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Study Abroad in Italy

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Explore Italy with CIEE

The birthplace of the Renaissance, pizza, banks, espresso machines, newspapers, the piano, and radio, Italy is known for its fantastical inventions, unrivaled natural and urban beauty, beloved culture, and delicious cuisine. Studying abroad in Italy has it all: 2,500 years of rich history in dynamic Rome, artistic tradition in scenic Florence, and fashion-forward style in urban Milan. No matter which Italian gem you choose, studying in Italy is sure to give you the study abroad experience of a lifetime!

Whether you choose to study for a semester, year, or summer in Italy, you can complete a variety of courses including Italian language, art, architecture, history, communication, business, performing arts, and more. There are a variety of reasons to study abroad in Italy, from the historical significance and charm of the country to the vast program offerings and excursions offered on CIEE’s Italy programs. 

While abroad, students may enhance their academic experience by completing a full- or part-time internship in Italy. This unique opportunity allows students to gain real-world international work experience, expand their professional networks, and develop valuable skills that complement their studies. Internships are available across diverse industries, including business, marketing, manufacturing, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.

In Italy, CIEE gives students access to homestays, internships, volunteering opportunities, and direct enrollment options with added cultural clubs, activities, and excursions that provide a uniquely immersive international experience. Come write your story of Italy with CIEE and begin or improve your Italian language skills in the Eternal City. 

EXPLORE ITALY PROGRAMS

Best Places to Study Abroad in Italy

Florence skyline

Florence

The capital of Italy's Tuscany region, Florence is one of the world's art capitals beloved for its authentic Italian culture.

Milan river canal at night

Milan

The second-largest city in Italy and a global capital of fashion and design, discover centuries-old art and culture in Milan.

Sunny ruins in Rome

Rome

Explore Italy's historic capital city, famous for its renowned landmarks like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Steps.

Study Abroad Programs in Italy

Rome Piazza Navono
  • Rome, Italy
  • Study Program
  • Part-Time Internship

...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!

Study Abroad in Italy Reviews

  • "It was an amazing experience, great way to see the world, and op-portunity to meet new people. The program and classes were amazing and they made it very easy to live life here. I never felt like I had to make it on my own and everyone was extremely supportive. I had an amazing time and made great memories."

    Max P., Indiana University-Bloomington

  • "The CIEE staff are incredibly friendly and helpful at all stages of studying abroad. Each staff member genuinely values the health, safety, and experience of every student. They strive to make the best out of every moment spent in your host country. The program trips included in the program fee are well worth the money and offer experiences that might not be achievable without CIEE’s special access. Furthermore, CIEE’s program fee has been the most valuable investment of my 21 years on this planet! Thank you CIEE!!!"

    Michelle R., University of Colorado-Boulder

  • "I really enjoyed my experience and would say it was the best time of my life. CIEE was extremely helpful and I never felt unsafe or unprotected."

    Lawrencia P., Florida A&M University

  • "Staff and professors are very supportive and do everything they can to make the program enjoyable during these unprecedented times. They go out of their way for the students and we are greatly appreciative for it."

    Jessica C., Arizona State University

Frequently Asked Questions

A city bursting with stories old and new, Italy is a great place to study abroad for students looking for a mix of history and culture, all while having the chance to improve their Italian language skills. It’s no wonder Rome is referred to as the Eternal City, as its history and influence is believed to go on forever.

Your study abroad Italy packing list will vary based on your individual needs and the specific city you're studying in. As a general guide, here are some items you should be sure to have on your Italy study abroad packing list:

  • Passport
  • Visa
  • A second form of ID
  • Plane tickets
  • Proof of health insurance
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Prescriptions
  • & more!

For a full guide, check out our article: Your Go-To Italy Study Abroad Packing List

If you’re wondering how to study abroad in Italy, students can complete a few simple steps – search our study abroad programs in Italy, connect with your campus study abroad office, and start your application.

While Spain and Italy have many similarities in terms of weather and architectural movements, there are key differences between the two. Spain may make a better study abroad destination for students looking to study Spanish in a country with a lower cost of living, while Italy may be the better study abroad spot for students looking to learn Italian and explore iconic landmarks.

Italy is one of the safer study abroad destinations in Europe, but as with any student studying abroad, we recommend that you stay aware of your surroundings, look out for scammers and pickpockets, and travel in groups when possible. 

While the best study abroad program in Italy is quite subjective, we can provide you with a list of some of our most popular study abroad programs in Rome, Milan, and Florence:

Check out our full list of the best study abroad programs in Italy

The cost of studying abroad in Italy varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Italy study abroad program page.

For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.  

Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?

Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Italy with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!

Search our internship opportunities to get started!

STUDY IN UP TO 3 CITIES THIS SEMESTER

Design Your Own Program

With CIEE's open campus model, you can design your very own study abroad semester program to include up to three different locations. Feel free to build your own program using our custom study abroad tool, spin the globe, or take a look at experiences around some of our most popular open campus combinations!

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