The city of Florence stands as one of the most favoured destinations for international students, particularly Americans. Housing many of Italy's top universities, the city is revered as the birthplace of the Renaissance, home to iconic masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s ‘David’ and Botticelli’s "Birth of Venus." Students flock to Florence for its unparalleled art, architecture, and history.
Famous for being one of the best places for fashionistas, the capital of Tuscany is especially appealing to young, creative types. Studying in Florence is a great choice if you're pursuing studies in the arts or humanities, looking to get stuck into Italy's thriving arts scene.
Is Florence a good place to study?
Thanks to the city's affordable living, delicious cuisine, and abundance of study programs, it provides a supportive environment for both short-term and long-term educational journeys. Choose from a wealth of internships and study abroad courses for international students, both in Italian and English.
Florence's small size is less daunting than studying in a sprawling capital, however, it has no shortage of student-centric things to do. It is the perfect size for students, as it can be easily explored on foot or by bike, with nature and various hiking and biking routes just a short trip away. Its central location in Tuscany also makes it an ideal base for travelling around Italy and further exploration.
What's more, Florence's Mediterranean climate is wonderfully predictable, making it ideal for people who enjoy spending most of their time outdoors. It's no surprise that many foreigners choose to live in Florence full time.
Studying in Florence as an international student
Florence is home to a large community of students from both Italy and abroad, offering a wealth of cultural and student events. Due to the significant number of American students, there are various educational institutions tailored to them, with numerous courses offered in English, making it accessible to global learners. While it's possible to get by with little Italian, learning the language greatly enriches the experience and enhances cultural immersion. Be aware that the Italian bureaucracy can be slow and complicated, especially for temporary residents whose native language is not Italian.
What can I study in Florence?
Università di Firenze, the University of Florence, one of the city's most famous universities, offers an impressive range of programs across 10 faculties. Students can pursue degrees in business, management, economics, architecture, natural sciences, engineering, agriculture, medicine, psychology, political sciences and more. For those drawn to the arts, the Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze, Florence Academy of Fine Arts, provides concentrations in graphics, painting, sculpture, decoration and more. Polimoda, a leading fashion school, caters to students interested in fashion design and business.
American Universities in Florence
Florence also hosts several American institutions that provide a unique opportunity for students to study abroad while remaining within an American educational framework. These universities cater to a diverse array of academic interests and are ideal for American students looking to explore the rich cultural landscape of Italy.
ISI Florence
ISI Florence, or the International Studies Institute, offers a distinguished study abroad program designed specifically for American students. The institute provides a wide variety of courses taught in English, excluding Italian language courses. Students can explore subjects such as art history, architecture, food studies, sustainability, history, literature, philosophy, international business, and political science. Located in the centre of Florence, ISI provides students with an immersive cultural experience, integrating academic learning with the city's colourful history and art.
CIEE Florence
CIEE Florence is another prominent American educational centre offering study abroad programs in the city. The centre provides opportunities for scholarships and grants, making it accessible to a broader range of students. Courses are offered in English and span topics such as culture and cuisine in Italy, contemporary Italian studies, the economics of wine and psychology. Students can choose to study for a semester and engage in programs designed to enhance their understanding of Italian culture and society.
Other American universities in Florence
Florence is home to additional American institutions such as New York University (NYU) and Syracuse University. NYU's campus is conveniently located just a 20-minute walk from the city centre, offering programs in various fields. Syracuse University, one of the oldest study abroad programs in Florence, features art, literature, Italian language classes, along with mathematics, nutrition, and film courses.
Cost of studying in Florence
The overall cost of living for a student is around €1,300 per month, however, this can be reduced by taking advantage of student discounts on transport, tickets to art exhibitions, sports memberships and eating out. Grocery expenses might total around €300 per month, while a budget-friendly meal at a local restaurant can cost between €12 and €25.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for international students in Italy vary significantly, often depending on a student's family income. Many public universities offer scholarships and grants to assist with tuition costs, while private institutions typically require higher fees. Studying in Florence varies in cost, with tuition for international students ranging from €500 to €4,000 per year at public universities, while private university fees can range from €6,000 to over €20,000.
Student accommodation
Florence offers diverse student housing options, from university dormitories to shared flats and studio apartments. Some of the best areas for students to live in Florence include Novoli, close to the airport, and the lively Sant' Ambrogio with its nearby market.
Halls typically cost between €700 and €900 with bills included, while renting a room in a shared apartment costs upwards of €300. For those seeking more privacy, studio apartments are available for €600 to over €1000.
Safety when studying in Florence
Florence is known for its welcoming environment and low crime rates, rendering it a safe city for international students. However, petty theft can occur, particularly in crowded areas, so students should be mindful of their belongings. Florence is also celebrated as one of the most LGBTQIA+ friendly cities in Italy.
What to pack for study abroad in Florence
Documents
Passport and student visa. Students from non-EU countries need a student visa to study in Italy. To apply, ensure you have:
- A letter of acceptance from your Italian institution
- A completed student visa application form
- Proof of accommodation
- Sufficient financial means to support your studies
- Health insurance
- Codice Fiscale (Italian ID), required for opening bank accounts and contracts
- Documentation of language proficiency for your university course.
Always print copies of all your documents for backup and bureaucratic processes. Carry travel insurance and your health insurance card.
Clothing
- Pack outdoor gear for exploration and informal wardrobe staples fitting the city's laid-back lifestyle.
- As you'll likely do a lot of walking around the city, include a comfortable pair of shoes.
- As Florence is the city of fashion, be sure to pack your most stylish outfits to blend in with the sartorial experts.
Electronics
- Bring chargers for your phone and laptop, along with an adapter for Europe.
Studying in Florence vs. studying in Rome
Florence and Rome offer contrasting experiences for students. Florence, nestled inland, provides a compact and walkable city environment with a focus on culture and nature.
The costs are slightly higher in Florence, with rent averaging €21.7 per m2 compared to Rome's €18.7 per m2. Rome offers a busy, cosmopolitan atmosphere with lower costs of living in certain areas. As a larger city, it is easier to find cheaper options for students in Rome.
It is crucial to select a city based on the subjects and experiences you seek, whether it's Tuscan culture and art in Florence or a broader array of opportunities in Rome.
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