After Enrollment
Visa
After receiving the desired and long-awaited acceptance letter from the university, it is time to consider getting your student visa. To request a long-stay visa (type D), you should go to your country’s Italian consulate, embassy, or visa center. This document is needed for everyone who was accepted to a course that has at least 20 hours of subjects per week and lasts more than 90 days.
You should bring a valid passport, a copy of the flight itinerary, a letter of acceptance from the university, insurance, and sufficient financial means to support your studies and life in Italy for the first year. We advise you to apply for a visa in advance as it can take some weeks or even months to arrange the appointment and to get a visa in your passport.
Accommodation
Student accommodation prices vary significantly from north to south and depend on the city. Of course, the prices in Milan will be much higher than, for example, in Bari or even in Genoa. However, many universities offer dormitories for students, which cost around 150-400 euros per month.
Stay calm if you do not get a room in a dormitory. Most cities with universities offer spaces for students or apartments to share with your friends or classmates.
If you are going to live on your own, it is better to think in advance about the quarter (the best choice will be the one close to the university) and start to search for solutions after you receive the entrance letter. This way, you will have more time to find a perfect room and fewer competitors who will also be looking for a place to live.
How to Arrive
Every Italian airport is connected to the city by buses and trains, which generally take you to the center in one hour or less, depending on the town. You can get to the university or campus by public transport from the city center.
The biggest airports in Italy:
- Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, Rome
- Malpensa International Airport, Milan
- Venice Marco Polo Airport
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport
- Naples International Airport
- Catania-Fontanarossa Airport
- Milano Linate Airport
- Turin Airport
- Verona Villafranca Airport
- Falcone-Borsellino Airport, Palermo
Residence Permit
Residence Permit
Non-EU citizens planning to stay in Italy for over three months must apply for a stay permit. All foreigners with a student visa should request a residence permit within eight days of arriving in Italy.
First, you should go to one of the post offices to get the form (KIT) to fill out and bring the required documents – your passport, a certificate from the university, etc. In the post office, you will receive the date for the appointment in the police office (Questura), which will release your permit for one year.
Health Insurance
Verify the health insurance requirements and ensure that you have adequate coverage. Some universities may partner with insurance providers, or you may need to purchase insurance independently.
Banking and Finances
Open a local bank account to simplify financial transactions and manage your finances. Many universities guide students in setting up a bank account during orientation programs.
Networking and Socializing
Connect with other international students and locals. Attend social events, join clubs, and participate in activities organized by the university. This is a great way to meet new people, make friends, and become part of the community.
Orientation Programs
Attend any university-organized orientation program. These programs provide valuable information about campus facilities, academic resources, and student services and offer opportunities to meet fellow students and faculty members.
Traveling Within Italy and Europe
Take advantage of your time in Italy to explore the country and neighboring European destinations. Familiarize yourself with transportation options and plan travel experiences during your academic breaks. Embrace the local culture and engage with the community. Attend cultural events, try local cuisine, and explore the history and traditions of the region.
