Tuition fees in Italy 2026: budget without surprises for living and studying in the country
Choosing a university is not only a program, but also a realistic financial plan. In 2026, tuition fees in Italy remain one of the most affordable in the EU. But housing and living expenses are highly dependent on the city and lifestyle. We offer real data that will help you navigate before applying to Italy in 2026!
Public universities: fixed rate for foreigners
Uniform prices are set for students without an Italian ISEE:
– In the south — from 500 to 1,200 € per year for humanitarian specialties.
– In the center — 1,200 -2,500 €, especially in Florence and Perugia.
– In the north — 2,000 – 3,900 €, for example, at the Polytechnic of Milan.
– Programs in English are 3,000—4,500 € per year, even in state universities.
Paid separately: tassa regionale and marca da bollo — 200-300 € upon transfer.
→ Help with admission from Italiatut
Private universities and foundations: narrow specialization and career opportunities
These institutions rely on industry connections and practices:
– Università Cattolica (Milan) — 5,000-7,000 € per year.
– Fondazione Brodolini (Rome) — from 4,200 €, including internships at the UN and the EU.
– NABA, Marangoni — 8 000-14 000 €, but with access to Milano Fashion Week.
! Partial scholarships are possible if you have a portfolio or recommendations.
Accommodation: from 250 € per month — but with nuances
Rent is the second most important expense item for those who move to study in Italy. The price depends on the city:
– In Milan and Rome — a room starting from 500 €, an apartment starting from 900 €.
– In Bologna and Turin — 15-20% cheaper, but more expensive in September.
– In Perugia and Siena — a room for 350-450 € through student groups.
– In the south (Bari, Palermo) — from 250 €, but expenses for air conditioning are possible.
→ Areas like Cinisello Balsamo (Milan) are 25-30% cheaper, but with transport starting at 20 min.
→ Student accommodation selection — the Italiatut team is ready to help!
Daily expenses: food, transportation, communications
These expenses are easily underestimated, although they are regular and predictable. Here are the averages:
– Groceries — 180-250 € per month per person.
– Student travel pass — 15-30 € depending on the city.
– Mobile Internet (Iliad, Ho.Mobile) — 10-15 € with unlimited.
– Textbooks and materials — 100-300 € per semester at technical faculties.
Many universities provide free access to electronic libraries and software.
Mandatory additional payments
These expenses are not obvious, but they are mandatory for obtaining a residence permit and studying:
– Medical insurance — 120-180 € per year.
– Codice fiscale — up to 100 € for urgent registration.
– Translation of documents — from 40 € per page from an accredited translator.
– Sending kit postale to Questura — ~30 € with notification.
How to reduce costs without losing the quality of life
1. Apply for EDISU/DSU scholarships — they cover rent and meals.
2. Look for accommodation in student Telegram and Facebook groups — without commission.
3. Buy used textbooks on Subito.it — 4-5 times cheaper than new ones.
4. Use the Io Studio card — discounts in museums, transport, cafes.
Are you ready to enroll and move?
We will provide you with a full consultation on all your questions about living and studying in Italy.
To know is to be prepared. And being ready means succeeding!
