The 10 Best Study Abroad Programs in Italy in 2022

Whether it’s the cuisine, the history, the scenic vistas, or the culture that calls to you, there are many roads that can lead you to study abroad in Italy – and not just Rome. From fashion to business to the arts, this diverse country offers students unique opportunities to engage with Italy’s ancient past as well as its modern present, encouraging them to experience firsthand a culture that embraces tradition and innovation every day.

Going overseas to study is one of the most important decisions you can make as a student, and it’s important to find a program that fits your individual needs and interests. But with the sheer number of programs out there, choosing just one can be overwhelming. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten study abroad programs in Italy, ranked by the Go Overseas community.

These programs have been chosen based on the special things they offer that make them stand out as the best of the best. That combined with verified reviews from happy past participants make these study abroad programs great options for students with dreams of studying in Italy in 2022.

As varied as this fascinating country, these ten programs will show you that no matter what your interest or field of study – food, finance, medicine, language studies, or performance – there is a program for you in Italy!

Take your passion for travel, people, performance, and filmmaking to the beautiful city of Florence with New York Film Academy! Students can choose from programs lasting either 4 or 8 weeks or an entire semester during which they'll immerse themselves in filmmaking, photography, or acting.

In addition to exciting and hands-on classes, outside activities include things like cinema-focused tours of Rome and Florence and a 3-hour survival Italian class to help participants navigate their new home.

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “I feel my love for cinema has been revived from attending this program. Everyone in it is just passionate about filmmaking and it is just a wonderful enviroment to make new connections and learn more about the art of filmmaking.” – Nicholas
• "Going to NYFA was one of the best decisions of my life - the educational is very practical and hands on, the tutors are very qualified and helpful, I made friends for life here and I would totally recommend the experience to everyone." — Stanislava

Though the program only has two reviews, it boasts a 10/10 rating from its past participants who believe this study abroad experience both enriched their lives and helped build important skills for the future.

Do you dream of wandering the winding streets of Florence? Well, SAI's program at Florence University of the Arts (FUA) might just be for you. FUA offers a multitude of courses taught in English across 14 subjects which are perfect for students who haven't quite mastered Italian yet. You can take classes in literature, the sciences, business, economics, history, fine arts, graphic design, and more.

Additionally, SAI guarantees to help students with basically every part of the study abroad process. They coordinate application processing, course selection, visas, housing, health care, transcripts, and virtually any other part of the experience you may have questions about. SAI also organizes a number of excursions throughout the region so that you can see all that the country has to offer.

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• "I loved studying abroad with SAI! They always had staff available to help in whatever you needed and understood how overwhelming studying abroad can be. SAI planned awesome trips and immersion activities that made me feel like Florence was my home." - Bella
• "Choosing to Study Abroad was the best decision I have made, and I am so happy I chose to do it through SAI. Everyone that works for SAI programs goes above and beyond for their students and makes sure that we have all the resources we need to make our experience amazing." - Kate
• "My experience in Florence with SAI Programs was truly priceless. The program gave me the perfect blend of independence and support that I was looking for." - Marissa

These reviews highlight the commitment that SAI makes to their students to ensure that they have a well-rounded and fulfilling study abroad experience. Their high ratings across all categories indicate that this program is a great option for anyone considering studying abroad in Florence.

Earn college credit while you explore the food, language, and culture of eight European countries. Italy is well-represented in Forum-Nexus’s list, which includes Milan, Lake Como, and Rome. Forum-Nexus combines the best cultural experiences with education by offering courses in some of Europe’s most renowned cities and giving students the opportunity to network with European business professionals.

Between visiting the UN, pursuing an internship with local business, or having class in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, this summer program is sure to be life-changing. It’s telling that many of the alumni reviews specifically mention that they wouldn’t change a thing about their Forum-Nexus experience.

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “Forum-Nexus is a one-of-a-kind adventure that will help you find your best self.” – George
• “This is the best program that lets you take useful classes, visit awesome companies and organizations, and travel.” – Anri
• “I knew that it was going to be an incredible experience, but it exceeded my expectations in every way. From the food, classes, and constant adventures, it was all amazing. The program is unique because it allows you to experience many different countries and cultures in a short period of time.” –Emily

These reviews show that this Forum Nexus program is ideal for world travelers up for adventure. Reviewers frequently mention the lifelong friendships and relationships formed along the way as well as the unique opportunities to be a part of European life and culture for a summer you won’t forget.

Explore the heart of beautiful and historic Ortigia during your time at the SCIE Center, located on the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Because of its emphasis on hands-on learning in the field, SCIE Center courses take place in museums, archaeological sites, and even the kitchen.

Students will gain personal knowledge of Sicilian culture as well as ancient and modern history by participating in language courses, making traditional pasta, and taking classes taught by experts and guest lecturers. Every review posted on Go Overseas gives support and fun a ten out of ten and specifically praises the Center’s staff, whose expert and thoughtful care makes participants feel like Sicilian family.

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “We were exposed to so much culture, food, and history that has impacted me academically and personally. From wandering through the streets of Ortigia to swimming in Mondello, we truly got a taste of Sicily in one program that you couldn’t find anywhere else.” – Clarissa
• “My experience at the SCIE Center was nothing short of perfection. I would highly recommend this program to everyone I know, and even to people I don't know!” – Aislinn
• “If I could repeat this entire experience all over, I would do it in a heartbeat. I loved this study abroad so much!” – Brooke

These reviews highlight the SCIE Center’s commitment to providing students with the best experience possible through personal attention and support. These high scores echo glowing reviews of fascinating and unique cultural experiences as well as the Center’s caring staff.

If you’re looking to take your culinary skills to the next level, roll up your sleeves next to some of the best chefs in the industry at Manuelina Culinary. Through a wide variety of programs, you will tour Italy through a regional study of local cuisine and learn principles of flavor, color, technique, and nutrition from chefs who are happy to share their abundant knowledge.

Specialize in more than forty kinds of pasta or expand your repertoire by learning the skills to make Italian pastry, dessert, bread, and gelato. These programs invite you to step up to the counter and develop your own techniques – and at the end of the day, you get to eat what you make!

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “This program and the coordinators/teachers really go above and beyond in providing the best experience possible and all aspects of the program are world-class from accommodation to classes and experiences.” – Roderick
• “All of the teachers there are passionate about their food and their students’ lives. Manuelina Culinary is an opportunity for an English speaker to touch the hem of these masters of Italian cuisine.” – Mary
• “We went to different cities and towns in Italy so you don’t only get to work with great chefs but you get to experience the real Italian living and food.” – Pilar

While this program has fewer reviews than others on the list, the passion of the reviewers makes this an accurate snapshot of this opportunity. High scores all around indicate a program in which students felt supported, challenged to learn, and excited to explore.

Academic Studies Abroad provides courses, internships with Italian companies, and experiential classes that will change not just your resume but your perspective as well! From finance, linguistics, and math to business, photography, and wine studies, ASA offers courses for everyone.

ASA’s intentionally small program size ensures personalized attention, smooth integration into Italian culture, and a flexible learning environment. Students live in the historic districts of Florence and Rome and can take advantage of unique experiences such as visiting the Coliseum or climbing the steps of Duomo, a thirteenth-century cathedral.

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “ASA couldn’t have been a more helpful and supportive program! The program offers so many opportunities in enhancing the abroad experience, and I'm so glad I chose them on my study abroad journey.” – Bri
• “I don't know who I would be or where I would be if I had selected another provider to study abroad with, but I sure am grateful I chose ASA.” – Julia
• “ASA was extremely helpful and supportive throughout the entire process from application to boarding my plane to go home. I would highly recommend the program as well as the general study abroad experience.” – Amanda

These reviews show that ASA offers a program that’s known for strong student support throughout the entire study abroad period. Reviews highlight an emphasis on being immersed in daily Italian life in their respective cities, especially as students get to enjoy living just minutes from some of the world’s most iconic sights. While academics are rated a little lower, reviewers assure potential students that the cultural experiences are second to none.

Situated in the business capital of Italy, IES provides students with one-of-a-kind coursework that takes advantage of this diverse and state-of-the-art city.

Take classes on managing fashion companies and the history of the Mafia or add complementary electives such as art history, political science, or photography to balance your course load. Extensive field study options and internships allow students to study economics and Italian business culture at one of the top business schools in the world.

Alongside your studies, you’ll have the chance to learn Italian and put it to good use as you enjoy living in this bustling and historic metropolis.

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “I would highly recommend this program to anyone who is interested in studying business in Italy, and having a diverse and unique experience!” – Kathleen
• “The IES Milan School has a great program for students who also want to take classes at Italian universities.” – Elizabeth
• “I highly recommend IES Abroad as a program due to the incredible flexibility that the program provides you to enjoy your own unique time abroad and cannot speak highly enough of Milan as a host city.” – Petey

These reviews highlight that foodies and students alike will enjoy IES’s take on studying business in Milan. The program’s flexibility allows the student to customize their study abroad experience in order to pursue unique interests and opportunities that are only available in this city.

Begin or build your Italian language skills in the charming and iconic setting of Rome, Italy. Students with CIEE learn through immersive language and culture classes. Outside of the classroom, a world-class destination awaits you.

You’ll have the chance to explore some of Italy's famous sites including Pompeii, Saint Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican, and take day trips to quaint and beautiful villages outside of Rome like Tivoli and Orvieto. Students can also help the local community by tutoring immigrants or children or by volunteering with NGOs.

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “The staff at CIEE is amazing and supportive. They will work with you before and during your trip to make sure you’re fully prepared and know what to expect. They plan fun excursions throughout the program so you have the opportunity to experience the culture and history.” – Alexandria
• “I had the most incredible time in Rome, and the city now has a special place in my heart. The sights/monuments were breathtaking, the food was beyond amazing and the overall atmosphere of Rome was just incredible." – Jenny
• “This whole experience gave me a new sense of independence and bravery. I felt safe here to explore on my own and figure things out for myself.” – Emily

Despite a small number of reviews, these highlights show the spectacular program offered by CIEE. Students indicated an experience that exceeded their expectations and provided once in a lifetime opportunity in a special part of Italy.

Experience fashion at one of the best places in the world to learn it: Milan. Offering high-level training for students looking to engage with the fashion industry, Accademia del Lusso provides courses on fashion, brand management, design, communication, and marketing to help students develop into haute-couture professionals.

Accademia del Lusso’s slogan is “creativity directed at luxury,” and this top-quality curriculum gives students the skills they need to not only navigate the fashion industry but to be a part of it. Learn firsthand about materials and techniques from experts in the field and see if you have what it takes to be on the cutting edge of fashion.

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “I attended the Accademia Fashion Brand Management course with the idea to explore more the possibilities in the field I am passionate about and I am really glad I did. The course gave me much insight into the industry and practical tools to explore also afterward.” – Davide
• “I attended the summer course in fashion design because I wanted to experience fashion in Milan and I got even more than I expected.” – Amber

Four reviewers gave Accademia del Lusso ten out of ten in all categories, citing the growth they experienced as students striving to become professionals, the attention of the staff in helping them settle into the program, the practical tools and knowledge they acquired!

AIFS Study Abroad lets you live like a local as you earn academic credits. Complementing a wide variety of classes to choose from are cultural experiences that can only be had through an all-inclusive program like this one. Airfare, tuition, housing, meals, and outings are included in the price, and the generous meal plan lets you explore the restaurants and Italian cuisine of your host city.

During your stay, experience open markets, olive oil tastings, soccer games, and opera with your fellow students. Visit the art you learn about in class! Cooking classes, guided city walks, and museums will ensure you experience as much of your home city as possible, whether you’re staying in Rome, Florence, or Brixen (the Italian Alps).

A few highlights from alumni reviews:

• “Studying abroad in Florence, Italy, with AIFS remains one of the best decisions I have ever made. My only regret is that I didn't stay there for a year!” – Stacy
• “Studying abroad in Florence with AIFS was the best decision I made during my undergraduate career! The housing, meal plan, cultural excursions, and activities were top-notch.” – Liz
• “It may seem excessive that I rated this program 10/10 in every category, but it was seriously the greatest experience of my life and I can't imagine how any aspect of it could have been better.” – Busia

These reviews reflect a program that works hard to help students navigate some of the most daunting aspects of going overseas, including applications, arranging flights, and obtaining visas. AIFS strives to give students memorable experiences by empowering them to travel, build relationships, and experience a culture that will soon feel like home.

No matter which program you choose to study abroad in Italy, you are guaranteed to come away having experienced the deep richness of its culture, its food, and its people. The knowledge you carry home in your suitcase and the memories you’ll make will last a lifetime.

This post was originally written in April 2018, and was updated in July 2021.