What does the yearly PhD calendar look like?

Short answer: Calls mostly open in spring and close between June and early summer, with some extra rounds into autumn. Programs start on 1 November.

Real 2026 examples: Florence closed on 11 June 2026 (University of Florence); Modena on 30 June 2026 (University of Modena); Bologna ran a third round until 8 October 2026 (University of Bologna third round). Trento published a final ranking for International Studies on 8 July 2026 (University of Trento).

A plan for a November 2027 start

1. October 2026 to February 2027: choose your topic and groups, take IELTS, apostille your documents, and start CIMEA for your master's.
2. January to March 2027: apply for the MAECI scholarship if you want extra security (P20).
3. March to July 2027: calls open and close. Submit your applications and proposals.
4. June to September 2027: interviews and rankings. Accept a funded position.
5. As soon as you accept: Universitaly pre enrolment, then the visa (Part F).
6. October 2027: fly, and submit the residence permit kit within 8 working days.
7. 1 November 2027: the PhD starts.