by Alberto Valverde M.

 

One of the most common questions international students ask before applying to Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore is whether they need to know Italian in order to apply or study. It’s a very understandable concern –especially when considering a degree in a country where Italian is the official language.

 

Studying in English

 

If you are applying to one of Università Cattolica’s English-taught programmes, Italian is not a mandatory requirement. Coursework, exams, and assessments are all conducted entirely in English. However, some courses may prefer you know some Italian beforehand. In general, learning some Italian during your stay is a smart move: it can help you integrate more quickly, navigate daily life with confidence, and strengthen your profile if you plan to pursue an internship during or after your studies 

While you can attend lectures, take part in group work, communicate with professors, and complete your degree without speaking Italian, some programmes include Italian language courses as part of the curriculum. We encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity and even try learning the language on your own to deepen your cultural experience and get the most out of your time in Italy.

 

Studying in Italian

 

On the other hand, if you plan to enrol in a programme taught in Italian, the requirements are different. You must show an appropriate level of Italian proficiency. 

This distinction is important: 

• English-taught programmes: Italian is not required, but it can improve your chances of being admitted to some of them. 
• Italian-taught programmes: Italian is required.

 

Everyday Life in Italy

 

While Italian is not required for your studies in English, having a basic understanding of the language can make daily life easier and more enjoyable. 

Some of your classmates might be Italian, and learning a few words or expressions can make social interactions more natural and enriching. Casual conversations with classmates are also an informal way to practice and improve Italian over time. 

Basic Italian can help with practical situations outside the university, such as applying for your permit of stay, visiting the post office, or going to the supermarket. These are everyday situations that international students gradually become familiar with and often become easier when you can understand key terms. 

In university settings, people are generally understanding and willing to help. Even a limited knowledge of Italian, combined with patience and a willingness to ask questions will help you get by.

 

Here are some useful words and short phrases that can help you have a smoother transition:

 

Italian	English
Ciao	Hello/hi/bye
Grazie	Thank you
Sì	Yes
No	No
Bene	Well/Good
Buongiorno	Good morning
Buonasera	Good evening
Per favore	Please
Quanto costa?	How much does it cost?
Dove si trova…?	Where is…?
Non capisco	I don’t understand
Vorrei ordinare…	I would like to order...
Dov’è il bagno?	Where is the bathroom?
What time is it?	Che ore sono?

 

These examples are not expectations, but simply reassurance that even a minimal knowledge of Italian can help you feel more comfortable in daily life.

 

Italian Language Courses

 

For students who want to go beyond, the university provides Italian language courses through SeLdA - Servizio Linguistico d’Ateneo, Università Cattolica’s official language centre. 

These courses are offered at different proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced, allowing students to start with no prior knowledge of the language. The focus is practical as well as academic: helping students build confidence in everyday communication, understand cultural contexts, and gradually navigate life in Italy more independently. 

 

Key Takeaways

 

For students applying to English-taught programmes at Università Cattolica, Italian is not required for admission, though some programmes may recommend basic Italian, or even include Italian courses in the curriculum. Additionally, courses are offered through SeLdA. Gradually learning Italian can make everyday life easier, help you connect with classmates, navigate practical situations, and enrich your overall experience in Italy – allowing you to make the most of your time at Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore.