dates and rules can change every year — always confirm on Universitaly and your university’s own call.
Talk to the Italy Campus team
Send your name, Class 12 marks, NEET-UG or course interest and state on WhatsApp. We reply during office hours.