Dates and arrival

Programme calendar

The Foundation Year programme follows a defined schedule to help you plan your arrival, enrolment, and academic year. Below are the main dates to keep in mind

Orientation Week

Before the academic year begins, all Foundation Year students are invited to take part in Orientation Week — a week-long introduction to your new academic, cultural, and social life in Venice. Designed to help you transition smoothly into the programme, Orientation Week offers a balanced mix of informational sessions, practical workshops, and social activities, giving you everything you need to feel confident and connected from day one.
During Orientation Week, you will:

• meet the team: get to know the staff, tutors, and instructors who will guide you throughout the year
• understand the programme: learn about the academic structure, expectations, and tools you'll be using as a student
• explore student life in Venice: discover university services, student support, and tips for living in one of the world’s most unique cities
• connect with your peers: join group activities designed to help you build friendships and feel part of a vibrant, international community
• take part in cultural experiences: from walking tours to treasure hunts and boat rides through the canals, you'll get a taste of Venice’s rich culture and history — often with a fun twist
• prepare for success: attend workshops that will help you navigate the university’s online systems, manage your schedule, and start the year with confidence

A warm welcome, whether you're here or online: Orientation Week is designed for both students already in Venice and those who are still abroad. Many sessions offer online participation, ensuring everyone can get involved, no matter where they're starting from.

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Housing and accommodation

There are a limited number of reserved places for Foundation Year students at the Santa Marta student residence which are assigned every year by the Foundation office. Priority is given to underage and very young students. Instructions on how to request reserved accommodation will be shared by email approximately in late June.

Accommodation in Venice can seem limited, and hard to find, but if you are well-prepared and get organised early, there are a lot of options available. Our Housing office can assist students for a small fee if they are not among the high priority students for reserved housing, or are interested in alternative accommodation. Find out more on Housing and canteens webpage.

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Visa and residency

Visa Request

If you pay the first instalment on time (and the task is resolved within your application) the School will be able to confirm that you are enrolled in the programme, and you will then be able to proceed with your visa application.
Please note that enrolment in the Ca' Foscari Foundation Year for students from non-EU countries is only completed when they receive the visa. Your visa needs to be requested once you have been accepted and have received your letter of eligibility, by pre-enrolling through the Universitaly portal following the instructions described on our Pre-enrolment and Visa application webpage.
Contact the Italian Diplomatic Representatives of your choice to obtain all the information you need to request a specific visa for study purposes.

Residence in Italy

All students staying in Italy for more than 90 days must register their residency. EU students and non-EU students have a separate procedure. The Foundation staff will send you all relevant information in September, and assist you with the necessary steps and documents once you arrive in Italy. Find out more on Students: your stay, insurance, transport > Residence permit webpage.

Health Insurance

Find out more information about healt insurance on Students: your stay, insurance, transport > Healthcare webpage.