University of Florence PhD Program in Italy 2026

University of Florence PhD Program 2026/2027 in Italy – Complete Guide for International Students. Click here for more fully funded scholarshipsItaly is one of Europe’s most beloved destinations for higher education, culture, and professional growth. The University of Florence PhD Program 2026/2027 is an outstanding opportunity for international researchers and graduate students who want to pursue doctoral education at one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious universities.

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This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know – from eligibility and funding to the student visa application process, accommodation, and long-term immigration pathways in Italy.

Why Choose the University of Florence for Your PhD?

The University of Florence (Università degli Studi di Firenze) was founded in 1321 and is one of the largest and most respected universities in Italy. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Europe for research, innovation, and academic excellence.

Florence itself is a UNESCO World Heritage city, offering international students a unique blend of world-class education and rich cultural immersion. Many education consultants for Italy and study abroad consultants near me consistently recommend this institution for PhD-level research.

For international students seeking visa sponsorship, academic recognition, and a credible PR pathway in Europe, the University of Florence is an excellent choice to build your academic and professional future.

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Quick Overview – University of Florence PhD Program 2026/2027

Program Name University of Florence PhD Program 2026/2027
Host Country Italy
Host University University of Florence (UniFI)
Program Level Doctoral (PhD)
Duration 3 Years
Funding Available Funded and Unfunded positions available
Application Mode Online
Language of Instruction Italian and/or English depending on the program
Official Website unifi.it
Visa Support Yes—study permit and visa sponsorship available

About the University of Florence – Italy’s Academic Powerhouse

The University of Florence is home to over 50,000 students, including thousands of international students from more than 100 countries. It offers over 150 degree programs across 10 schools and faculties.

The university is internationally recognized for research in areas including humanities, sciences, engineering, medicine, economics, and law. It collaborates with leading global research institutions, making it a top choice for international student recruitment agencies and university admission consultants worldwide.

Its doctoral programs are funded through Italy’s Ministry of University and Research (MUR) and through competitive international scholarships, making it an attractive destination for students seeking financial aid as international students.

PhD Programs Available at the University of Florence 2026/2027

The University of Florence offers doctoral programs across a wide range of disciplines. Below is a summary of the main PhD schools and areas of study.

PhD School / Area Fields Covered
Sciences and Technologies Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering
Biomedical Sciences Medicine, Clinical Research, Pharmacology, Biotechnology
Humanities and Arts History, Philosophy, Literature, Art History, Linguistics
Social Sciences Economics, Political Science, Sociology, Law
Architecture and Design Architecture, Urban Studies, Restoration, Design
Agriculture and Environment Agronomy, Forestry, Environmental Sciences, Food Science
Education and Psychology Educational Sciences, Cognitive Science, Clinical Psychology

Each PhD program is offered in partnership with Italian and international research centers. Many programs also allow for double-degree or joint PhD arrangements with partner universities in Europe, the US, and Asia.

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Funding and Scholarships for the University of Florence’s PhD Program

One of the most important questions for international applicants is, “How do I fund my PhD in Italy?” The University of Florence offers several funding options that eliminate the need for an education loan without collateral or relying purely on personal savings.

Government-Funded PhD Positions (Borse di Dottorato)

The Italian government funds a significant number of PhD positions each year through the Ministry of University and Research (MUR). These positions come with a monthly stipend called “borsa di dottorato.”

For the 2026/2027 cycle, the gross monthly stipend for funded PhD positions at Italian universities is approximately €1,200 to €1,500 per month. This stipend increases by 50% for periods spent abroad during the research program.

This type of funding is one of the most accessible forms of financial aid for international students seeking doctoral education in Europe, and it significantly reduces the need for education financing options like personal loans.

PNRR and EU-Funded PhD Scholarships

Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), funded by the European Union, has created a large number of additional PhD positions at Italian universities, including the University of Florence.

These PNRR-funded PhDs often focus on innovation, sustainability, digitalization, and green technology. They offer the same stipend structure as government positions and may include additional research funds for equipment, conferences, and study travel.

If you are working with an education consultant for Italy or a study abroad consultant near me, ask them specifically about PNRR PhD positions at UniFI, as these are highly competitive but offer excellent funding and career prospects.

University of Florence Internal Scholarships

The University of Florence also offers its own internal scholarships and research grants for international PhD students. These are typically awarded based on academic merit and the strength of your research proposal.

Some of these internal scholarships are specifically reserved for international applicants, making them a valuable option for candidates from outside the European Union who may be concerned about tuition fee transfers abroad or managing education costs in Italy.

External and Private Fellowships

Beyond university and government funding, PhD students at the University of Florence may also apply for external fellowships from organizations like the Italian Foreign Ministry, the Directorate General for Cultural Promotion, and various private foundations.

International applicants from specific countries may also qualify for bilateral scholarship programs between Italy and their home country. An immigration consultant or education consultant for Italy can help identify which bilateral scholarships apply to your nationality.

Eligibility Requirements for the University of Florence PhD Program

Before starting your application, you need to make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria set by the University of Florence for the 2026/2027 doctoral program intake.

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Academic Qualifications Required

Requirement Details
Minimum Degree Master’s degree or equivalent (Laurea Magistrale or second-cycle degree)
Degree Equivalency Foreign degrees must be recognized as equivalent to Italian Laurea Magistrale
Language Requirement Italian or English depending on the PhD program; certificates required
Research Proposal A detailed research proposal aligned with the PhD program’s focus areas
Academic Transcripts Official transcripts from all previous universities attended
Nationality Open to both Italian and international applicants
Reference Letters Typically two academic references required

Language Proficiency for International Applicants

Most PhD programs at the University of Florence are conducted in Italian, but an increasing number of programs are now fully available in English, particularly in STEM fields, economics, and international affairs.

For English-taught programs, you will need to provide proof of English proficiency through IELTS (minimum 6.0) or TOEFL. For Italian-taught programs, a B2 level of Italian proficiency is generally required.

Many international students who connect with an education consultant for Italy or a university admission consultant well in advance manage to take language preparation courses before their Ph.D. applications.

How to Apply for the University of Florence PhD Program 2026/2027

The application process for the University of Florence PhD program is conducted entirely online. Here is a step-by-step breakdown to help you navigate it successfully.

Step 1—Find Your PhD Program and Call for Applications

The University of Florence publishes official calls for PhD applications (bandi di concorso) on its official website. Each PhD program has its own separate call, which outlines the number of funded positions, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and required documents.

Monitor the university’s official website from early 2026 to catch the first calls for the 2026/2027 academic year. Many study abroad consultants near me recommend setting up alerts or following the university’s official social media channels to stay informed.

Step 2 – Register on the University Portal

To apply, you must first register on the University of Florence’s online application portal (GOMP or the dedicated PhD portal). You will create an account and receive login credentials to access the application system.

Keep your registration details safe, as you will use this account throughout the application and enrollment process. International applicants from outside the EU may also need to begin their study permit application process simultaneously.

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Step 3 – Complete and Submit the Online Application

Once registered, fill in all the required fields in the online application form. Upload all requested documents in PDF format, ensuring that all documents meet the size and format requirements specified in the call.

A university admission consultant or education consultant for Italy can review your application before submission to ensure nothing is missing. Incomplete applications are typically rejected automatically.

Step 4 – Entrance Exam and Interview

Most PhD programs at the University of Florence require an entrance examination and/or an interview. The exam may include written tests, oral evaluations, or both, depending on the PhD program.

Prepare thoroughly for the entrance exam by reviewing the program’s specific call for applications, which will outline the exam format and topics. For competitive funded positions, the interview is a critical selection step.

Step 5 – Receive Results and Accept the Offer

Successful applicants are published in a ranking list on the university’s official website and portal. If you are selected for a funded position, you must formally accept the offer within the deadline stated in the results notice.

After acceptance, you will begin the enrollment process and receive guidance on your study permit application, student accommodation in Italy, and relocation services for students.

Required Application Documents

Document Description
Master’s Degree Certificate Certified copy of your master’s degree or equivalent qualification
Academic Transcripts Official transcripts from all degree programs attended
Research Proposal Detailed proposal in the language of the PhD program (Italian or English)
Curriculum Vitae Academic and professional CV in Europass format recommended
Reference Letters Two letters from academic or professional supervisors
Language Certificate IELTS, TOEFL (English), or CILS/CELI (Italian) depending on program
Passport Copy Valid passport with at least 18 months of remaining validity
Publication List List of published academic works, if applicable
Passport-sized Photo Recent digital photo in the required format

Italy Student Visa for PhD Students – Everything You Need to Know

International students from outside the EU must apply for an Italian national visa (Type D) for study purposes before they can enroll in the University of Florence PhD program. This is commonly called a study permit or student visa.

What Is the Italian Study Permit?

The Italian study permit (Permesso di Soggiorno per Studio) is a residence permit that allows non-EU PhD students to live and study in Italy for the duration of their doctoral program. It is issued by the Italian Police Headquarters (Questura) after your arrival in Italy.

Before arriving, you must obtain an entry visa from the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. This visa is then converted into a full study permit once you are in Italy. Many applicants consult an immigration lawyer in Italy or an immigration attorney consultation service to ensure this process goes smoothly.

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Student Visa Application Process for Italy

Step Action Required
Step 1 Receive your University of Florence enrollment confirmation letter
Step 2 Contact the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your country
Step 3 Book a visa appointment and prepare required documents
Step 4 Attend the visa appointment and submit your application
Step 5 Receive your Type D Study Visa and travel to Italy
Step 6 Apply for study permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days of arrival
Step 7 Attend the appointment at Questura for biometrics and permit issuance

Documents Required for the Italian Study Visa

Your Italian study visa application will require several key documents. These typically include your valid passport, University of Florence enrollment or acceptance letter, proof of financial means, proof of accommodation in Italy, international student health insurance, and a completed visa application form.

Consulting a best immigration law firm or an immigration attorney consultation service before submitting your visa application can significantly reduce the risk of errors and delays. Immigration consultant fees for Italian visa services are generally affordable and worth the investment.

How Long Does the Italian Student Visa Take?

Processing time for an Italian student visa varies depending on your country of residence. On average, it takes between 15 and 90 days. It is strongly advised to begin the student visa application process at least 3 months before your intended arrival date.

Always check with the Italian Embassy in your specific country for the most current processing times and any country-specific requirements. An immigration consultant or immigration lawyer in Italy can also provide guidance on estimated timelines based on your nationality.

Financial Benefits and PhD Stipend Details

Understanding the financial benefits of a funded PhD position is essential for planning your move to Italy. Many international students worry about education financing options and whether a PhD stipend is enough to live comfortably in Florence.

PhD Monthly Stipend in Italy

The standard gross monthly stipend for PhD students in Italy funded by the government is approximately €1,195 per month (net approximately €1,000). This increases by 50% during authorized periods spent abroad for research purposes.

This stipend is considered a significant form of financial aid for international students, especially given that public universities in Italy charge very low or no tuition fees for funded PhD students. This makes Italy far more affordable than countries requiring large tuition fee transfers abroad.

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Additional Financial Benefits for PhD Students

Benefit Details
Monthly Stipend ~€1,195 gross per month (increases 50% for foreign research periods)
Tuition Fees Funded students are exempt from tuition fees
Research Funds Additional research budget for conferences, publications, lab materials
Meal Subsidy Access to university canteens at subsidized prices
Health Coverage Access to Italy’s National Health Service (SSN) for enrolled PhD students
Tax Benefits PhD stipends are tax-free up to certain income thresholds in Italy
Accommodation Support Priority access to university housing or DSU Toscana housing grants

Student Accommodation in Italy – Living in Florence

Finding the right accommodation is one of the first practical challenges for any new international student. Florence is a popular city, and housing can be competitive, especially at the start of the academic year.

University Housing Options

The University of Florence works with DSU Toscana (Azienda Regionale per il Diritto allo Studio Universitario della Toscana) to provide subsidized housing for eligible students. This includes university dormitories and residential facilities at affordable rates.

Funded PhD students can apply for DSU. Toscana accommodation grants, which cover or significantly reduce the cost of student accommodation in the Toscana region of Italy. Applying early is essential as spaces are limited.

Private Rentals in Florence

Many PhD students opt for private rentals, either single rooms in shared apartments or studio flats. The average cost of renting a room in a shared apartment in Florence is approximately €400 to €700 per month, depending on the neighborhood and proximity to the university.

Popular student-friendly neighborhoods in Florence include Oltrarno, Campo di Marte, and Rifredi. If you need help finding accommodation, relocation services for students are available through both the university’s international office and private agencies.

Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Florence

Expense Estimated Monthly Cost (EUR)
Accommodation (shared) €400 – €700
Food and Groceries €200 – €300
Public Transport €35 – €50
Health Insurance Covered by SSN for most enrolled students
Books and Supplies €30 – €80
Leisure and Personal €100 – €200
Total Estimated Monthly Cost €765 – €1,330 per month

With the PhD stipend of approximately €1,000 net per month, most funded PhD students in Florence can cover their basic living expenses comfortably, especially if they access university accommodation or housing subsidies.

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International Student Health Insurance in Italy

Healthcare in Italy is provided through the National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale – SSN). PhD students enrolled at Italian universities are generally entitled to access this system.

Non-EU students who are officially enrolled and hold a valid study permit can register with the SSN at their local health authority (ASL). This gives them access to general practitioners, specialist visits, and emergency care at minimal or no cost.

Before arriving in Italy, it is advisable to have interim international student health insurance to cover the period between arrival and SSN registration. Your immigration consultant or study abroad consultant near me can recommend reliable providers.

Work Rights for PhD Students in Italy

One of the most common questions from international PhD applicants is whether they can work while studying in Italy. The answer is yes, within limits.

Part-Time Work During PhD Studies

Non-EU students with a valid study permit in Italy are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. This can be a helpful way to supplement your stipend income, especially in a city like Florence where living costs can be higher than in smaller Italian cities.

Many PhD students find part-time teaching assistantships, lab assistant roles, or tutoring positions within the university. These roles also strengthen your academic CV and professional profile.

Work Permit After Study in Italy

After completing your PhD, you may be eligible to apply for a work permit after your studies. Italy allows PhD graduates to convert their study permit to a work permit or to apply for a job-seeker residence permit.

If you secure employment, the transition from study permit to work visa in Italy follows a structured process. Many graduates work with an immigration lawyer in Italy or a best immigration law firm to ensure the conversion is completed without any issues.

PR Pathway After PhD in Italy – Long-Term Immigration Options

Completing a PhD at the University of Florence opens several long-term immigration pathways in Italy and across the European Union.

Permanent Residence in Italy After Study

Non-EU citizens who have legally resided in Italy for five continuous years may apply for long-term EU residence (Permesso di Soggiorno per soggiornanti di lungo periodo). This is essentially Italy’s version of a permanent residence application.

PhD students who complete a three-year doctoral program and then secure employment in Italy for two more years can meet this five-year threshold. Consulting an immigration attorney consultation service early in your PhD can help you plan this timeline strategically.

EU Blue Card Italy – Skilled Worker Pathway

Italy participates in the EU Blue Card scheme, which offers an accelerated pathway to permanent residency and EU mobility for highly qualified non-EU professionals. PhD holders are typically well-positioned to qualify for the EU Blue Card in Italy.

The EU Blue Card requires a job offer in Italy with a salary above a specified threshold, plus a recognized higher education qualification. A PhD from the University of Florence clearly satisfies the qualification requirement, making the skilled worker visa requirements easier to meet.

Post Study Work Visa Options in Italy

Italy offers a specific residence permit category for those seeking employment after graduation (Permesso per attesa occupazione). This allows graduates to stay in Italy while searching for suitable employment following the completion of their Ph.D.

The post-study work visa period in Italy gives you time to leverage your University of Florence network and professional contacts to find a suitable position. Many PhD graduates also explore options in other EU countries using their Italian residency history.

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PR After Study – Planning Your Italian Immigration Journey

Stage Timeline Action
Years 1-3 During PhD Complete PhD, maintain valid study permit, build professional network
Year 3-4 After PhD Apply for post-study work permit or EU Blue Card
Year 4-5 Employment Secure skilled employment and maintain continuous legal residence
Year 5+ PR Application Apply for a Long-Term EU Residence Permit (Permanent Residence)

Tips for a Strong University of Florence PhD Application

Applying for a PhD position is highly competitive, especially for funded positions. Here are the most important strategies to maximize your chances of success.

Write a Targeted and Detailed Research Proposal

Your research proposal is the most important element of your application. It should clearly define your research question, methodology, expected outcomes, and why the University of Florence is the ideal institution for your research.

Reference specific professors, research groups, or labs at UniFi that align with your work. Showing that you have done your homework impresses selection committees and signals that you are a serious, committed candidate.

Contact Potential Supervisors Early

Before submitting your application, reach out to potential PhD supervisors at the University of Florence to introduce yourself and your research interests. A supportive supervisor who knows about your application can significantly strengthen your candidacy.

Review each professor’s recent publications and research projects on the university’s website. Write a personalized, professional email introducing yourself and explaining how your research aligns with theirs.

Ensure Your Degree is Properly Recognized

International applicants must ensure their master’s degree is recognized as equivalent to an Italian Laurea Magistrale. This can be done through a declaration of value (Dichiarazione di Valore) issued by the Italian embassy in your country or through the Italian ENIC-NARIC center.

Consult an education consultant for Italy or a university admission consultant to help you gather the correct documentation. Delay in degree recognition is one of the most common reasons for application complications among international PhD applicants.

Apply to Multiple Ph.D. Programs

The University of Florence offers dozens of PhD programs across different schools. If your research interests overlap with multiple disciplines, consider applying to more than one program to maximize your chances of securing a funded position.

Always read each program’s call for applications carefully, as eligibility requirements, documents needed, and deadlines may differ between programs. Your study abroad consultant near me can help you identify the best-fit programs for your profile.

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University of Florence PhD vs Other Italian PhD Programs

University Location Strengths PhD Funding
University of Florence Florence Humanities, Sciences, architecture, and Medicine Government + PNRR + Internal
University of Bologna Bologna Law, Economics, Engineering Government + External
Sapienza University Rome Rome Social Sciences, Architecture, Medicine Government + PNRR
Politecnico di Milano Milan Engineering, Design, Architecture Government + Industry
University of Padova Padova Sciences, Agriculture, Medicine Government + EU Funds

The University of Florence stands out for its rich interdisciplinary environment, its strong humanities and arts heritage, and its growing STEM research capacity, especially through PNRR-funded PhD positions.

Frequently Asked Questions – University of Florence PhD Program

Can I apply without a master’s degree?

In exceptional cases, candidates with outstanding research backgrounds may be considered. However, the standard requirement is a master’s degree or equivalent. If you are unsure whether your qualification qualifies, consult with a university admission consultant or contact the specific PhD program coordinator at UniFI directly.

Are There PhD Programs Fully in English at UniFI?

Yes. The University of Florence offers a growing number of PhD programs taught entirely in English, especially in STEM fields, biomedical sciences, and some social science disciplines. Check each program’s specific call for applications to confirm the language of instruction.

Can I apply for multiple PhD programs at the same university?

Yes, in most cases you can apply to more than one Ph.D. program at the University of Florence simultaneously, provided that each program has its own separate application and you meet the individual eligibility criteria for each.

How competitive are funded PhD positions at UniFI?

Funded PhD positions at Italian universities are highly competitive. The ratio of applicants to available funded positions can be 5:1 or higher for popular programs. A strong research proposal, solid academic background, and early contact with potential supervisors are the most effective ways to improve your chances.

What Is the PhD Dropout Rate in Italy?

Italy has one of the lower PhD dropout rates in Europe, largely because funded students are financially supported throughout the three-year program. The structured supervision model and access to research resources help students stay on track with their doctoral projects.

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Immigration Consultants and Legal Support for Italian PhD Students

Navigating the Italian immigration system can be complex, especially for first-time arrivals. Working with the right professionals makes the entire process smoother and less stressful.

When to Consult an Immigration Lawyer Italy

You should consult an immigration lawyer in Italy if you have any concerns about your visa category, study permit renewal, work rights, or long-term PR pathway. Italy’s immigration regulations can change, and having professional legal advice protects you from costly mistakes.

A qualified immigration attorney consultation service can also help you understand how your PhD residence time counts toward your permanent residence application and what steps to take after graduation to maintain legal status in Italy.

Education Consultants for Italy – How They Can Help

An education consultant for Italy can help you identify the right PhD program, prepare your application, review your research proposal, and coordinate your degree recognition process. They often have direct connections with universities and can facilitate faster communication with faculty or admissions offices.

Many international student recruitment agencies offer specialized Italy PhD consultation services. When evaluating immigration consultant fees and education consultant packages, always look for professionals with verified experience in Italian doctoral programs specifically.

Study Abroad Consultant Near Me – Online Options Available

You do not need to find a physical study abroad consultant near me—many top consultants operate fully online and specialize in European PhD programs, Italian visa applications, and long-term immigration planning.

Online consultants can provide services including application review, motivation letter editing, visa document preparation, and immigration pathway planning, all from the comfort of your home country.

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Application Deadline and Timeline for PhD 2026/2027

Milestone Estimated Timeline
Applications Open April – May 2026
Application Deadline June – July 2026 (varies by program)
Entrance Exams / Interviews July – August 2026
Results Published August – September 2026
Enrollment Period September – October 2026
PhD Program Starts November 2026
Visa Application Deadline (Non-EU) Begin at least 3 months before arrival

Note: Exact dates vary by PhD program and may be updated on the official UniFi website. Always verify with the official call for applications.

Final Thoughts – Is the University of Florence PhD Program Right for You?

The University of Florence PhD Program 2026/2027 is one of the most rewarding academic opportunities available in Europe for international doctoral students. It combines academic excellence, cultural richness, generous funding through government and PNRR scholarships, and a clear long-term immigration pathway in Italy.

Whether you are a young researcher from Asia, Africa, the Americas, or elsewhere in Europe, the University of Florence offers an internationally recognized doctoral degree, a supportive research environment, and access to one of the world’s most inspiring cities.

With proper planning, the right education consultant for Italy, and a strong research proposal, your path from PhD applicant to University of Florence doctoral student—and eventually to permanent residence in Italy—is entirely achievable.

Start your preparation early, connect with qualified immigration and education consultants, and begin building your application for the 2026/2027 cycle today.

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Official Scholarship and Visa Application Websites

Resource Official Website Purpose
University of Florence – Official PhD Portal https://www.unifi.it/en/research/phd-programmes PhD program listings and application portal
Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) https://www.mur.gov.it Government funding and PhD scholarship information
Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Visa Information https://vistoperitalia.esteri.it/home/en Italian visa application and requirements
DSU Toscana – Student Housing and Grants https://www.dsu.toscana.it Student accommodation and financial support in Tuscany
Universitaly – Italian Government Study Portal https://www.universitaly.it Pre-enrollment and study in Italy: information for non-EU students
CIMEA – Italian ENIC-NARIC Center https://www.cimea.it/en Foreign degree recognition and equivalency in Italy
DAAD Italy – Scholarships for Italy https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/italy Scholarship database including Italian programs
Italian Interior Ministry – Residence Permits https://www.interno.gov.it/en Study permit and residency information for Italy
Study in Italy – Official Portal https://studyinitaly.esteri.it/en/home Scholarships, programs, and study visa information for Italy

 

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