Studying in Europe has always been a dream for thousands of students from developing countries. The good news is that applications are now open for the DSU Milan Scholarship 2026–27, a need-based and fully funded regional scholarship program offered by the University of Milan (Università degli Studi di Milano). This opportunity allows international students to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degrees in Italy with generous financial support covering tuition fees, accommodation, meals, and living costs.
If you are someone who has always wished to study in Italy without worrying about high tuition or living expenses, then this scholarship could be your golden chance. In this detailed guide, we will explain everything about the DSU Milan Scholarship 2026–27, including eligibility criteria, financial benefits, required documents, and the step-by-step application process. We will also provide useful tips to improve your chances of success and important official links you need for applying.
Overview of DSU Milan Scholarship 2026–27
The DSU Milan Scholarship (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) is a regional need-based scholarship funded by the Italian government and administered through universities. It is specifically designed for international students enrolled at the University of Milan, Politecnico di Milano, Università di Milano-Bicocca, and a few other associated institutions in the Milan region.
Unlike many merit-based scholarships, the DSU Milan focuses on family income and financial background. Students from middle-class or low-income families, particularly from developing countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and others, are often considered eligible because their annual family income and assets typically fall under the required limits.
The 2026–27 application cycle has already started, with online submissions open since 18 July 2025. The application deadline is 13 September 2025. However, an important requirement is related to the ISEE Parificato (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator), which must be submitted to CAF offices in Italy by 15 October 2025. Without this, even if you apply online, you will not be considered for the scholarship.
Why Choose DSU Milan Scholarship?
There are several reasons why the DSU Milan Scholarship stands out as one of the most popular scholarships in Italy for international students:
- Fully funded support: Covers tuition, meals, accommodation, and living expenses.
- Available for all levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students can apply.
- Based on need, not merit: Ideal for students from financially limited families.
- Study in Milan: Live in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, known for its culture, education, and international student life.
- No application fee: Students can apply without paying any processing or admission fees.
Benefits of the DSU Milan Scholarship
Winning the DSU Milan Scholarship provides you with comprehensive financial coverage, which significantly reduces the cost of studying abroad:
- Tuition Fee Waiver – Complete exemption from paying tuition fees.
- Annual Stipend of €7,500 – Distributed in 2–3 installments per year.
- Accommodation in University Residences – Affordable or free housing for scholarship holders.
- Meal Discounts – Access to university cafeterias with reduced meal costs.
- Additional Benefits – Free or discounted access to transportation, cultural activities, and sports facilities.
After deductions for meals and accommodation, students typically receive €3,000–€3,500 in cash allowance, which is enough to cover personal expenses throughout the year.
Eligibility Criteria for DSU Milan Scholarship
The scholarship is need-based, meaning your family income and assets will determine your eligibility. Here are the main requirements:
- University Enrollment
- You must have a pre-enrollment letter or admission offer from the University of Milan or associated institutions (e.g., Politecnico di Milano, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca).
- Without university admission, you cannot apply for DSU Milan.
- Income Requirements
- Family income must be below the set threshold determined by DSU Milan.
- Proof of income, wealth, and assets must be provided through FBR (for Pakistan), Income Tax Returns, or equivalent documents.
- Property/Asset Declaration
- Information about family-owned property, vehicles, gold, and savings must be submitted.
- Normally, records for the last 2 years are required (sometimes 1 year depending on the university).
- Documents Translation
- All documents must be translated into Italian.
- They should not be legalized at the Italian Embassy because this may complicate your visa process.
- Academic Level
- Open for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students.
- For second-year applicants, a certain number of credits must be passed (30–34 depending on the program).
Required Documents
To apply for DSU Milan, you will need to prepare and submit the following documents:
- Family Income Certificate (from FBR/Tax Authority or local government).
- Property Certificate (issued by local council/union council or revenue authority).
- Family Registration Certificate (FRC) from NADRA or equivalent authority.
- Bank Statements (2–3 months, sometimes requested by CAF offices).
- Identity Documents (passport, CNIC, birth certificate).
- University Admission/Pre-enrollment Letter.
- Proof of Translation into Italian.
- Motivation Letter (if required).
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for DSU Milan involves two major steps:
Step 1: Online Application
- Visit the official DSU Milan portal.
- Register with your email and activate your account.
- Log in and fill out the required forms, including personal details, enrollment data, family income, and preferences.
- Submit the application by 13 September 2025.
Step 2: ISEE Parificato Submission (Important)
- Prepare all family income and property documents in English.
- Translate them into Italian through authorized translators.
- Submit them to the CAF office in Italy by 15 October 2025.
- If you cannot travel, you may authorize someone in Italy (a relative, friend, or fellow student) through an authority letter to submit the documents on your behalf.
Step 3: Verification and Results
- DSU Milan verifies your documents and financial status.
- Preliminary rankings are usually published in October–November 2025.
- Final scholarship rankings are published by December 2025.
Additional Tips for Applicants
- Apply early: Don’t wait until the last deadline; prepare documents months in advance.
- Be honest in documents: Submitting fake or incomplete documents can lead to disqualification.
- Focus on family income: Since this is a need-based scholarship, your financial background matters more than grades.
- Accommodation preference: Choose university housing close to your department to reduce travel costs.
- Stay updated: Regularly check your email and the DSU Milan portal for updates.
Why Study in Milan, Italy?
Milan is not just Italy’s financial hub but also one of the most popular study destinations in Europe. With its combination of world-class universities, affordable education, and rich cultural life, it attracts thousands of international students every year.
Studying under the DSU Milan Scholarship means you will live in a student-friendly environment, enjoy affordable living compared to other European cities, and have the opportunity to travel across Europe thanks to Italy’s Schengen membership.
Important Links
- 🌐 Official DSU Milan Scholarship Portal
- 📑 University of Milan – Official Website
- 📖 Politecnico di Milano
- 📌 Step-by-Step Application Guidelines PDF – DSU Milan
- 📺 FullScholarship YouTube Channel
DSU Milan Scholarship Deadlines 2026–27
One of the most important parts of the application is keeping track of deadlines. The online application opened on 18 July 2025 and the submission deadline is 13 September 2025. However, the final and most crucial step is submitting your ISEE Parificato documents to the CAF office in Italy before 15 October 2025. Missing this deadline means your application will not be considered, even if you completed the online form. Always prepare your documents well in advance and arrange for someone in Italy to submit them if you cannot travel before the cut-off date.
Final Thoughts on DSU Milan Scholarship
The DSU Milan Scholarship is more than just financial support—it’s a gateway to affordable, high-quality education in Europe. Many students from Asia and Africa have already benefited from this program, successfully completing their studies at the University of Milan and starting international careers. If you come from a modest financial background and dream of studying abroad, this opportunity is designed for you. With careful preparation, you can make Milan your academic home and build a future filled with possibilities.
Conclusion
The DSU Milan Scholarship 2026–27 is a life-changing opportunity for international students who want to pursue their higher education in Italy without financial burden. Covering tuition, housing, meals, and a generous stipend, it makes studying in Milan affordable and accessible.
Since it is based on family income and assets, students from countries like Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and others have an excellent chance of being selected. With the right preparation, authentic documentation, and timely application, you can secure this prestigious scholarship and begin your academic journey in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.
If you are serious about studying in Italy, start your application process now. This scholarship could be your gateway to an international career, cultural exchange, and academic excellence.
