University preparation in Rome 2025

For international students, the journey to studying in Rome requires careful planning, from filling out application forms and researching institutions to arranging documentation. Entrance exams or tests are required for admission to many universities in Rome, especially for specialized courses in medicine, dentistry and architecture, as well as for programs with nationality-based quotas. In addition, faculties such as engineering, mathematics, statistics, chemistry, biology, law, economics, business studies, psychology, languages, literature and philosophy conduct entrance tests to determine the minimum level of knowledge of students in order to identify gaps early on for individual improvement.

Before traveling to Rome for your studies, you should research the study program you're interested in. Consider the available courses, academic requirements, and even cultural activities or excursions included in the program. 

• Language Proficiency: Ensure your program is offered in the language you prefer. While you can study in Italian or English in Rome, consider taking an introductory Italian language course to learn common greetings and essential vocabulary. This not only aids communication but also shows respect for the local culture.
• Travel Documents: Obtain all necessary travel documents well in advance. Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay. Make copies of important documents like your passport and ID and store them separately from the originals.
• Accommodation: Whether your program includes accommodation or not, secure your housing before arrival. Start your search early to find the best options and ensure a smooth start to your journey abroad.
• Budgeting: Life in Rome can be expensive, so create a budget plan that covers your expected expenses. Consider the cost of living, including housing, transportation, food, and leisure, as well as additional costs like visa fees or travel insurance.

Rome offers language courses focused on enhancing Italian or English skills for test preparation necessary for university admission. There are also courses specifically designed to prepare students for general or subject-specific entrance exams. Some courses combine both formats and consist of two parts:

1. General Language Training: This part aims to equip students with the language skills needed for successful participation in the second part of the course. Skills developed include listening and speaking comprehension, reading analysis, writing, and vocabulary expansion, with a special emphasis on the types of texts encountered in entrance exams.
2. Subject-Specific Preparation: This part focuses on all subjects presented in the university entrance examinations and determined by the Italian Ministry of Education. Students study one of the chosen fields of study in order to be fully prepared for admission.

Examples of University Prep Courses in Rome

• Dilit School
• Scuola Leonardo da Vinci
• Preparatory Course for Italian Universities

To participate in a university preparation course in Rome, students should have a good command of Italian or English (minimum B1 or B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). If you do not meet the language requirement, it is recommended to complete language courses before enrolling in prep courses for entrance exams.

Most institutions offering university prep courses for international students in Rome have a straightforward application process:

1. Fill out the enrollment application.
2. Confirm your high school diploma.
3. Obtain a student visa for entry into the country.
4. Pay a non-refundable enrollment fee.

Cost of Preparing for University in Rome

Costs associated with studying in Rome differ depending on the university and the courses offered. It's essential to review fee structures, including tuition, accommodation, materials, and other related expenses.