Study in Italy from Bangladesh – Best Guide 2026

Studying in Italy offers Bangladeshi students a rich blend of high-quality education, affordable tuition and cultural adventure. This Study in Italy from Bangladesh – Best Guide 2026 provides step-by-step information on choosing courses, applying to universities, visa procedures, scholarships and living costs. With historic campuses, many English-taught programs and welcoming communities, Italy is an attractive destination for international learners.

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In this guide, we cover Why Study in Italy, popular courses and universities, required qualifications, visa processes, scholarships, costs and more. These all are tailored for Bangladeshi and international students.

Why Study in Italy?

Italy is home to some of the world’s oldest and most prestigious universities (for example, the University of Bologna, founded around 1088). Key reasons Bangladeshi students choose Italy include:

• Historic & Prestigious Universities: Italy’s Alma Mater Studiorum (University of Bologna) is the oldest continuously operating university globally. Many institutions rank highly and offer strong programs in science, humanities, engineering, design and the arts.
• Affordable Tuition: Public Italian universities have relatively low fees. Tuition often ranges from about €500 to €4,000 per year depending on family income, far cheaper than many other Western countries.
• English-Taught Programs: Hundreds of bachelor’s and master’s programs are available in English, across fields like engineering, economics, arts and sciences, making it easy for international students to enroll.
• Scholarships & Support: The Italian government and universities offer scholarships (grants) to talented international students. Bangladeshi students can apply for government-backed grants or university scholarships to reduce costs.
• Cultural Experience & Location: Italy’s rich culture (art, history, cuisine and lifestyle) provides a unique study abroad experience. Students enjoy a Mediterranean climate, travel opportunities across the EU and exposure to Italian language and culture.
• International Community: Over 100,000 students from around the world study in Italy, creating a diverse campus life. For Bangladeshi students, Italy’s welcoming environment makes it easier to adapt.

Together, these factors make Italy a cost effective and rewarding study destination for Bangladeshi and other international students.

Popular Courses & Universities

Italian universities offer a broad range of disciplines. Some of the top fields (and related institutions) include:

• Engineering & Technology: Italy is known for mechanical, civil, and aerospace engineering (e.g. Politecnico di Milano, Politecnico di Torino).
• Architecture & Design: World class programs in architecture, fashion and product design (e.g. Milan, Florence, Venice) attract many students.
• Business, Economics & Management: Top schools like Bocconi (Milan), LUISS (Rome), Cattolica (Milan) and Sapienza (Rome) offer leading business and economics programs.
• Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences: Italy’s cultural heritage makes it excellent for art history, literature, music and humanities (e.g. Bologna, Florence, Venice).
• Hospitality & Tourism: Given Italy’s strong tourism sector, fields like hotel and event management are popular (e.g. University IULM, University of Milan).

Likewise, top Italian universities include Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza University of Rome, University of Bologna, University of Padua, Politecnico di Torino, University of Milan, University of Turin and others. These institutions rank among Europe’s best and offer many programs in English. (For example, QS World Rankings 2024 list Politecnico di Milano and Sapienza among Italy’s highest ranked universities.)

Which Subject is Best to Study in Italy?

Choosing the right subject depends on your interests and career goals. Some of the best and most in-demand subjects in Italy are:

• Architecture and Design: Italy’s tradition in art, fashion and architecture makes design courses (fashion design, interior design, architecture) especially strong.
• Engineering & Technology: Technical universities (Politecnici and others) have excellent engineering and IT/technology programs.
• Business & Economics: Top business schools (e.g. Bocconi, Cattolica) offer highly regarded MBA, finance, economics and management degrees.
• Medicine & Health Sciences: Italy has quality medical schools (in Italian language) and growing health science programs (though competition is high).
• Arts & Humanities: If you are passionate about art, history, music or culture, studying in Italy (museums and galleries at hand) is ideal.
• Agriculture & Food Technology: Italy leads in agribusiness and viticulture programs due to its strong food industry.

In short, engineering/architecture, business, design/fashion, and arts/humanities are standout fields in Italy. Pick a subject that matches your strengths and check which Italian universities specialize in it.

Which Italian Universities are Open for Application in 2026?

Most Italian universities open applications for the 2026-27 academic year well in advance (typically one year prior). Leading institutions (Bologna, Sapienza Rome, Politecnico di Milano, University of Padua, University of Milan, Politecnico di Torino, etc.) will have intakes for Fall 2026. By law, visa applications for degree programs must be submitted by 30 November 2026 for 2026–27. In practice:

• Politecnico di Milano: Often opens applications in late 2025 (fees ~€50) and has early deadlines (e.g. 2025–26 intake opened Oct 2025).
• University of Padua: First-call deadlines usually around Feb 2026.
• Other Universities: Many have two “calls”, a first round in late 2025/early 2026 and a second round later in 2026. Exact dates vary by school.
• Universitaly Portal: Under Italian law, pre-enrolment for visa must be done through the official UNIVERSITALY platform by the set deadline (often end of November).

In summary, keep an eye on university websites in mid-2026. Apply for programs (often via the university portal or Universitaly) and then apply for your student visa once you have a conditional offer. Plan to meet the general deadline (30 Nov for 2026 intake) and any specific deadlines each university announces.

Requirements to Study in Italy for Bangladeshi & International Students

Admission requirements for Italian universities are fairly straightforward but do vary by program:

• Academic Qualifications: For Bachelor’s programs, students need the equivalent of 12 years of schooling (e.g. Bangladesh HSC). For Master’s programs, a recognized 4 year Bachelor’s degree (Honors BSc/BA/etc.) is required.
• Minimum Grades: Many universities set a minimum GPA or grade threshold. (For example, Sunrise recommends Bangladeshi HSC applicants to have at least a 3.50/5.00 GPA.) Madrasa education is also accepted at some institutions.
• Language Proficiency: If your course is in English, proof of English is needed. For Bangladeshi applicants, an IELTS overall 6.0 (or equivalent TOEFL) is commonly required. (Some programs may have higher or lower requirements.)
• Documentation: Prepare academic transcripts and degree certificates for all prior education. Universities may require a certificate of English instruction medium if available.
• Additional Documents: For Master’s applicants, letters of recommendation (usually two) and a CV are often requested.
• Entrance Exams: Very few courses have entrance tests for foreigners. Medicine and dentistry have national exams, but most programs simply need the above documents and a letter of admission offer.

Always check each university’s specific requirements. In general, Bangladeshi students should have all previous certificates translated into Italian or English (if not already) and legalized. For visa purposes, university issued pre-enrolment confirmation or an offer letter will be needed.

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Student Visa Requirements

To study in Italy, Bangladeshi students must apply for a National (Type D) Study Visa. Key visa requirements include:

• Apply through VFS Italy (Dhaka): Bangladeshis must submit their study visa application via VFS Global’s Italy portal. Book an appointment online with VFS Italy Dhaka to lodge the application.
• Passport & Photos: A passport valid for ≥6 months and recent biometric photos.
• Admission Letter: Official acceptance or pre-enrolment confirmation from your Italian university (sent via Universitaly or direct).
• Visa Application Form: Complete the national visa form (for Type D) and the declaration of value if required.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements showing you have at least €534.41 per month (≈€6,947 per year) for living costs. Funds can be in your name or a sponsor’s. Italy does not require a blocked account; affidavits, sponsor letters or scholarship confirmation are acceptable.
• Health Insurance: Visa compliant health insurance covering your stay (or you may buy Italian student insurance after arrival).
• Proof of Accommodation: Documentation of where you will live (rental agreement, dormitory booking, etc.).
• Academic Documents: Originals of transcripts and diplomas (and translations), and an Italian dichiarazione di valore or certificate of equivalence if needed by your consulate.
• Visa Fees: Payment of VFS and visa processing fees (receipt to bring to appointment).

Sunrise Education Consultants lists a typical student visa checklist including all these items. Ensure every document is prepared according to VFS guidelines. Meeting the exact checklist will maximize your chance of visa approval.

Embassy of Italy

How to Get 100% Scholarship in Italy?

Fully funded scholarships in Italy are rare but possible through certain programs. Options include:

• Italian Government (MAECI) Grants: The Italian Foreign Ministry offers a limited number of “Invest Your Talent in Italy” scholarships and grants each year for foreign students. The 2026–27 call is usually published on the Study in Italy platform (apply by May 2026).
• Invest Your Talent in Italy: This special program grants nine-month fellowships to outstanding students (especially in Engineering/High Tech, Design/Architecture, Economics/Management) to pursue Masters programs in English.
• DSU Regional Scholarships: Each Italian university (especially public ones) has regional scholarship programs (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) that can cover full tuition and possibly living costs based on merit and financial need. Students should check “DSU Toscana”, “DSU Lombardia”, etc., for calls in their region.
• University-Specific Awards: Some universities (like University of Turin’s “Talents for UniTo” program, University of Padua scholarships, etc.) fund international students entirely or partially. Visit the international scholarships page of your chosen university.
• Erasmus+ and EU Programs: Non-EU students may also apply for Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s scholarships or Italian university consortium programs.

To maximize scholarship chances, maintain an excellent academic record and apply early. Always check deadlines on official sites (e.g. studyinitaly.esteri.it for government calls, and each university’s scholarship page).

Visa Processing

The student visa process generally involves these steps:

1. Appointment: Book and attend a visa appointment via VFS Italy Dhaka. You should apply 3–4 months before your intended departure (VFS Italy advises 3.5 months prior to term start) to allow for processing.
2. Document Submission: At the VFS office, submit all required documents (passport, forms, photos, acceptance letter, financial proofs, insurance, etc.).
3. Processing Time: Processing usually takes about 21 calendar days, but it can vary. In peak seasons or for additional reviews, it might take longer, so apply early.
4. Track Application: Use the VFS tracking system after submission to check status online.
5. Visa Outcome: If approved, you’ll receive a visa sticker in your passport. Then book flights to Italy.

In sum, start early, double check your checklist and prepare for at least a few weeks of processing time. Note that type D visa processing in Bangladesh can be slower than short stay visas, so anticipate roughly 4 to 6 weeks for a decision.

Common Reasons Why Student Visas Get Rejected

Students often run into visa denials when certain requirements are not fully met. Common pitfalls include:

• Lack of Intent to Return: If the consulate believes you have no intention of returning home after studies, the visa may be refused. Always provide evidence of ties to Bangladesh (family, property, future plans) and clearly state post-study intentions.
• Insufficient Finances: Showing inadequate funds or an inability to cover living costs will cause rejection. Ensure your bank statements meet Italy’s monthly requirement (~€534/month) and have no large unexplained withdrawals.
• Incomplete or Incorrect Application: Missing documents, errors or inconsistencies in forms (e.g. wrong visa type) often lead to denial. Carefully prepare the VFS checklist and have copies of everything.
• Weak Academic Profile: If your academic record is poor or unrelated to your intended course, this raises doubts. Strong transcripts, certificates and a clear study plan help.
• Poor Interview Performance: Unprofessional conduct or lack of preparation during the VFS interview can hurt your chances. Practice common visa interview questions and answer confidently.
• Health or Criminal Issues: Undisclosed criminal records or serious health problems (without proper documentation) can also be grounds for refusal.

By addressing each of these areas, having solid documentation, proof of funds, and clear study plans, students greatly improve their visa success rate.

Cost of Living in Italy

Italy is relatively affordable for students. As of 2025 data, international students spend about €700–€1,200 per month on living expenses. Typical costs include:

• Accommodation: €250–€700 per month, depending on city (higher in Milan/Rome).
• Food & Groceries: ~€150–€300 per month.
• Transportation: ~€25–€50 per month for city travel (public transit passes).
• Utilities & Internet: ~€50–€100 per month.
• Miscellaneous: (~€100–€200) for leisure, books, clothing, etc.

Example: In Rome or Milan, total monthly costs can reach €900–1,500. In smaller cities like Bologna or Turin, you might live on €700–€1,000.

Plan to budget on the higher end if living in large cities. Student discounts (for transport, museums) and cooking at home can help reduce expenses. Overall, Italy’s cost of living is often lower than in the UK, USA or Australia, making your study budget stretch further.

Admission Process in Italy for Bangladeshi & International Students

The admission journey typically follows these steps:

1. Research & Shortlist: Explore programs and universities that fit your profile. Check each university’s entry requirements and deadlines for 2026. Note that many intakes are in September/October, with a smaller session in February/March.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, certificates, language test scores, passport copy and any other required materials. Get documents translated into Italian or English if needed.
3. Apply to Universities: Create an account on the university portal (or the UNIVERSITALY portal for some universities). Submit your application and upload documents. Some schools may require a nominal application fee.
4. Pre-Enrolment/Admission Letter: If accepted, the university issues a pre-enrolment confirmation or admission letter. This is essential for the visa application.
5. Book Visa Appointment: Schedule your student visa appointment via the VFS Italy site. Collect all visa documents (as listed above) once you have the university’s pre-enrolment.
6. Visa Submission: Attend your VFS appointment to lodge the visa application and biometric data.
7. Arrival in Italy: After landing, apply for a residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno) within 8 days. Also complete university enrolment and obtain a Codice Fiscale (tax code) after arrival.

A handy checklist for Italy admissions (adapted from Luminedge guides) is:

• University offer/pre-enrolment letter
• Proof of funds (≈€6,947/year)
• Health insurance coverage
• Passport, photos, visa forms
• VFS appointment confirmation and fee receipt

Staying organized through each step, from application to arrival, is crucial for a smooth process.

FAQs

Q: How can I study in Italy from Bangladesh?
A: First, use this guide to select suitable programs. Apply online to Italian universities (or through the UNIVERSITALY portal) with your transcripts, English test scores and any required documents. Once a university accepts you, schedule a student visa appointment via VFS Italy (Dhaka). At your appointment, present your acceptance letter, financial proof (~€534/month), insurance, passport and other required documents. Upon visa approval, travel to Italy, get your residence permit and enroll in your courses.

Q: Which courses should Bangladeshi students consider in Italy?
A: Italy excels in design, architecture, engineering, business and cultural studies. Renowned programs in fashion and design (e.g. in Milan, Florence), automotive/mechanical engineering (Politecnico di Milano/Torino) and economics (Bocconi, Cattolica) are popular. Choose a field aligned with Italy’s strengths and your career goals.

Q: Do I need to know Italian to study in Italy?
A: Not necessarily. Thousands of programs are offered in English at Italian universities. You should be proficient in English (IELTS ~6.0 for Bangladesh) for most international programs. Learning basic Italian before or during your studies is recommended for daily life and part-time work, but your classes can be in English.

Q: What scholarships are available for Bangladeshi students?
A: Bangladeshi students can apply for Italian government scholarships (MAECI grants) for 2026–27. Also consider the Invest Your Talent in Italy program (9 month Master’s scholarships in tech, design, economics). Don’t miss regional DSU scholarships at each university, which may cover full tuition and living costs. Check the official Study in Italy site and your target university’s international office for details.

Q: What is the cost of studying and living in Italy?
A: Most public universities charge moderate tuition (€500–€4,000/year). Living costs average €700–€1,200 per month. Major expenses are accommodation (~€250–700) and food. Budget carefully, especially in big cities (Milan, Rome). In return, you get a high-quality, culturally rich education in a safe European environment.

Q: How long does it take to get an Italy student visa?
A: Once you submit your completed visa application at VFS Italy, processing usually takes about 3 to 4 weeks. However, start the process 3–4 months ahead of your course start date to account for appointments and any delays. The VFS website provides current processing times, which can vary by season. By following this guide and meeting all requirements, Bangladeshi students can successfully study in Italy and embark on an enriching educational journey. Good luck with your application and studies Study in Italy from Bangladesh – Best Guide 2026!