For a long time, Italy has been a popular choice for foreign students due to its exceptional educational institutions, low tuition costs, and lively culture. While most students pursue the September Intake, the more flexible February Intake is also available at several Italian universities, which serves as a great option for those who wish to start mid-academic year or have missed the fall deadlines.
In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the February Intake 2026 in Italy, including key advantages, application schedules, a list of top universities, a detailed admissions guide, available scholarships, and the academic prerequisites required.
The February Intake, also known as the Spring Intake, is an excellent option for students who:
Planning is necessary for a successful application. Here is a detailed timeline:
| Event | Expected Timeline |
|---|---|
| Research & Shortlisting | June - August 2025 |
| Document Preparation | August - September 2025 |
| Application Submission | September - November 2025 |
| Admission Results | October - December 2025 |
| Visa Application | November 2025 - January 2026 |
| Arrival & Enrollment | February 2026 |
Note: Deadlines vary by university and program.
While not all Italian universities offer a February Intake, many prestigious institutions do. Below are some of the best options:
| University | Top Programs Offered (February Intake) |
|---|---|
| University of Bologna | - MSc Economics - MSc Engineering (Civil, Mechanical) - MSc International Relations |
| Sapienza University of Rome | - BSc Computer Science - MSc Data Science - MSc Architecture (limited seats) |
| Politecnico di Milano | - MSc Mechanical Engineering - MSc Design & Engineering - MSc Computer Science |
| University of Padua | - MSc Psychology - MSc Cybersecurity - MSc Sustainable Agriculture |
| University of Milan | - MSc Medical Biotechnology - MSc Finance - MSc Computer Science |
| University of Pisa | - MSc Aerospace Engineering - MSc Artificial Intelligence - MSc Physics |
| Politecnico di Torino | - MSc Automotive Engineering (Ferrari Partnership) - MSc AI & Robotics |
| Bocconi University | - MSc Finance (limited seats) - MSc Economics - MSc International Management |
| University of Trento | - MSc Data Science - MSc Environmental Engineering - MSc Computer Science |
| Ca’ Foscari University of Venice | - MSc Digital Management - MSc Economics - MSc Conservation Science |
Many Italian universities offer English-taught programs, making them accessible to international students. Below are some top choices:
| Rank |
University |
English-Taught Programs (Feb 2026) | Application Deadline (Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Politecnico di Milano | - MSc Computer Science - MSc Mechanical Engineering - MSc Design & Engineering |
Phase 1: Sep 2025 Phase 2: Nov 2025 |
| 2 | University of Bologna | - MSc Economics - MSc International Relations - MSc Engineering |
Nov 30, 2025 |
| 3 | Sapienza University of Rome | - BSc Computer Science - MSc Data Science - MSc AI and Robotics |
Nov 15, 2025 |
| 4 | University of Padua | - MSc Cybersecurity - MSc Sustainable Agriculture - MSc Physics |
Oct 15, 2025 |
| 5 | Politecnico di Torino | - MSc Automotive Engineering - MSc AI Engineering - MSc Computer Engineering |
Nov 15, 2025 |
| 6 | University of Milan | - MSc Medical Biotechnology - MSc Computer Science - MSc Finance |
Nov 30, 2025 |
| 7 | University of Pisa | - MSc Aerospace Engineering - MSc Computer Science - MSc Physics |
Nov 15, 2025 |
| 8 | Ca' Foscari University of Venice | - BSc Economics - MSc Digital Management - MSc Environmental Sciences |
Nov 30, 2025 |
| 9 | University of Trento | - MSc Data Science - MSc Environmental Engineering - MSc Computer Science |
Oct 15, 2025 |
| 10 | Tor Vergata University of Rome | - MSc Economics - MSc Space Engineering - MSc Artificial Intelligence |
Nov 30, 2025 |
Italy offers various scholarships for international students, including:
Here’s a detailed living expense guide for international students in Italy 2026:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (EUR/month) |
|---|---|
| Shared Apartment | €400 - €700 |
| Private Studio Apartment | €600 - €1,200 |
| Public Transport Pass | €20 - €50 |
| Miscellaneous | €100 - €200 |
Costs also vary depending on the city. Major cities like Milan or Rome are more expensive than smaller cities such as Padua or Pisa.
Italy offers attractive post-study work opportunities for international students who wish to stay after graduation.
Post-Graduation Stay-Back Options
After completing your degree, you can apply for a residence permit extension to seek employment or start a business.
Once you secure employment after graduation, you can convert your student or job-seeker visa to a work visa.
Types of Work Permits:
You can apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after legally staying or working in Italy for 5 years.
The February Intake 2026 in Italy is a fantastic opportunity for students seeking high-quality education with a flexible timeline. With top-ranked universities, scholarships, and English-taught programs, Italy remains a prime destination for international students.
Begin your application process now to secure your spot for February 2026.
Top universities include the University of Bologna, Politecnico di Milano, Sapienza University of Rome, University of Padua and Bocconi University.
Deadlines vary but generally fall between September to November 2025, depending on the university and program.
Yes, scholarships like MAECI, EDISU Piemonte and Politecnico di Milano Merit Scholarships are available, but deadlines may differ from the September Intake.
The language requirements for an English-taught program: For Bachelor's: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 80 For Master's: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90 (varies by university).
Yes, fewer applicants means higher acceptance rates, but scholarship options may be limited.
Admission letter, proof of financial means, health insurance and accommodation proof.
Yes, universities like Politecnico di Milano, University of Bologna and Sapienza University offer English-taught Master’s programs.
Typically 3-6 weeks, so apply by November 2025 - January 2026 to avoid delays.
Yes, international students can work part-time 20 hours per week with a valid student visa.
Here are the Steps: Shortlist universities (June-August 2025) Prepare documents (SOP, LORs, IELTS) Submit applications (September-November 2025) Apply for a visa (November 2025 - January 2026) Arrive & enroll (February 2026).
