Italy isn't just a destination for history and art—it's a leading global hub for engineering, advanced technologies, design, and economics. If you want to study in Europe while simultaneously kickstarting your professional career, the Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT) scholarship is exactly what you are looking for.
Promoted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) in partnership with Uni-Italia and ITA (Italian Trade Agency), this program uniquely combines a Master's degree with a mandatory professional internship at an Italian company.
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What is Invest Your Talent in Italy?
The IYT program aims to support international students from specifically targeted countries who want to pursue a Laurea Magistrale (Master's degree) or a Master Specializzante (1-year Specializing Master) in Italy.
The most distinctive feature of IYT is the mandatory internship. Scholars are required to complete an on-the-job training period at an Italian company. This gives students invaluable European work experience and helps Italian businesses connect with global talent.
Financial Benefits & Full Package
The IYT scholarship offers a solid financial package designed to cover your main living expenses while studying and interning in Italy.
The Scholarship Package Includes:
- Monthly Stipend: A grant of €900 per month, paid out over a 9-month period (totaling €8,100 per academic year).
- Tuition Fee Exemption: Grantees are exempted from the payment of tuition fees at the participating Italian universities. (Note: regional taxes or small administrative fees may still apply).
- Health Insurance: The scholarship provides coverage for health and medical expenses for the duration of the grant.
- Italian Language Course: Free Italian language courses organized by the host university to help you integrate and prepare for your internship.
- Internship Opportunity: Facilitated connections with Italian companies to complete your mandatory 3-4 month internship.
Note on Renewals: The scholarship can be renewed for the second year of a 2-year Master's program, provided you maintain satisfactory academic progress (usually a minimum number of university credits).
Eligibility & Target Countries
This scholarship is not open to the entire world. It specifically targets students from countries where Italy has strategic trade agreements.
1. Target Countries
You must be a citizen of one of the following countries to apply:
- Asia & Middle East: Armenia, Azerbaijan, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, People's Republic of China, Republic of Korea, Turkey, Vietnam.
- Africa: Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Tunisia.
- Americas: Brazil, Colombia, Mexico.
2. Academic & Age Criteria
- Age Limit: Applicants generally must be born on or after January 1, 1999 (under 26/28 years old depending on the exact academic cycle).
- Academic Background: Must hold a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) that allows admission to a Master's program in Italy.
- Language Proficiency: Since the programs are taught in English, you must provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) at a B2 level minimum. No prior knowledge of Italian is strictly required.
Eligible Fields of Study
Unlike general government scholarships, IYT focuses on practical, industry-driven fields. You must apply for an English-taught Master's program at one of the partner universities in the following macro-areas:
- Engineering & Advanced Technologies (e.g., Artificial Intelligence, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics)
- Architecture & Design (e.g., Urban Planning, Fashion Design, Industrial Design)
- Economics & Management (e.g., Business Administration, International Economics, Finance)
Step-by-Step Application Guide
The application period generally runs from late January to early March. The process requires you to apply to the university *and* the scholarship.
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Step 1: Get University Admission First
Before applying for IYT, you must submit a pre-application for admission to an eligible Master's program at one of the IYT partner universities. -
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Gather your Bachelor's transcript, English language certificate, CV/Resume, Passport, and an official university pre-admission letter or application receipt. -
Step 3: Record Your 1-Minute Video
Instead of a traditional motivation letter, IYT requires a 1-minute video presentation where you introduce yourself, explain your academic choices, and state your motivation for the internship in Italy. -
Step 4: Apply on the IYT Portal
Create an account on the official Invest Your Talent portal, fill in your details, upload your documents, and submit your video link (usually via a private YouTube or Vimeo link). -
Step 5: Await Final Results
Applications are evaluated by a technical committee. Results are typically announced around June.
Tips for the 1-Minute Video
Since the application doesn't ask for a traditional Statement of Purpose, your 1-minute video is the sole qualitative factor the committee evaluates.
"Your video is your pitch. Do not just recite your CV. The committee wants to see your communication skills, your passion for Italian industry, and your readiness to intern at an Italian company."
- Script It Out: One minute goes by incredibly fast (roughly 130-150 words). Write a tight script focusing on: Who you are, why this specific degree, and how an Italian internship fits your career goals.
- Audio/Lighting Matters: You don't need professional gear, but ensure you film in a quiet, well-lit room. Good audio shows professionalism.
- Show Business Acumen: Because ITA (Italian Trade Agency) sponsors this, mention how your studies could foster business ties between your home country and Italy.
Ready to Invest Your Talent?
Make sure you have pre-applied to your chosen university before submitting your scholarship application.
Go to Official IYT Portal
