Italy has very good globally ranked universities which offer high quality English taught programs.
In this article I will cover:
Benefits of studying in Italy
How to apply for an Italian student visa from Pakistan
Scholarships for Pakistani students
Visa application process
Tips for success
Why Choose Italy for Study?
Here are some major advantages of studying in Italy:
| Advantage | Details |
| International Environment | Home to over 32,000 international students |
| Top Universities | University of Bologna, University of Sapienza |
| Affordable | Tuition starts as low as €1000/year |
| English-Taught Programs | Hundreds of programs in engineering, business, arts, etc. |
| Part-time Jobs | Allowed to work 20 hours/week on a student visa |
Types of Programs Available
Bachelors (Laurea Triennale) – 3 years
Masters (Laurea Magistrale) – 2 years
PhD (Dottorato di Ricerca) – 3-4 years
Short Specialization Courses or Diplomas
Scholarships in Italy for Pakistani Students
Here are the top funding options for Pakistani students:
| Scholarship Name | Description |
| Italian Government Scholarship (MAECI) | Fully funded for Master’s/PhD, covers tuition, €900 monthly stipend |
| University Scholarships | Most Italian universities offer fee waivers and grants |
| DSU Regional Scholarships | Need-based, includes free meals, housing, transport & €4000+ cash |
| Erasmus+ | Exchange scholarships for 6–12 months during your degree |
| Invest Your Talent in Italy | Targeted scholarships for selected Master’s programs in English |
Documents Required for Admission in Italy
Valid Passport
Educational Documents (Matric to latest degree)
Language Proof: IELTS or medium of instruction letter (some universities accept this)
Motivation Letter & CV
Reference Letters
Application Form
Portfolio (for design/art-based programs)
How to Apply for Italy Study Visa (D-Type) from Pakistan
Get Admission Offer
Apply directly to Italian universities via their official websites or through the University Portal. Once selected you will receive a pre-enrollment letter or an admission offer.
Register on Universitaly Portal
Register at www.universitaly.it for official pre-enrollment. Select your university and upload required documents.
Prepare Visa Application Documents
Book Appointment at Italian Embassy in Islamabad
You can book your visa appointment through VFS Global.
Submit your documents in person and give biometrics.
After Visa Approval
Book your flight to Italy
Inform the university about your arrival
Complete residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) process within 8 days of arrival
Register with the local police (Questura)
Start attending classes!
Can I Work While Studying in Italy?
Yes! Students are allowed to:
Work part-time up to 20 hours per week during studies
Work full-time during vacations
After graduation apply for a job seeker visa valid for 6–12 months
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Visa Approval
- Always show genuine intent to study
- Show strong financial support (personal or sponsor)
- Choose universities with medium to high QS rankings
- Write a clear and personalized SOP
- Show your future plans and how the degree fits your goals
- Apply early to have time for document attestation and visa slot booking
Also read this: Finland Student Visa and Scholarship for Pakistanis
