CILS (Certification of Italian as a Foreign Language) – the official name of the certificate certifying the degree of knowledge of the Italian language as a foreign language. International language exam  CILS approved by the International University of Siena (University of Siena for Foreigners) and officially recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy. Availability of certificate CILS beneficial to those who study Italian, who is working or studying in Italy or on work related to the Italian language (for example, working abroad or in joint enterprises with Italy, etc.), and those who want to determine their level of knowledge of the Italian language. International Italian language exam CILS has 4 levels. Each level is an independent and complete. At each level of communication skills are assessed in a variety of areas: social, professional and academic.

Who can take CILS?

Take the exam CILS can anyone who is not a citizen of Italy (except for the descendants of Italian immigrants living abroad), and for whom the Italian language is not native. No age restrictions for those wishing to take the exam. Not necessarily have special diplomas, as well as optionally take the test first on a lower level, then to be treated at a high level.

Prepare for the exam CILS can anyone who is sure that he owns the Italian language at one of four levels and meets all the requirements for the exam.

Availability of certificate CILS beneficial to those who study Italian, who is working or studying in Italy or on work related to the Italian language (for example, works with Italy in joint enterprises, etc.), and those who want to determine their knowledge of the Italian language .

Each level of the exam measures the ability to communicate in a variety of situations: home, professional, etc. depending on the level of language proficiency.

• The first level assesses the ability to communicate in everyday common situations.
• The second level allows certificate holders to apply to universities in Italy without a special introductory language test.
• International students with a certificate on the third and fourth levels, can get extra points and, respectively, more likely to enroll in Italian universities.

The International University of Siena, a certificate CILS on the third level is a prerequisite for enrollment in the course of Italian language and culture in the Italian language courses and teaching methods for teachers and the course of Italian literature, history and art.

The fourth level allows admission to the Course teaching the Italian language to foreigners and to special schools teaching techniques of Italian language for foreigners. The fourth level of communication skills demonstrates that the alien is entitled to use the Italian language professionally. For example, this level is required to teach Italian to the second level. Many Italian companies operating abroad and want to hire foreigners or foreign companies that work with Italy, the demand for a job CILS certificate in accordance with the work that they intend to perform. For example, for the future of security personnel in the Italian railway company, the minimum level of proficiency should be a second level of CILS.

Exams and grades

All exams are designed in a special center at the International University of Siena, in accordance with European standards set by the Council of Europe. For each of the five sections can be a maximum of 20 points, and at least to gain 11 points. The highest number of points you can score on all sections – 100 points, minimum – 55 points. To get a certificate CILS, you need to dial a minimum score in each section. If you earn a minimum score in only a few sections, you may have to re-take the sections in which you did not collect the minimum number of points. The results for those sections of the exam, which have been successfully delivered, valid for one year from the date of the examination.

When and where to take exams CILS?

Outside Italy CILS exam can be taken at the Italian cultural centers and other specialized institutions, with the right to receive this exam. In Italy, the CILS exam taken at the International University of Siena, and other institutions that have special accreditation, such as the educational center in Tuscany and other regions (Centri Territoriali di Educazione Permanente), in the language centers of some universities, etc. CILS exams officially taken 2 times a year, in early June and in December.

CILS levels

CILS 1

Successful completion of the international exam of Italian language CILS 1 confirms the ownership of the Italian language at the household level, necessary for communication in daily life.

CILS 2

Successful completion of the international exam of Italian language CILS 2 gives the right to enroll in Italian universities, which are taught in Italian.

CILS 3

Successful completion of the international exam of Italian language CILS 3 Certificate on free level knowledge of the Italian language, enough to live and work in Italy.

CILS 4

Successful completion of the international exam of Italian language CILS 4 demonstrates knowledge of the Italian language at the level of media. Entitles the teaching of Italian as a foreign language at the intermediate level.

CELI (Certificatos di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana)

Another certificate approving the knowledge of the Italian language at the appropriate level. Issued upon successful completion of the international exams in the Italian language by the International University of Perugia (Universita per Stranieri di Perugia). The examinations are conducted in accordance with the ALTE (Association of language tests in Europe.)

CELI 1

CELI 1 exam is held at the primary level necessary to communicate in Italian in everyday living situations.

CELI 2

The exam of Italian language CELI 2 meets the basic requirements of the Council of Europe for international language exams. CELI 2 exam is conducted at the beginning and intermediate level language skills tests required for interactive communication in a variety of everyday situations.

CELI 3

CELI 3 exam is held at the middle level and assesses the ability to communicate in Italian in everyday living situations.

CELI 4

CELI 4 exam conducted at an advanced level and is suitable for those who wish to study in Italian schools or work in the Italian company. At this stage the exam you should be able to discuss a variety of topics in the area of ​​personal interest, and in particular the specific areas.

CELI 5

Exam CELI 5 is at an advanced level and evaluates the skills necessary to use the Italian language in various situations in order to communicate in a variety of professional and social issues.

To study in Italy has always been prestigious. Not surprisingly, interest in this country every year is not reduced. Particularly attractive to study Italian in Italy. Academy of Art all over the world sent here for training their best students. Singers who consider it an honor to be on stage the famous Milan opera, first studied in Italy Italian.

Language schools in Italy offer special courses on design and art, as well as programs for artists and historians, where classes in grades supplemented sightseeing, designer shops, museums. For those who need to work Italian, Italian language schools offer special programs for learning Italian – Business Italian courses with a focus on the vocabulary of economics and law.

Besides the usual schools, you can go to school design. They are widely known for their outstanding achievements. Study in design school in Italy – prestigious and interesting. Such school diploma opens up a new world of possibilities in your life.

Some facts about the Italian language:

Italian (lingua italiana) – the official language of Italy, Vatican City (along with Latin), San Marino, Switzerland (along with German, French and Swiss Romansh). Recognized as the second official language in several districts of Croatia and Slovenia with a significant Italian population.

• Italian language before World War II was only used for writing letters in scientific circles of the ruling class;
• Italian language became popular and spread by the public television;
• The word “love” can easily become a “beloved” (amoroso), in “Cupid” (amorino) or “mistress” (amante);
• Italian men heard the phrase “bella donna” (Beauty), ask yourself the question, how beautiful: “bellissima” (great), “bellina” (cute), “bellona” (somewhat faded, with the remnants of beauty) or “belloccia” ( pleasant in all respects);
• And asked if she impressive dimensions: “donnina”, or no-good “donnetta”, or easily accessible “donnaccia”. To find out, an Italian lover to go on the attack, unless of course he is not “donnicciola” (wimp, a woman);
• Italian gave the world a lot of musical terms: Piano Sonata, aria, diva, concert, adagio, soprano, maestro, virtuoso, etc.
• In restaurants all over the world serving pasta, pizza, mozzarella, cappuccino, amaretto;
• Italians are very fast learn English words and pronounce them differently: lifting, telemarket, cliccare sul maus, zapping etc.
• Anglicisms who use the Italians: “dribbling” – the name of the Sunday TV shows, the latest developments in the world of football, it involves the Italian players, who call their coaches “il Mister”.
• Italians English words assign their values ​​and successfully exported, such as the term “body” to indicate the subject of women’s restroom;
• Most Italians speak dialects that are difficult to understand people from other regions;
• The European Parliament found that in the European Union, there are 23 minority languages, 13 of which occur in Italy;
• 60% of Italians speak a dialect and 14% do not understand any other language.

Italy is a country with a rich culture and ancient traditions, which are rooted in the Renaissance. To study in the universities, which are filled with the spirit of such geniuses as Leonardo da Vinci, Bruno, Dante Alighieri is a true pride. Here is the oldest university in Europe – Bologna (founded in 1088). Today, Italy is a country where higher education has its undeniable and appeal for students from around the world.

Undoubtedly, the most popular among foreign students Italy behind other European countries, and the Italian is far from the status of “a means of international communication.” But this amazing country is strong in another. Italian design – is a word in itself – the brand. Italian design – is internationally recognized achievements – clothes, shoes, accessories, cars, furniture, interiors – in those areas Italians have created a unique style and have won world domination.

That is why for our students, who dream of a world podiums and proper names , we picked up the Italian universities. Here are training, and greater opportunities of practice and training, which will significantly increase the weight of your resume. While studying in Italy, you will be able to participate in projects where customers are leading automobile giants, well known manufacturers of household appliances, fashion house with stunning titles. With a degree of Italian University you will have access to the best design company in the world.

The higher education system in Italy is composed mainly of university – they are trained to the vast majority of students. There are other types of schools – the Academy of Fine Arts, the Conservatory and 2 Pisan Institute. Recent focus primarily on the management of research activities.

The Italian Academy of Fine Arts, specializing in four areas – a painting, a sculpture, decoration and stage decoration. It has its own, a special training program and its rules of admission.

The interesting thing is that almost all high schools in Italy does not have restrictions on the recruitment of applicants. Thus, the result of natural selection of the 10 received only 3 receive a diploma.  In contrast to public ,private schools are more expensive and the price of tuition is stable.

But private Italian university degrees are recognized in Europe. Therefore, the majority of foreigners are choosing the Academy of Fine Arts. A future designers direct road to the European Institute of Design (Istituto Europeo di Design) in Milan, one of the most respected schools in the area. Wisdom of International Economics, Finance and Management is best to comprehend in a private European School of Economics (ESE) or the School of Management, Scuola di Direzione Aziendale Bocconi.
In fact, many training programs in private universities are taught both in Italian and in English, and English only. In Rome, there is even an American University – John Cabot, where English – the primary language.

Participation in such programs is more expensive, but their qualifications are prestigious and open vistas for employment not only in Italy but also in other European countries.

Three-year kindergarten

Little Italians begin to learn early. Many parents take their children to a three-year kindergarten (scuola materna), where for three years they are prepared for school. Children learn in groups of 15-30 people by the method of the famous educator Maria Montessori. However, there are private Catholic kindergarten, where there are traditional methods of education.

In six years, children enter primary school. Its first two stages – scuola elementare 1 and 2 – free for all. All general education at this stage – reading, writing, drawing, arithmetic, music, etc. – are required, by the desire to study a religion. Curricula usually include also the study of a foreign language.

Children learn five days, about 30 hours a week. At the end of each stage they are tested. Interesting detail: disabled children learn together with all. Traditionally Italian classes in public schools are very large. Private schools identical to the state program, but the schools of this type may not claim their certificates, so their students take state exams to receive the appropriate certificate.

Diplomas and exams

After the first five-year cycle (the first two steps) take a written and oral examination. According to their results is issued a certificate of primary school (diploma di licenza elementare), and students go to high school (scuola media), where the study of 14. At this stage, students study the Italian language, history, geography, mathematics, science, foreign language, art, music.

After each grade exams take place on the system “put – do not put.” If a student does not stand this test, it is left for the second year. Upon completion of your course in the scuola media shall be final: the Italian, mathematics and foreign language – written on other subjects – verbal.

Vocational education

High school graduates can enroll in schools of different profiles that are listed in the Italian system of higher secondary school (scuola secondaria superiore). These are analogues of vocational schools (technical institutes, vocational schools, art schools) and high schools. They are learning from 14 to 19 years. Screenings great: a five-year course of study ends, only half received.

Preparation for university studies

There are three varieties: classic (liceo classico), technical (liceo tecnico) and science (liceo scientifico). The program includes all the schools of Italian literature, Latin, mathematics, physics, science, philosophy, and history.

Graduates pass the exam (esame di maturita), very similar to the French examination for the degree YOU, and a matriculation certificate (diploma di maturita), with which you can go to university. In the classical high school is general preparation for university and its graduates are eligible to apply to any faculty. Accordingly, in the face of two other types of emphasis on the study of various sciences.

The rest of this level of education is carried out training. These include nine technical institutes (istituto tecnico) and professional institutions (istituto professionale), that teach crafts, commerce and hotel business.

Education in Italy is under the government control. The Ministry of Education provides financial support for schools at all levels and strict control of education in private schools. It develops training programs and arranges competitive examinations to fill teaching positions in all public schools. Although most of the universities and other higher education institutions provides the state have broad autonomy in organizational sense and freedom of curriculum. To maintain a high level of education for most professions introduced mandatory state exams.

In Italy, there are several levels of education:

• Pre-school education
• Secondary education
• Higher Education
• Scholarships for Foreign Students

Pre-school education

In three years, young Italians are given to kindergarten (scuola maternal), where for three years they are prepared for school. Children learn in groups of 15-30 by the method of the famous educator Maria Montessori. After it children from kindergarten go to primary school.

Secondary education in Italy

Primary School from 6 to 11 years

Primary school is divided into two stages – scuola elementare 1 and 2. Both of these steps are free for all. At the end of primary school, students take a written and oral examination. According to their results is issued a certificate of completion of primary school (diploma di licenza elementare). At this stage, learning reading, writing, drawing, arithmetic, music – these items are required by the desire to study a religion. Curricula usually include also the study of a foreign language.

The average junior school (scuola media), from 11 to 15 years

At this stage, students study the Italian language, history, geography, mathematics, science, foreign language, art and music.

Central High School from 15 to 18-19 years

At this stage, students decide whether they should learn from the regular program and prepare for university entrance, or to combine their studies with vocational training.

Option 1:

The student decides to continue  studies on the regular program. In this case, students continue education in high schools, whose main task is to prepare the student for admission to the University. High schools are divided by the profile:

• Classic high schools
• Technical high schools
•  Humanities lyceums
• Language high schools
•  Arts high schools

Choosing one or another user’s profile, the student is actually determined his future profession. In general, most high school graduates to enter a university.

Option 2:

Students in addition to the school receive a profession. Get this kind of education can be in the so-called “institutions” or colleges. Upon completion, students receive a high school diploma (diploma di maturita) and a certificate of qualification.

Higher education in Italy

From 18-19 years.

The system of higher education in Italy is represented by universities, technical universities, university colleges and academies.

• The first stage of higher education – C. D. U. (Corsi di Diploma Universitario) – equivalent bachelor’s degree. Training lasts three years and consists of a mandatory additional items and practices.
• The second stage of higher education – C. L. (Corsi di Laurea). Lasts 4 to 5 years, depending on the specialty. Medicine and pharmacy study 6 years.
• The third stage of higher education – Corsi di Dottorato di Ricerca, DR and Corsi di Perfezionamento – research doctoral programs and post-graduate courses of specialization, or professional skills. It can take both at the university and in the specialized schools – Scuole di Specializzazione. Upon completion of the diploma or a doctorate.