Italy offers two main university intakes for Indian students in 2026: September (Fall) and February (Spring). The September intake is the primary intake, providing maximum course options, scholarships, and public university availability, making it the best choice for most students. The February intake has limited programs and is suitable for selected Master’s courses. Early preparation 10 to 12 months in advance helps students secure admission, student visas, and accommodation smoothly.
Choosing the right intake is one of the most important steps when planning to study abroad. For Indian students aiming to study in Italy, understanding university intakes helps avoid missed deadlines, visa delays, and limited course options.
Italy offers affordable education, globally recognised degrees, and English-taught programs at public universities. With the correct intake choice and early planning, students can secure admissions, scholarships, and safe accommodation without stress.
How Many Intakes Are There in Italy?
Italy mainly has two university intakes for international students:
- September Intake (Fall Intake) – Main and most popular
- February Intake (Spring Intake) – Limited and selective
Each intake suits different student profiles, academic goals, and timelines.
September Intake in Italy 2026 (Main Intake)
The September intake in Italy is the preferred option for most Indian students because it offers the widest range of universities, courses, and scholarships.
Why September Intake Is Best for Indian Students
- Maximum public and private universities available
- More English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs
- Higher scholarship availability
- Better internship and part-time job access
- Easier accommodation booking before arrival
September 2026 Application Timeline
- Course shortlisting: October – December 2025
- University applications: January – March 2026
- Offer letters: April – June 2026
- Visa filing: June – July 2026
- Course start: September 2026
From experience, students applying early for the September intake feel more confident and face fewer visa or housing issues.
February Intake in Italy 2026 (Spring Intake)
The February intake in Italy is ideal for students who miss September deadlines or need extra time for preparation.
Key Points of February Intake
- Fewer universities and limited courses
- Lower competition compared to September
- Faster admission decisions
- Mostly available for selected Master’s programs
February 2026 Application Timeline
- Applications open: September – October 2025
- Admission results: November – December 2025
- Visa process: December – January
- Course start: February 2026
Scholarships and technical courses are limited during this intake.
Which Intake Should You Choose?
| Factor | September Intake | February Intake |
| Course availability | Very high | Limited |
| Scholarships | Maximum | Few |
| Admission competition | High | Low |
| Accommodation options | Better | Average |
| Ideal for | Most Indian students | Selected profiles |
Best advice: If you are planning to study in Italy in 2026, the September intake offers more flexibility and long-term benefits.
Courses Available Across Italy Intakes
Popular courses for Indian students include:
- Engineering and Technology
- Business and Management
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Fashion and Design
- Architecture
- Economics and Finance
- International Relations
Most courses are available in September, while February intake offers selected options.
Scholarships Linked to Italy Intakes
Many Italian scholarships are intake-specific and mainly open for the September intake:
- Regional scholarships
- Income-based fee waivers
- University merit awards
Applying early improves approval chances and reduces tuition burden.
Student Accommodation Planning by Intake
Accommodation demand is highest during the September intake.
Smart planning tips:
- Start housing search after receiving an offer letter
- Choose verified student residences or private rooms
- Avoid last-minute bookings to control rent
Early accommodation booking helps students settle faster and focus on studies.
When Should Indian Students Start Preparation?
For September 2026 intake, start preparation 10–12 months in advance.
This timeline helps with:
- University shortlisting
- Document readiness
- Scholarship applications
- Visa planning
- Accommodation booking
Conclusion
Choosing the right intake can shape your entire study abroad journey. For Indian students planning to study in Italy in 2026, understanding the September and February intakes helps you apply on time, secure scholarships, and book safe accommodation without panic.
The September intake remains the best option due to wider course availability, stronger funding support, and smoother visa timelines. With early planning, clear guidance, and the right intake choice, studying in Italy becomes affordable, organised, and stress-free. Starting early is the key difference between struggling later and settling confidently from day one.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many intakes are there in Italy for Indian students?
Italy mainly has two intakes: September and February.
2. Which intake is best to study in Italy?
September intake is best due to more courses, universities, and scholarships.
3. Can Indian students apply for February intake in Italy?
Yes, but options are limited and mostly for Master’s programs.
4. When should I apply for September intake in Italy 2026?
Applications should ideally be submitted between January and March 2026.
5. Is IELTS mandatory for Italy intakes?
Some universities waive IELTS if previous education was in English.
6. Are scholarships available for both intakes?
Most scholarships are available only for the September intake.
7. When do Italy university intakes start for international students?
Most universities in Italy begin classes in September, while selected programs also start in February.
8. Is September intake mandatory to study in Italy?
No, but September intake offers more universities, courses, and scholarships compared to February intake.
9. What is the deadline for Italy September intake 2026?
Deadlines usually fall between March and May 2026, depending on the university and program.
10. Does every Italian university offer February intake?
No, only selected universities and limited courses accept students in the February intake.
11. Can Indian students apply to multiple intakes in Italy?
Yes, students can apply for September and February intakes if eligibility criteria are met.
12. Which intake has more English-taught programs in Italy?
September intake has the highest number of English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s courses.
13. Which intake is better for scholarships in Italy?
Most Italian scholarships are available for students applying in the September intake.