If you are a citizen of a non-EU country and have opted for
an Italian degree program, it is essential to fulfill the Italian language proficiency criteria before commencing your
university studies. One good way to satisfy those requirements is providing a valid Italian language certification.
It is advisable to plan beforehand and not leave this “job to be done” until the last moment. Some Italian language exams or certificate evaluations might occur after the deadline, rendering them unacceptable. Additionally, there is a possibility that all slots for the Italian tests might be filled, or your certifications may not be deemed suitable.
INDICE
Requirements For Studying In Italy
Here are some of the typical prerequisites for studying abroad in Italy, which can vary based on the university, degree level, and program of interest:
Eigibility. Applicants must be over 17 years old and have graduated from high school.
Language Proficiency.
Depending on the degree level and program, a certain level of Italian language proficiency may be necessary.
Academic Performance. Some Italian universities may require a minimum GPA from previous educational institutions.
Visa Requirement.
Non-EU students applying for any degree level must secure a visa to study in Italy.
Financial Stability. Certain universities may request evidence of sufficient financial resources to ensure the student can afford tuition and living expenses in Italy.
Italian Language Certificate To Enroll In A Degree Programme
For non-EU students seeking to enroll in programs taught in Italian,
demonstrating proficiency at a B2 level in Italian is necessary. Various Italian language certifications are available for this purpose, offered by cultural institutions, universities, and accredited language schools both in Italy and worldwide. Among these, the most accredited are:
1. the CELI (Italian Certification as a Foreign Language),
2. the CILS (Certification of Italian as a Foreign Language).
The structure of these exams varies depending on the level being attempted, but they generally share a similar format.
Main Aspects Of The Language Evaluated
To obtain an Italian language certificate like CELI or CILS, multiple aspects of the language are evaluated, including:
- Listening comprehension
- Oral expression
- Reading comprehension
- Written expression
CELI and CILS certificates are designed for foreign learners of Italian who intend to study in Italy or require recognized proof of their language proficiency. Each section of these exams is assessed independently, meaning that to pass, proficiency must be demonstrated in all four areas. The exams can be taken at designated locations in Italy or abroad, with
all candidates receiving the same tasks and assessments conducted by trained evaluators.
Both CELI and CILS tests cover the aforementioned language components and provide detailed results that pinpoint individual strengths and weaknesses. These exams are universally accepted by Italian universities and require a minimum B2 level proficiency in all four sections.
Levels Of Certifications
There are various levels of certifications available for both CELI and CILS exams.
CELI Certifications:
- CELI 2 (Level B1 of the CEFR) - This intermediate level is beneficial for mastering the language without excessive difficulty.
- CELI 3 (Level B2 of the CEFR) - A higher intermediate level that aids in mastering the language with reasonable ease.
- CELI 4 (Level C1 of the CEFR) - An advanced level where individuals can comprehend and produce lengthy and intricate pieces of language and conversations.
- CELI 5 (Level C2 of the CEFR) - This represents a high level of proficiency in the language, particularly in complex situations.
The Italian Ministry of University and Research approves CELI 3 as a certificate of Italian language proficiency for studying at a university in Italy. CELI 4 and CELI 5 indicate an equivalent level of Italian language proficiency to that of Italian students.
CILS Certifications:
Beginner Level
- CILS A1 (Level A1 of the CEFR) and CILS A2 (Level A2 of the CEFR). Modules for children, adolescents, integration in Italy, and adults.
Independent Learner Level
- CILS One (Level B1 of the CEFR). Modules for adults and adolescents.
- CILS Due (Level B2 of the CEFR). Module for adults.
Advanced Learner Level
- CILS Three (Level C1 of the CEFR) and CILS Four (Level C2 of the CEFR). Module for adults.
What Advantages Do The CELI And CILS Exams Have?
These exams are offered not only in Italy but also in several places worldwide.
Mock tests and study materials are readily available online for preparation. If a candidate is unsatisfied with their scores, they have the opportunity to retake the exam.
Other Italian Language Certificates
There are numerous certifications available to demonstrate proficiency in the Italian language, issued by various university and cultural institutions. Here are a few examples.
- AIL (The Italian Language Academy). AIL is an association comprising schools, institutions, and experts in teaching Italian to foreigners. Their certifications are internationally recognized and are designed for individuals learning Italian as a second or foreign language. The Italian Language Academy aligns its certifications with the linguistic and communicative levels settled by the European Council. Additionally, it offers diplomas in business language.
- DILC B1 Exam. This exam is recognized by the Swiss Federal Office of Vocational Training and Technology and is accepted in every commercial professional school in Switzerland. It focuses on practical communication skills for daily life and business contexts.
- DELI A2 Integration Exam. Created due to significant interest in residence permit renewal, this exam by AIL emphasizes practical communication skills in daily and business life.
- PLIDA (Italian Language Project Dante Alighieri). The PLIDA certificate confirms proficiency in Italian as a foreign language and is issued by the Dante Alighieri Society. It is officially recognized by the Ministry of External Affairs and can be used for university admissions or long-term residency permits. PLIDA Juniors is specifically for adolescent students (13-18 year-olds), with different texts chosen to suit their age group's experiences.
- IT (Italian Certification). Offered by the University of Roma Tre, the IT certificate signifies general competence in the Italian foreign language. It is recognized by Ministries of Foreign Affairs and involves the design, administration, and assessment of Italian as a foreign language certification tests.
Italian Language Certificate For Master And Doctoral Degrees
Many universities expect students to demonstrate their Italian language proficiency, and some may mandate
supplementary language courses based on the chosen study program.
- Master’s Degrees. For admission to a master’s degree program in Italy, applicants need a prior bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification from undergraduate studies. Typically, universities require a relevant diploma in the field they are applying for at the graduate level. There are numerous degree programs available in English for those who do not speak Italian.
- Doctoral Degrees (Ph.D.). Doctoral programs in Italy, which are third-cycle degrees, necessitate a bachelor’s and master's degree diploma. Additional advanced degrees often enhance an applicant’s profile. Depending on the university and program, students may need to submit a research proposal as part of the admission criteria.
Welcome Association Italy Assistance To Study Abroad In Italy
If you are a foreigner who wants to come to Italy for study purposes and you need more information, do not hesitate to
contact our Union. Thanks to our
agreements with the best Italian language schools and training institutes we can help you find the solution that best suits your needs.
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