Prepare for TOLC tests
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The TOLC tests are essential entrance exams for many prestigious Italian universities, covering a wide range of fields including Humanities, Economics, Business, and more.
Developed by the Consorzio Interuniversitario Sistemi Integrati per l’Accesso (CISIA), TOLC tests assess students’ aptitude in mathematics, logic, scientific reasoning, and language skills, providing universities with a standardized measure of applicants’ academic readiness. Three TOLC test are held also in English for those university courses offered in English: TOLC – I, TOLC – E and TOLC – F. From November 2025 these three test will be replaced by a new single and unified test: CEnT-S.
Our comprehensive preparation courses are designed to help you master these areas, ensuring you are well-prepared to excel in your chosen TOLC test. With expert instructors and tailored materials, we provide the support and resources you need to achieve your academic goals and secure admission to top Italian universities.
Here we are going to provide you with a general overview; for any specific information, please refer to the CISIA website.
What topics are included in the TOLC tests?
TOLC examinations cover a range of subjects relevant to STEM disciplines, with different versions tailored to specific fields of study. These topics can include Mathematics, Logic, Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and General Knowledge.
The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions to be answered within a specific time frame.
How are the TOLC tests evaluated?
The TOLC tests assessment criteria are as follows:
- 1 points for each correct answer
- -0.25 points for each incorrect answer
- 0 points for each answer not given
All TOLC exams include an English exam at the end to test the candidates’ knowledge of the English language. This test lasts 30 minutes and includes 15 questions. For the English language proficiency test, incorrect answers do not result in a penalty. The scoring system awards 1 point for each correct answer and 0 points for incorrect or unanswered questions.
Depending on the final score of the English test, candidates will be advised either to follow a beginner, elementary, or intermediate course, or to directly take a B1 exam if their level is already high enough.
When can I take a TOLC test?
There are different dates for the TOLC tests depending on the chosen University and on the chosen program.
All exam dates for the TOLC tests are available here.
How can I register for a TOLC test?
You can register for a TOLC test online on the CISIA website.
Before you register, Make sure to consult the admission announcement (bando di ammissione) for the undergraduate program of your preference (accessible on the chosen university’s website) to check the following:
- The specific TOLC required
- The deadline by which the TOLC examination must be completed
- The accepted examination procedures: TOLC@UNI or TOLC@CASA
How much does taking a TOLC test cost?
Booking a TOLC costs €30. If you wish to book multiple TOLCs, you must make a separate payment for each one.
Payment options include:
- Credit card
If you choose a credit card, ensure it is enabled for online payments. - Bank bulletin (MAV)
If you choose MAV, you can pay at any bank, authorized tobacconist, or via your bank’s home banking services.
- Credit card
How to prepare for a TOLC test?
TOLCs are based on high school curricula. You can study on your school books or purchase specific preparation books to practice on past exam papers.
You can also register on the CISIA website and practice with simulations that have the same structure and duration of the CISIA tests. This is also a great way to evaluate your preparation.
Finally, consider attending a specific preparation course: nothing beats the experience of senior tutors, who can follow you and advise you on the best strategies to pass these selective tests.
Scuola Leonardo da Vinci was one of the first private schools in Italy to organize specific preparation courses to help students prepare for University admission tests.
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