Study Architecture in Italy

The following Universities offer Architecture programs both in English and Italian:

• • Politecnico di Milano
  • Politecnico di Torino
  • Sapienza University of Rome
  • Università Iuav di Venezia
  • University of Naples – Federico II
  • University of Bologna
  • University of Florence
  • Università degli studi Roma Tre

Take a look at our University ranking page to learn more about these Universities’ world ranking.

The most common admission test for Architecture courses is the ARCHED test.

The Architectural Entrance Examination (ARCHED) is a crucial assessment designed to evaluate candidates’ aptitude and potential for success in architectural studies.

Normally, the exam takes place in the second half of July, but dates vary depending on each faculty and University: please refer to the Cisia website to know all the different date options.

To register for the ARCHED test, go to the portal of your chosen University and read the admission notice (bando di ammissione) to find out:

• the delivery method your university has chosen: at home (TEST@CASA) or at the university (TEST@UNI)
• when registration for the test closes
• the time at which you will have to take the test

If you are interested in more than one University and these Universities offer the test on different dates, you can take the test on each date.

You will only be able to use your TEST ARCHED score to enrol in the University for which you took the test.

Assessment criteria (max 50 points):

• • 1 point for each correct answer
  • -0.25 points for each incorrect answer
  • 0 points for each incorrect answer

Each year the Italian Ministry of Education releases updates for the admission process with precise dates etc. Those are usually released around May-June. Below are estimates based on previous years.

EU STUDENTS

• JUNE – MID JULY: Register online for the ARCHED test
  Documents needed: Declaration of Value; legalized and apostilled translation of High School Diploma

• END OF JULY: Sit the ARCHED test

• SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER: Enrollment
  Documents needed: passing the admission test, payment of the tuition fee for the first year, any other form required by the University. 

NON-EU STUDENTS

• APRIL – JUNE: Pre-enrollment at the Italian embassy/consulate in country of origin
  Documents needed: High School Diploma with Declaration of Value; legalized and apostilled translation of High School Diploma

• JUNE – MID JULY: Register online for the ARCHED test
  Documents needed: Declaration of Value; legalized and apostilled translation of High School Diploma

• END OF JULY: Sit the ARCHED test

• AUGUST – SEPTEMBER: Visa application
  Documents needed: Confirmation letter of application to the exam; International Health Insurance; Declaration of Financial capacity.

• SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER: Enrollment
  Documents needed: passing the admission test, student visa + permit of stay, payment of the tuition fee for the first year, any other form required by the university.

Italian universities offer affordable education options to both EU and non-EU students.

Public universities, known for their good reputation in academics, usually charge lower tuition fees compared to private ones: the fees at public universities can range from €200 to €5,200 per year.

Detailed information can be found on the chosen University website.

Your family’s income can also affect how much you pay. If you’re from a low-income family or excel academically, you might qualify for scholarships or financial aid to help cover your tuition fees.