Study in the UK vs Italy: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for the UK and Italy— the funds you must show, living costs, fees, processing time and document load. Figures are sourced from each country's official pages and date-verified.
| Factor | the UK | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 10,539 GBP | 10,180 EUR |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,171 GBP | 848 EUR |
| Visa fee | 524 GBP | 116 EUR |
| Typical processing time | ~3 weeks | ~3 weeks |
| Main intakes | Jan, Sep | Sep, Feb |
| Required documents | 5 | 6 |
Funds are shown in each country's own currency, so “lower” is only marked when currencies match. Always confirm current figures on the official sources below.
Verdict: the UK vs Italy
- Italy needs less money up front — about €10,180/year versus €12,399 for the UK (≈ €2,219 less).
- the UK asks for fewer required documents (5).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to the UK
- CAS from a licensed student sponsor
- Maintenance funds (held 28 days)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- Approved English language proof (SELT)
- Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate
- ATAS certificate
- Accommodation
Unique to Italy
- Pre-enrolment on Universitaly
- University admission / enrolment
- Proof of financial means
- Health insurance
- Language proof
- Proof of accommodation
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in the UK or Italy?
By proof of funds, Italy is cheaper — €10,180/year versus €12,399 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, the UK or Italy?
the UK typically processes faster (~3 weeks vs ~3). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in the UK or Italy?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Italy needs less money up front — about €10,180/year versus €12,399 for the UK (≈ €2,219 less). the UK asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.