Quick answer
To study in Italy from Pakistan, apply to an Italian university (many offer English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes), complete the pre-enrolment application on the Universitaly portal, and then apply for a Type D study visa at the Italian visa centre. After arrival, apply for a permesso di soggiorno (residence permit). Many students also apply for income-based regional scholarships (DSU), which require translated and legalised family income documents.
Key takeaways
- Admission is usually a university application first, followed by pre-enrolment on Universitaly.
- Fees at public universities are often linked to family income and can be lower than in many other study destinations.
- Regional scholarships (DSU) can cover accommodation, meals and a stipend, but require detailed income documentation.
- You must apply for a residence permit (permesso di soggiorno) shortly after arriving in Italy.
How admission works in Italy
Choose programmes
Search English-taught programmes and check entry requirements, deadlines and any entrance tests.
Apply to the university
Most universities have their own online portal and evaluate your documents before giving an admission letter.
Pre-enrol on Universitaly
Complete the pre-enrolment application on Universitaly so the university and the Italian mission can process your file.
Apply for the study visa
Submit the Type D (national) study visa application with your admission, funds, accommodation and insurance evidence.
DSU regional scholarships and fee reductions
Each Italian region has a student-support body (for example in Lazio, Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna or Lombardy) that offers needs-based scholarships, often called DSU scholarships. Awards may include a cash stipend, meal services and accommodation, and many universities also reduce tuition for scholarship holders.
- Prepare family income and asset documents, translated into Italian and legalised as required.
- Watch regional deadlines, which can be earlier than the university deadline.
- Understand the merit requirements to keep the award in later years.
Read scholarships vs tuition discounts to understand what any award really covers.
After you arrive: the permesso di soggiorno
Students entering Italy on a study visa must apply for a residence permit for study (permesso di soggiorno per studio) within the period set by Italian law, normally within eight working days of arrival, usually through a post office application kit. Keep copies of every receipt.
Explore programme types on our Italy destination page or book a consultation to plan documents and deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
01Is studying in Italy cheaper than the UK?
Often, yes. Many public Italian universities set fees according to family income, and regional scholarships can reduce living costs. Total cost still depends on the city and programme.
02What is Universitaly?
Universitaly is the Italian Ministry of University and Research portal used by international students to submit pre-enrolment applications before applying for a study visa.
03Can I study in Italy in English?
Yes. Many Italian universities offer English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programmes. Learning basic Italian still helps with daily life and part-time work.
04What is the DSU scholarship?
DSU refers to regional right-to-study scholarships, usually based on family income. They may include a stipend, meals and accommodation.
Sources and official resources
Information in this guide was checked against the following sources on 10 October 2026. Rules change, so always confirm the latest details.
