Erasmus in Italy 2026: The Complete Guide for International Students

Italy is one of the most popular destinations for the Erasmus+ 2026 programme. With its rich culture, world-class food and prestigious universities, an Erasmus year in Italy turns into a life-changing experience. This guide walks you through everything international students need to know before they go.

1. The best Italian cities for Erasmus

Italy offers something for every kind of student. These are the most popular Erasmus destinations and what makes each one special:

• Milan: The country's fashion and business capital, perfect for students of design, fashion, finance and management.
• Rome: Living history at every corner — an unbeatable backdrop for history, art and architecture students.
• Florence: The cradle of the Renaissance, ideal for fine arts, humanities and cultural heritage programmes.
• Bologna: The student city by definition, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe and a buzzing nightlife.
• Turin: Industrial heritage with a strong cultural scene — a smart pick for engineering and tech students.

2. Erasmus grants for Italy in 2026

Italy is a Group 1 country (high cost of living) under the Erasmus+ scheme. The base Erasmus+ grant for Italy in 2026 will sit between €320 and €450 per month, depending on your home university and country.

On top of the main grant you may qualify for:

• Inclusion top-up: Up to €250 extra per month for students with disabilities or special needs.
• Regional or national top-ups: Many regions and ministries add their own subsidies — check with your home university.
• Travel support: A one-off contribution towards travel costs, calculated on the distance to your host city.

3. Student accommodation in Italy: essential tips

Finding student accommodation in cities like Milan or Rome can get competitive. To rent a room in Italy without stress, follow these rules:

• Start early: Begin your search 4 to 5 months before your arrival to access the best rooms.
• Choose well-connected areas: Prioritise neighbourhoods served by metro, tram or night buses.
• Read the contract carefully: Make sure every clause and deposit term is crystal clear before signing.
• Bills included: Pick listings with utilities included to avoid surprise expenses each month.

4. Key paperwork for studying in Italy

• Residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno): Mandatory for stays longer than 90 days for non-EU students.
• Tax code (Codice Fiscale): Required to open a bank account or sign any rental contract.
• Health coverage: European Health Insurance Card plus a complementary private policy is strongly recommended.
• Academic recognition: A Learning Agreement signed by both your home and host universities.

5. Cost of living at a glance