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If you are planning to study abroad, understanding the intake cycles of different countries is one of the important steps. Unlike countries, such as the US and UK, which offer multiple intakes, Italy universities follow a single major academic intake, which is September/October. This means that whether you are applying for an undergraduate program or a postgraduate degree, your application must be aligned with the academic calendar to avoid missing deadlines. Having said that, there are a few Italian universities that also offer a spring intake (February/March).
Therefore, understanding these timelines is crucial, especially for international students, since they directly affect university admissions, scholarship opportunities and visa process. In this article, we will discuss the intakes in Italian universities, step-by-step application timelines, admission deadlines, and much more.
It is interesting to note that unlike other study-abroad destinations, Italy mainly follows a single academic intake in September/October. This intake system aligns with the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). There are a few universities that offer a spring intake for a few courses and limited seats. Here are some of the reasons why Italy follows only one academic intake:
| Timeline (Approx.) | What to Do |
|---|---|
| November to January (Previous Year) | Research universities, courses, and eligibility |
| February and March | Students must begin pre-enrollment and prepare documents (transcripts, passport, English/Italian proficiency) |
| April to June | Start applying to universities and submit required documents |
| July and August | Start applying for scholarships (DSU & university-specific). Also, start arranging accommodation and collect visa documents |
| August | Apply for a student visa |
| September and October | Travel to Italy and begin your university classes |
Need help following this timeline? Get step-by-step guidance from Italy study experts.
Admission deadlines in Italy depend on whether you are applying to a public or private university. Public universities in Italy usually open applications earlier in the year, while private universities may keep their portals open for a longer period. Here is the timelines you must understand:
| University Type | Application Window | Semester Start |
|---|---|---|
| Public universities | January – April | September / October |
| Private universities | February – June | September / October |
| Spring intake programs | September – November | February / March |
As scholarships in Italy are linked to September/October intake, missing deadlines can mean losing the financial support. Here are the deadlines for the scholarships and financial grants:
| Scholarship Types | Application Period |
|---|---|
| Regional Scholarships | May – August |
| Italian Government Scholarship | March – May |
| University-Specific Scholarships | April – July |
| Private & External Scholarships | April – September |
Since Italy Study visa applications involve multiple documents and embassy appointments, students should plan well in advance to avoid delays. Here are the timelines that students must follow:
| Timeline | Process Step/th> |
|---|---|
| July – August | Collect required documents (admission letter, passport, financial proof, accommodation details, health insurance) |
| August | Submit visa application at Italian Embassy/Consulate |
| 4–8 Weeks | Visa processing time |
| September | Receive student visa & prepare for travel |
| October (Main Intake) | Begin academic session in Italy |
There are several benefits of applying during the main intake of Italian universities (September/October). Here are some:
Understanding the intakes in Italy for international students is the foundation of a successful study-abroad journey. Since most universities follow the main September/October intake, students who plan ahead gain access to the widest range of courses, scholarships, and student services. While a few programs may be available during the spring intake in Italy, opportunities are limited, making the fall semester the best choice for both academic and career growth.
By carefully tracking deadlines for applications, scholarships, and visas, you can ensure a smooth transition into Italian university life.
Ready to study in Italy? Start your application the right way with expert guidance.
Do you have questions? Check out these frequently asked questions from visitors and applicants. See if we address your concerns, or feel free to contact us directly.
Italian universities majorly follow one primary intake in September/October. This marks the start of the academic year for most of the universities. Having said that, there is a limited spring intake (February/March), which is available at some private universities or for select programs.
Italian universities majorly follow one primary intake in September/October. This marks the start of the academic year for most of the universities. Having said that, there is a limited spring intake (February/March), which is available at some private universities or for select programs.
Italian universities mainly follow the fall intake (September/October), which is considered the primary intake. This is the intake when most undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs open their application portals. However, these are a few universities that offer a spring intake (February/March), but only available for a few courses.
The September/October intake is considered the best intake for students in Italy. It offers the largest number of programs across top public and private universities, greater access to scholarships like DSU, and better chances to find affordable housing. Additionally, starting in the fall allows international students to integrate easily with peers, attend orientation programs, and align with the European academic calendar, which follows the fall-to-summer cycle.
To secure admission in the September intake in Italy, students should begin preparations as early as November–January of the previous year. Most universities open applications between January and April, while scholarship deadlines like DSU typically fall between July and August. It’s advisable to apply as soon as portals open, giving enough time to arrange documents, secure housing, and complete the student visa process before departure.
The minimum GPA required for studying in Italy depends on the university and program. Generally, international students need at least a 2.5 to 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (equivalent to 55–60%) for bachelor’s or master’s programs. Prestigious institutions and competitive courses such as engineering, medicine, and economics may require higher scores. Apart from GPA, strong application documents, language proficiency, and entrance exams may also be considered.
Yes, some universities in Italy offer a February/March (spring) intake, but it is relatively limited compared to the main September/October intake. The spring intake is usually available at private universities or for specific master’s programs
