What it costs to study in Italy: tuition, living and one-off fees
Tuition fees
| Level | Typical annual fee |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | €900 to €4,000 at public universities, income-based |
| Postgraduate | €900 to €4,000 at public universities; €10,000 to €25,000 at private universities and design academies |
Bocconi, Politecnico design schools and private academies charge full fees.
Living costs
| Monthly cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €300 to €700 (Milan and Rome highest) |
| Food and groceries | €200 to €300 |
| Transport | €20 to €40 with student passes |
| Utilities and phone | €70 to €120 |
| Health insurance | About €700 a year to register with the national health service |
Total: €700 to €1,200 a month.
One-off costs
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | €50 visa; about €150 for the residence permit kit |
| Health cover | National health service registration or private insurance |
| Flights | Return flights from South Asia or West Africa typically £500 to £900 or equivalent |
| Accommodation deposit | Usually one month's rent, refundable |
| Set-up costs | Bedding, kitchen items, winter clothing: budget the equivalent of £200 to £300 |
Build your own budget
Enter your own figures. This adds them up; it does not know your course.
Where students save
- Choose a city outside the capital: the difference is often 20 to 40 percent on rent.
- Book accommodation with bills included before you arrive.
- Apply early for automatic merit scholarships; see the scholarship guide.
- Plan part-time work at 12 to 15 hours a week, not the maximum.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
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Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Can I study in Italy in English?
Yes. Over 600 programmes are taught in English, mostly at master's level and in engineering, economics, design and medicine.
How low can Italian fees go?
With a low family income certified through ISEE, public university fees can drop to under €1,000 a year, and DSU scholarships can add free meals and housing.
Can I stay in Italy after graduating?
Yes, with a 12-month job-seeking permit, which converts to a work permit once you find a job.