September Intake in Italy: Courses, Scholarships & Student Visa Process

Italy is one of the most popular destinations for higher education. Known for its art, history, and delicious food, Italy also offers world-class universities at affordable costs. For international students, the main admission season is the September intake in Italy. This is the best time to start bachelor’s or master’s degree programmes. In this guide, we will explain the courses, scholarships, and student visa process in simple steps.

Why Choose the September Intake in Italy?

The September intake, also called the Fall intake, is the primary admission period. Most Italian universities open their main courses during this time. The academic year usually starts in late September or early October and ends in June. By applying for this intake, you get the widest choice of programs. You also have enough time to arrange accommodation and apply for a visa.

Popular Courses for September Intake

Italian universities are famous for specific study areas. Here are some top courses you can find in the September intake universities in Italy:

• Engineering & Architecture – Politecnico di Milano and Politecnico di Torino are leaders in mechanical, civil, and computer engineering.

• Arts & Humanities – The University of Bologna and Sapienza University of Rome offer excellent programs in history, literature, and fine arts.

• Business & Economics – Bocconi University and University of Bologna are known for MBA, finance, and economics.

• Medicine & Health Sciences – Many public universities offer medicine taught in English. Admission usually requires an entrance exam.

• Design & Fashion – Istituto Marangoni and Polimoda are top choices for fashion design and luxury brand management.

September Intake Universities in Italy for Indian Students

Indian students are increasingly choosing Italy for its low tuition fees and high-quality education. Here are some of the best September intake universities in Italy for Indian students:

1. University of Bologna – The oldest university in the world. It has many English-taught programmes in economics, engineering, and humanities.

2. Politecnico di Milano – Ranked among top engineering schools in Europe. Offers scholarships for international students.

3. Sapienza University of Rome – Great for natural sciences, engineering, and medicine.

4. University of Padua – Known for its research output and affordable fees. It also provides a supportive environment for Indian students.

5. University of Turin – Offers courses in business, political science, and law.

These universities have dedicated international offices that help Indian students with admission, accommodation, and visa guidance.

Scholarships for September Intake in Italy

Money should not stop you from studying in Italy. Many scholarships are available for the September intake. Here are some key options:

• Italian Government Scholarships (MAECI) – These are for both bachelor’s and master’s students. They cover tuition fees and provide a monthly living allowance.

• University-Specific Scholarships – For example, Politecnico di Milano offers the Merit Award (€8,000 per year) and Politecnico di Torino offers the TOPoliTO scholarship (€8,000 plus tuition waiver).

• EDISU (Regional Scholarships) – These are based on family income. They can cover tuition, accommodation, and meals.

• Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) – A government scholarship for students from specific countries, including India. It also offers internship opportunities with Italian companies.

Apply early because scholarship deadlines are usually 2–3 months before the course starts.

Student Visa Process for September Intake

To study in Italy, non-EU students (including Indians) need a Type D (National) visa for study purposes. Start the process at least 3–4 months before September. Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Get Admission and Acceptance Letter

First, apply to one of the September intake universities in Italy for Indian students. After selection, you will receive an official acceptance letter. This is necessary for the visa application.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Here is the checklist:

• Valid passport (with at least two blank pages)

• Completed visa application form

• Recent passport-size photographs

• University acceptance letter

• Proof of accommodation in Italy

• Financial proof (around €6,000–7,000 per year to show you can support yourself)

• Health insurance (valid in Italy and Schengen area)

• Pre-enrolment confirmation from the Italian university (called “Universitaly” registration)

Step 3: Book a Visa Appointment

Visit the website of the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your country (for Indian students, this is in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, or Bengaluru). Book an appointment for a study visa. Wait times can be long, so do not delay.

Step 4: Attend the Interview

Go to the consulate on your appointment date. Carry both original documents and photocopies. They may ask simple questions about why you chose Italy and your study plans.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

The visa processing usually takes 15–30 days. Once approved, you can travel to Italy. Remember that after reaching Italy, you must apply for a “Permesso di Soggiorno” (residence permit) within 8 days.

Key Tips for Indian Students

• Learn Basic Italian – While many master’s courses are in English, knowing simple Italian helps with daily life and part-time jobs.

• Part-Time Work – Students can work up to 20 hours per week. This helps cover small expenses.

• Stay Connected – Join Indian student associations in cities like Milan, Rome, or Bologna. They offer great support.

• Apply Early – Most universities have deadlines from March to May for September intake. Start your research at least 6 months in advance.

Conclusion

The September intake in Italy is the perfect launchpad for an international career. With excellent September intake universities in Italy offering affordable courses, generous scholarships, and a clear visa process, Italy is very welcoming to global learners. For September intake universities in Italy for Indian students, the options are plentiful and supportive. Start your application today, and you could be sitting in a historic Italian classroom by next September. Buona fortuna! (Good luck!)