We have gathered here the questions students ask us most often, with short and honest answers. Can't find what you're looking for? Write to us: we reply to everyone.
Enrollment and courses
What types of course do you offer?
We have two main group courses: the Standard course (more intensive, designed for full immersion in the language) and the Light course (lighter, a few hours a week). We also offer one-to-one courses and part-time options. All courses run from level A1 to C2.
How do I enroll?
You can fill in the enrollment form on the website, or write to us and we'll guide you step by step. Our office helps you choose the right course and level for you.
Can I enroll if I'm an absolute beginner?
Yes. We start from level A1, absolute beginner: you don't need to know any Italian to begin.
Can courses be taken online?
Yes. Many courses are also available online, from any country. You arrange this with our office when you enroll.
Visa and residence permit
Do I need a visa to study in Italy?
It depends on the length of your stay and your nationality. For stays longer than 90 days (about 3 months), non-EU citizens must apply for a study visa (type D) at the Italian consulate in their country. For shorter stays it is often not required. In any case, it's best to check with the consulate.
Are your courses valid for a study visa?
Yes. Both the Standard and the Light course are valid for a study visa application (type D). We provide all the enrollment documentation you need.
Do I need to know Italian already to get the visa?
Some consulates require a basic knowledge of Italian (often A1 or B1 level) for a visa tied to a language course. The requirement varies from consulate to consulate, so we recommend checking directly with yours. If needed, we can help you prepare and, as a CELI exam center, certify your level.
Can you help with the residence permit and its renewal?
Yes. We give you the documents for the visa and support you with the residence permit procedures, including renewal when you want to keep studying with us.
Level, certification and exams
How do I find out my level?
You can take our free level test online, or our office arranges it with you before you start. That way you join the right class.
Do you issue an official Italian certification?
We are a CELI exam center: you prepare for and sit the official Italian certification, recognized by the State, directly with us.
Which levels do you teach?
All six levels of the Common European Framework, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (advanced).
Recognition and accreditation
Are you a recognized school?
Yes. Accademia di Italiano is part of Unicollege SSML, an Italian university recognized by the MUR (the Ministry), and we are an official CELI exam center. One tip: some language schools still display an old "Ministry seal" that, for Italian-language schools, has not been valid for about twenty years. Before you enroll anywhere, always ask who issues the recognition and from what year, and check that it is still valid today. We explain how. (The old "legally recognized school" status was superseded by decree-law 250/2005, law 27/2006: today there are only "paritarie" or "non paritarie" schools.)
Costs and payments
How much does a course cost?
The cost depends on the type of course, its length and format (group, one-to-one, online). Write to us and we'll send you the current price list and a tailored quote.
Is there an enrollment fee?
Yes, a one-off enrollment fee: 80 euros for in-person courses and 40 euros for online courses.
How can I pay?
You can pay by Flywire (card or international bank transfer) or by bank transfer. You'll find all the details in your enrollment confirmation email.
Dates, schedules and locations
When do courses start?
There are many start dates throughout the year. Write to us and we'll tell you the first available date for the course and location you prefer.
Where are you?
We have locations in Florence, Milan, Mantua and Turin. Online courses can be followed from anywhere.
Does the school close in summer?
There is a summer break, usually in August. The exact dates change every year: ask our office when you enroll.
Accommodation and living in Italy
Do you offer accommodation?
Yes, we can help you find a place to stay. You'll find the details on the Accommodation page; for the cost of living, see Living in Italy.
Where do your students come from?
From all over the world. Every year we welcome around 1,500 international students across our locations.
Didn't find your answer?
Write to us: our office replies to everyone, in Italian or English, and helps you choose the right course.