Education Italy

Enrolling in Kindergarten

 

Age and Types of Kindergartens: In Italy, children can attend nurseries from 3 months to 3 years old and kindergartens from 3 to 6 years old. There are both public and private kindergartens.

 

Registration process:

   - Application: Applications are usually submitted at the beginning of the year, typically in January or February. Parents need to apply to the municipality of residence or directly to the chosen educational institution.

Important: Public kindergartens often have limited places, and demand for them can exceed supply, leading to waiting lists. It is recommended to apply to several kindergartens simultaneously, including both public and private institutions, to increase the chances of admission. Also consider kindergartens not only in the city center but also in surrounding areas where competition may be lower.

 

   - Documents: The following documents are required to apply: the child’s birth certificate, proof of residence, and the child’s passport or residence permit.

   - Vaccination: In Italy, vaccination is mandatory for attending kindergartens and schools. Parents must provide a vaccination certificate.

 

Fees and Work Schedule:

   - In public institutions, the cost depends on the family income and can vary. Private kindergartens are usually more expensive.

   - Kindergarten working hours are generally from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm, but they can be extended for an additional fee.

 

Enrolling in School

 

Compulsory Education: In Italy, education is compulsory for children from 6 to 16 years old. Primary school covers the age from 6 to 11 years, and middle school — from 11 to 14 years.

 

Registration process:

   - Application submission: Registration for primary school usually occurs in January or February before the start of the school year. Applications are submitted through the online platform of the Italian Ministry of Education or directly to the school.

   - Documents: Parents need to provide the child’s birth certificate, the identity document of the child and parent, as well as proof of residence in Italy.

   - School Choice: Parents can choose a school in their area, but they can also apply to other schools if there are available spots.

In Italy, there are kindergartens and schools where instruction is conducted in foreign languages. These educational institutions are popular among expatriates and locals who want their children to grow up in a multilingual environment.

 

International Schools:

   - In major cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence, and Turin, there are international schools where instruction is conducted in English, French, German, Spanish, and other languages. These schools often offer programs that meet international standards, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), the British (GCSE, A-levels), or American (AP) education systems.

   - Examples of international schools include the American School of Milan, St. George's British International School in Rome, and the International School of Florence.

 

Bilingual Schools:

   - Some Italian schools use bilingual programs where part of the subjects are taught in Italian and part in a foreign language, most often English. This helps children develop proficiency in two languages simultaneously.

   - Such schools often work in cooperation with foreign educational institutions and may provide the opportunity to obtain a dual diploma.

 

Private kindergartens and primary schools with foreign languages:

   - Private kindergartens and primary schools often offer instruction programs in foreign languages. For example, in major cities, you can find kindergartens with instruction in English, German, or French. In such institutions, children are immersed in a language environment from an early age, which facilitates easier language acquisition.

 

Cultural and language institutes:

   - Many countries have cultural institutes in Italy, such as the Goethe-Institut (Germany), Institut Français (France), and British Council (United Kingdom), which may also offer educational programs for children in their respective languages. 

 

Therefore, whether you are an expatriate or a local resident wishing to provide your child with an international education, you will find institutions in Italy that will help your child master a new language and receive quality education.

Public Educational Institutions

 

Accessibility and Cost:

   - Public kindergartens and schools are free or require a minimal fee, making them accessible to all segments of the population. This is especially important for families with a limited budget.

   - Some additional services, such as after-school care, meals, or participation in special programs, may be paid for separately.

 

Curriculum:

   - The curriculum in public schools is strictly regulated by the Ministry of Education of Italy and includes mandatory subjects such as Italian language, mathematics, natural sciences, history, and geography. In higher grades, foreign languages, literature, and physical education are added.

   - In kindergartens, the main focus is on the social, emotional, and cognitive development of children through play and creative activities.

 

Quality of Teaching:

   - Teachers in public schools undergo strict selection and are required to have appropriate qualifications. This ensures a high standard of education, although class sizes may be large, which can limit individual attention to each student.

 

Infrastructure and Resources:

   - Public schools often have limited financial resources, which can affect infrastructure and access to modern technologies. Nevertheless, most schools provide basic conditions for quality education.

 

Private Educational Institutions

 

Cost and Accessibility:

   - Private kindergartens and schools typically require high tuition fees, which can vary significantly depending on the prestige of the institution and the services provided.

   - Private schools may offer scholarships or financial aid, but this is less common than in public institutions.

 

Curriculum and Approach to Education:

   - Private schools have more flexibility in choosing curricula and often offer specialized or international programs, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British system (GCSE, A-levels), or American system (AP).

 - Private kindergartens often pay more attention to the development of creative abilities and the early study of foreign languages, offering extended programs for school preparation.

 

Quality of teaching and attention to students:

 - In private schools, classes are usually smaller in size, which allows for more individual attention to be given to each student. Teachers can apply more innovative and adaptive teaching methods.

 - Private schools often attract teachers with international experience and specialization in certain fields.

 

Infrastructure and additional opportunities:

 - Private schools often have better infrastructure, including modern classrooms, sports facilities, and additional opportunities for extracurricular activities. This may include art, science, technology, and sports programs that may not be available in public schools.

 

Regardless of the choice, it is essential to thoroughly research the available options and choose the institution that best meets your child's needs and expectations.

The education system in Italy places significant emphasis on supporting children with special needs, providing them equal opportunities for learning and development. The Italian inclusive education system is recognized as one of the most advanced in the world due to the integration of children with special educational needs into mainstream classrooms.

 

Inclusive classes

 - In Italy, children with special needs are educated alongside their peers in regular classrooms. Individual educational programs are developed to account for the characteristics and needs of each child.

 - Schools employ special educators who provide support to both children with special needs and their teachers. These educators help adapt educational materials and create conditions for successful learning.

 

Multidisciplinary approach

 - A significant role is played by a multidisciplinary approach, involving the collaboration of teachers, psychologists, speech therapists, and other specialists who jointly develop and implement individual educational programs for children with special needs.

   - In schools, support groups are created to coordinate all efforts towards the integration of children with special needs.

 

Additional services and resources

   - Depending on the child's needs, additional resources such as specialized educational materials, equipment, or assistants may be provided. 

   - Special educational projects and events are also organized, aimed at developing social skills and participation in school life.

 

Thus, the education system in Italy is aimed at ensuring inclusion and equal access to education for all children, regardless of their characteristics and needs.

Italian language learning support programs

   - Italian language courses for foreigners: These courses are provided by most schools and are aimed at helping children who do not speak Italian. Courses can take place during school hours and after lessons, and they are focused on developing basic language skills (reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension).

   - Intensive Italian language courses: For children who have just arrived in Italy, intensive language courses may be offered to help them quickly learn the language and engage in the learning process.

 

Cultural integration programs

   - Intercultural exchange projects: Some schools organize intercultural exchange projects aimed at introducing Italian children to the cultures and traditions of other countries. This helps better integrate foreign students and improves understanding between children of different nationalities.

   - Extracurricular activities: Schools may offer various activities, such as excursions, sports activities, and creative workshops, which help immigrant children better adapt to the new culture and make friends.

 

Family support

   - Consultations and guidance for families: Schools often offer information sessions and consultations for immigrant parents to help them understand the Italian educational system and support them in the process of adapting their children to the new school.

 - Parental involvement in the educational process: It is important for parents to be engaged in school life, which helps children adapt more quickly. Some schools provide interpreters or accompanying persons to support parents who do not speak Italian.

 

Individual Approach:

 - Individual learning plans: For children who have difficulties with the Italian language, individual educational plans are developed that include special classes and support from teachers.

After-school groups

 

 - After-school groups operate after the main lessons are over. Such programs are often offered in both public and private schools and are intended for younger and middle school-aged children.

 - Children can do their homework under the supervision of teachers or educators, as well as participate in various developmental activities.

 - After-school groups usually operate until 16:30 or 18:00, allowing parents to pick up their children after work. Some schools offer the option of extending to a later time for an additional fee.

 - After-school services often include meals, help with homework, and the organization of games outdoors or indoors.

 

 

School Clubs

 - Schools in Italy offer a variety of interest clubs, which can include activities in sports, art, music, theater, sciences, and languages. These clubs allow children to develop their talents and hobbies.

 - Some schools have specialized programs such as robotics, programming, debates, and more.

 

Sports Clubs

 - Sports clubs and groups are among the most popular extracurricular activities. Children can engage in football, basketball, swimming, tennis, and other sports both in school sections and private sports clubs.

 - Many sports clubs offer training and participation in competitions, which helps children develop teamwork and discipline skills.

 

Cultural and Creative Clubs

   - In Italy, clubs dedicated to art, music, theater, and dance are widespread. They can be organized both in schools and in local cultural centers or private studios.

   

 

Summer Camps:

   - Summer camps are a popular way to organize children's time during summer holidays. Camps can be either day camps or residential and offer a wide range of activities, from sports games to learning foreign languages.

   - Camps may also include excursions, creative workshops, and ecological programs. This helps children spend time in nature and develop new skills.

 

Winter Camps:

   - During the winter period, camps are also organized, usually focusing on winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. These camps often take place in the mountainous regions of Italy and include training under the guidance of professional instructors.

The grading system in Italian schools has its characteristics, which are important for both students and their parents to consider.

 

Grading Scale:

   - Italy uses a ten-point grading scale, where 10 is the highest grade and 1 is the lowest.

   - Grades from 6 to 10 are considered satisfactory, or "passing". A grade of 6 is the minimally satisfactory, while 10 is an excellent grade.

   - Grades below 6 are considered unsatisfactory, meaning the student has not reached the minimum level of knowledge and skills in the subject.

 

Grading in Primary and Middle School:

   - In primary school and lower secondary school, the focus is on descriptive assessment. Students receive grades not only as numbers but also as teacher comments, which help parents and children better understand which areas need improvement.

   - In upper secondary school, students start receiving more traditional numerical grades, which are important for preparing for final exams and further education.

 

Final Grades and Promotion to the Next Grade:

   - At the end of the academic year, students receive final grades for each subject. These grades determine whether the student will be promoted to the next grade.

 - If a student receives unsatisfactory grades in one or more subjects, they may be held back for an additional year. However, before this, the school may offer additional classes or retake exams in September to give the student a chance to improve their results.

 

National Exams:

 - At the end of lower secondary school and upper secondary school, students take national exams. These exams play an important role in determining the final grade and the possibility of entering a university or getting a job.

 - Final grades for the exams can influence further education, so students must prepare well for these tests.

 

Inclusive Assessments:

 - For students with special educational needs, individual assessment plans are utilized that consider their characteristics and provide adequate conditions for successful learning. This may include special tests, adapted assignments, and more.

Admission to Italian universities for foreigners requires completing a number of formalities and meeting certain requirements. These requirements may differ slightly depending on the chosen university and study program, but the general conditions for admission usually include the following steps.

 

Academic Qualification

 - Secondary Education: To enroll in undergraduate programs, foreign students must provide a certificate of completion of full secondary education equivalent to the Italian diploma. This usually means 12 years of education, but for students from countries where secondary education is shorter, additional preparatory courses may be required.

 - Academic Transcript: It is important to provide an academic transcript with grades (including translations into Italian or English) to confirm performance in secondary school.

 

Language Proficiency

 - Italian Language: For programs taught in Italian, most universities require a certificate of Italian language proficiency at level B2 (e.g., CILS, CELI). If a student does not have a certificate, many universities offer internal language tests.

 - English Language: If the program is taught in English, it is necessary to provide an IELTS, TOEFL, or other equivalent certificate confirming English proficiency at level B2 or higher.

 

Entrance Exams

 - For some programs, especially in the fields of medicine, architecture, and engineering, entrance exams are required. These exams can be conducted both in Italy and abroad.

 - For programs with limited places, competitions might also take place, considering both the entrance exams and high school performance.

 

Visa and Residence Permit:

 - Students from non-EU countries must apply for a student visa (type D) and obtain a residence permit upon arrival in Italy. It is important to note that the visa process can take several weeks, so it is recommended to start it in advance.

 

Additional Documents:

 - Motivation Letter: Some universities require a motivation letter where the student explains why they have chosen a specific program and university.

 - Recommendation Letter: In some cases, recommendations from teachers or employers may be required.

 

Pre-Enrolment:

 - Foreign students must go through the pre-enrolment procedure via the Italian consulate in their country. This includes submitting documents and receiving confirmation from the university, after which the student can apply for a visa.

 

Document Submission Process:

The process of document submission is usually done online through the universities' portals. Each university may set its deadlines for applications, so it is important to keep track of official dates and submit all necessary documents on time.

 

Below is a list of the top ten universities in Italy, based on their reputation, academic achievements, and international rankings:

 

University of Bologna

 - Founded in 1088, it is the oldest university in the world and continues to hold high positions in international rankings. The University of Bologna is renowned for its programs in law, humanities, and social sciences.

 

Milan Polytechnic University

   - One of Europe's leading technical universities, especially known for its programs in engineering, architecture, and design.

 

Sapienza University of Rome

   - One of the largest universities in Europe, offering a wide range of programs from medicine to arts; it has an excellent reputation in research and academic training.

 

University of Pisa

   - Known for its historical significance and strong programs in physics, mathematics, and engineering.

 

University of Padua

   - Founded in 1222; renowned for its achievements in medicine and law; the famous scientist Galileo Galilei studied in Padua.

 

University of Florence

   - Strong in the fields of art, humanities, and social sciences; known for its research programs.

 

University of Milan

   - One of the largest universities in Italy with strong programs in law, medicine, political science, and economics.

 

University of Turin

   - One of the oldest universities in Italy, known for its programs in business, economics, and social sciences.

 

University of Rome Tor Vergata

   - Considered one of the best young universities in Italy, particularly in the fields of economics, engineering, and medicine.

 

University of Naples Federico II

    - One of the oldest public universities in the world, known for its programs in engineering, architecture, and medicine.

Validation of foreign diplomas and certificates for admission to Italian universities is an important step that requires several procedures. Depending on the level of education and the program you plan to enroll in, the validation process may involve several stages.

 

1. Translation and legalization of documents:

   - Translation: All academic documents (diplomas, certificates, transcripts) must be translated into Italian. The translation must be performed by an official translator or certified by the Italian consulate in the country where the documents were issued.

 - Legalization: Documents must be legalized in the country of issuance. In some cases, this can be done through the apostille system (if your country has joined the Hague Convention), otherwise, consular legalization is required.

 

2. Procedure "Dichiarazione di Valore":

 - Dichiarazione di Valore: This is a document issued by the Italian consulate or embassy in the country where the diploma was obtained. It confirms the authenticity of the diploma and its compliance with the Italian education system. To obtain the declaration, a request must be submitted to the consulate along with certified copies of the diploma and translated documents.

 - The "Dichiarazione di Valore" indicates the level and duration of studies, and also confirms that the diploma corresponds to a similar degree in Italy.

 

3. Evaluation of academic level:

 - Some universities may require additional evaluation of the academic level of your documents. This may include a process of recognition of previous education to determine if your academic achievements meet the requirements for admission to your chosen program.

 - In some cases, universities conduct their own checks and evaluations through internal academic committees.

 

4. Pre-registration:

 - For students enrolling in bachelor's or master's programs, pre-registration through the Italian consulate in your country may be required. This includes submitting all necessary documents for their evaluation and confirmation before applying to the university.

 

5. Use of ENIC-NARIC Network:

 - In Italy, you can also use the services of ENIC-NARIC centers, which deal with the evaluation and recognition of foreign diplomas. They can help confirm the equivalence of your documents to Italian standards.

 

6. Additional requirements:

 - Depending on the university and program, there may be additional requirements, such as entrance exams or interviews. Universities provide precise instructions on the diploma recognition process on their official websites.

 

It is recommended to start the process in advance to complete all procedures before the document submission to the university begins.

In Italy, the adult education system offers a wide range of additional courses and programs aimed at improving professional skills, learning languages, and personal development. These courses are available for both Italians and foreigners, providing excellent opportunities for integration, skill enhancement, and career advancement.

Language courses:

   - Italian language courses for foreigners: Many educational centers and universities offer Italian language courses specifically designed for foreigners. These courses can be intensive or long-term, often aimed at preparing for Italian language proficiency exams.

   - Studying other foreign languages: Courses in English, German, French, and Spanish are also popular in Italy. These courses are offered by both private language schools and state educational institutions.

Professional courses and retraining programs:

   - Formal professional courses: These courses are organized by regional training centers and are intended for those who want to acquire new professional skills or upgrade their qualifications in their field. Courses cover a wide range of areas, including information technology, design, construction, mechanics, business management, and many others.

   - Retraining programs: These programs are designed for people who want to change professions or return to the labor market after a break. They may include training in new skills, internships, and employment assistance.

 

Higher vocational institutes:

   - Offer programs that combine theoretical education with practical training in the industry. These programs focus on preparing specialists in high-tech sectors such as mechatronics, IT, agribusiness, and sustainable development. Training lasts for 2 years and culminates in a higher vocational diploma.

University courses for adults:

   - Many universities and educational associations offer courses and programs for adults that include a variety of disciplines: from history and art to economics and psychology. These courses are open to all and can be either short-term or long-term.

Online Courses:

 - In Italy, online courses offered by both local and international platforms are also gaining popularity. These courses cover a wide range of topics and allow learning at a convenient time and in any location. Many Italian universities have begun actively developing their online platforms for distance learning.

Courses for Entrepreneurs:

 - For those interested in starting their own business or improving management skills, there are specialized courses in entrepreneurship and business management. These programs often include topics on marketing, finance, legal aspects, and innovation.