The Med-Or Italian Foundation Scholars Program 2025-2026 is a partially funded scholarship that empowers exceptional graduates from the Middle East to earn a Master’s degree in Middle Eastern Studies at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (UCSC) in Italy. Each award totals €12,000, covering tuition (€7,500) plus a living-cost and travel grant (€4,500). Applications open 11 July 2025 and close 24 September 2025.
Brief Description
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Med-Or Italian Foundation Scholars Program 2025-2026 |
| Host University | Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (Milan, Rome, Piacenza, Brescia, Cremona) |
| Country | Italy |
| Degree Level | Master’s |
| Program | Middle Eastern Studies |
| Funding Type | Partial (€12,000 total) |
| Application Window | 11 July – 24 September 2025 |
Subjects Offered
The only programme covered by the grant is the Master’s in Middle Eastern Studies, delivered entirely in English by internationally recognised scholars and policy practitioners. The curriculum explores politics, history, religion, economics, security, and cultural dynamics of the Middle East, integrating fieldwork, internships, and research projects across Milan and partner institutions.
Degree Offered
Graduates earn a Laurea Magistrale (Italian second-cycle degree) equivalent to an internationally recognised Master of Arts (MA). The 2-year track (120 ECTS) equips students with advanced analytical tools for careers in diplomacy, NGOs, journalism, academia, or governmental agencies. UCSC ranks in the top 10 Italian universities for employability, ensuring strong global networks.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Med-Or Italian Foundation Scholars Program 2025-2026, you must:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Citizen or legal resident of an eligible Middle Eastern country (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Turkey, Israel, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, UAE, Qatar, Oman, or the Palestinian National Authority) |
| Previous Degree | Hold a Bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance (minimum equivalent to Italian 105/110) |
| Programme Choice | Apply exclusively for the Master’s in Middle Eastern Studies at UCSC |
| Language | Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 84 or equivalent) unless prior studies were in English |
How to Apply
Follow these step-by-step instructions to secure your place:
- Choose the correct portal
• Italian bachelor’s graduates → master.unicatt.it/ammissione
• Non-Italian bachelor’s graduates → international.unicatt.it - Create an account and select “Med-Or Italian Foundation Scholars Program 2025-2026” under financial aid options.
- Upload the following documents (PDF only, max 10 MB each):
• Passport or residency permit
• Bachelor’s degree certificate or provisional transcript
• CV (Europass format recommended)
• Statement of purpose (max 1,000 words) outlining your interest in Middle Eastern Studies and career goals
• English-language certificate
• Any additional documents required by UCSC International Admissions - Submit by 24 September 2025 (23:59 CEST). Incomplete or late applications are automatically rejected.
- Selection timeline
• October 2025: Academic assessment and interviews
• Early November 2025: Scholarship winners announced
• January 2026: Semester begins
Apply Now
Seize this life-changing opportunity! Click the button below to start your application for the Med-Or Italian Foundation Scholars Program 2025-2026 and join a vibrant community of scholars in Italy.
Why This Scholarship Matters
Studying at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore means immersing yourself in centuries-old Italian culture while gaining cutting-edge knowledge on Middle Eastern geopolitics, economies, and societies.
The €12,000 funding removes financial barriers, allowing you to focus on research, networking, and internships at think tanks, embassies, or UN agencies located in Milan and Rome. Alumni of the Med-Or Italian Foundation Scholars Program 2025-2026 have progressed to influential roles at the UN, World Bank, and leading universities, cementing the grant’s reputation as a springboard for global impact.
Don’t miss the 24 September 2025 deadline—apply today and shape the future of Middle Eastern Studies!
