Italy is globally recognized as the heart of design, art, and fashion. From the streets of Florence to the cultural vibrancy of Rome, Italy offers an exceptional backdrop for students pursuing degrees in creative fields.
Accredited by Italy’s Ministry of Universities and Research, Accademia Italiana (AI) is known for its high-quality academic programs in design, fashion, art, and related fields. With campuses in Florence and Rome, Accademia Italiana provides students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in Italy’s rich cultural heritage while gaining world-class education in design and fashion.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the application process at Accademia Italiana, from understanding the programs and eligibility requirements to application documents, tuition fees, and scholarships.
Why Study at Accademia Italiana?
Accademia Italiana is one of Italy’s leading creative institutions, known for its accredited programs recognized by the Ministry of Universities and Research. With a practical, hands-on approach to teaching alongside Italy's rich artistic heritage, AI offers globally recognized degrees that equip students with both creative and professional skills, setting them apart in the competitive design industry.
AI’s campuses in Florence and Rome are also ideally located to inspire students. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is home to world-renowned museums, galleries, and architecture. Whilst Rome, a city steeped in history, is a cultural and business hub. Both cities offer students a unique blend of historical richness and modern innovation, providing the perfect setting for studying creative disciplines.
2026 Program Overview
Accademia Italiana offers comprehensive pathways for every stage of your creative journey:
Foundation Year (9 months):
A preparatory course designed for students who need to bridge the gap to undergraduate studies or refine their artistic skills.
Bachelor’s Programs (3 years):
- Fashion Design
- Interior Design
- Graphic Design and Communication
- Product Design
- Photography
Master’s Programs (2 years):
- Fashion Design and Management
- Interior Design
- Product and Industrial Design
- Graphic Design and Digital Media
Exclusive 2026 Early Bird Scholarship
Accademia Italiana is committed to making excellence accessible. For the 2026 intake, students can take advantage of the Early Bird Promo:
- Offer: 20% Discount on the first year’s tuition fee.
- Eligibility: Applicable to Foundation Year, Bachelor of Arts, and Master of Arts programs.
Apply early to secure this financial aid, as these spots are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Eligibility Requirements
Here’s what you need to know about Accademia Italiana’s eligibility criteria:
For Bachelor’s Programs:
- Educational background: A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Portfolio: A portfolio showcasing your work in design or art is required as part of your application. This should include sketches, projects, and any relevant creative work.
- English proficiency: Students from non-English speaking countries must demonstrate proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL scores or equivalent).
For Master’s Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree: You must have an undergraduate degree in a related field (e.g., Design, Art, Fashion) or equivalent.
- Portfolio: A portfolio that reflects your previous academic work and creative projects.
- English proficiency: For non-native English speakers, IELTS/TOEFL scores are required.
Application Documents
The exact requirements may vary slightly depending on your program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Professional Courses), but generally, you will need to prepare the following:
- Application form: Complete the online application form through the official Accademia Italiana website.
- Educational documents:
- For Bachelor’s Programs: You will need to submit a high school diploma or equivalent. If you're applying from a non-Italian institution, you may be required to provide a "Declaration of Value" or a Statement of Verification (CIMEA) for your diploma.
- For Master’s Programs: A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required. You will need to provide your degree certificate and official academic transcripts.
- Portfolio: As Accademia Italiana is a design-focused institution, a portfolio showcasing your creative work is an essential part of the application. For design-related programs, this should include examples of your previous projects, sketches, or artwork.
- Proof of English proficiency: If you are a non-native English speaker, you must provide proof of your English proficiency. This could be through test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL, or alternatively, proof of prior education in English.
- Motivational letter: This should explain why you want to study at Accademia Italiana, your passion for the chosen field of study, and how the program aligns with your career goals. It is a chance to highlight your motivation, creativity, and commitment to your chosen profession.
- Passport copy: A copy of your valid passport is required to proceed with the application.
- Passport-size photo: Some programs may require a recent passport-sized photo for identification purposes.
- Other documents (optional for some programs): Letters of recommendation, a personal statement, full transcripts of undergraduate studies, and any other documents that might support your application, such as a CV or work experience.
International Applicants
For international students (both EU and non-EU) wishing to enroll in a state-accredited Bachelor's or Master's program at Accademia Italiana, the following documents and steps are required:
General Requirements for All International Applicants:
- Dichiarazione di Valore in loco (Declaration of Value):
- Applicants who studied abroad must provide the Dichiarazione di Valore in loco issued by the Italian Diplomatic Representative (Embassy or Consulate) in their home country.
- Alternatively, a certificate from the Italian ENIC-NARIC center (CIMEA) can be provided.
For Non-EU Applicants Requiring a Student Visa:
- UNIVERSITALY Pre-registration:
- Non-EU applicants must complete a pre-application for the student visa through the UNIVERSITALY pre-registration system. This is the first step toward enrollment.
- Post-Entrance Exam Documentation:
- Once you receive the results of the entrance exam, submit the following to finalize enrollment:
- Completed Enrollment Contract for your chosen program (provided by the Admissions Office).
- Receipt for the Enrollment Fee.
- Once you receive the results of the entrance exam, submit the following to finalize enrollment:
Application Process
Here’s what you’ll need to do to apply to Accademia Italiana:
- Submit your application
- Submit supporting documents
- Portfolio review
- Interview
- Acceptance and offer
2026 Key Dates & Intakes
To ensure a seat and visa processing time, it is highly recommended to submit applications at least 45 days before the start date.
- Fall term is from September 9 to December 19, 2026. The application deadline is April 1.
- Spring term is from January 14 to May 14, 2026. The application deadline is October 1.
- Summer term is from June 10 to July 25, 2026. The application deadline is March 1.
Tuition and Program Fees
Accademia Italiana offers different pricing structures based on the program type and student residency.
Degree-Seeking Students (Full-Year)
For students enrolling in a full Bachelor's or Master's degree for the 2026/2027 academic year:
Study Abroad & Short-Term Programs (2026)
These fees are per term and typically include tuition for 12–16 credits and organized study trips.
- Spring/Fall Semester: $8,900 (4–5 classes)
- Summer Term: $3,700 (2 classes)
What’s Included: Tuition, on-site orientation, 24/7 staff support, and special excursions (study trips). What’s Not Included: Airfare, meals, textbooks, art supplies, and health insurance.
Accommodation Costs
Housing is arranged by Accademia Italiana in fully furnished student apartments, where students pay rent directly to the landlord. Costs vary by city and season.
Approximate Housing Rates for 2026:
Term | Florence Campus | Rome Campus |
Spring (Jan–May) | €4,060 – €6,750 | €4,500 – €5,500 |
Fall (Sept–Dec) | €3,360 – €5,550 | €4,000 – €5,000 |
Summer (June–July) | €2,010 – €3,200 | €2,200 – €3,000 |
Ready to Start Your Creative Journey?
Accademia Italiana offers an exciting opportunity for students passionate about design, art, and fashion to receive a world-class education in one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world. With its comprehensive programs, practical learning approach, and global recognition, studying at Accademia Italiana is the first step toward an exciting and successful career in the creative industries.
Join a global community of designers and artists in the heart of Italy. Don't miss the chance to save 20% on your tuition with the 2026 Early Bird Promo.
To learn more about the programs and apply to Accademia Italiana, browse programs and apply here.
Or for personalized advice, book a call with Global Admissions here.
