The Foundation Year offers two distinct tracks: one in Italian and one in English. Students must choose one track at the time of application, as the two are separate and follow different curricula. This choice determines the language of instruction for the entire programme. 

 
Option A: Italian Track (800 hours)

For students with little or no prior knowledge of Italian.

• Italian Language and Culture (440 hours)
  Progress from A1 to B2 level, mastering both the language and cultural nuances essential for integrating into the Italian academic setting.
   
• General Curriculum (200 hours)
  Prepare for university with academic workshops focusing on writing, critical thinking, and modern Italian history through the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) methodology.
   
• Subject Track (160 hours)
  Specialize in either Humanities or Social Sciences, choosing courses like: 
  • Italian Literature
  • Contemporary History
  • Economics/Law
  • Political Science

 

Option B: English Track (800 hours)

Ideal for students looking to enhance their English proficiency while gaining foundational knowledge.

• English Language and Academic Skills (500 hours)
  Advance from B1 to B2+/C1 with comprehensive training in reading, writing, speaking, and listening for academic purposes.
   
• Italian Language and Culture (160 hours)
  Achieve A2 level Italian, equipping you for real-life interactions and academic integration in Italy.
   
• Subject Courses (140 hours)
  Choose from areas such as: 
  • Humanities and Social Studies
  • Art and Literature
  • Business, Finance and Law
  • Political Science
     

Course study plans and schedules will be added as soon as they are available. 

8 September 2025 - 6 June 2026

 

Assessment Round 1

Opening: Mid-February 2025
Deadline: 17 April 2025

Feedback is provided on a rolling basis. 

Assessment Round 2 will open only if places are still available. 

The Foundation Programme is meant for students who have earned a high school diploma that qualifies them for university enrollment in the awarding country, but do not meet the 12-year schooling requirement. Cattolica Foundation Programme does not compensate for other missing requirements.

To apply, you must complete the online application form and upload the required documents.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Foundation Year, you must meet the following criteria:

• High School Completion: You must have completed or be in the final year of high school.
• Language Proficiency:
  • for the English track, you must provide proof of English proficiency - minimum level B1 (see accepted certificates below)
  • for the Italian track, no language test is required, but a minimum level of Italian proficiency is recommended.
• Minimum Age: Candidates must turn 17 by July 31, 2025.

 

Required Documents

While filling out the online application form, you must upload:

• High School Transcript: a complete transcript showing results for each year of high school. If you have not yet graduated, submit your most up-to-date transcript, including your final year. If not in English, provide an official translation.
• High School Diploma (if already obtained): a copy of your diploma. If not in English, include a translation.
• Language Assessment Report (only for the English track)
  Accepted forms of proof:
  • Official language certification - minimum level B1 (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, etc.).
  • Online test report (e.g., Duolingo).
  • A report from a language instructor confirming your proficiency level.
  • Results from a school language test.
• CV/Resumé: Highlight academic and extracurricular experiences.

Optional Documents (not required but encouraged)

• Motivation Letter: Share your academic ambitions and goals.

The Foundation Programme is meant for students who have earned a high school diploma that qualifies them for university enrollment in the awarding country, but do not meet the 12-year schooling requirement.

Cattolica Foundation Programme does not compensate for other missing requirements.
 

Take the first step toward your academic journey: 
 

  

• Tuition Fee: €9,450 (3 instalments: €1,470 due upon confirmation of enrolment, €3,990 due October 31, and €3,990 due February 28, 2026)
   
• Accommodation: €600/month × 9 months = €5,400 (if booked via MIL Service, see more information below)
   
• Total Cost: €14,850
   
• Application Fee: €100 (includes a language placement test for the English track)

Limited guaranteed placements are available in housing managed by MIL Service.

   

Key Features: 

• Convenient Location: Housing within a short commute to the Milan campus. 
• Transparent Costs: No hidden fees or agency charges. 
• Year-Round Access: Includes Christmas and relevant holidays from September to June. 
• Comprehensive Service: Regular linen changes, cleaning, and in-house maintenance assistance. 
• Hassle-Free Utilities: All-inclusive (electricity, internet, etc.). 
• Visa-Friendly: Documentation provided to support visa applications. 
• Easy renting: Rent is paid in four installments, with 50% of the first semester's rent due upon confirmation of placement. Candidates who confirm their place in the Foundation Year will receive information on how to apply for housing and placement, including payment details.This service offers stress-free, reliable, and affordable accommodation tailored to students’ needs, ensuring a seamless academic experience. 

 

Students who are under the age of 17 at the time of enrolment and arrival in Italy must have a guardian on-site until they turn 18. If a legal representative—such as a family member or friend in Italy—is not available to take on this role on behalf of the student’s parents or legal guardians in their home country, families can rely on the professional services of GB Education Italy (gbeducationitaly.com). GB Education Italy provides expert guardianship support, ensuring students have a trusted point of reference for their well-being, safety, and administrative needs throughout their stay in Italy.