Published on 17 July 2026 by ISAD — School of Design in Milan

Scholarships at ISAD are more than financial aid—they are a statement of our belief that talent, curiosity, and dedication should never be limited by economic circumstance. Each year, the School of Design in Milan opens its doors to a new generation of creative minds through a range of scholarship opportunities designed to make design education accessible, diverse, and forward-looking. This page explains how our scholarship system works, what we look for in candidates, and how you can prepare a strong application.

Why ISAD Offers Scholarships

Design thrives on diversity. The best ideas emerge when people with different backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences come together in the same studio. Yet the cost of higher education—especially in a city like Milan—can be a real barrier. ISAD scholarships exist to remove that barrier, not just for a few exceptional individuals, but for a broad spectrum of students who show potential, passion, and a willingness to contribute to our community.

We also believe that financial support should be paired with mentorship and visibility. Scholarship recipients at ISAD become part of a network of alumni, industry partners, and faculty who are invested in their success. In this way, a scholarship is not a one-time gift, but an ongoing relationship that can shape a career.

Types of Scholarships Available

ISAD offers several categories of scholarships, each with its own criteria and application process. While the exact number and value of awards may vary from year to year, the following types are typically available:

• Merit-Based Scholarships – awarded to applicants with outstanding portfolios, academic records, or competition results. These recognize demonstrated excellence in design thinking and execution.
• Need-Based Scholarships – designed for students who can demonstrate financial hardship. Applicants are asked to provide documentation of family income, assets, and other relevant factors.
• Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships – aimed at students from underrepresented backgrounds, including but not limited to nationality, ethnicity, gender identity, or disability. These scholarships reflect ISAD’s commitment to a truly global and inclusive design community.
• Project-Specific Scholarships – occasionally, ISAD partners with companies, foundations, or public institutions to fund scholarships tied to a particular design challenge or field, such as sustainable fashion, urban mobility, or digital healthcare.

All scholarships are applied toward tuition fees. Some may also include a stipend for living expenses, studio materials, or travel related to the program. Details are published with each call for applications.

How to Apply for a Scholarship

The scholarship application process at ISAD is integrated with the general admission process, but it requires additional materials. You do not need to wait for an admission decision before applying for a scholarship—in fact, we encourage you to submit both applications at the same time.

To apply, you will need to prepare:

• A completed Admission application for your chosen program.
• A scholarship motivation letter (500–800 words) explaining why you are applying, what financial need or merit you bring, and how the scholarship would impact your studies and future career.
• For need-based scholarships: proof of family income (e.g., tax returns, salary statements) or a declaration of financial hardship.
• For merit-based scholarships: your portfolio and any awards, certificates, or letters of recommendation that support your application.
• For diversity scholarships: a personal statement describing your background and how it shapes your perspective as a designer.

All documents must be submitted through the online portal by the deadline indicated in the scholarship call. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.

Selection Criteria and Process

Scholarship selection at ISAD is rigorous but transparent. A committee of faculty members, admissions staff, and sometimes external partners reviews each application. The committee looks for three things:

• Alignment with ISAD values – Does the applicant demonstrate curiosity, empathy, and a collaborative spirit?
• Potential for growth – Is there evidence that the student will make the most of the opportunity, both academically and personally?
• Financial need or merit – Depending on the scholarship type, the committee weighs either documented need or demonstrated excellence.

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview. Final decisions are usually announced within six to eight weeks after the deadline. Successful applicants receive a formal scholarship offer, which they must accept within a specified period.

“A scholarship at ISAD is not a prize for what you have already done. It is an investment in what you might become.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for more than one scholarship?

Yes, you may apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each. However, you can only receive one ISAD scholarship per academic year. If you are selected for more than one, you will be offered the one with the higher value or the one that best fits your profile.

Are scholarships renewable?

Most ISAD scholarships are awarded for one academic year. Some multi-year scholarships may be renewable based on satisfactory academic progress and continued financial need. Renewal conditions are stated in the scholarship offer letter.

Do I need to be admitted before applying for a scholarship?

No. You can apply for admission and scholarship simultaneously. However, a scholarship offer is conditional on admission to the program. If you are not admitted, the scholarship is automatically withdrawn.

What if my financial situation changes after I apply?

If your financial circumstances change significantly after submitting your application, you should contact the admissions office as soon as possible. In some cases, the committee may reconsider your application or direct you to other forms of support.

Beyond the Scholarship: Additional Support

Scholarships are one part of ISAD’s broader commitment to affordability and access. The school also offers flexible payment plans, part-time work opportunities on campus, and guidance on external funding sources. For students interested in Italian language support or bureaucratic assistance (such as visa or residency permits), the Iscrizioni office provides dedicated help.

We also encourage students to explore Borse di Studio (external scholarships) offered by the Italian government, private foundations, and international organizations. Many of these can be combined with an ISAD scholarship, further reducing the financial burden.

Preparing a Strong Scholarship Application

Competition for scholarships is high, but a well-prepared application can make a real difference. Here are a few practical tips from our admissions team:

• Start early. Gather financial documents, update your portfolio, and draft your motivation letter well before the deadline.
• Be specific. Avoid generic statements like “I have always loved design.” Instead, describe a project, a challenge, or a moment that shaped your design thinking.
• Show impact. Explain how the scholarship will change your trajectory—what would you do at ISAD that you could not do otherwise?
• Proofread. A motivation letter with typos or unclear sentences suggests a lack of attention to detail, which is critical in design.
• Ask for feedback. Have a teacher, mentor, or friend review your application before you submit.

Remember, the scholarship committee is not looking for perfection. They are looking for authenticity, resilience, and a genuine desire to learn. If you have a story to tell, tell it honestly.

Deadlines and Key Dates

Scholarship deadlines are aligned with admission rounds. Typically, there are two main application windows: one in early spring for programs starting in October, and one in late autumn for programs starting in February. Exact dates are published on the Admission page and in the scholarship call. We strongly recommend applying in the first round, as some scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.

If you have questions about a specific scholarship or your eligibility, please contact the admissions office through the official channels listed on the website. We are here to help you navigate the process and find the support you need to join ISAD.

Written by ISAD — School of Design in Milan