Map of Italy

Although many Italian universities do now offer English-taught programmes, most still require some form of Italian language certification from applicants who are looking to gain admission. And if you want a job afterwards, prospects can be better for those who are bi-lingual - Italian employers around the world often prefer employees who know both Italian and English.

For international students, the Certification of Italian as a Foreign Language (Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera), also known as the CILS, offered by the Universita per Stranieri di Siena, is accepted by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and is widely accepted at Italian universities for admission. The Istituto Linguistico Mediterraneo, a centre recognized by the Universita per Stranieri di Siena, is a good place to start your research for this test.

Venice, Italy

However do check language requirements directly with the university you are applying to, as each individual institution may have select criteria.

If you haven’t learnt Italian in school, no fear! There are plenty of web-programs and apps to help you learn. Check out Rosetta Stone and Babbel, which charge a fee for you to learn, but provide high-quality learning and voice-practice online or can be downloaded onto your smartphone or tablet for on-the-go practice.

Tags: Italian, CILS, Istituto Linguistico Mediterraneo, Università per Stranieri di Siena, Rosetta Stone, Babbel