Study Abroad in Italy Through Language Immersion

Study abroad in Italy through language immersion and cultural experiences.
Programs from 1 to 12 months in 10+ cities

How does it work?

The Language Program

Learn Italian in the best Italian cities, meet friends, and expand yourself.

With daily Italian classes (Monday–Friday, 9AM–12PM), small-group instruction, hands-on cultural immersion, and guided support throughout the process, our programs are ideal for:

  • Anyone of any age taking a gap year
  • Students deferring college
  • Traveller seeking language immersion
  • Students looking to earn U.S. credits
Two college students during their study abroad program in Italy

Language Course + [your dreams]

Our programs combine, Italian language classes, U.S.-accredited courses and hands-on experiences. All supported by our team on-site in Italy.
Example schedule for a study abroad program in Italy with Italianforawhile

For as long as you want

Our study abroad programs in Italy can adapt to different academic needs, schedules, and goals. All options follow the same certified structure and are valued by students and universities.
A group of college students in Sestri Levante during their study abroad in Italy

IFA Discovery

From 4 to 12 weeks

The ideal program for summer or other short stays.

Students combine Italian language course with optional academic content courses to earn between 3 and 12 credits

Two college students in Milan during their study abroad program in Italy

IFA Semester

From 16 to 20 weeks

Programs designed for deeper academic engagement.

Students take an Italian course and multiple content courses, with the option to include an internship for up to 18 credits.

Three college students in Turin during their study abroad in Italy

IFA GAP YEAR

From 32 weeks

Our most immersive option.

Students combine Italian language study with multiple academic courses and may include an internship. Programs can lead to up to 30 credits.

Plan my Study Abroad
A group of students eating ice cream in Salerno during their study abroad in Italy

First of all, a safe community.

IFA was born from a simple belief: living abroad should be authentic, safe, and deeply transformative. Not just another program.

We’ve lived this experience ourselves. We know the excitement, but also the doubts and challenges of starting over in a new country. That’s why we are, first and foremost, a community.

Unlike industrial-style programs, we stay intentionally personal. We take the time to know each student: their goals, their concerns, and their story.

Your italian life, here:

We offers programs in several cities. While academic content courses are not always available, all programs are structured to support credit recognition.

Milan
Florence
Turin
Sestri Levante
Genoa
Naples
Salerno
Venice
Rome
Cefalù
Turin
Cefalù
Sestri Levante
Rome
Naples
Venice
Genoa
Florence
Milan
Salerno

Start here:

Explore your study abroad options in Italy — and unlock a free consultation with IFA.

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We know you have questions.

Planning to study abroad comes with important practical questions. Here you’ll find clear information about credits, courses, internships, language levels, and the support you can expect in Italy.
Can I join even if I’m not enrolled in a university or school?

Yes! Our programs are open to everyone, regardless of current enrollment or age.

You don’t need to be a high school or college student to participate. Whether you’re taking a gap year, between studies, or simply looking for an immersive experience abroad, you’re welcome.

Can I transfer credits to my U.S. university?
Yes. Our courses are designed to align with U.S. academic standards, with 4 weeks corresponding to 3 U.S. credits. This structure makes credit transfer possible, straightforward, and predictable.

Credits may be transferred through direct approval from your home university. If required, students can also receive an official U.S. transcript through our School of Record at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss).
How are classes structured during the program?
The program combines morning Italian language courses with afternoon university-level content classes. Each content course carries 3 U.S. credits and includes 45 contact hours per module, along with structured assignments and final assessments.

Classes go beyond traditional lectures and may include museum visits, field experiences, and cultural workshops, allowing students to engage with Italy academically and contextually.
Do I need to know Italian before applying?
No. Italian language courses are available for all CEFR levels, from beginner to advanced.

Students are placed according to their level and follow a structured program focused on speaking, listening, grammar, and vocabulary.
Language learning is always connected to real-life situations in Italy, and students may also prepare for certifications such as CELI, CILS, PLIDA, or AIL.
Can I complete an internship while studying abroad?
Yes. Students may participate in a supervised professional internship alongside their academic coursework.

Internships last a minimum of four weeks and may carry 3 U.S. credits per module. Each placement includes academic supervision, employer evaluation, and a final reflective assignment to ensure the professional experience is integrated into the academic framework.
What kind of support will I receive during the program?
Students receive support before departure and throughout their stay in Italy.

Before arrival, our team assists with academic advising, course selection, visa guidance (when required), and housing research. On-site, students benefit from orientation, local coordination, and 24/7 assistance for emergencies or day-to-day needs.

The goal is to provide independence within a structured and reliable support system.

What do they think about us?

Find our what our participants have to say about their experiences in Italy with us!

EASY LOGISTICS

We manage housing, classes, and every detail so you don’t have to.

EASY LOGISTICS

We manage housing, classes, and every detail so you don’t have to.

EASY LOGISTICS

We manage housing, classes, and every detail so you don’t have to.

La mia esperienza è stata meravigliosa! And I could explore Italy without having to worry about anything other than picking the right city!

- Klara T.

Group of gap year students in Milan together with our team
Picture of Hamish, an Australian student in Milan during a community event organized by the IFA team

I recommend IFA because of their support, but also because of the chances to connect with other students and gain an authentic experience in Italy!

- Hamish S.

Picture of Greta during her gap experience in Milan with Italianforawhile

It’s truly the best decision I have made for my life and future. It has only been a few months but I feel like I have grown so much here!

- Greta O.

La mia esperienza è stata meravigliosa! And I could explore Italy without having to worry about anything other than picking the right city!

- Klara T.

Group of gap year students in Milan together with our team
Picture of Hamish, an Australian student in Milan during a community event organized by the IFA team

I recommend IFA because of their support, but also because of the chances to connect with other students and gain an authentic experience in Italy!

- Hamish S.

Picture of Greta during her gap experience in Milan with Italianforawhile

It’s truly the best decision I have made for my life and future. It has only been a few months but I feel like I have grown so much here!

- Greta O.