Stricter visa policies in popular study-abroad destinations like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada are prompting a growing number of Indian students to explore educational options in Italy. Recent data shows a surge in students from states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra choosing Italy for its affordable education and diverse course offerings. In 2023 alone, Italy welcomed over 6,100 Indian students, making India the second-largest contributor to international enrollments in the country, following Iran.
One reason for Italy’s appeal lies in the variety of unconventional courses on offer. Increasingly, Indian students are moving beyond traditional fields like engineering to pursue areas such as hospitality, luxury goods management, culinary arts, and architecture. Italy is particularly attractive for these fields, says Abhijit Zaveri from Career Mosaic, a consultancy. Additionally, Italy’s comparatively lower tuition and living costs make it a viable alternative to countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia, where higher education expenses are often prohibitive. Public university tuition fees in Italy generally range between ₹7 to ₹10 lakh, substantially lower than the average fees in more conventional destinations, which can exceed ₹25 lakh annually.
Increased demand for Italian education is expected to grow. A recent report, “From Enrolment to Accommodation: Unlocking Italy’s Education System,” published by University Living and the Embassy of Italy, forecasts a 22% rise in Indian student enrollments by 2025, with projections pointing to a remarkable 500% increase by 2030.
The cost of living in Italy, while reasonable, remains a consideration for students. Accommodation costs alone account for approximately 42.6% of student budgets, averaging around €5,400 per year, or about ₹5 lakh. Total annual expenses for students, including food, utilities, health insurance, and transportation, can reach €12,670 (₹11.5 lakh), according to Shalini Vikas Hattimare, an Indian student pursuing a master’s in humanities in Italy. Despite these costs, the country remains an affordable choice for those seeking high-quality education in Europe.
In terms of language requirements, Italy’s top universities, such as the University of Rome – La Sapienza, University of Bologna, and Polytechnic University of Milan, commonly accept TOEFL scores. However, some programs, particularly in fields like medicine, require proficiency in Italian for practical work. The Italian government also encourages students to learn the language, which can enhance career prospects in Italy post-graduation. International graduates can stay in Italy for up to a year while seeking employment, with work permits allowing 20 hours per week during studies.
Italy’s emergence as a preferred education destination illustrates a growing interest among Indian students for affordable and diverse academic opportunities beyond the typical study-abroad locations. With expanding course options, supportive visa policies, and lower tuition, Italy is likely to attract an increasing number of Indian students in the coming years.
