BANCA D'ITALIA - Scholarship “GIORGIO MORTARA”

What the Giorgio Mortara scholarship gives you

You will receive 27,000 EUR gross per academic year for postgraduate study or a research placement abroad, paid in four instalments. This amount already covers your travel and health insurance costs. In addition, the Banca d’Italia (the Italian central bank) will cover your tuition fees and any accommodation costs separately, once you have provided the relevant supporting documents. The scholarship runs for one academic year (at least 9 months). It may be extended for a second year if the Bank considers your academic progress to be sufficiently good. If you are studying outside the eurozone, you will receive the equivalent amount in the relevant local currency. The Bank awards two of these scholarships in each round.

Who can apply

• Degree: You hold an Italian ‘Laurea Magistrale’ (a Master’s degree from an Italian university) with a top mark of at least 110/110.
• When you graduated: You completed your Master’s degree on 20 November 2023.
• Field of study: You are studying financial economics, econometrics or mathematical, statistical or IT methods used in economics and finance (for example, artificial intelligence, machine learning, FinTech or cyber security).
• Where you go: You choose one of the best universities abroad, and the degree programme must be relevant to your studies and the subject area covered by the scholarship.
• Nationality: You are an Italian citizen.
• Language: You speak the language of your chosen course fluently.
• No double funding: This scholarship cannot be combined with other scholarships, research grants or PhD funding.

An original Master’s thesis and a strong aptitude for research speak volumes in your favour.

How to apply

Online applications must be submitted via the Banca d'Italia portal by 21 November 2025, 16:00 (Italian time). A panel of academics will assess your study plan, your dissertation, your CV, the reputation of your chosen university, your reference letters and any GRE/GMAT results. The results are expected to be announced in early February.

How realistic are your chances?

Only two Mortara scholarships are awarded per round, and the requirements are high. You need a Master’s degree in Italian with top marks, as well as a research-oriented profile in a specific technical field. This leads to fierce competition amongst highly qualified applicants. If your dissertation is truly original, your grades are outstanding and your field of specialisation is a perfect match, you have a real chance. A well-chosen host university and compelling references make all the difference.