Bachelor's · Part A: Decide
How does an Italian bachelor's work?
Short answer: A Laurea (bachelor's) lasts 3 years and gives 180 credits. Some fields, like Medicine, use one long "single cycle" degree instead.
| Type | Length | Credits | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laurea (laurea triennale) | 3 years | 180 | Engineering, Economics, Computer Science |
| Laurea magistrale a ciclo unico | 5 or 6 years | 300 or 360 | Medicine (6 years), Law, Pharmacy |
| AFAM diploma accademico di I livello | 3 years | 180 | Art, music, dance and design academies |
Sources: University of Pisa, University of Perugia.
Good to know
- Language: a course is taught either in English or in Italian. Italian taught courses need at least B2 Italian (B6).
- Exams: many exams are oral as well as written. Grades run up to 30, and 18 is a pass.
- Recognised institutions only: choose courses listed on Universitaly. Some private institutes in Italy are not accredited by the Ministry, and their certificates may not count as Italian degrees.
This page explains official rules in plain language. I am not an immigration adviser and I do not give visa advice. For that, always use official government sources. Rules change: confirm with your university, the embassy and VFS before you act.