Study Fine Arts in Italy

The country is home to a multitude of prestigious art academies, such as the Brera Academy in Milan and the Accademia di Belle Arti in Florence, known for fostering artistic excellence across disciplines like painting, sculpture, and design.

These institutions offer a blend of traditional techniques and modern approaches, allowing students to engage with a diverse range of artistic influences.

• Fine Arts Academy of Milan-Brera
• Fine Arts Academy of Florence
• Fine Arts Academy of Venice
• Fine Arts Academy of Bologna
• Fine Arts Academy of Turin
• Fine Arts Academy of Rome
• Fine Arts Academy of Naples
• Fine Arts Academy of Carrara

Admission to Italian fine arts academies is commonly overseen by a blend of entrance examinations and the submission of portfolios. The precise prerequisites and processes may differ among institutions, so, it is recommended to check in advance all the requirements at the chosen Academy.

Here is a general overview of how admission to Italian fine arts academies is managed:

• ENTRY EXAMS

These exams assess the applicant’s artistic skills, creativity, and potential. They will test candidates through drawing exercises, composition challenges, and creative problem-solving to evaluate the candidate’s artistic abilities. 

• PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION

Portfolio submission is a crucial aspect of the application process for fine arts academies. Your portfolio showcases your previous artistic work and demonstrates your skills, style, and creative vision.

• ORAL INTERVIEW

The interview could provide an opportunity for you to discuss your artistic journey, inspirations, and goals with the faculty.

• LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY

Depending on the institution and program, you might also need to demonstrate proficiency in the Italian language (usually B2 level), as many fine arts academies conduct classes in Italian.

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.

• SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER: Pre-enrollment at the Italian embassy/consulate in country of origin → only Marco Polo/Turandot students
  Documents needed: High School Diploma

• APRIL – JUNE: Pre-enrollment at the Italian embassy/consulate in country of origin → only non-EU students
  Documents needed: High School Diploma

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

• SEPTEMBER: Take the admission test
  Documents needed: Confirmation letter of application to the exam. Moreover, according to your country of origin, you might need to apply for an entry visa to come and sit the exam. Check the requirements on the Foreign Affairs Ministry website.

• SEPTEMBER: Visa application → only NON-EU students
  Documents needed: Confirmation letter of application to the exam; International Health Insurance; Declaration of Financial capacity

• 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 Academy

The cost of studying at a fine art academy in Italy can vary depending on several factors such as the specific academy, the program or course chosen, whether you are an EU citizen or not, and if there are any scholarships or financial aid available.

Generally, tuition fees for art academies in Italy tend to be lower compared to those in some other countries, particularly for EU citizens.

For EU citizens, tuition fees for undergraduate programs at public art academies in Italy could range from €900 to €4,000 per year. However, for non-EU citizens, tuition fees could be higher, typically ranging from €1,500 to €10,000 per year.

Private art academies or specialized programs might have different fee structures, which could be higher than public institutions. Please also note that there may also be additional costs such as registration fees, exam fees, textbooks, and other materials required for the program. 

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. 

It’s essential to research and contact specific art academies in Italy directly to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on tuition fees and any available financial aid options.