Italian for studying in Italy

Why study in Italy?

Italy is one of the most popular destinations for international students: long-established public universities, tuition fees far lower than in many English-speaking countries, and scholarship opportunities that can even cover living costs. But the key that opens this door is the language. In this article we look at what level of Italian you need to study in Italy, and how to get there.

What language level do you need?

For Italian-taught programmes, most universities set level B2 as the admission requirement. Some universities accept B1 for certain programmes, but B2 is the common standard, and having it gives you a much wider choice of universities. If you choose an English-taught programme, you will be asked for an English certificate instead; even then, however, knowing Italian is extremely valuable for daily life, student jobs and connecting with your surroundings.

Tuition fees at public universities

Tuition fees at Italian public universities are usually much lower than in English-speaking countries, and at many universities they are calculated based on the family's financial situation. As a result, many international students pay only a small fee, or are even fully exempted.

Regional scholarships (DSU)

One of the most attractive features of studying in Italy is the regional scholarship system known as DSU, managed by regional "right to study" agencies. These scholarships typically include a cash grant, accommodation or a housing allowance, student meals and a tuition fee waiver. The important point for international students is that in many Italian regions, the assessment for foreign applicants is in practice not tied to family income in the home country, and with correctly prepared documents a large share of international applicants qualify. That said, conditions can differ from region to region and year to year, so you should always read that year's official call carefully.

Studying medicine in Italy

For English-taught medicine programmes you need to take the IMAT exam, which is highly competitive. But there is another route: Italian-taught medicine and health science programmes, whose admission tests are held in Italian and where, at some universities, competition for non-EU seats is usually lower. Beyond that, many other programmes at Italian universities have no national entrance exam at all, with admission based on your academic record. This is why a solid command of Italian effectively opens more doors for you.

The role of the CELI certificate

To prove your language level to universities and the embassy, you need an official certificate. CELI, issued by the University for Foreigners of Perugia, is one of the best-known of these certificates and is accepted by Italian universities. As the official representative of the University of Perugia in Karaj, GLOBAL TALK language institute both runs Italian courses from beginner level up to B2 and provides registration for the CELI exam itself.

Where to start

Getting from zero to B2 does not happen overnight; it usually takes a structured programme over several terms. So the earlier you start, the more options you will have when admission season comes. A sensible route usually looks like this:

• Complete the beginner levels and reach A2, focusing on conversation and everyday vocabulary.
• Consolidate level B1 while getting used to simple academic texts.
• Take a B2 preparation course and practise with official past exam papers.
• Sit the CELI exam and prepare your admission and visa documents.

With a placement test and a consultation session at GLOBAL TALK, you can personalise this roadmap to your own situation and move towards Italian universities with peace of mind.