Studying in Italy is an exciting opportunity for international students, with its world-class universities and rich cultural history.
However, financing your education in Italy can be challenging without the right resources.
For international students seeking financial support, student loans are a viable option.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the best student loan providers in Italy for international students, along with key details like loan amounts, interest rates, and eligibility requirements.
Best Student Loan for International Students in Italy
| Loan Provider | Loan Amount | Co-signer Requirement | Interest Rates | Loan Terms | Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unicredit | Up to €50,000 | No co-signer required | 3.2% – 5.2% | 5 – 10 years | International students with an Italian visa |
| Banca Nazionale del Lavoro (BNL) | €1,000 – €30,000 | Optional co-signer | 4.0% – 5.5% | 1 – 10 years | International students enrolled in Italian universities |
| Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) | Up to €60,000 | No co-signer required | 3.0% – 4.8% | 5 – 15 years | Enrolled in a recognized Italian university |
| Intesa Sanpaolo | Up to €40,000 | Optional co-signer | 4.5% – 5.0% | 5 – 10 years | International students with an Italian study visa |
| Fineco Bank | Up to €50,000 | No co-signer required | 3.8% – 5.2% | 3 – 10 years | Valid Italian student visa holder |
| College Ave Student Loans | $2,000 – $100,000 USD | Co-signer required | 4.49% – 12.99% | 5 – 15 years | Enrollment at an eligible Italian university |
| Mediolanum | €1,000 – €35,000 | Optional co-signer | 3.0% – 5.5% | 5 – 12 years | International students studying in Italy |
| Banca Popolare di Sondrio | Up to €45,000 | Optional co-signer | 4.0% – 5.0% | 5 – 10 years | Must be enrolled in an Italian university |
| Credite Agricole | €5,000 – €50,000 | No co-signer required | 3.5% – 4.5% | 5 – 15 years | International students attending an accredited Italian school |
1. Unicredit
- Loan Amount: Up to €50,000
- Interest Rate: 3.2% – 5.2%
- Loan Terms: 5 to 10 years
Unicredit offers loans to international students with a valid Italian student visa.
It does not require a co-signer, making it an attractive option for students without a financial guarantor.
The loan terms are flexible, allowing you to choose repayment schedules that suit your needs.
2. Banca Nazionale del Lavoro (BNL)
- Loan Amount: €1,000 – €30,000
- Interest Rate: 4.0% – 5.5%
- Loan Terms: 1 to 10 years
BNL provides loans to international students enrolled in Italian universities.
They offer flexible repayment options with the possibility of involving a co-signer if needed.
The loan amount is lower compared to others, but it is suitable for students requiring smaller amounts.
3. Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP)
- Loan Amount: Up to €60,000
- Interest Rate: 3.0% – 4.8%
- Loan Terms: 5 to 15 years
CDP is a government-backed option that provides loans to international students attending recognized universities in Italy.
The rates are lower due to government backing, and no co-signer is required.
4. Intesa Sanpaolo
- Loan Amount: Up to €40,000
- Interest Rate: 4.5% – 5.0%
- Loan Terms: 5 to 10 years
Intesa Sanpaolo offers loans for international students with a valid Italian student visa.
Co-signers are optional, and the bank offers a range of loan amounts to suit different budgets.
5. Fineco Bank
- Loan Amount: Up to €50,000
- Interest Rate: 3.8% – 5.2%
- Loan Terms: 3 to 10 years
Fineco Bank’s loan is available to international students studying in Italy.
With no co-signer requirement, it’s an excellent option for students who can demonstrate independent financial responsibility.
6. College Ave Student Loans
- Loan Amount: $2,000 – $100,000 USD
- Interest Rate: 4.49% – 12.99%
- Loan Terms: 5 to 15 years
College Ave offers student loans to international students attending eligible Italian universities.
A co-signer is required, which may be beneficial for students without a solid credit history.
The loan amount can be quite high, making it ideal for students in need of large sums.
7. Mediolanum
- Loan Amount: €1,000 – €35,000
- Interest Rate: 3.0% – 5.5%
- Loan Terms: 5 to 12 years
Mediolanum offers loans to international students studying in Italy.
Co-signers are optional, and the interest rates are competitive compared to other Italian banks.
8. Banca Popolare di Sondrio
- Loan Amount: Up to €45,000
- Interest Rate: 4.0% – 5.0%
- Loan Terms: 5 to 10 years
This bank offers loans to international students attending an accredited university in Italy.
Students may need a co-signer, depending on the loan amount and financial situation.
9. Credite Agricole
- Loan Amount: €5,000 – €50,000
- Interest Rate: 3.5% – 4.5%
- Loan Terms: 5 to 15 years
Available to international students with a valid study visa.
This bank provides flexible loan amounts and terms, and no co-signer is required.
Quick One: We have other useful loan articles here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students in Italy apply for student loans without a co-signer?
Yes, many loan providers in Italy offer loans to international students without the need for a co-signer. For example, Unicredit and Cassa Depositi e Prestiti do not require a co-signer.
What is the typical interest rate for student loans in Italy?
Interest rates for student loans in Italy typically range from 3% to 5.5%, depending on the lender and the terms of the loan.
Do I need to be fluent in Italian to apply for a student loan in Italy?
While being fluent in Italian may help with the application process, many banks provide services in English. However, it’s important to check each bank’s specific requirements.
Conclusion
Finding the best student loan for international students in Italy depends on your needs, the loan amount, and the eligibility requirements.
From government-backed options like CDP to private lenders such as Unicredit and Intesa Sanpaolo, there are plenty of choices to help you finance your education in Italy.
By carefully reviewing the options, you can find a loan that suits your financial needs and academic goals.
