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Save over $140,000 on a College Degree: How Italian Citizenship Can Make Higher Education in Europe More Affordable
Everyone has their reasons for pursuing Italian citizenship through ancestry: reconnecting with family roots, embracing heritage, or gaining the ability to live, work, and study in Europe. We believe all of these are fantastic reasons (after all, nothing warms the heart like connecting with your Italian heritage), but for some, the decision comes down to numbers. One of the most significant financial benefits of holding an Italian passport is the opportunity to attend college in Europe as an EU citizen.
While it's possible to obtain a student visa and attend college in Europe, non-EU students are typically charged higher tuition fees. This makes sense—why should EU taxpayers subsidize non-EU citizens' education? However, as an EU citizen (i.e., with an Italian passport), you or your child would gain access to the low or no-cost tuition universities in Europe.
In the United States, the cost of a bachelor's degree can range from $108,584 (in-state) to $182,832 (out-of-state) over four years¹ (note this includes living expenses). In contrast, a bachelor's degree in Europe typically costs between €25,200 and €73,800 for EU citizens, assuming a three-year program² (also including living expenses). For example, in Italy, tuition can be as low as €0 to €5,000 per year, with living costs ranging from €8,400 to €17,400 annually (source).
For more detail, consider the following examples:
Example University in Europe: University of Vienna, Austria²
Average Annual Tuition (EU): €0 for EU/EEA students
Living Costs (Annual): €12,000 (average)
Total Cost for a 3-Year Bachelor's Degree: €36,000 (about $40,000 USD)
Example University in the USA: Average Public University¹
In-State:
Annual Tuition: $9,750
Living Costs (Annual): $12,917
Total Cost for a 4-Year Bachelor's Degree: $108,584
Out-of-State:
Annual Tuition: $28,386
Living Costs (Annual): $12,917
Total Cost for a 4-Year Bachelor's Degree: $182,832
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of college costs in the U.S. versus several European countries for EU citizens:
Note that these costs don't even include student loan interest, which would make the savings of a European degree even higher.
With these figures in mind, it's clear that obtaining Italian citizenship could be a game-changer for your family’s educational future. At BecomeItaliani, we specialize in making this dream a reality.
Want to see if you qualify? Download our free starter guide here and check out our services and DIY tools here. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you secure your Italian citizenship and unlock these incredible opportunities.
Sources:
¹Hanson, Melanie. “Average Cost of College & Tuition” EducationData.org, May 28, 2024, source
²Mastersportal.com
Disclaimer: The figures and information provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and are subject to change. Tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with higher education can vary widely based on factors such as institution, location, and individual circumstances. We recommend conducting thorough research and consulting with relevant educational institutions for the most up-to-date information. The potential savings outlined here are illustrative and should not be construed as financial advice. Always consider your unique situation and consult with a professional before making any financial or educational decisions.
