Study in Italy: Language & Culture
Italy is known worldwide for its extremely rich culture. When it comes to food, art, architecture, and more, Italy knows what it's doing.
Fun tradition: 🛋️Heads up!
In many places in Italy, during New Year's Eve, Italians take the phrase "out with the old, in with the new" literally. They discard old furniture from their windows to make space for new ones they plan on getting in the new year.
Languages in Italy
While Italian is the official language in Italy, regional dialects, especially in the southern parts, remain strong. Furthermore, minority languages like German, French, Slovene, and Ladino are also spoken in Italy's northern border regions.
Contacts at your university's International Office and many younger students in Italy are fluent in English, but be aware that English is not necessarily widely spoken in Italy, especially amongst older people.
👉 Part of your study abroad experience in Italy could be studying the Italian language, which is a great way to understand the local customs, meet new people, and explore the culture in the most authentic and immersive way possible. Plus, Italians will appreciate you making an effort to pick up even some basics of their language.
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Does studying for exams whilst enjoying the world's best gelato🍦sound nice to you? Then check out our programs!
Culture in Italy
Given Italy's rich and complex history, Italian culture includes a massive and diverse array of art, architecture, religion, fashion, family, and food!
Food
Italian culture is as brightly flavored as the country's world-renowned cuisine. Pizza, lasagna, pasta, coffee, gelato, and Cannolis are just a few of Italy's many popular foods you'll get to enjoy during your time abroad. Italians care deeply about how food is made, so you can expect great quality and care put into every meal!
Art
Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Galileo, Thomas Aquinas, and many more Italians have played a central role in the various waves of philosophy, fine arts, and literature emanating from Central and Southern Europe. Some of Italy's most famous landmarks, like the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, represent Italy's intertwined history. Also, some people trace opera's roots to Italy, and famous operas like Aida and La Traviata are still performed worldwide!
Family
Family has traditionally been at the center of the Italian social structure, and extended family gatherings are common in cities and rural areas. Recurrent gatherings to eat, catch up, and spend time with family mean that Italian families tend to be very close-knit well after children have left the nest. Italians' food obsession doesn't hold for every Italian, but the rumors are true, and living in Italy will mean gaining a whole new understanding of what authentic Italian food really means.
Fashion
Many of the world's most famous fashion brands, like Gucci, Prada, and Versace, are based in Italy. Whether you're looking to pursue fashion studies in Milan or just a fashion aficionado who loves finding the right look, Italy's fashion heritage will surely inspire your closet.
Communicating
Once you've picked up some basic Italian, you'll learn that gesturing is the name of the game when it comes to communicating in Italy! Expressive and heartfelt communication is how many Italians drive their point home, and as you pick up the Italian language, you'll learn the language of Italian hand gestures simultaneously!
Learn more about studying in Italy:
Overview of Italy
Over 96,000 international students choose Italy as their study abroad destination every year. Click here to learn why.
Education System
Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Italy? Italy is a popular destination for a variety of international students, given its diverse programs, high quality education, and its culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Italy!
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to enter Italy to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on if you're an EU national or not. Discover what you need to stay in Italy to study abroad!
Housing & Living Costs
No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as an international student in Italy.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Italy may vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Italy. To cover the rest of the costs, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities available.
Application Process
All countries have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance into a university. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in Italy, and what you need to apply, depending on your citizenship.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Italy? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Italy today!
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