The 2026 Migration Blueprint: €156 Degrees in Italy, PR Strategies, and Essential School Checklists

Hello, beautiful people! How are you all doing today? I hope you are doing well.

Today has been incredibly busy for me because it’s my birthday! But let’s put the celebrations aside for a moment—the birthday is over, and it’s time to get back to business. My goal is to provide the materials and information you need to successfully migrate and study abroad in 2026.

I have some crucial updates on affordable schooling and the strategic mindset you need for your “Japa” journey. Let’s dive in.

🇮🇹 Italy: Study for €156/Year at Milano-Bicocca

I’ve mentioned before that there is a specific university in Italy charging only €156 per year. It is literally like free. This school is the University of Milano-Bicocca in Milan.

Official Website: University of Milano-Bicocca International Admissions
Application Portal: Bicocca “Secretaria Online” (Apply Here)

Deadlines for 2026:

First Phase: Closes January 16, 2026.
Second Phase: Opens around March 2026.

Key Program: AI for Science and Technology This is a top-tier program, but you must check the Academic Requirements for AI. They require an interview to test your knowledge in Computer Science, Math, Statistics, and Physics. You cannot switch from an unrelated field like Journalism unless you start from the Bachelor’s level!

Key Program Spotlight: AI for Science and Technology

Bicocca doesn’t have hundreds of programs (less than 10-14 English-taught options), but they are high-quality. One major program is Artificial Intelligence for Science and Technology.

Important Warning on Requirements:

You cannot just “switch” into this from a completely unrelated field like Journalism or Communications without the right background. The admission process includes an interview that tests your basic knowledge in:

Computer Science (Programming, Algorithms)
Mathematics (Linear Algebra)
Statistics and Physics

Pro Tip: Always check the Academic Requirements and CFUs (University Credits) on the school website before applying. If you don’t meet the master’s requirements, you may need to start from a bachelor’s level.

2. Strategic Migration: Why “Where” Matters

I recently had a call with someone in Korea that reminded me why strategy is so important. Before you move, ask yourself: “What is my ultimate goal?”

Goal A: Go, work, make money, and leave.
Goal B: Study, work part-time, graduate, get a stay-back visa, find a contract, and secure Permanent Residency (PR) or Citizenship.

If your goal is Goal B, you must be careful with Asian countries. Many Asian countries do not offer easy stay-back visas, PR, or citizenship to international students. My contact in Korea has been there for a long time but is struggling to get residency.

Be strategic. Choose a country that aligns with your long-term plan for stability.

3. 🇱🇹 Lithuania: Vytautas Magnus University (VMU)

I am currently working on 2026 applications for this school. Here is the reality of applying there:

Official School Site: Vytautas Magnus University Admissions
English Requirement: They generally do not accept English proficiency letters from your uni. You need Duolingo (100+) or IELTS.
Verification: If you are Nigerian (WAEC) or Cameroonian (GCE), they need direct verification from your exam board.
The Residency Portal: Once admitted and the deposit is paid, you must use the MIGRIS Portal to apply for your residence permit.

The Visa Process:

Admission is just the first step. To get your Mediation Number for the visa, you must first pay your tuition deposit. You will then apply through the MIGRIS portal.

Note on Legalization: Depending on your nationality, you may need double or triple legalization of your police clearance. Requirements vary based on where you are residing, so do your research!

4. Bonus: Free Schooling in Slovakia

If you are on a tight budget, I have a major update for you. I recently published a post about a school in Slovakia with zero tuition fees.

Cost: Absolutely €0.
Why apply? If your funds are limited, this is one of the best ways to move to Europe in 2026.

That’s a great idea. Having a clear checklist is the best way to ensure you don’t miss those critical deadlines.

Here are the specific requirements for both universities based on their 2026/2027 application cycles.

🇮🇹 Checklist: University of Milano-Bicocca (Italy)

Focus: Artificial Intelligence for Science and Technology (Master’s)

1. Mandatory Documents for the Portal

[ ] Valid Passport: Must be clear and valid for the duration of your visa process.
[ ] Digital ID Photo: High resolution (300×400 px), light background, face clearly visible.
[ ] Bachelor’s Diploma: Translated into English or Italian (unless issued in these languages).
[ ] Official Transcript of Records: Listing all subjects, grades, and CFUs/Credits.
[ ] English Certificate (B2 Level): * Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL iBT (72+), Cambridge (FCE), or a declaration from your university if your previous degree was taught entirely in English.

2. Curricular Requirements (The “30 CFU” Rule)

To qualify for the AI program, your transcript must show you have earned at least 30 CFUs in specific areas.

Subjects: Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, and Physics.
Interview: If your bachelor’s grade is below 100/110 (or equivalent), you will likely be called for an interview to test your math and programming basics.

3. Payment & Deadlines

Application Fee: €30.
Next Call: March 16th – April 16th, 2026.

🇱🇹 Checklist: Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania)

Focus: General Bachelor’s and Master’s Admission

1. Proof of English Proficiency

[ ] Standardized Test: Duolingo (100–125), IELTS (5.5–6.5), or TOEFL iBT (87–109).
- Note: Unlike many other schools, VMU is very strict about having a test score if you aren’t from a native English-speaking country.

2. Result Verification (Country Specific)

[ ] Nigeria: High-quality scan of WAEC/NECO + Scratch Card (Serial & PIN) for online verification.
[ ] Cameroon: GCE Ordinary and Advanced Level certificates + Official Board Statement.
[ ] Master’s Applicants: You must contact your university and have them email your Official Academic Transcript directly to recognition@vdu.lt.

3. Legalization & Visa (The “MIGRIS” Phase)

[ ] Curriculum Vitae (CV): In English.
[ ] Motivation Letter: 1200–3000 characters.
[ ] Police Clearance Certificate: For your residence permit (needs legalization/Apostille).
[ ] Mediation Number: Only issued after you pay the first year’s tuition deposit.

4. Application Fee

Cost: €100 (Non-refundable).

Important Reminder for 2026

For both countries, if you are a non-EU citizen, you must eventually use the Universitaly portal (for Italy) or the MIGRIS portal (for Lithuania) to start your visa/residency process. Don’t wait until the last minute!

Would you like me to help you draft a Motivation Letter for one of these applications? We can tailor it to your specific background (e.g., if you are trying to switch into AI).

Final Thoughts for 2026

Things are changing. Proof of funds requirements are shifting, and tuition fees are increasing globally. Do your due diligence and thorough research. Don’t just apply because you want to move—apply because you have a plan.

What’s next?

Tomorrow, I will be sharing updates on schools in Slovakia and more info on Denmark.

If this helped you, please:

Share this post with someone who needs it.

Good luck with your applications! We’ll meet again in the next one.

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