Fall 2025 Update Regarding Italian Visas & 90 Day Programs
New! Study Abroad in Italy Without a Student Visa This Fall
To accommodate recent legislative changes affecting student visas in Italy, we've created new opportunities for study abroad in Italy without a visa (for most students) this fall.
If you are enrolled in a full-length program in Milan and are having difficulty obtaining a visa, you are welcome to switch to our Milan (No Visa) program if you are eligible. Please inform us if you would like to switch programs by July 15th.
Helping you make your study abroad dreams a reality? It's just what we do.
Commute to your internship in Rome via the Metropolitana (railway), bus, tram, or by foot for a picturesque stroll. For lunch, stop into a tavola calda to enjoy a fresh, hot meal and coffee, followed by a scoop of gelato on your walk back to work.
Our program guarantees an unpaid, for-credit, semester-length internship placement of at least 25 hours per week in the field of your choice. Develop your professional skills, gain real world work experience, and learn to communicate across cultures.
Individual Internship Advising
We help you to fine-tune your résumé and perfect your cover letter.
Personalized Placements
We help you find a match aligning with your goals.
Italian Language Course
Enroll in an optional 3-credit language class.
Travel Throughout Italy
Join IES Abroad field trips to locations around Italy.
Spring 2026
Program Dates:
January 26 - May 07
Application Deadline:
Estimated Cost:
$
9,724
Internship Program Advisor
Olivia Manternach
Once you’ve applied for an internship, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From field placements to housing and everything in between, I’m here to help you preparefor your internship. Once you’re accepted to your internship, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!
Live and intern in Rome—the capital and largest city in Italy. Built on 2,500+ years of history, Rome is home to almost 3 million residents. In addition to the world-famous art, architecture, food, and fashion, you’ll find a bustling finance, start-up, and technology scene.
While your priority may be gaining professional experience, we also know how important it is to build community where you can reflect and learn about the work world with other students. That's why--during your semester--we offer placements in a wide range of disciplines, and a supplemental required 3-credit seminar.
Before you go, we work with you to fine-tune your résumé, perfect your cover letter, and hone your communication and interview skills as we prepare you for working in a new cultural environment. You’ll be guaranteed a placement at a local business or organization that fits your professional interests.
To supplement the real-life work experience you'll receive during your internship, you will also participate in a required 3-credit internship seminar. You should work with your current college or university to learn about how this credit will transfer back to your school.
While working in Rome, you’ll also enroll in a required 3-credit internship seminar with other IES interns where you’ll gain context for your internship placement by examining cultural issues in the workplace.
Topics covered include understanding workplace culture, improving communication, strengthening work attitude and aptitude, resolving conflicts, and navigating issues, challenges, and opportunities so you can succeed on the job in Rome and when you return home.
NOTE: This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.
2.5 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
At least sophomore standing prior to application; rising junior status at time of program departure. (Students who have completed one year of undergraduate study may apply and will be considered on a case-by-base basis.)
Non-U.S. citizens must refer to their local consulate to learn about visa requirements and determine eligibility; IES Internships cannot advise on visa regulations for non-U.S. citizens.
Non-U.S. citizens attending school outside the U.S.: Native English fluency or IELTS score of 6.0 or above, taken within the last two years.
Visit the IELTS website to find a test location near you. IES Abroad reserves the right, in its sole discretion, not to accept students who it believes do not have the necessary English language competency to succeed in an Internship Program, irrespective of the applicant's score on a language proficiency exam.
Students may be enrolled in a full-time degree program, or a graduate intending to begin their internship no more than 5 years after their graduation date (solid academic credentials related to studies or experience in desired field of placement required); graduate students enrolled in a full-time degree program may apply and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Application Requirements
Submit Your Online Application
Applications may be considered after the published deadline on a space available basis. Please note that late applicants may be required to submit a non-refundable confirmation deposit upon acceptance in order to secure a place in the program. Please contact us with questions about applying after the deadline.
Submit the following in your MyIESabroad account after your Online Application is processed:
Home School Authorization — Your on-campus study abroad or academic advisor can either complete the Home School Authorization electronically through IES Abroad’s PartnerPortal system, or by filling out the PDF form. Consult your advisor to determine how they would prefer to complete your Home School Authorization. If you will not be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, or will graduate prior to the IES Summer Internship start date, this form is not required.
Academic Credit Acknowledgement Form — This form allows you to select whether you plan to enroll in the internship program for credit. Consult with your advisor on campus to understand your school's requirements for earning credit for your internship.
Placement Interest Form — This form will ask you about your goals and objectives for the internship placement, as well as information about how to best contact you throughout the placement process. Our internship staff will use this as a starting point for matching you with a host employer.
Transcript(s) — Include a transcript for each college/university you have attended since high school. If you have multiple transcripts, IES Abroad will average the GPAs for all colleges/universities you have attended and use that cumulative GPA when reviewing your application. (Students attending higher education institutions outside of the U.S. must obtain a professional course-by-course transcript equivalency report. You may choose any organization that provides professional international transcript equivalencies.)
Curriculum Vitae (Résumé) — This should detail relevant work or volunteer experience. IES Internships will provide assistance, suggestions and advice for your CV if it is submitted by the deadline. Your application is not considered complete until a correctly formatted CV is submitted.
Cover Letter (optional) — This letter should not be addressed to IES Internships. Instead, it should be targeted toward prospective internship hosts in the field in which you would like to work. Your letter will allow potential host organizations to better understand your interest, skills, and background experience.
Professional Letter of Reference (optional) — Submit a letter of reference from a previous employer or supervisor.
(If Applicable) English Language Proficiency Exam — Students attending higher education institutions outside of the U.S. may need to submit English language proficiency exam results. Contact your IES Abroad Representative for more information.
If your cumulative GPA is below 2.5, include the following in your MyIESabroad account:
Professor Recommendation — The recommendation must include a professor's opinion of the applicant's academic ability to pursue university-level coursework in a foreign country and any information that would help IES Abroad gain a better understanding of the applicant.
Personal Academic Essay — Although there is no length requirement, this essay must address your GPA, any particular academic challenges faced, reasons you chose this IES Abroad program, and how it fits into your academic career.
Passport applications and renewals are taking longer than normal these days. Save yourself from the last-minute stress by making sure:
1. You have a passport
2. The expiration date is at least six months after your study abroad program ends
Visit travel.state.gov to locate U.S. passport agencies in your area.
Visa Requirements
U.S. citizens are not required to have a visa to study on IES Abroad programs in Italy that are less than 90 days in duration. U.S. citizens are permitted to be in the Schengen area as a tourist (without a visa) for up to 90 consecutive or non-consecutive days within a 180 day period.
We have developed this shortened program specifically to accommodate students who are unable to obtain an Italian visa for the Fall 2025 term. Please note that we have not finalized program dates for the Spring 2026 term, and it is possible that Spring 2026 programs would be longer than 90 days and require students to apply for a visa.
If you will enter Italy on a non-U.S. passport, you may be required to obtain a visa prior to your arrival in Italy, even if you are participating in the shortened, Fall 2025 program. You can check to see if you will be required to obtain a visa prior to your arrival in Italy based on your nationality by filling out this quiz on the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Website. We also recommend non-U.S. Citizen applicantscontact your IES Abroad Advisorto further discuss their potential visa requirements.
About the IES Abroad Center
IES Abroad Rome
The Center is your study abroad hub, where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.
The IES Abroad Rome Center is situated in the heart of Rome along the Tiber River, across from the Castel Sant' Angelo. The Center is a newly renovated 1920s-era building within walking distance of the Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and the Vatican.
IES Abroad Rome Staff
Gianni Ponti
IES Abroad Rome Center Director (Currently on Leave for a Special Assignment)
Assistant Director, Administration, & Human Resources
Francesca Angeli
Academic Manager
Antonella Maglione
Italian Language Program Coordinator
Elena Dalla Massara
Internship Coordinator
Valentina Castellani
Health and Safety Advisor
Michela Carnevali
Student Affairs Assistant
Elisa Bellitto
Administration Assistant
Naike Valeriano
Customized Programs Manager and Co-Curricular Activities Coordinator
Giulia Lazzarelli
Academic & Customized Programs Assistant
Caterina Gulfo
Customized Program Assistant
Edoardo Lucarini
IT Manager
Brando Maxwell
Front Desk Coordinator
Housing
Apartment
Apartment
Share an apartment with other IES Abroad students and have the option of living with an Italian Student Companion (ISC), a local Italian student who provides opportunities to engage in cultural activities. Apartments are furnished, single-sex, and generally accommodate four to seven students, with two to three IES Abroad students sharing a bedroom. Internet access is available in every apartment. Meals are not included, but apartments offer equipped kitchens.
Field Trips
Even though your adventure starts in Rome, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).
NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability.
Pompeii & The Amalfi Coast
2 Days
Fall, Spring & Summer
From a guided tour of Pompeii to stunning views of the Amalfi coast, this trip provides fascinating insights into the lives of the ancient Romans and the beauty of modern day Italy.
Tuscany
2 Days
Fall, Spring & Summer
Tour the countryside of one of Italy’s most unique regions, with its gorgeous landscapes and rich artistic legacy. You will also visit the sites of the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance.
Umbria
2 Days
Fall & Spring
The trip in the region of Umbria, called “the heart of Italy”, starts with a relaxed rafting tour down the amazing waters of the river Nera valley (equipment and gear included). The group will have lunch in the area and then move to a tiny medieval village...
Internship Cost
Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.
Fees for Special Options Associated with Tuition & Housing in Addition to Housing Cost Listed Above (invoiced by IES Abroad)
Housing (& Meals, if applicable)
Option 2 Apartment (no meals provided)
$640
Option 2 Residence Hall (no meals provided)
$640
Option 3 Apartment (no meals provided)
$1,275
Option 3 Residence Hall (no meals provided)
$1,275
School of Record transcript (if required)
$475
Total Additional Fees
+
Additional Estimated Expenses for Student Budgeting Purposes (select those that apply)
European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) - Paid at time of application
$8
Round-Trip Airfare (varies with point of departure and carrier)
$700-1,100
Textbooks, Copyright Permission Fees, Course Packets & Other Course-Related Materials
$250
Average Cost of Meals by Housing Option (not included in housing fee)
Option 1 Apartment (with kitchen access)
$2,500
Option 1 Homestay (with kitchen access)
$1,100
Option 1 Residence Hall (with kitchen access)
$2,500
Option 2 Apartment (with kitchen access)
$2,500
Option 2 Residence Hall (with kitchen access)
$2,500
Option 3 Apartment (with kitchen access)
$2,500
Option 3 Residence Hall (with kitchen access)
$2,500
Rental or Purchase of Required Cell Phone (does not include usage fees)
$30-150
Local Transportation
$140
Optional IES Abroad Field Trips (not included in program fee)
$250-750
Personal Expenses (does not include personal student travel)
$1,800
Total Other Estimated Expenses
=
Total Estimated Budget
The amounts expressed above are in U.S. dollars. Estimated expenses are based on November 2024 exchange rates. These expenses may vary due to individual needs, spending habits, and exchange rates, and are not included in the IES Abroad program fee. Personal expenses may include but are not limited to the following: meals/beverages (outside selected housing/meals option), social activities and entertainment, toiletries, laundry, and communications facilities (e.g. Internet café, phone centers.) Some items such as textbooks may be billed separately by IES Abroad.
Visa / Consular / Residency Fees
Depending on visa requirements related to certain program locations, length of term, and consular jurisdictions, students may also incur costs for expedited processing, predeparture travel to the consulate or for IES Abroad ACCeSS™ ($150) to obtain their visa.
These estimated fees apply to U.S. citizens. Non-U.S. citizens may have different requirements and costs.
Cell Phone Usage
Cell phone usage fees are additional and on a per call basis, depending upon location.
With 75 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs
CISI International Health Insurance
In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.
24/7 Emergency Support
Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.
Mandatory Cell Phone Policy
Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.
Location-Specific Information
Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.
TripTracker System
Allowing you to share independent travel plans.
Crisis Drills
So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.
Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.
IES Internships guarantees you a placement in your field of choice, as indicated on your internship application. If we are unable to offer you an internship placement in the expressed field of choice at least two weeks before the program start date, despite your participation in the process and satisfaction of all program requirements, then you have the option to receive a refund of the full amount that you paid IES Internships or the chance to transfer to an IES Abroad program of comparable length and value in the same location (subject to satisfying applicable visa requirements and IES Internships’ academic program requirements).
The IES International Internship Waiver will include:
More clear expectations around students’ required “active participation” and responsiveness during the pre-departure and placement process (rather than our previously stated “good faith participation”)
IES’ ability to rescind a student’s admission (no later than 2 weeks prior to the start of a program to avoid uncoverable costs) due to their inactivity/unresponsiveness that jeopardizes the student’s ability to secure a timely internship placement or required visa
And the student’s liability for any other associated costs/losses in the event that a student’s admission is rescinded (e.g. visa fees, airfare, home school fees, etc.
The program fee covers: your tuition, housing, and health insurance, in addition to access to an incomparable amount of predeparture support and resources, direct on-site guidance and assistance while you’re abroad, and networking opportunities and reunions with other alumni once they return from abroad. You can find a breakdown of costs by clicking on the program page they are interested in, clicking on the “cost” tab at the top of the page, and then clicking on the total price.
Full-Time Summer Internship Program students can apply for our IES Abroad Scholarships at any point before the deadline – even if you haven’t yet been admitted into one of our programs! Our scholarship opportunities are competitive, so it’s in your best interest to apply for our scholarships as early as possible. If you’d like to use your existing scholarships/aid towards your program fees, this will depend on your school’s policies and how you’re billed for the program. Talk to your school’s study abroad and financial aid office to learn their policies. Please note, Full-Time Fall and Spring Semester Internship students are not eligible for IES financial aid.
Yes, all of our internship placements are unpaid. In many countries, it is illegal to pay interns without obtaining the proper visa/work authorization. All of our internship students will be enrolled in an internship seminar while abroad, which you can earn credit for based on your home universities polices. We at IES believe our internships help give students the opportunity to build their resumes, earn a higher salary, gain cross cultural skills and intercultural confidence, secure a job faster, get into their grad school of choice, and become a global leader.
We have numerous types of internships in a variety of fields and disciplines. For a list of placement examples, check out our internships by field page. Please keep in mind that while these are past placements, they are not necessarily available every year. Our team works to find students customized internships based on interests, qualifications, and the needs of the internship hosts.
For a step-by-step description of how our internship process works, visit the full-time semester internships page. As soon as you are accepted and confirm your spot on the program, you can begin your placement process! Our internship coordinators will then work with you to secure an internship at least two weeks before the start of your program.
IES Internships guarantees you a placement in your field of choice, as indicated on your internship application. If we are unable to offer you an internship placement in the expressed field of choice at least two weeks before the program start date, despite your participation in the process and satisfaction of all program requirements, then you have the option to receive a refund of the full amount that you paid IES Internships or the chance to transfer to an IES Abroad program of comparable length and value in the same location (subject to satisfying applicable visa requirements and IES Internships’ academic program requirements).
The IES International Internship Waiver will include:
More clear expectations around students’ required “active participation” and responsiveness during the pre-departure and placement process (rather than our previously stated “good faith participation”)
IES’ ability to rescind a student’s admission (no later than 2 weeks prior to the start of a program to avoid uncoverable costs) due to their inactivity/unresponsiveness that jeopardizes the student’s ability to secure a timely internship placement or required visa
And the student’s liability for any other associated costs/losses in the event that a student’s admission is rescinded (e.g. visa fees, airfare, home school fees, etc.
Yes, all of our internship placements are unpaid. In many countries, it is illegal to pay interns without obtaining the proper visa/work authorization. All of our internship students will be enrolled in an internship seminar while abroad, which you can earn credit for based on your home universities polices. We at IES believe our internships help give students the opportunity to build their resumes, earn a higher salary, gain cross cultural skills and intercultural confidence, secure a job faster, get into their grad school of choice, and become a global leader.
The program fee covers: your tuition, housing, and health insurance, in addition to access to an incomparable amount of predeparture support and resources, direct on-site guidance and assistance while you’re abroad, and networking opportunities and reunions with other alumni once they return from abroad. You can find a breakdown of costs by clicking on the program page they are interested in, clicking on the “cost” tab at the top of the page, and then clicking on the total price.
We have numerous types of internships in a variety of fields and disciplines. For a list of placement examples, check out our internships by field page. Please keep in mind that while these are past placements, they are not necessarily available every year. Our team works to find students customized internships based on interests, qualifications, and the needs of the internship hosts.
Full-Time Summer Internship Program students can apply for our IES Abroad Scholarships at any point before the deadline – even if you haven’t yet been admitted into one of our programs! Our scholarship opportunities are competitive, so it’s in your best interest to apply for our scholarships as early as possible. If you’d like to use your existing scholarships/aid towards your program fees, this will depend on your school’s policies and how you’re billed for the program. Talk to your school’s study abroad and financial aid office to learn their policies. Please note, Full-Time Fall and Spring Semester Internship students are not eligible for IES financial aid.
For a step-by-step description of how our internship process works, visit the full-time semester internships page. As soon as you are accepted and confirm your spot on the program, you can begin your placement process! Our internship coordinators will then work with you to secure an internship at least two weeks before the start of your program.
No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.
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