The DSU Scholarship is one of the greatest ways for international students to get a fully financed scholarship in Italy. Thousands of students apply for the DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) scholarship every year, since it pays for most of their school costs and helps them live in Italy. This tutorial from ABN Education will tell you what the DSU scholarship is, who can apply, what documentation you need, how to apply step by step, and how to improve your chances of getting the scholarship.
What Is the DSU Scholarship in Italy?
The DSU Scholarship Italy is a government-funded program that helps students pay for school at public universities in different parts of the country. The goal of the scholarship is to make sure that all students, especially those from low-income families, have equal access to higher education.
This scholarship is highly popular because it is fully funded, meaning eligible students can get:
- Free accommodation in university dormitories
- Meal vouchers or a university dining card
- Waived tuition fees
- Annual financial allowance for personal expenses
- Access to educational resources and facilities
Different Italian regions have their own DSU bodies. For example, DSU Toscana, ERSU Piemonte, Lazio Disco, etc, but the benefits and requirements are similar across Italy.
Why International Students Prefer DSU Scholarship
For international students, especially from Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, the DSU scholarship offers:
- Zero tuition fee burden
- Affordable living in high-ranked Italian cities
- Opportunity to study at top universities like the University of Pisa, University of Siena, University of Florence, University of Milan, Politecnico di Torino, and more
- Strong support for students with economic needs
This makes DSU one of the most reliable options if you want a fully funded scholarship in Italy without high competition like other European scholarships.
Eligibility Criteria for DSU Scholarship Italy
To apply successfully, you must meet certain academic and financial requirements. The key eligibility criteria include:
1. Enrollment in an Italian Public University
You must either be:
- Already enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program, or
- Have applied for admission and expect to be enrolled once selected.
2. Financial Condition (ISEE Equivalent Documents)
DSU requires proof of low family income. International students must provide:
- Household income certificate
- Property assessment
- Family composition certificate
These documents must be verified, translated, and attested in your home country, then authenticated with an apostille or legal stamp.
3. Academic Requirements
There is no high GPA requirement. However, students must:
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
- Pass a minimum number of credits yearly to renew the scholarship.
4. Residency Condition
You must live in Italy during the academic year, especially if you receive free accommodation.
Documents Required for DSU Scholarship Application
To avoid delays, prepare the following documents early:
- Valid passport
- University admission letter (or pre-enrollment)
- Home-country income certificate
- Property details
- Family composition certificate
- Translated + legalized documents
- Statement of purpose (if required by your university region)
- Form from the university’s DSU portal
Your documents must not be older than 6 months at the time of submission.
How to Apply for DSU Scholarship in Italy – Step-by-Step
Guide
Follow this complete process guide prepared by ABN Education for a smooth application:
Step 1: Apply to an Italian Public University
First, apply for admission through the university portal or via Universality. Once you receive a conditional acceptance, you can begin the DSU process.
Step 2: Prepare Your Financial Documents in the Home Country
Gather your income and property certificates and have them:
- Officially translated
- Notarized
- Attested
- Apostilled (or stamped by the Italian Embassy)
This is the most important part of DSU.
Step 3: Submit DSU Scholarship Application Online
Each region has its own DSU website. You must:
- Create a student account
- Fill the DSU form
- Upload financial and personal documents.
- Select your accommodation preference.
Most DSU applications open between July and September.
Step 4: Wait for Provisional Ranking (Graduation)
DSU publishes an initial ranking list. If your name appears:
- You will temporarily receive scholarship benefits
- Some documents may need verification.
Step 5: Submit Additional Documents (If Requested)
Universities often ask for certified income proofs or corrections. Submit them before the deadline to secure your position.
Step 6: Final Ranking & Scholarship Confirmation
Once the final ranking list is released, you officially receive:
- DSU scholarship grant
- Accommodation or meal benefits
- Tuition fee exemption
When Does DSU Scholarship Open in Italy?
The DSU scholarship application generally opens:
- July to September every year
- Results are announced around October–December.
You should start preparing documents 3–4 months before July to avoid last-minute issues.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting DSU Scholarship
To maximize your chances:
- Prepare financial documents early
- Keep your income certificate as accurate and valid as possible.
- Apply to public universities with strong international student support.
- Submit the DSU form before the deadline.
- Respond quickly to document verification requests.
According to student success cases handled by ABN Education, early preparation significantly increases DSU approval rates.
Is DSU Scholarship Truly a Fully Funded Scholarship in Italy?
Yes. DSU is widely considered a fully funded scholarship in Italy because it covers:
- Tuition fees
- Living costs
- Accommodation
- Meal expenses
- Annual stipend
However, the exact financial amount may vary slightly by region.
Conclusion
The DSU Scholarship Italy is one of the easiest and most helpful fully funded scholarships for international students who desire to study in Italy without having to worry about money. You can get your place and get a great education with complete financial support if you get your papers ready early, apply on time, and follow the right steps.
Suppose you need help with DSU scholarships, getting into an Italian university, or getting your documents ready. In that case, ABN Education can help you every step of the way.
