MS in Italy 2027/28: English-Taught Programmes, Fees, Eligibility and Deadlines
392 English-taught science and engineering master's at 48 public universities: GRE rules, entry with a degree from India, fees and deadlines.
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Written by İrem Yılmaz, Student Experience Lead. Reviewed by Reeya Sharma, Student Success and Partnerships. Published 28 September 2026. Updated 28 September 2026.
In short
- Yes, you can study an MS in Italy in English. We list 392 English-taught science, technology and engineering master's at 48 public universities. Each is a two-year laurea magistrale of 120 credits.
- Tuition follows family income (ISEE), so study can be tuition-free for eligible students. DSU scholarship winners are exempt from tuition.
- You need a bachelor's degree that would admit you to a master's in India. Politecnico di Milano asks for 4 years (BE, BTech) or a 3-year Honours BSc. A few programmes mention the GRE, usually as optional, and 110 of the 392 set their own admission test or assessment.
- For 2027/28, the University of Padua's first round closes on 15 November 2026. The visa application must reach the consulate by 31 October 2027.
- ApplyAZ, an Italy-based consultancy that works only with public universities, helps eligible students by handling the applications, Universitaly pre-enrolment, the DSU scholarship application and the visa file.
Check your eligibility first. If you are eligible, you book a one-to-one consultation with one of our Italy experts, and from there we take care of everything.
MS in Italy 2027/28: key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| What we count as an MS | An English-taught two-year master's (laurea magistrale) filed under engineering, computer science or natural sciences in our catalogue |
| English-taught MS programmes | 392 at 48 public universities, out of 694 English-taught master's in our catalogue (9 October 2026) |
| Length and credits | 2 years and 120 credits (CFU), for the title of Dottore Magistrale |
| Tuition, 2026/27 | Set by family income (ISEE), so study can be tuition-free for eligible students. Families with income abroad can file an ISEE or request the flat fee for their country, and DSU scholarship winners are exempt from tuition |
| DSU scholarship, 2026/27 | At least €7,171.11 a year (₹7.84 lakh) for students living away from home; national family ISEE ceiling €28,339.88 (MUR decrees 175 and 176 of 2026) |
| Entry qualification | A first-cycle degree at EQF level 6 that gives access to a master's where it was awarded; some universities want 4 years |
| Entry tests | A few programmes mention the GRE, usually as optional; 110 of 392 set their own test or assessment |
| English | Usually B2, set by each university; the consulate checks B2 English at the visa stage (MUR circular 2026/27 and 2027/28, Part II) |
| Intake | Autumn: courses start in late September or early October; no second-semester entry for applicants abroad at Padua or Politecnico di Torino |
| Next deadline | University of Padua, first 2027/28 round: 15 September to 15 November 2026 |
| Visa | Apply by 31 October 2027 for 2027/28, with at least €10,179.85 a year in funds (₹11.12 lakh) |
| Work | Up to 20 hours a week and 1,040 hours a year while studying; a job-search permit of 9 to 12 months after graduating |
What is an MS in Italy?
An MS in Italy is a two-year laurea magistrale in a science, technology or engineering subject, worth 120 credits, as studyinitaly.esteri.it describes the degree. Italy has no separate "MS" title. Students from countries like India use the term for these master's, and we list 392 taught in English.
Here is how we count. A programme is on this page when our catalogue lists it as an English-taught two-year master's and files it under engineering, computer science or natural sciences. That gives 392 of the 694 English-taught master's we list: 245 in engineering, 105 in natural sciences and 42 in computer science.
Of these, 75 are listed as taught in English and Italian, including computer engineering and mechanical engineering at Politecnico di Torino. For those, we check which curriculum is taught in English when one fits your profile.
A few heritage, archaeology and media courses filed under engineering stay in the count, in their own row below. Business and economics master's sit in our masters in Italy hub, and recent management graduates should read MIM in Italy.
A one-year master universitario is a different qualification. Studyinitaly.esteri.it states that it is not equivalent to a laurea magistrale and not compatible with a MAECI grant. Our one-year master's guide explains how recognition, DSU and the visa differ.
How many English-taught MS programmes are there in Italy?
We list 392 English-taught MS programmes at 48 public universities for 2027/28, counted on 9 October 2026. That is a count of what we track, not a national total. Engineering accounts for 245 of them, natural sciences for 105 and computer science for 42.
The University of Padua lists the most, with 38. Sapienza in Rome follows with 28, then Politecnico di Milano and the University of Bologna with 27 each and Politecnico di Torino with 21.
| Subject (subject guide where one exists) | English-taught MS programmes | Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic, electrical, telecommunications and ICT | 54 | 24 |
| Energy, environment and sustainability | 48 | 24 |
| Chemistry, materials, chemical and food engineering | 44 | 26 |
| Computer science and cybersecurity (Computer science guide) | 38 | 22 |
| Physics, astrophysics and earth sciences | 33 | 26 |
| Mechanical, mechatronics, automotive and aerospace (Mechanical engineering guide) | 33 | 23 |
| Biology, biotechnology and neuroscience (Pharmacy and biotechnology guide) | 31 | 22 |
| Civil, transport and building engineering | 27 | 14 |
| Data science (Data science guide) | 19 | 18 |
| Mathematics, statistics and engineering physics | 18 | 15 |
| Artificial intelligence (AI guide) | 14 | 12 |
| Management engineering | 12 | 12 |
| Biomedical engineering and bioengineering | 9 | 9 |
| Other programmes filed under these areas (heritage, archaeology, design, media) | 12 | 10 |
| Total | 392 | 48 |
Source: ApplyAZ programme catalogue, English-taught two-year master's, counted on 9 October 2026. Each programme is counted once, under the first subject that matches its name.
Which universities teach an MS in computer science, data science or AI in English?
Pisa, Padua and Sapienza in Rome teach the most, with 6 each, followed by Trento and the University of Milan with 4 each; in all, 32 public universities in our catalogue teach them. We list 71 English-taught programmes for these three searches: 43 in computer science and cybersecurity, 21 in data science and 15 in artificial intelligence, and 7 match more than one search.
Most select on CV and grades rather than a test. The lists below show a selection with how each one admits students; the programme finder has them all. For depth, read our guides to computer science in Italy, data science in Italy and artificial intelligence in Italy.
Computer science and cybersecurity
- Computer Science and Information Technology, Ca' Foscari University of Venice: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Applied Computer Science (Machine Learning and Big Data), Parthenope University of Naples: open access with an admission interview, no test.
- Geoinformatics Engineering, Politecnico di Milano: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- High Performance Computing Engineering, Politecnico di Milano: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Computer Science, Sapienza University of Rome: entry test not recorded yet.
- Cybersecurity, Sapienza University of Rome: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Engineering in Computer Science, Sapienza University of Rome: entry test not recorded yet.
- Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science, University of Calabria (also AI): admission test set by the university.
- Software: Science and Technology, University of Florence: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Computer Engineering, University of Genoa: no test if your grade meets the threshold, otherwise an admission test.
- Computer Science, University of Genoa: admission test set by the university.
- Computer Science, University of Insubria: open access with an admission interview, no test.
- Computer Engineering, University of Padua: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Computer Science, University of Padua: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Cybersecurity, University of Padua: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- International Cybersecurity and Cyberintelligence, University of Padua: entry test not recorded yet.
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, University of Palermo (also AI): selection on CV and grades plus an interview, no test.
- Computer Engineering, University of Pavia: no test if grades meet the threshold, otherwise a written assessment.
- Computer Engineering, University of Pisa: selection on CV and grades, plus an online interview, no test.
- Computer Science, University of Pisa: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Cybersecurity, University of Pisa: admission test set by the university.
- Data Science and Business Informatics, University of Pisa (also data science): selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Informatics for Digital Health, University of Pisa: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Computer Science, University of Trento: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Human-Computer Interaction, University of Trento: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Computer Engineering, University of Trieste: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Artificial Intelligence and High Performance Computing Technologies, University of Turin (also AI): no test if your grade meets the threshold, otherwise an interview.
- Computer Engineering for Intelligent Systems, University of Verona: no test if your grade meets the threshold, otherwise an interview.
- Medical Bioinformatics, University of Verona: no test if your grade meets the threshold, otherwise an interview.
Data science
One of them appears in the computer science list above; the rest are here.
- Data Analytics for Business and Society, Ca' Foscari University of Venice: admission test set by the university.
- Data Science, Sapienza University of Rome: admission test set by the university (online test and interview).
- Data Science, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Data Science, University of Catania: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Data Science, University of Messina: selection on degree and credits, no test.
- Data Science for Economics and Health, University of Milan: admission test set by the university (online background test).
- Data Science, University of Milano-Bicocca: entry requirements checked by the university, no test.
- Data Science, University of Naples Federico II: entry test not recorded yet.
- Data Science, University of Padua: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Physics of Data, University of Padua: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Data Science for Management, University of Parma: admission test set by the university.
- Data Science, University of Trento: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Stochastics and Data Science, University of Turin: interview or online test to check preparation; some graduates exempt.
- Data Science, University of Verona: no test if your grade meets the threshold, otherwise an interview.
Artificial intelligence
Three of them appear in the computer science list above; the rest are here.
- Artificial Intelligence, Sapienza University of Rome: selection set by the EMAI consortium of universities.
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, Sapienza University of Rome: entry test not recorded yet.
- Artificial Intelligence for Science and Technology, University of Milano-Bicocca: no test if your grade meets the threshold, otherwise an interview.
- Artificial Intelligence Engineering, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Artificial Intelligence and Data Engineering, University of Pisa: selection on CV and grades, plus an online interview, no test.
- Artificial Intelligence and Automation Engineering, University of Siena: admission test set by the university.
- Artificial Intelligence Systems, University of Trento: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Artificial Intelligence for Biomedicine and Healthcare, University of Turin: admission test set by the university.
Source: ApplyAZ programme catalogue (programme name and entry-test field), 9 October 2026. Where the entry test is not recorded yet, we read the official call before you apply.
Which Italian universities are best for an MS in computer science?
Politecnico di Milano leads Italy in computer science, joint 58th in the world in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. Sapienza (72), Bologna (=95), Politecnico di Torino (=124) and Pisa (=144) follow. Rank is only one input, because a ranked university may not teach your subject in English only: at Politecnico di Torino, 12 of the 21 MS programmes in our catalogue are listed in English and Italian.
The table sets three QS subject tables against each university's English-taught MS count in our catalogue. For all subjects, read best universities in Italy.
| University | QS Computer Science 2026 | QS Data Science and AI 2026 | QS Mechanical Engineering 2026 | English-taught MS in our catalogue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Politecnico di Milano | =58 | 32 | 14 | 27 |
| Sapienza University of Rome | 72 | 51 to 100 | 72 | 28 |
| University of Bologna | =95 | 51 to 100 | 123 | 27 |
| Politecnico di Torino | =124 | 101 to 200 | =30 | 21 |
| University of Pisa | =144 | 101 to 200 | 201 to 250 | 15 |
| University of Padua | 201 to 250 | 101 to 200 | 149 | 38 |
| University of Trento | 201 to 250 | Not ranked | 301 to 350 | 14 |
| University of Milan | 251 to 300 | 101 to 200 | 401 to 450 | 11 |
| University of Genoa | 301 to 350 | Not ranked | 201 to 250 | 13 |
| University of Naples Federico II | 401 to 450 | Not ranked | 151 to 200 | 13 |
Source: QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, published 25 March 2026, Italy tables for Computer Science and Information Systems, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and Engineering, Mechanical. We list public universities in the top 250 of at least one table; one private university and two special-statute schools in Pisa also appear in the computer science table. Counts: ApplyAZ catalogue, 9 October 2026.
Can I study an MS in mechanical engineering in Italy in English?
Yes, but the choice is narrower than in computing. Our catalogue lists 12 English-taught master's named mechanical engineering and 21 more in mechatronics, automotive, aerospace, robotics and industrial engineering. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, Politecnico di Milano is 14th in the world for mechanical engineering and Politecnico di Torino joint 30th.
Politecnico di Milano's Mechanical Engineering is in our catalogue. Torino's Mechanical Engineering is listed in English and Italian, so we check which curriculum runs in English before you apply. The lists below show a selection. Our mechanical engineering guide covers careers and entry requirements in depth.
Mechanical engineering
- Mechanical Engineering, Polytechnic University of Bari: no test if your grade meets the threshold, otherwise an interview.
- Mechanical Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome: entry test not recorded yet.
- Mechanical Engineering, University of Calabria: entry test not recorded yet.
- Mechanical Engineering for Sustainability, University of Florence: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Mechanical Engineering for Product Innovation, University of Padua: selection on CV and grades, no test.
Mechatronics, automotive, aerospace and industrial engineering
- Green Industrial Engineering, Marche Polytechnic University: open access with a check of your preparation, no test.
- Space and Astronautical Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome: entry test not recorded yet.
- Mechatronics and Smart Technology Engineering, University of Bergamo: selection on CV and an interview, no test.
- Advanced Automotive Engineering, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia: selection on CV and grades (plus a self-presentation video), no test.
- Sustainable Industrial Engineering, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Autonomous Vehicle Engineering, University of Naples Federico II: requirements and personal preparation checked, no test.
- Sciences of Aerospace Systems for the Defence, University of Naples Federico II: entry test not recorded yet.
- Aerospace Engineering, University of Padua: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Mechatronics Engineering, University of Padua: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Mechatronics Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Aerospace Engineering, University of Salento: entry test not recorded yet.
- Smart Industry Engineering, University of Salerno: admission test set by the university: a mandatory assessment of qualifications.
- Intelligent Mechatronics Engineering, University of Trento: selection on CV and grades, no test.
- Industrial Engineering for Sustainable Manufacturing, University of Udine: selection on CV and grades, with an interview if needed, no test.
Source: ApplyAZ programme catalogue, 9 October 2026.
Is GRE required for an MS in Italy?
No. A few programmes mention the GRE, usually as optional. Most select on CV and grades, sometimes with an interview, while 110 of the 392 English-taught MS programmes in our catalogue set their own admission test or assessment. Tor Vergata's Mechatronics Engineering accepts a GRE score only as part of one way to prove English.
| How programmes select | MS programmes | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| No entrance test: selection on CV, grades and entry requirements, sometimes with an interview | 273 | The department reviews your degree and grades. |
| Admission test or assessment set by the university | 110 | The university checks your preparation itself, often online. |
| Not recorded in our catalogue yet | 9 | We read the official call for you before you apply. |
| GRE | Rarely mentioned | A few programmes mention the GRE, usually as optional. |
Source: ApplyAZ programme catalogue, entry-test field of each programme, counted on 9 October 2026.
Where the GRE does appear, it is optional: Tor Vergata's Mechatronics Engineering accepts a university proficiency certificate together with a GRE General Test score in place of an English certificate. Politecnico di Torino lets applicants upload one optional extra document and gives a GRE General Test score report as the example.
Other programmes that set their own admission test or assessment include these, according to our catalogue:
- Civil Engineering for Infrastructural Regeneration, University of Calabria.
- Physics, University of Ferrara.
- Electrical Engineering for Energy Transition, University of Genoa.
- Electronic Engineering, University of Genoa.
- Cosmetic Industrial Science, University of Milan (test on biology, physiology, biochemistry and chemistry).
- Electronic Engineering, University of Padua.
- Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of Pavia (oral exam in English).
- Bionics Engineering, University of Pisa.
- Neuroscience, University of Pisa.
- Electrical Engineering for Digital Energy, University of Salerno.
- Information Engineering for Digital Medicine, University of Salerno.
- Mathematics, University of Trento.
- Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Turin.
- Materials Science, University of Turin (online Moodle test for foreign degrees).
Check your eligibility first. If you are eligible, you book a one-to-one consultation with one of our Italy experts, and from there we take care of everything, including which tests are worth your time.
Can I do an MS in Italy after a 3-year degree?
Often, yes, but not everywhere: the MUR circular for 2026/27 and 2027/28 accepts a first-cycle degree that allows master's study where it was awarded. Some universities set a higher bar. Politecnico di Milano wants at least 4 years, such as a BE or BTech, and considers a 3-year BSc only with Honours.
| Your qualification | Politecnico di Milano | University of Padua, 2027/28 | What it opens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class XII (12 years of school) | Not an entry route for an MS | Not an entry route for an MS | A bachelor's: see BTech in Italy |
| 3-year BA, BSc, BCom or BCA (pass or general) | Not accepted | Accepted with a postgraduate bachelor's or at least a 1-year master's | An MS where 15 years are accepted; we check each list |
| 3-year bachelor's with Honours | May be considered | Accepted | An MS at most universities |
| 4-year BE or BTech | Accepted, with at least 70 out of 100 | Accepted | An MS in engineering or science |
| Master's from India (MSc, MCA, MTech) after a 3-year bachelor's | Not stated; we check your full record | Accepted | An MS at most universities |
Sources: Politecnico di Milano, foreign qualification requirements for India; University of Padua, entry requirements by country, updated 15 September 2026 for 2027/28; MUR circular 2026/27 and 2027/28.
Your degree certificate and transcripts also go through state attestation and an apostille, followed by a Declaration of Value or CIMEA statements, which the family obtains. We tell you exactly which documents to get, in which order, and check every page before the visa appointment. Our guide to DOV or CIMEA explains the choice.
What percentage do I need for an MS in Italy?
There is no national minimum, but each university sets one. For degrees from India, Politecnico di Milano asks for at least 70 out of 100, and the transcript must show your grade point average and the grading system. Programmes that rank applicants also weigh the subjects and credits in your degree, not only the average.
Grades also decide whether you sit a test. In our catalogue, some MS programmes admit on your record above a grade threshold and ask for an interview or a test below it. We compare your marks with each programme's rule, so you apply only where you meet it.
Do I need IELTS for an MS in Italy?
Not always, but you need proof of B2 English, the level most programmes ask for and the consulate checks for the visa. Politecnico di Milano accepts a university attestation that your bachelor's was taught in English in place of a certificate. The Kolkata consulate's visa checklist also accepts a medium-of-instruction declaration.
Rules differ programme by programme. Tor Vergata's Mechatronics Engineering, for example, accepts certificates issued within the last 6 years, and Politecnico di Torino asks for B2 on every English-taught programme. Our guide to studying in Italy without IELTS compares the options university by university.
How tuition works for an MS in Italy
Tuition at public universities follows family income (ISEE), not nationality, so study can be tuition-free for eligible students. Families with income abroad can file an ISEE or request the flat fee for their country, and DSU scholarship winners are exempt from tuition.
Living costs come on top and depend on the city. For the visa, you show at least €10,179.85 a year (₹11.12 lakh), the amount set by the MUR circular. Our MS in Italy cost guide works through full budgets, and cost of studying in Italy compares cities.
Can I get a scholarship for an MS in Italy?
Yes: the main one is the regional DSU scholarship, based on family income and assets. For 2026/27, the Ministry of University and Research set the minimum grant at €7,171.11 a year (₹7.84 lakh) for students living away from home. The national ceiling for family ISEE was €28,339.88 (₹30.96 lakh), and each region sets its own limit within it.
Each region runs its own call with its own limits. The table shows the DSU bodies covering the universities in our MS count, with 2026/27 figures.
| DSU body | Universities in our MS count (programmes) | Family ISEE limit | Top grant, living away from home |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lazio (DiSCo) | Sapienza (28); Tor Vergata (5); Tuscia (4); Cassino (3); Roma Tre (2) | €28,339.88 | €7,556.78 with 2 meals a day (15% more with ISEE up to €14,169.94) |
| Emilia-Romagna (ER.GO) | Bologna (27); Modena and Reggio Emilia (6); Parma (6); Ferrara (1) | €25,000 | €7,171.11 (€8,246.78 with ISEE up to €12,500) |
| University of Padua | Padua (38) | €26,306.25 | €8,246.00 |
| Politecnico di Milano | Politecnico di Milano (27) | Not set yet (awaiting Lombardy) | Not set yet |
| Piedmont (EDISU) | Politecnico di Torino (21); University of Turin (6) | €26,306.25 | €8,096.78 |
| Tuscany (DSU Toscana) | Pisa (15); Siena (6); Florence (5) | €27,000 | €3,338 cash plus a bed and 2 meals a day |
| Campania (ADISURC) | Federico II (13); Salerno (6); Vanvitelli (2); Parthenope (2); Sannio (1) | €25,500 | €7,171.11 (15% more with ISEE up to €12,750) |
| Puglia (ADISU) | Salento (7); Polytechnic University of Bari (7); Bari Aldo Moro (3); Foggia (1) | €26,000 | €7,172 (15% more with ISEE up to €13,000) |
| Liguria (ALiSEO) | Genoa (13) | €28,339 | €7,172 gross |
| University of Milan | University of Milan (11) | €26,887.93 | €7,419.00 (€8,248.00 with meals) |
| Marche (ERDIS) | Marche Polytechnic University (5); Camerino (5) | €24,000 | €7,171.11 (€8,246.78 with ISEE up to €12,000) |
| Catania (ERSU) | Catania (8) | €25,000 | €8,246.78 |
| Palermo (ERSU) | Palermo (7) | €23,000 | €8,246.78 (ISEE under €11,500) |
| Umbria (ADiSU) | Perugia (5) | €28,339.88 | €6,646.78 with a private lease |
| Chieti-Pescara (ADSU) | d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara (2) | €24,335.11 | €7,171.11 in total |
Figures: each body's 2026/27 call, summarised on our DSU scholarship guide and the linked body pages. The other 94 MS programmes in our count are at 15 universities in other regions, among them Trento, L'Aquila, Pavia and Calabria, under the same national rules. The 2026 windows ran from June to September; the 2027/28 calls are pending.
Universities add their own awards. The University of Padua's International Excellence Scholarship pays master's students €8,000 gross a year (₹8.74 lakh) plus exemption from student fees, with up to 76 awards, and its next calls are due in November 2026. Italian Government grants are covered in our MAECI scholarship guide, and Invest Your Talent in Italy has its own page.
We handle the DSU application for eligible students. Where a region asks for an ISEE parificato, the family obtains it from a CAF, and we tell you which documents to get. The region decides the award.
When are the deadlines for an MS in Italy for 2027/28?
Plan to apply from autumn 2026: the University of Padua's first 2027/28 round runs from 15 September to 15 November 2026. Most other universities have not published 2027/28 dates; in 2026/27, Politecnico di Milano's first engineering call closed on 1 December and Politecnico di Torino's on 13 February. The visa deadline is 31 October 2027.
| When | What happens | Who does the work |
|---|---|---|
| Now to 15 November 2026 | University of Padua, first 2027/28 round | We check your eligibility and prepare the application. |
| October 2026 to February 2027 | First calls at most universities (2027/28 dates pending; see the 2026/27 pattern above) | We apply to the programmes that fit your degree. |
| January to April 2027 | Second calls where places remain (in 2026/27, 13 January to 26 February at Politecnico di Milano) | We use them for programmes with places left. |
| Spring 2027 | Admission results; Universitaly pre-enrolment for 2027/28 (opening date pending) | We complete pre-enrolment; the university validates it. |
| Spring to summer 2027 | Degree attestation, apostille and the Declaration of Value or CIMEA statements | The family gets the documents; we tell you which, in which order, and check every page. |
| June to September 2027 | Regional DSU calls (the 2026 windows ran from June to September) | We file the DSU application. |
| By 31 October 2027 | Visa application for 2027/28; processing takes up to 90 days | We prepare the visa file; the consulate decides. |
| Late September to October 2027 | Courses start | You travel and start classes. |
| By 31 January 2028 | Enrolment complete on Universitaly, or the visa is revoked | We track it with you. |
Sources: University of Padua admissions; Politecnico di Milano and Politecnico di Torino deadline pages; MUR circular 2026/27 and 2027/28; Kolkata visa checklist 2026 to 2028.
Apply early at popular universities. Once a university has validated pre-enrolments for its places plus 20%, Universitaly stops further validations. Our intakes in Italy page explains why there is mainly one intake, and the student visa guide covers the visa file.
What is the difference between a masters and an MS in Italy?
There is none in the degree itself: an MS in Italy is the same two-year laurea magistrale of 120 credits as any other master's, and only the subject changes. "MS" is simply the name students from countries like India use for science and engineering master's. The one-year master universitario is a different qualification, as studyinitaly.esteri.it notes.
Our masters in Italy hub covers every two-year master's, from economics to psychology. For business with work experience, read the MBA in Italy guide.
What do MS graduates earn in Italy?
Engineering and IT master's graduates do better than the average in Italy. AlmaLaurea's 2026 report (survey 2025) finds 93.6% of industrial and information engineering master's graduates in work one year after graduating, earning €1,787 net a month on average (₹1.95 lakh). For all two-year master's, the figure is 81.5%.
| Subject group (AlmaLaurea) | In work after 1 year | Net pay a month, 1 year | In work after 5 years | Net pay a month, 5 years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial and information engineering | 93.6% | €1,787 (₹1.95 lakh) | 97.5% | €2,185 (₹2.39 lakh) |
| IT and ICT | 93.3% | €1,771 (₹1.94 lakh) | 97.0% | €2,226 (₹2.43 lakh) |
| Sciences | 81.6% | €1,456 (₹1.59 lakh) | 93.2% | €1,840 (₹2.01 lakh) |
| All two-year master's | 81.5% | €1,488 (₹1.63 lakh) | 94.1% | €1,862 (₹2.03 lakh) |
Source: AlmaLaurea, Esiti occupazionali della laurea, Rapporto 2026 (survey 2025), two-year laurea magistrale graduates of all nationalities. Pay is net, per month. Engineering graduates took 2.3 months on average from degree to first job, and 5.5% worked abroad.
These are averages, not a promise for any one student. Many roles outside large international companies ask for Italian, so learning it during the degree widens your options.
Can I work in Italy during and after an MS?
Yes, within limits: a study permit lets you work up to 20 hours a week and 1,040 hours a year, says Italy's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. After graduating, you can ask for a job-search permit of 9 to 12 months. With a job offer, you can convert the study permit into a work permit.
Part-time pay helps with daily costs, but it does not count towards the funds the consulate checks. Read working part-time in Italy for the kinds of jobs students find.
How does applying for an MS in Italy work?
It runs in four stages, and we handle each one for eligible students. The university decides admission, Universitaly pre-enrolment links that admission to your visa, the region assesses the DSU scholarship and the consulate decides the visa. Pre-enrolment goes only through Universitaly, the ministry's official portal.
After your eligibility check and a one-to-one consultation, we shortlist programmes that fit your degree, check details with each university and file the applications. We then complete Universitaly pre-enrolment, file the DSU application and prepare the visa file.
The family obtains the documents only they can get: degree certificates, state attestation, the apostille, bank statements and tax returns. We tell you exactly which documents to get, in which order, and check every page before the visa appointment.
ApplyAZ works only with public universities and takes no commission from them. Read how ApplyAZ gets paid and our code of practice.
Reality check
What others decide. The university decides admission and your fee band, the region decides the DSU scholarship and the consulate decides the visa. We never promise any of these outcomes.
What we handle. For eligible students, we check each programme's rules against your degree and file the applications. We also complete Universitaly pre-enrolment, file the DSU application and prepare the visa file.
The usual pitfalls, and what each costs:
- Choosing by ranking alone. A high rank does not mean your subject is taught only in English: at Politecnico di Torino, 12 of the 21 MS programmes in our catalogue are listed in English and Italian. The cost is a round spent on the wrong list.
- A 3-year pass degree sent where 4 years are required. Politecnico di Milano does not consider it. The file is rejected and the round is lost.
- Studying for a GRE nobody asked for. Few programmes even mention it, and then usually as optional. The months are better spent on your English proof and transcripts.
- Missing the regional DSU window. It costs at least €7,171.11 (₹7.84 lakh) for the year.
- Applying late at a popular university. Once validations reach its places plus 20%, Universitaly stops them. That can push your file past the 31 October 2027 visa deadline.
- Not completing enrolment by 31 January. Under the MUR circular, the visa is revoked.
- Funds that are hard to trace. The consulate checks the €10,179.85 a year and where it came from. Unexplained deposits put the visa at risk.
Ready to see which MS programmes fit your degree? Check your eligibility first. If you are eligible, you book a one-to-one consultation with one of our Italy experts, and from there we take care of everything.
Frequently asked questions
Is GRE required for an MS in Italy?
No. A few programmes mention the GRE, usually as optional. Most select on CV and grades, some add an interview, and 110 of the 392 in our catalogue run their own admission test or assessment. Tor Vergata's Mechatronics Engineering accepts a GRE score only as part of one way to prove English.
Can I do an MS in Italy after a 3-year degree?
Often, yes: the MUR circular accepts a first-cycle degree that gives access to a master's where it was awarded. Politecnico di Milano is stricter, wanting 4 years and considering a 3-year BSc only with Honours, and for 2027/28 Padua accepts a 3-year pass degree only with a postgraduate qualification. We check your degree first.
Which Italian universities are best for an MS in computer science?
In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, Politecnico di Milano leads Italy in computer science at =58, followed by Sapienza (72), Bologna (=95), Politecnico di Torino (=124) and Pisa (=144). For English-taught computing master's, our catalogue lists the most at Padua, Pisa and Sapienza, so we weigh both.
How does tuition work for an MS in Italy?
Tuition follows family income (ISEE), so study can be tuition-free for eligible students. DSU scholarship winners are exempt from tuition. The visa also needs €10,179.85 a year (₹11.12 lakh) in funds.
Can I get a scholarship for an MS in Italy?
Yes: the regional DSU scholarship paid at least €7,171.11 a year (₹7.84 lakh) in 2026/27 to students living away from home, within a national family ISEE ceiling of €28,339.88. Universities add their own awards, such as Padua's International Excellence Scholarship of €8,000 gross a year. We handle the DSU application for eligible students.
When are the deadlines for an MS in Italy for 2027/28?
The University of Padua's first 2027/28 round closes on 15 November 2026. Most other universities have not published 2027/28 dates yet; in 2026/27, Politecnico di Milano's first engineering call closed on 1 December. The visa application must reach the consulate by 31 October 2027, and enrolment on Universitaly by 31 January 2028.
What is the difference between a masters and an MS in Italy?
None in the degree: an MS in Italy is a two-year laurea magistrale of 120 credits, like any other master's. MS is the name students from countries like India use for science and engineering subjects. A one-year master universitario is different: studyinitaly.esteri.it says it is not equivalent to a laurea magistrale.
Do I need IELTS for an MS in Italy?
Not always, but you need B2 English, which most programmes ask for and the consulate checks for the visa. Politecnico di Milano accepts a university attestation that your bachelor's was taught in English, and the Kolkata consulate's visa checklist accepts a medium-of-instruction declaration. Other programmes insist on a certificate, so we match your proof to each one.
Is a one-year master's from Italy recognised in India?
A one-year master universitario is an Italian university qualification, but it is not the two-year laurea magistrale; studyinitaly.esteri.it states that it is not equivalent to one and not compatible with a MAECI grant. How an employer or university in India treats it is their own decision. For an MS, choose the two-year degree.
Is Italy good for an MS?
For engineering and IT graduates, the outcomes are strong. AlmaLaurea's 2026 report finds 93.6% of industrial and information engineering master's graduates in work a year after graduating, earning €1,787 net a month, and 97.5% in work after five years. These are averages for all graduates, so they are no promise for any one student.
Sources
- MUR, circular on international students, 2026/27 and 2027/28, verified 28 September 2026.
- Universitaly, international students procedure, 2026/27 and 2027/28, verified 28 September 2026.
- Study in Italy (Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Italian higher education system, verified 28 September 2026.
- Politecnico di Milano, laurea magistrale requirements for foreign qualifications (India), verified 28 September 2026.
- Politecnico di Milano, laurea magistrale deadlines, 2026/27, verified 28 September 2026.
- Politecnico di Milano, student contribution regulation 2026/27, verified 28 September 2026.
- University of Padua, entry requirements by country, updated 15 September 2026, for 2027/28, verified 28 September 2026.
- University of Padua, admission of international students, 2027/28 first round, verified 28 September 2026.
- University of Padua, Call for Student Fees and Exemptions 2026/27, verified 28 September 2026.
- University of Padua, International Excellence Scholarship programme, verified 28 September 2026.
- Politecnico di Torino, master's applicants with a non-Italian qualification, 2026/27, verified 28 September 2026.
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Mechatronics Engineering, English language certificate, verified 28 September 2026.
- University of Milan, fee regulation 2026/27, verified 28 September 2026.
- University of Milan, country groups for fees, 2026/27 (Allegato 2), verified 28 September 2026.
- University of Bologna, reduced fixed fee for non-OECD citizens, 2026/27, verified 28 September 2026.
- MUR, Decreto Direttoriale 175 of 10 February 2026, DSU minimum grants 2026/27, verified 28 September 2026.
- MUR, Decreto Direttoriale 176 of 10 February 2026, DSU ISEE and ISPE limits 2026/27, verified 28 September 2026.
- QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, Computer Science and Information Systems (published 25 March 2026), verified 28 September 2026.
- QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (published 25 March 2026), verified 28 September 2026.
- QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, Engineering, Mechanical (published 25 March 2026), verified 28 September 2026.
- AlmaLaurea, Esiti occupazionali della laurea, Rapporto 2026 (survey 2025), two-year master's by subject group, verified 28 September 2026.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, FAQ on studying in Italy (work on a study permit), verified 28 September 2026.
- Integrazione Migranti (Ministry of Labour), job-search permit after graduating, 7 July 2023, verified 28 September 2026.
- Consulate General of Italy in Kolkata, study visa checklist 2026/27 and 2027/28, verified 28 September 2026.
- European Central Bank, euro reference rate for INR, 25 September 2026, verified 28 September 2026.
- ApplyAZ programme catalogue (programme finder), English-taught two-year master's in engineering, computer science and natural sciences, counted 9 October 2026.
- Regional DSU calls 2026/27, as summarised on our DSU scholarship guide and body pages, verified 28 September 2026.
Currency: INR amounts use the ECB reference rate of 25 September 2026, 1 EUR = 109.2605 INR, rounded.
Your next step is simple: Check your eligibility. If you are eligible, you book a one-to-one consultation with one of our Italy experts, and from there we take care of everything.
Hear from students who took this route
Hear directly from ApplyAZ students about the support they valued on their route to English-taught study in Italy.
- Ashmeet Kaur: Master’s in Data Science at University of Trento. Finding the right Data Science course.
- Thilakraj Sapalya: Master’s in Aerospace Engineering at University of Padua. Celebrating an Aerospace Engineering destination.
Explore all student stories and videos.
Further reading
Where they're studying now
Students who started exactly where you are
English-taught programmes that can be tuition-free for eligible students, and the DSU grant landing in their account every year. The funding mechanics are identical at every Italian public university: the same ISEE Parificato, the same regional bando, the same ranking. Only the authority and the dates change.




They began right where you are
Now they're studying at Italian public universities, where a degree can be tuition-free for eligible students, with DSU scholarships of up to about €8,250 a year for students living away from home, depending on the region.

