The process of selecting candidates for Italian PhD programs involves a competitive examination announced annually through a call for applications, typically released in the Spring. A call for interest might be advertised earlier in February. This is only a preliminary stage aimed at collecting expressions of interest before a formal application.

Applications for PhD positions are open to students of all ages and nationalities who hold a second-level degree (equivalent to a Master’s Degree) by the deadline for the enrollment to the PhD program, qualifying them for PhD studies. Prospective applicants can only submit their applications for PhD programs in response to the official call for applications.