Elevate Your Academic Experience

Immerse yourself in a world of study abroad possibilities as you explore this extensive collection of resources. Whether you’re seeking academic programs, cultural immersion, or career development opportunities, I’ve got you covered. Connect with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who have already embarked on their own transformative journeys.

Don’t let boundaries hold you back. The world is waiting for you. Start exploring now!

Getting Started

University-Affiliated Programs:

• Indiana University: Through their Overseas Studies program, IU offers a summer program in Florence focusing on Italian language and culture.
• University of Georgia: The university’s Cortona Studies program provides a semester or year-long program in Cortona, focusing on art history, Italian language, and various liberal arts courses.
• University of New Haven: Offers a semester-long program in Prato, Tuscany, focusing on Italian language, culture, and business studies.

Independent Program Providers:

• AIFS Abroad: Offers various semester and summer programs in Florence, focusing on art history, Italian language, and business.
• CAPA: The Global Education Network – Florence: CAPA offers study abroad programs in Florence that focus on experiential learning and cultural immersion. Students can choose from a variety of courses in subjects such as business, art history, and literature while exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Tuscany.
• CEA (Council on International Educational Exchange): Provides programs in Siena and Florence, with options for Italian language immersion, art history, and other disciplines.

Special Interest Programs:

• Florence University of the Arts: Florence University of the Arts offers study abroad programs in Florence with a focus on experiential learning and cultural immersion. With courses in culinary arts, Tuscan winemaking, fashion design, hospitality management, and more, students can gain hands-on experience while exploring the diverse cultural landscape of Tuscany.
• Santa Reparata International School of Art: SRISA offers study abroad programs in Florence for students interested in the arts. With courses in painting, photography, sculpture, and more, students have the opportunity to hone their creative skills while exploring the artistic legacy of Tuscany.
• School for Field Studies (SFS): Offers a unique program in Montalcino, focusing on sustainable agriculture and food systems in Tuscany.

Additional Resources:

• EdOdyssey Florence Program (Florence): Offers customized programs with courses across various fields like business, communications, humanities, arts, fashion, hospitality, Italian studies, and more. Provides options for personal projects and internships.
• GoAbroad.com: A comprehensive search engine for study abroad programs worldwide, including those in Tuscany. You can filter programs by location, duration, and academic focus.
• IES Abroad – Study Abroad in Tuscany: IES Abroad offers summer and semester study abroad programs in Florence, where students can take courses in art history, Italian language, and more. With field trips, cultural activities, and homestay options, students have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Tuscan life.
• IIE (Institute of International Education): Offers resources and guidance for students planning to study abroad, including program listings and scholarship opportunities.
• Gonzaga University Study Abroad Programs: Gonzaga offers an interdisciplinary core of historical and cultural studies. Courses are available in liberal arts, business, engineering, and education.
• Lorenzo de’ Medici – The Italian International Institute: Lorenzo de’ Medici offers a wide range of study abroad programs in Florence, including courses in art history, fashion design, culinary arts, and more. With campuses located throughout the city, students can experience the rich cultural heritage of Tuscany while pursuing their academic interests. 
• Stony Brook University Summer in Italy Program (Florence): Stony Brook offers a four-week summer program with one week of cultural introduction in various Tuscan cities and three weeks in Florence.
• Syracuse University Florence Center: Syracuse University offers a diverse range of academic programs in Florence, including courses in art history, architecture, Italian language, and more. Students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Italian culture while studying in the heart of Tuscany.
• University of Cortona (Cortona): The University of Georgia Cortona program offers a diverse array of courses spanning the arts, design, business, Italian language, landscape architecture, viticulture, psychology, women’s studies, and performing arts.
• University of Florence: One of the top study abroad universities in Tuscany, offering a range of programs in English across disciplines like architecture, economics, engineering, and science.
• University of Pisa: The University of Pisa is known as a research institution with key departments in engineering, agriculture, medicine, and computer science.
• University of Prato Monash (Prato): A center for intellectual and cultural exchange, offering programs in art, design, architecture, law, and Italian language.
• University of Siena: Founded in 1240, it is one of the oldest universities in Italy and the world. It is well-known for studying economics, law, medicine, cultural heritage, political science, and environment. 

Scholarships

• African-American Scholarships – United Negro College Fund scholarships for African American students.

• Canadian Scholarships – CIP Diversity Impact Bursary: This $5,000 bursary is created to support Black students and students of color, addressing underrepresentation in the planning profession.

• Catholic Scholarships – University of Siena Grants: The University of Siena offers grants to honor distinguished international students and encourage their enrollment in selected Master’s degree programs.

• Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) offers scholarships of up to $10,000 to students from underrepresented groups in study abroad, including students of color.

General Scholarships:

• The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program is a great option for US citizens who are receiving Pell Grant funding and are planning to study abroad. The program awards scholarships of up to $5,000 for study abroad programs in a variety of countries, including Italy.
• DSU Toscana Scholarship (Master’s Degree): This scholarship is awarded by the regional student welfare service in Tuscany (DSU Toscana) and provides free accommodation, meals at university canteens, and exemption from tuition fees. It is based on specific income and merit criteria. (You need to create a student account in the portal to apply for any programs.) 
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Scholarships: The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation annually offers grants and scholarships aimed at international students or Italian citizens residing abroad. Scholarships offered by Italian universities Doctorate Degree Scholarship
• UVSS BIPOC Public Interest Research Award: At the University of Victoria, one or more awards of at least $1,000 each are given to continuing or transferring undergraduate students with demonstrated research-based contributions to community programs, including Black students. Scholarships Bursaries

USAC offers scholarships specifically for students participating in their program in Italy. These scholarships are not restricted to Black students, but they are a great option if you are considering studying abroad with USAC.

Practical Tips

Cost of Living in Italy

*This is a general guide. Costs can vary depending on your location, program, and lifestyle choices. Plan carefully and be prepared to adjust your budget as needed.

Tuition & School Supplies

• Public university tuition averages $910-1,070/year, while private universities range from $6,400-$22,000/year.
• Budget $50 per textbook per class per semester.
• Textbooks: $200-$400 (Varies depending on program and course load) – For a typical course load of 4-5 classes per semester, expect to spend approximately $200-250 on textbooks each semester.
• Course Materials (Art Supplies etc.): Varies based on your chosen courses

Accommodation

• Student housing ranges from $270-$650/month, depending on the city and if you have roommates.
• Rent (shared apartment): $300-$500/month/(Single apartment): $450-$900/month – Consider location – major cities will be pricier.
• Utilities (average): $50-$75/month (Electricity, water, internet)

Food

• Groceries cost around $150-$200/month. Shopping at local markets is cheaper than supermarkets. Cooking in your accommodation (if available) also saves money.
• Meals at university cafeterias or street food are very affordable, around $7-$13 for pasta and $9-$18 for main courses at average restaurants.
• Eating Out: $50-$100/month (Budget for occasional meals or coffee)

Check out Lonely Planet’s Guide to Daily Costs

Transportation (I’ll cover more in depth in a later post.)

• Consider student passes if needed (Costs vary by city)
• Public transportation costs $27-$38/month for a pass. Renting a bike is another option in many cities.
• Train fares to other cities start at roughly $21.50 with discounts for early booking.

Entertainment and Activities

• Entertainment/Activities: $50-$100/month (Museums, movies, nights out)
• Take advantage of free walking tours or explore free historical sites.

Other Necessities

• Mobile/phone bills average $150/month.
• Hygienic needs: $30-$50/semester (Shampoo, toothpaste, etc.)
• Medicine (over-the-counter): $20-$40/semester (Basic medications) – Pack some basic medications from home to avoid unexpected pharmacy costs.
• Emergency Doctor Visit: Varies (Travel insurance is highly recommended)
• Groceries (don’t forget to bring or purchase a reusable shopping bag or two!), shopping, and eating out can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and spending habits.

Some additional considerations:

• Notify your bank about studying abroad and use ATMs attached to banks. (Reject the option to have your cash charged/converted to USD. You don’t want any surprise charges due to this Dynamic Currency Exchange.)
• Avoid carrying large cash amounts on you.
• Costs are generally lower in smaller cities compared to Rome and Milan.
• Booking housing and travel early can yield significant savings. (Check first to see if accommodation is provided by your study abroad provider.)
• Utilizing student discounts, public transportation, and local markets are great ways to cut costs. (Many museums are also FREE on the first Sunday of every month.)
• Budgeting for personal travel during a semester abroad is recommended. (It is super easy to travel within Europe. Why not be spontaneous and visit another country for a weekend?)
• Part-time Work: Students in Italy can work up to 20 hours a week. This can be a great way to earn some extra spending money.
• Lifestyle: Adjust your budget based on your spending habits. Eating out more or traveling extensively will increase your costs.

Share your study abroad success story by heading over to the Community Vibes forum!