Welcome to your first step towards a world-class business education in the heart of Italy. Our International Foundation Program offers you the perfect pathway to thrive in Italy’s leading business universities.
From your very first steps, she’ll be here to guide you through the Foundation Year program structure, answer your questions, and support you during the enrollment process.
The Foundation Year in Business, Economics & Social Sciences at The Italian Academy is a preparatory program designed for international students aiming to access leading universities in Italy. This track develops the academic, analytical, and linguistic skills needed to pursue degrees in economics, management, political science, and related disciplines.
The curriculum covers mathematics, statistics, logic, entrepreneurship, economics, and academic writing, alongside comprehensive Italian language training. Through a globally-relevant syllabus focused on critical thinking and real-world business dynamics, students gain the foundation to succeed in top-ranked institutions and thrive in today’s competitive global economy.
Students enrolled in the Foundation Year in Business and Economics program benefit from high-quality, conveniently located accommodation near the study center. Housing options include modern student residences and welcoming homestays, both offering a safe and comfortable environment. Residences are well-connected to the city’s main transport links, providing easy access to classes, university facilities, and cultural attractions.
All accommodations are fully furnished and include essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, study areas, and communal spaces, creating a supportive and social living experience. With 24/7 student support, dedicated staff ensure a smooth transition to life in Italy, helping students settle in and focus on their academic journey.
The International Foundation in Business and Economics program is hosted at the Neapolis Study Center in Syracuse (Siracusa), Sicily. Situated in the heart of the city’s archaeological district, the center is adjacent to St. John’s Church, renowned for its access to the ancient Catacombs. The campus is housed in a historic villa surrounded by a lush two-acre botanical garden, featuring citrus trees, Mediterranean flora, and century-old palms, providing a serene and inspiring environment for study. Its central location offers students convenient access to significant cultural landmarks, including the Archaeological Museum, the Basilica of Our Lady of Tears, and the Greek Theater, all within walking distance. The nearby island of Ortygia, known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, is also easily accessible, enhancing the overall educational experience with a blend of academic excellence and cultural immersion.
The BESS Track of the International Foundation Year equips students with the analytical, communication, and strategic thinking skills required for success in economics, business, international relations, and the social sciences. Through a curriculum that blends theory with real-world application, students gain the tools to thrive in globally competitive undergraduate programs.
Academic Progression
After completing the Foundation Year, students are eligible to:
Apply to undergraduate programs in economics, business administration, management, political science, or international studies at public or private Italian universities.
Join top institutions such as Bocconi University, LUISS, University of Milan, or Kore University of Enna.
Pursue academic specializations such as:
International Business
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Economic Analytics and Data Science
Supply Chain and Logistics
Luxury Brand Management
Public Policy and Global Affairs
Career Pathways and Industry Access
The BESS track opens doors to Italy’s most dynamic economic sectors:
Finance & Banking – Explore junior roles and internships with institutions like UniCredit, Intesa Sanpaolo, and European fintech startups.
Fashion & Luxury Management – Learn from iconic brands like Gucci, Armani, and Luxottica, building skills in branding and global commerce.
Automotive & Manufacturing – Gain insights from companies like Ferrari, Fiat, Ferrero, and Lavazza in business strategy and innovation.
Global Tech & Logistics – Discover career tracks with Amazon, Meta, Google, and STMicroelectronics at their European headquarters.
Leadership & Professional Development
Our program emphasizes skills that foster future leadership, including:
Strategic decision-making and consulting foundations
Entrepreneurial mindset and business innovation
Data interpretation and trend forecasting
Intercultural communication and negotiation
What our student say about us
Choose from five specialized pathways:
Engineering & I.T.
Architecture
Business, Economics & Social Sciences
Medicine & Life Sciences
Design, Fashion & Art
Each track includes subject-specific preparation and admission test training (e.g., TOLC-I, ArchED, IMAT), guiding students toward their target university programs in Italy.
To be eligible for admission students must:
Suppose the program admission committee is unable to verify the high school’s accreditation or evaluate the students’ higher education. In that case, students will be required to provide a Statement of Comparability issued by CIMEA before the program start date.
demonstrate independent-level English language proficiency. This can be proven with an official certification or assessed through an online interview conducted by the admissions board. If English is the student’s native or second language, they may be exempt from this requirement by providing formal proof of language status or current enrollment in English-taught curriculum. The following are valid language certifications and scores for admission to the program:
The Foundation Year program has the duration of a full academic year with 9 months of tuition and a total of 800 classroom hours.
The program is divided into 3 terms: Fall, Spring and Summer. Students may join the program at the start of the Fall term in September (intake 1) or at the start of the Spring term in January (intake 2).
Intake 1: September to June
Intake 2: January to September
Students who are planning to enroll in an Italian-taught degree in Italy may choose to extend the program by 3 months, for an overall 12 months duration (1000 hours classroom hours).
All the courses are entirely taught in English language.
The Foundation Year program has the duration of a full academic year with 9 months of tuition and a total of 800 classroom hours.
The program is divided into 3 terms: Fall, Spring and Summer. Students may join the program at the start of the Fall term in September (intake 1) or at the start of the Spring term in January (intake 2).
Intake 1: September to June
Intake 2: January to September
Students who are planning to enroll in an Italian-taught degree in Italy may choose to extend the program by 3 months, for an overall 12 months duration (1000 hours classroom hours).
Students should find out the details on the dedicated page.
Students can apply for an Italian Type D Study Visa only after completing the following steps of the application process:
Students will receive an official Letter of Enrolment to be submitted with the required documentation to the Italian Consulate in their country. Students are encouraged to complete their applications and apply for their visa as early as possible, as some consulates may require extended periods of time (up to several weeks) to issue the visa depending on the time of year. NB. The Letter of Offer issued upon review by the admissions committee of the students eligibility for the program is NOT valid for visa application purposes.
The Foundation Year program is offered in partnership between the Italian Academy and Kore University. The Italian Academy provides the student services, housing, language training and academic support for students enrolled in the program.
Students receive a Certificate and Academic Transcript issued by Kore University of Enna (protocol n. 12794 of July 7th 2023) for successful completion of the Foundation Year BESS (Business, Economics and Social Sciences), MLS (Medicine and Life Sciences), EAIT (Engineering, Architecture and IT) academic tracks.
Students that complete the DFA (Design, Fashion and Art) track receive a Certificate and Academic Transcript issued by ABADIR Fine Arts Academy (legally accredited by MUR – Ministry of University and Research).
The Foundation Year Certificate attests:
Admission requirements for universities in Italy vary for each institution, so it is recommended that students verify the specific admission requirements for their university of choice before enrolment to the program.
Students that obtain the Foundation Year certificate are still required to pass the national Admission Test to enroll in “closed number” degree programs in Italian universities.
Students that choose to take the CILS Italian language Exam during their program will also receive the University for Foreigners of Siena B1 or B2 language certificate, based on successful achivement.
Students live in modern self-catering student apartments. The apartments have single or double rooms, shared kitchen, laundry, bathrooms, living and study areas. Generally 4 to 6 students live in each apartment. Limited places are also available for homestay accommdation, for which underage students are prioritized.
Students are encouraged to apply early for admission to the program to secure their preferred housing option.
A required residency policy is in place for the Foundation Year program, instituted for the benefit of students:
Application Fee: € 60
Enrollment Fee: € 290
Tuition Fee: € 7,500 (paid in installments)
Student Housing: based on option selected (paid in installments)
Cancellation in case of visa denial: A full refund of all fees paid to the Academy is offered to the student if the visa denial is communicated in writing before the program start date (bank transfer fees are covered by the student).
Cancellation of enrollment by the student:
The service fee is non-refundable. In case the student gives notice of postponement, the student may start the program at a later date without being charged the service fee.
Cancellation must be made in writing.
In the case of any refunds bank transfer fees are covered by the student.
The cancellation fee deadlines following will apply:
Cancellation of Enrolment by the Academy:
The Academy may cancel a student’s enrollment up to 30 days before the course start date should the minimum number of enrolled students to the course not be achieved. In this case the Academy will provide full refund of any fees paid and provide the option of postponement of the program enrollment for the next intake.
The Academy may cancel a student’s enrollment should the student breach any of the rules outlined in the Academy student code of conduct document or if their behavior is deemed unacceptable. If a student’s enrolment is canceled by the school due to breach of student code of conduct or student contracts signed with the Academy, there will be no refund of any fees paid.
Students who are 18 or older and have a type D Visa are permitted to work up to 20 hours a week. However, due to the full-time commitment and mandatory attendance required by the Foundation Year Program, holding even a part-time job might not be feasible.
Health and travel insurance is mandatory for all non-EU students attending the Foundation Year. Coverage must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Italy, and must be in place before arrival, as it is also required to apply for your permit of stay (permesso di soggiorno).
While students are free to choose their provider, we strongly recommend the policy offered by W.A.I. – Welcome Association Italy, which is widely used by international students. It provides 12 months of private health coverage suitable for visa and residency purposes.
You can register and purchase the insurance directly online:
👉 WAI association Italy
Payment options include PayPal, credit card, or bank transfer.
The closest and most convenient airport is Catania Fontanarossa International Airport (CTA). We recommend that all students book their arrival there, as it is just about 1 hour from Syracuse and well-connected by public transport and transfers.