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.
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.
Furnished residences or homestays near campus.
Academic and personal help anytime.
Intensive language and cultural prep.
Core training in art, fashion, and design.
Practical skills with experts.
Visits to museums, studios, and landmarks.
Personalized portfolio guidance.
Help with top design school applications.
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.
The BESS Track opens doors to Italy’s most dynamic economic sectors, helping students understand how business, finance, innovation, and global markets connect with real professional opportunities.
Our program emphasizes the skills that foster future leadership, business confidence, and international professional growth.
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 view admission requirements for the Foundation Year check our application page
The duration of the International Foundation Year program at The Italian Academy is 9 months (Fall intake: September–June or Winter intake: January–September). It includes:
600 hours of Italian language and culture
300 academic hours of track-specific subjects, entirely taught in English
All track-specific courses of the International Foundation Year are taught entirely in English.
The total cost of the Foundation Year program is divided into three manageable installments. Each installment includes a portion of the tuition and housing fees. The first installment also includes the one-time enrollment fee.
No, scholarships are not offered for the Foundation Year program itself.
All students must pay the full tuition, enrollment, and housing fees as outlined in the payment schedule.
However, students who successfully complete the Foundation Year may become eligible for dedicated scholarships or tuition reductions when enrolling in selected Bachelor’s programs at our partner universities:
To view admission requirements for the Foundation Year check our application page
Underage students (minors) Students who have not yet reached 18 years old at the time of their application can apply for the Foundation Year program provided they will turn 18 by June 30th of the year of program completion. Underage students who are admitted to the programme are required to send extra documentation:
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 is designed in line with the standards set by the Italian Ministry of University and Research (MUR) and supports students in meeting the academic and linguistic requirements for university admission in Italy. The program equips students with strong preparation in their chosen track and provides targeted entrance exam training.
The Foundation Year program is offered in partnership between the Italian Academy and Kore University or ABADIR Academy, depending on the chosen track. 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 MADE Fine Arts Academy.
The Foundation Year Certificate attests:
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 achievement.
Yes, we know that finding a place to live in a new country can be a challenge, so The Italian Academy guarantees housing for every enrolled student. To make your transition as smooth as possible, we manage all placements within our network of student residences and comfortable shared apartments.
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 Enrollment 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.
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.
