DSU Scholarships in Italy: Application Process (2025)

Pursuing higher education in Italy is a dream for many international students. Thanks to the DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) scholarship, this aspiration is now more accessible than ever. The DSU scholarship provides financial support to both EU and non-EU students, covering tuition, accommodation, meals, and more, making Italian universities particularly attractive for talented students with limited financial means.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about DSU scholarships in Italy for the 2025 academic year, including eligibility criteria, benefits, and a step-by-step breakdown of the application process.

What Is the DSU Scholarship?

The DSU Scholarship is a fully funded regional scholarship offered by the Agenzia Regionale Diritto allo Studio Universitario (DSU). Its primary aim is to support low-income students and ensure that financial constraints do not hinder academic pursuits. DSU scholarships are especially prevalent in Tuscany, benefiting students in universities like Pisa, Siena, and Florence, among others.

Key Benefits of the DSU Scholarship

• Full tuition waiver for the academic year
• Free accommodation in university residences
• Free meals in university dining halls (often two per day)
• Financial aid for books, study materials, sports, and miscellaneous expenses
• Annual cash allowance (up to EUR 6,806 for fully eligible students, amount adjusted if receiving meals/accommodation in kind)
• Access to cultural and sporting activities

Who Is Eligible? Requirements for DSU Scholarship

The DSU scholarship has wide eligibility encompassing both Italian and international students enrolled in undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs at participating universities. The principal requirements include:

• Enrollment or pre-enrollment in a participating Italian university (often universities in Tuscany, e.g., University of Pisa)
• Not possessing a degree of the same academic level you are applying for (e.g., applying to a Master’s with no previous Master’s)
• Annual family income below the set threshold (usually EUR 25,000) and declaration of asset value
• No age restriction for applicants
• Academic progress: To renew the scholarship or reapply, students must satisfy their university’s minimum credit requirements and remain enrolled in the same degree cycle.
• No overlapping with other similarly funded scholarships

Specific Requirements for International Students

• Certificates of family income and assets must be issued and/or validated by Italian embassies or local authorities, translated into Italian, and legalized if required.
• ISEE Parificato (Equivalent Economic Situation Indicator for international students) calculation is mandatory.
• Proof of family composition (often Family Registration Certificate or similar)
• Student visa (for non-EU applicants)
• Academic transcripts and admission/pre-enrollment letters
• Valid passport or Identity document

Step-by-Step Application Process for DSU Scholarship (2025)

Most universities use a centralized online platform: Sportello Studente. The process is competitive and has several steps. Here is a detailed, actionable process:

1. Check Your Regional Scholarship and Eligibility

• Visit your university’s and DSU regional websites to confirm if they participate in DSU or other regional scholarships.
• Review specific deadlines and documentation needed for your nationality and student status.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

• Income certificate (issued/validated by Italian authorities for international applicants)
• Asset certificate (property, bank statements, etc.)
• Family composition certificate
• Identity document (passport)
• ISEE/ISEE Parificato certification
• Academic transcripts and admission documentation
• Codice Fiscale (Italian tax code, arranged after arrival in Italy or via consulate)
• Student visa for non-EU applicants
• All documents should be translated/legalized as indicated by Italian diplomatic missions.

3. Register on Sportello Studente

• Create a profile on the Sportello Studente web portal.
• Fill out your personal, academic, and financial information accurately.

4. Complete the Online Application

• Select the university, degree program, and regional scholarship (DSU).
• Upload all required documents.
• Double-check entries for accuracy, since modifications aren’t allowed after final submission.

5. Submit the Application

• Submit the form before the official deadline (applications typically open in mid-July and close in early September or as set by your university).
• Save and print the confirmation receipt for your records.

6. Document Verification & Further Steps

• Some universities ask students to mail/take original documents to the university’s financial aid office.
• Pay attention to emails or online notifications for further requests or clarifications.
• Provisional rankings are usually published by end of September. Final rankings follow by end of November.

7. Accept the Scholarship

• If selected, follow the university’s procedures to accept the grant and receive benefits (accommodation, meals, allowance).

8. Renewal (For Following Years)

• Reapply annually and meet minimum credit and income thresholds.
• Update documents yearly as required.

Important Application Dates for 2025

Event	Typical Date (annually)
Application Opens	Mid-July
Application Deadline	Early September
Provisional Ranking Published	End of September
Final Scholarship Ranking Approval	End of November

Always check your university’s DSU webpage for precise dates each year since timelines can differ by region or university.

Universities Participating in DSU Scholarships

• University of Pisa
• University of Florence
• University of Siena
• Scuola Normale Superiore
• Other Tuscan universities

Some regions and universities outside Tuscany offer similar scholarships under different names.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Start early: Preparing documents (including translations and legalizations) can take several weeks.
• Ensure accuracy: Any inconsistency in the documents or data may result in disqualification.
• Track deadlines: DSU does not send individual reminders.
• Check eligibility: Some universities might have additional requirements or regional quotas.
• Maintain academic progress: To continue receiving benefits in subsequent years, meet the credit requirements set by your university.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply before being admitted?
Yes—students can apply pending admission confirmation, but must finalize enrollment to avail the scholarship once awarded.

Is the DSU only for undergraduate students?
No. DSU covers all degree cycles: Bachelor, Master, and PhD, provided applicants do not already have a degree at the same level.

Can international students from any country apply?
Yes; both EU and non-EU students can apply, but non-EU students need extra documentation.

Can I combine the DSU with other scholarships?
Not if the other scholarship offers similar financial benefits. Always check for restrictions on overlap.

What expenses does the DSU not cover?
Personal expenses outside covered items (travel, some personal care, etc.) are typically not reimbursed.

Conclusion

The DSU scholarship is a game changer for international students planning to study in Italy. It dramatically reduces financial barriers, encourages diversity, and allows students to focus on their academic and career goals without economic pressure. By starting early, preparing the right documents, and following the step-by-step application process, prospective students can maximize their chances of securing this life-changing scholarship.