Why Study in Italy from Bangladesh?
Italy is widely known for being an education hub of Europe and is home to an impressive 41 universities featured in the QS World University Rankings 2022. However, many Bangladeshi students apply to Italy due to its low tuition fee and scholarships offered by Italian universities, which attracts diverse international students. In addition, the Italian embassy has a high visa ratio from Dhaka for prospective students. Thus, Italy is considered among Bangladeshi students' best destinations for higher study abroad.
Education and Programs in Italy
Italy offers a range of educational opportunities for international students, including Bangladeshi students. Here are some popular fields of study in Italy that might be of interest to Bangladeshi students: 1.Fashion and Design: Italy is renowned for its fashion industry and is home to some of the world's top fashion houses. 2.Architecture: Italy is famous for its rich history and heritage of architecture. Bangladeshi students interested in architecture can study in Italy to gain exposure to classical and contemporary architecture and learn from leading experts in the field. 3.Business and Management: Italy is a hub for business and entrepreneurship, making it an ideal destination for students interested in pursuing careers in business and management. 4.Tourism and Hospitality: Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and offers a range of opportunities for students interested in studying tourism and hospitality. 5.Engineering: Italy is home to some of the world's leading engineering institutions, offering courses in fields such as mechanical engineering, civil engineering, and electrical engineering. 6.Humanities and Social Sciences: Italian universities also offer a variety of humanities and social sciences programs, including history, art, literature, and language studies. These programs could be a good choice for Bangladeshi students who are interested in the arts or social sciences. 7.Medicine and Healthcare: Italy is known for its high-quality healthcare system, and Italian universities offer a range of medical and healthcare-related programs. These programs could be an excellent option for Bangladeshi students interested in pursuing a career in the medical field. In addition to the above fields, Italian universities also offer courses in art, literature, history, and language, making it a great destination for students interested in humanities and social sciences. Bangladeshi students can also explore scholarship and funding options offered by Italian universities and organizations to help with their studies.
Study Intakes and Application Sessions
Available intake and session information provided for this destination.
Fall Session
The application opens on October 1st and closes on May 30th
Language Requirements
Review the available English language requirements by study level.
General English / IELTS
Most English-taught programmes ask for B2 level English, which equals about IELTS 5.5 to 6.5 depending on the programme. Many universities also accept TOEFL, Cambridge tests or a medium of instruction letter. Check your programme page, because some courses ask for a higher score.
Bachelor Language Requirement
IELTS Composite score of 5.5 for bachelor. Medium of Instructions English (MOI) is also accepted in Italy with a minimum Duolingo score of 110. TOEFL and Cambridge: CAE & FCE also acceptable in Italian universities.
Master's Language Requirement
IELTS Composite score for Master's 6.0- 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any component. Medium of Instructions English (MOI) is also accepted in Italy with a minimum Duolingo score of 110. TOEFL and Cambridge: CAE & FCE also acceptable in Italian universities.
Admission Requirements for Bangladeshi Students in Italy
Italian universities set their own entry rules, and Bangladeshi applicants are treated as non-EU students. Non-EU applicants must also complete pre-enrolment on the national Universitaly portal. Requirements depend on your degree level, programme and previous qualifications. Admission usually starts in the autumn, with most applications for the following September opening between winter and early summer. Check the date for your programme.
Academic Qualifications
Bachelor's: You need an upper-secondary qualification with at least 12 years of schooling, which the HSC meets. Italian universities also ask for a CIMEA statement of comparability or a Declaration of Value (DoV) from the Italian Embassy in Dhaka. Some programmes ask for an entrance test, such as the TOLC for engineering or the IMAT for medicine. Master's: You need a recognised Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, usually with enough credits in specific subjects and a strong CGPA. Some programmes ask for a CV, motivation letter, references or a portfolio.
English Language Requirements
Most English-taught programmes ask for B2 level English, which equals about IELTS 5.5 to 6.5 depending on the programme. Many universities also accept TOEFL, Cambridge tests or a medium of instruction letter. Check your programme page, because some courses ask for a higher score.
Study Gap Acceptability
A study gap is not an automatic rejection, but both universities and the embassy look closely at it. Support your gap with evidence such as employment letters, training or internship certificates, volunteer work or business documents. Explain in your motivation letter how you used the time and why you chose this course now. Shorter and well-documented gaps are easier to justify than long unexplained ones.
Requirements for Application to Study in Italy
The exact requirements depend on the university, programme and application route. The following documents are commonly required during admission or visa preparation.
Country-Specific Admission Document Requirements
• Valid passport • Academic transcripts and certificates (HSC, SSC, Bachelor's) with certified translations where needed • CIMEA certificate or Declaration of Value • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or an accepted alternative) • CV and motivation letter • Academic or professional references, if the programme asks for them • Programme-specific documents such as entrance test results, a portfolio or a research proposal • Evidence for any study gap (employment, training or internship letters) • Universitaly pre-enrolment confirmation
Valid Passport
A valid passport is normally required for university and visa-related processing.
Academic Certificates & Transcripts
Previous academic certificates, mark sheets or transcripts are commonly required for admission assessment.
Language Proficiency
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or another accepted language certificate may be required depending on the university and programme.
Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
Some programmes may require a statement explaining your study motivation, academic goals and future plans.
Recommendation Letters
Academic or professional recommendation letters may be requested depending on the university and study level.
Financial Documents
Bank statements, solvency evidence, sponsorship documents or other proof of funds may be required.
Application Forms
The relevant university, residence-permit or student-visa application form must be completed where applicable.
Health Insurance
Valid health or travel insurance may be required during the visa or residence-permit stage.
Top Universities in Italy for Bangladeshi Students
Italy has dozens of public universities, and many offer English-taught Bachelor's and Master's programmes. In the QS rankings 2027, the Politecnico di Milano is Italy's best at 87th, the first Italian university to enter the global top 100. Sapienza University of Rome follows at 111th, the University of Bologna at 123rd, the University of Padua at 204th and the Politecnico di Torino at 206th. The University of Milan ranks 270th and the University of Pisa 341st. Here are seven universities Bangladeshi students often shortlist:
Compare universities in Italy
| University | Offered Courses | IELTS Requirement | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Politecnico di Milano | Engineering, Architecture, Design, Management Engineering, Computer Science | Programme dependent (often B2 level or IELTS 5.5–6.5) | Income-based; up to €3,943 for non-EU Master's students |
| Sapienza University of Rome | Engineering, Computer Science, Economics, Medicine, Humanities, Sciences | Programme dependent (often B2 level) | Income-based bands |
| University of Bologna | Engineering, Economics, Law, Agri-food, Humanities, Medicine | Programme dependent (often B2 level) | Income-based; up to about €3,000 |
| University of Padua | Engineering, Psychology, Biology, Economics, Medicine | Programme dependent (often B2 level) | Income-based; capped at about €3,200 |
| Politecnico di Torino | Engineering, Architecture, Computer Science, Design | Programme dependent (often B2 level) | Income-based; up to about €3,900 |
| University of Milan | Sciences, Biotechnology, Economics, Humanities, Political Science | Programme dependent (often B2 level) | Income-based; up to about €3,900 |
| University of Pisa | Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Economics, Humanities | Programme dependent (often B2 level) | Income-based bands |
*Scores differ by programme. Most universities accept IELTS, TOEFL or their own tests at B2 level. Check the programme page. **Public universities in Italy typically charge about €500–€4,000 a year, depending on your family income and the university. See the tuition section below.
Popular Courses in Italy for International Students
Bangladeshi students tend to pick Italian programmes with low fees, strong industry links and well-known brands. These seven fields attract the most interest.
Computer Science and Information Technology
Politecnico di Milano, Politecnico di Torino, Sapienza, Pisa and Bologna offer English-taught programmes in software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data science.
Business, Economics and Management
Programmes in finance, economics, management and international business are offered at Bologna, Milan, Padua and Sapienza. Private business schools such as Bocconi charge much higher fees.
Engineering and Technology
Mechanical, electrical, civil, aerospace, automotive and energy engineering are Italy's strongest fields, led by the two Politecnici.
Architecture, Design and Fashion
Milan, Turin and Rome are global centres for architecture, product design and fashion, and programmes combine creative work with technical skills.
Medicine and Health Sciences
English-taught medicine, dentistry and veterinary programmes are open to non-EU students through the International Medical Admissions Test (IMAT), and places for non-EU applicants are very limited.
Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
Bologna, Padua, Turin and Milan offer programmes in agri-food, sustainability and environmental science.
Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences
Italy is a leader in art history, archaeology, languages, political science and international relations, with many English-taught Master's options.
Tuition Fees and Financial Requirements for Studying in Italy
Italy is one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe. Plan your budget in two parts: tuition and everyday living costs.
Bachelor Tuition Fee
The tuition fee is around €150 - €300 per year or scholarship with stipend.
Master's Tuition Fee
The tuition fee is around €200 - €350 per year or scholarship with stipend.
Estimated Living Costs
Most students spend about €700 to €1,200 a month. Milan and Rome cost more than smaller university cities such as Padua, Pisa or Turin. Annual living budget: €8,400–€14,400 depending on the city and lifestyle. Apply early for regional student housing, because places fill quickly.
Bank Solvency
You must show evidence that you have immediate access to at least 15 to 20 lakh Taka. A bank statement covers the one year period immediately before your visa application. Bank Statement of any running account of sponsor and applicant of minimum 6 months (Total amount of the two accounts should be minimum 10 lakhs BDT).
Tuition fee overview in Italy
| Programme Level | Typical Annual Tuition |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's | About €500–€4,000, based on family income and the university |
| Master's | About €500–€4,000; at Politecnico di Milano, non-EU Master's students with a foreign Bachelor's and no scholarship pay up to €3,943 in 2026/27 |
Living expenses in Italy
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared room or student residence) | €350–€700 |
| Food and groceries | €200–€300 |
| Local transport (with student pass) | €25–€40 |
| Phone, utilities and study materials | €50–€100 |
| Leisure and personal | €80–€150 |
| Recommended total monthly budget | €700–€1,200 |
Scholarship Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students in Italy
There are two scholarship facilities available at all the universities in Italy. One is a regional scholarship, which includes a stipend of 7000-800 Euros which will be provided within four installments. Another is a merit-based scholarship that will be provided 12000 euros in Two installments.
University-Specific Scholarships
Many Italian universities, including Bologna, Politecnico di Milano, Politecnico di Torino, Padua and Sapienza, offer merit-based awards, fee waivers or fellowships for international students. Amounts, subjects and eligibility change each year, so check the scholarship page of your university when you apply.
Government / External Scholarships
• DSU regional scholarships: Regional right-to-study agencies, such as ER.GO in Emilia-Romagna, award income-based scholarships that can cover tuition and part of living costs, plus subsidised housing and meals. International students apply with income documents from Bangladesh. • Italian Government (MAECI) scholarships: Awards for international students that usually include a tuition waiver and a monthly allowance. Check the official Study in Italy page for the current call and whether Bangladesh is eligible. • Invest Your Talent in Italy: A government and industry programme for English-taught Master's in engineering, design and management with a tuition waiver, allowance and internship. Check the current country list and dates.
How to apply for scholarships
- Choose your programme. Pick a programme at a university or in a region that offers awards for your level.
- Check scholarship eligibility. Read the rules, including income, grades and country requirements.
- Apply before the deadline. Scholarship deadlines are often earlier than admission deadlines, and regional DSU dates are strict.
- Prepare strong academic and income documents. Good grades, a clear motivation letter and properly translated and legalised papers help.
- Check what the scholarship covers. Confirm whether it pays tuition, housing, meals or a monthly allowance.
Always confirm the latest scholarship criteria with the relevant institution before applying.
Student Visa Requirements and Application Fees for Italy
Financial Commitments and Application Fees
Available fee information for the student visa or residence process.
VFS Fee
9300 Taka (general), 14000 (VIP).
CIMEA Fee
300-400 Euro (Process for the evolution of foreign qualification) #215-225 (in 30 days), 315-325 (in 15 days).
Notary Fee
500 - 1000 Taka.
Accommodation Contract
200 - 400 Euro
How to Apply for a Italy Student Visa from Bangladesh
For degree studies longer than 90 days, Bangladeshi students need a national Type D study visa. You apply through the Embassy of Italy in Dhaka, with VFS Global Italy collecting your documents and biometrics, only after you have pre-enrolled on Universitaly and your university has validated your pre-enrolment. For academic year 2026/27, the final date to lodge a visa application is 30 November 2026, and for 2027/28 it is 31 October 2027, but many universities set earlier dates, so check yours first.
Your study visa application roadmap
- Apply to your university and receive an admission or eligibility decision.
- Pre-enrol on Universitaly and wait for your university to validate it.
- Get your CIMEA certificate or Declaration of Value and prepare your documents.
- Book an appointment at VFS Global Italy in Dhaka.
- Submit your application and biometrics and pay the visa and service fees.
- Wait for the decision, then travel to Italy and apply for your residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) within 8 days of arrival.
Required Student Visa Documents
• Valid passport and completed visa application form • Universitaly pre-enrolment confirmation, with enrolment and tuition details • Declaration of Value from the Embassy of Italy in Dhaka, or a CIMEA certificate • Proof of financial means: for 2026/27, recent guides cite a minimum of about €10,180 for the year, shown through personal or sponsor bank statements covering the last 12 months • Proof of accommodation in Italy • Health insurance with repatriation cover • Proof of English or other language proficiency in the format the embassy asks for • Any other documents listed in the current embassy checklist The proof of funds amount and checklist can change, so use the latest study checklist on the Embassy of Italy in Dhaka or VFS Global Italy website.
Visa Interview Tips
Italy does not usually run a standard interview for student visas, but officials can contact you, so be ready to explain your plans. • Know your study programme. Be able to say why you chose this course and university. • Understand your finances. Know who pays for tuition and living costs, and keep clear proof of the source of funds. • Keep your answers consistent. Your documents, motivation letter and replies should tell the same story.
Visa Processing Time
Processing time changes through the year, with peaks before the autumn start, so apply as soon as your pre-enrolment is validated. The Italian visa application centre run by VFS Global in Dhaka handles appointments and submissions, and the Embassy of Italy in Dhaka decides the application. Confirm the current address, fees and hours on the VFS Global Italy page for Bangladesh. Since 2026/27, universities can only validate a limited number of international pre-enrolments, so apply early.
Career Advancement and Residency Paths in Italy
Explore the available pathways after graduation based on the information provided for this destination.
Job Opportunities
After graduation, students can stay in Italy to seek employment.
Permanent Residency (PR)
Students also can apply for a Permanent Resident (PR) after job search years.
Spouse / Dependent Visa
A student can apply for his/her spouse and children after arriving in Italy.
Common Questions About Studying in Italy
01Is Italy expensive for Bangladeshi students?
Italy is one of the cheaper study destinations in Europe. Public tuition is about €500–€4,000 a year, and living costs are about €700–€1,200 a month. Scholarships and regional support can lower the total further.
02Can I work while studying in Italy?
Yes, with limits. Non-EU students on a study permit can usually work up to 20 hours a week during term, capped at 1,040 hours a year, and can work more during breaks. Rules can change, so check the current limits with Italian immigration.
03When should Bangladeshi students apply to Italian universities?
For September 2027 entry, start preparing now. Many universities open applications between winter and early summer 2027, and some programmes with entry tests close earlier. Pre-enrolment on Universitaly and your visa application must also meet the deadlines set by your university and the national date.
04Do I need to know Italian before studying in Italy?
Not for English-taught programmes. Many Master's and some Bachelor's programmes are fully taught in English. Learning basic Italian helps with daily life, part-time work and your career in Italy.
05What is Universitaly?
Universitaly is the Italian government's pre-enrolment portal. Non-EU students must pre-enrol on it before they can apply for the study visa, and the university must validate your pre-enrolment.
06Is IELTS compulsory for Italian universities?
Not always. Many universities accept IELTS, TOEFL, a medium of instruction letter or their own English test. Read the language requirements for your programme.
07Can I stay in Italy after graduation?
Yes, in many cases. Graduates can usually apply for a permit of up to 12 months to look for work, which can convert into a work permit when they find a job. Check the Italian immigration website for the current rules before you plan.
08Is a scholarship guaranteed if I have good grades?
No. Scholarships are limited and competitive, and many cover only part of your costs. Apply with a strong profile and keep a backup plan for tuition.
Additional Information About Studying in Italy
Embassy Location
Bay's Edgewater, NE (N) 12 North Avenue, 3rd Floor, Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212.
Health insurance
147- 197 Euro
Scholarship Opportunities
Italy has several routes to reduce or remove tuition and living costs, but competition is strong. Read what each award covers before you plan your budget.
