Foundation Year

The Foundation Year at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice is a preparatory programme designed for international students who plan to begin undergraduate studies in Italy. It offers the academic and language support needed to meet university admission requirements while easing the transition into the Italian higher education system. 

Set in the unique context of Venice, the programme combines high-quality instruction with an international environment, giving students the chance to experience university life in one of Italy’s leading institutions. By the end of the year, participants are well-prepared — both academically and culturally — to start their degree studies with confidence.

Contacts

foundation.cfsie@unive.it
Tel. +39 041 234 7082 / +39 041 234 7086

About the Foundation Year

The Foundation Year is a one-year programme at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice that helps international students meet the academic and language criteria for enrolling in undergraduate degrees in Italy. It supports students in developing the skills and knowledge needed to start their university studies with confidence.

Why take this programme

Our Foundation Year is principally designed for students who have completed high school but who do not have the 12 years of schooling, and/or the formal entry qualification, required for entry to an Italian university (for example: students who studied in the American school system who do not have three Advanced Placement, students who studied within the British school system who do not have three A-levels, students who have a vocational qualification, and others).

For further information on Italian University entry requirements for the country in which you completed your studies, see Entry requirements for applicants with an international qualification webpage.

All the requirements to enrol in the foundation year  

Programme structure

General curriculum
Taught in English, the general curriculum provides preparation for University studies in Italy. All students take the following subjects: Modern and contemporary Italian and European history, Critical thinking and Academic skills for university preparation.

Study track
Each student chooses a Study Track - a group of courses that provide an elementary background in the subjects they are interested in pursuing during their undergraduate studies - taught in either English or Italian.

Language module
Students can focus on either Italian language or Academic English, depending on their level of proficiency and the degree programme they are planning on enrolling in following Foundation Year. Each language module offers 300 hours of language instruction, including tutorials.

More details about programme structure  

Application timeline

To secure your place and complete your enrolment, several steps must be completed:

  • Apply between January and February (make sure to check the intake dates)
  • In spring, confirmed students will receive information about:
    • How to request reserved accommodation at the university residence
    • How to apply for a scholarship or fee reduction
    • Whether their chosen Study Track or language module has been activated (and, if not, how to choose an alternative)
  • Keep an eye out for final deadlines for your documents (make sure to check your acceptance letter) July 31 st
  • Scholarship results will be made available by early September, and you will receive information on how to pay the second fee instalment of €1700
  • You will be officially enrolled and will receive a final confirmation letter around mid- September

More details about applications