Rome, Italy

Language & Area Studies

Study Abroad
Program Options:
Experiential Learning, Part-Time Internship
Length:
Fall, Spring, Academic Year
a photo of the Pantheon in Rome at night
two male students pose for a fun photo in front of the Roman Colosseum in Italy
A vintage yellow car passes by on a busy street in front of the Vatican.
Two students stand next to eachother laughing on a sunny rooftop in Rome.

At a Glance

Program Dates:

  • Spring 2025: January 27 - May 08
  • Fall 2025: August 25 - November 21
  • Spring 2026: Late January - Early May

Credits:

15 to 19 per Semester

Estimated Cost:

$20,740

Visa Required:

Yes

Housing:

Apartment, Homestay

Language of Instruction:

English, Italian

Language Prerequisites:

None

Part-Time Internship (Optional):

Included in Program Fee

About the Program

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.

Check out our Study in Milan (No Visa) program or any one of our Rome and Siena programs which have all been adjusted in length, credits, and courses for Fall 2025—all while preserving the quality we're known for.

Helping you make your study abroad dreams a reality? It's just what we do.

Can you imagine living amidst places like the Vatican, the Pantheon, the Forum, or the Colosseum—and visiting them as a part of your coursework? Believe it, Rome will be your classroom. Our courses are experiential in nature, and we organize more than 150 course-related trips each semester to historic, artistic, and cultural sites. Now this is study abroad!

Craft your own academic experience as you select four courses from across our program offerings in Rome—from Art History and Film to Education and Business. An Italian language course will round out your course load in Rome, and give you the skills to navigate this captivating city with ease.

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Craft Your Own Academic Experience

Choose courses across our programs in Rome, covering many disciplines.

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Study at an Italian University

Take English or Italian taught courses at prestigious local universities.

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Gain Hands-On Experience

Add international work experience to your résumé with an internship.

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Connect with Local Students

Live with an Italian Student Companion (ISC) or attend cultural activities.

Spring 2026

Program Dates:

Late January - Early May

Application Deadline:

Program Advisor

Riley Villhauer headshot

Riley Villhauer

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

Why Rome?

It is impossible to avoid the past in Rome. It eagerly waits for you around every corner, hoping to intrigue you with a worn-down step, surprise you with an unexpected fountain, or inspire you with ancient architecture. Come study Rome’s unmatched historic and artistic past while simultaneously learning about its modern role in international politics and business.

Learn More About Rome

Get to Know Your New City

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Discover the Ins and Outs of World-Famous Landmarks

Our programs take you inside the cultural significance of Roman landmarks.

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Watch a Roma Game

Soak in the passion and pride at an A.S. Roma game.

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Take in a Panoramic View of the City

Take your pick of Rome's hills, and climb to the top for the best views.

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Take a Cooking Class

Learn the techniques and traditions of Roman cooking first-hand.

The Student Experience

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Program Dates

Spring 2025

Program Dates:

January 27 - May 08

Application Deadline:

Fall 2025

Program Dates:

August 25 - November 21

Application Deadline:

Spring 2026

Program Dates:

Late January - Early May

Application Deadline:

Academics

A student at the Rome Center works on their assignment with the window open. Outside the window are terracotta-colored buildings.
Daeun K. • Hope College

Our mission is to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. We offer many unique courses that explore Italian language, history, culture, and more—all taught by our world-class professors. Italian-taught course options at our partner universities enhance your academic experience and provide you with new perspectives each day in class. Build your own academic experience by taking an elective course from one of our other programs in Rome.

Partner Institutions

a man standing in the doorway of Rome University of Fine Arts (RUFA)
  • ACM
  • RUFA
  • Roma Tre

Accademia di Costume e Moda

The Accademia di Costume e Moda (ACM) is one of the most famous Fashion Academies in Rome. It is located in the very heart of Rome, close to the IES Abroad Center. The academy was founded in Rome in 1964 with the sponsorship of the city of Rome.  

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Courses

In the Fall 2025 semester, students will take 12-15 credits. Please note that students in the Spring 2026 term and beyond may have adjusted program components. 
Language courses are taught in Italian, and all other courses are taught in English, unless otherwise noted. Academic programming is scheduled five days a week. Create your own academic experience by selecting from the following program components.  

  • IES Abroad Italian language course at your proficiency level (required, 4 or 8 credits)
  • English- or Italian-taught IES Abroad area studies courses (optional, 3 credits each)
  • English- or Italian-taught IES Abroad elective courses (optional, 3 credits each)
  • English- or Italian-taught courses at a local university (optional, 3 credits each)
  • Community-based learning/social action placement and seminar (optional, 3 credits)
  • Internship placement and seminar (optional, 3 credits)  

To learn more about IES Abroad’s innovative theoretical and pedagogical approaches to teaching language abroad, refer to the IES Abroad MAP for Language & Intercultural Communication.  

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.

Helpful Links

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Transcripts, Credit Transfer & Accreditation
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Refund Policy
See All Student Policies

IES Abroad Courses

Disciplines (29)

Anthropology (1)

Course name Term Language Credits
SO/AN 350 - Organized Crime in Italy: Mafias, Murders, and Business Fall, Spring English 3

Fall 2025 Partner Institutions

Please note:  Due to current visa restrictions, only Accademia di Costume e Moda will be available as a partner university offering in the Fall 2025 semester. 

Partner Institution Courses

Accademia di Costume e Moda

The Accademia di Costume e Moda is only offered during the Fall semester. Students may select one English-taught course on Fashion Styling and Communication.

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Rome University of Fine Arts

IES Abroad students studying the fine arts with at least one semester of college-level Italian language can enroll in one course at Rome University of Fine Arts (RUFA). Students can choose from courses in Painting & Drawing, Printmaking, and Sculpture.

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Università degli Studi Roma Tre

Roma Tre offers advanced Italian-taught courses to students who are proficient in Italian. There is also the possibility of taking English-taught courses in the Political Science department. Students may select Italian-taught courses in Humanities, Religious Studies, and Social Sciences, and English-taught courses in Political Science.

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Requirements

  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Application Requirements
  • Passport & Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

  • 18 years of age 
  • In good standing at your home school 
  • 2.75 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.75 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)

About the IES Abroad Center

Students sit at cafe tables on a rooftop terrace. In the background are several building rooftops and a blue sky.
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 headshot

Gianni Ponti

IES Abroad Rome Center Director (Currently on Leave for a Special Assignment)

Headshot of Simona Di Giustino.

Simona Di Giustino

Acting Director, Academic Affairs & Internships Manager

Headshot of Arianna Gaffi.

Arianna Gaffi

Assistant Director, Student Affairs & Housing Coordinator

Headshot of Luisa Taffara.

Luisa Taffara

Assistant Director, Administration, & Human Resources

Headshot of Francesca Angeli.

Francesca Angeli

Academic Manager

Rome Staff - Antonella Maglione

Antonella Maglione

Italian Language Program Coordinator

Elena Dalla Massara Rome

Elena Dalla Massara

Internship Coordinator

Valentina Castelanni Rome

Valentina Castellani

Health and Safety Advisor

Valentina Pulpito Rome

Valentina Pulpito

Student Success Coordinator

Michela Carnevali Rome

Michela Carnevali

Student Affairs Assistant

Headshot of Dr. Sabine Berking.

Elisa Bellitto

Administration Assistant

Headshot of Naike Valeriano.

Naike Valeriano

Customized Programs Manager and Co-Curricular Activities Coordinator

Giulia Lazzarelli

Giulia Lazzarelli

Academic & Customized Programs Assistant

Rome Staff - Caterina Gulfo

Caterina Gulfo

Customized Program Assistant

Beatrice Bradley

Beatrice Bradley

Student Success Coordinator

Edoardo Lucarnini Rome

Edoardo Lucarini

IT Manager

Brando Maxwell

Brando Maxwell

Front Desk Coordinator

Housing

  • Apartment
  • Homestay
  • Residence Hall

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. 

Buildings sit crowded on a hill on the Amalfi coast, with a large rocky outcropping standing tall in the background.

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.

A lush garden sits off the Tuscan coast on a sunny day.

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...

Part-Time Internships

Did you know that, while in Rome, you can intern as part of your study abroad experience? With a part-time internship, you’ll gain global work experience that will increase your job readiness and give you an advantage after graduation. With an internship, you will: 

  • Take an important step in your career development by navigating the professional world with our support. 
  • Learn more about yourself both personally and professionally and build confidence in the process. 
  • Experience what working in Rome is really like and gain an authentic understanding of the workplace culture while developing real, applicable job skills that will bolster your career readiness. 
  • Begin building an international network by making connections with coworkers and peers. 

All of our internships are supervised and earn IES Abroad credit. You participate in a 3-credit seminar to complement the practical experience you gain during the internship for a greater understanding of work life in your host country. 

Placement Examples

tourists visiting an art museum in Rome

Arts, Art History & Humanities

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Business

student teaching on a summer internship program

Education

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International Relations & Politics

Two students sit outside at a table on their college campus working from a laptop.

Marketing

a studio audience behind a camera in Milan

Media & Journalism

Experiential Learning

Student holds a Libera flag
Bianca R. • Hope College

Community-Based Learning

Participating in a community-based learning experience in Rome is an opportunity to give back to the community while gaining a much deeper understanding of the city’s culture and society. These cause-driven placements have you working alongside local people toward a common goal, in which you experience firsthand some of the social issues that affect Rome. 

A community-based learning experience consists of time spent with a local organization, accompanied by an academic, for-credit seminar. Through the seminar, you have structured time for reflection and discussion as you explore human development, social business, and the need for closer contact between economics and ethics.  

Placement examples include development and Microfinance, education, environment and food policies, human rights, immigration, public health, social inclusion.

Program 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.

Spring 2025

Tuition
$
16,331
Housing
$
4,600
Insurance
$
245
Total
$
21,176
View All Fees

Fall 2025

Tuition
$
16,365
Housing
$
4,075
Insurance
$
300
Total
$
20,740
View All Fees

Academic Year 2025

Tuition
$
32,730
Housing
$
8,700
Insurance
$
600
Total
$
42,030
View All Fees

Spring 2026

Tuition
-
Housing
-
Insurance
-
Total
Pending
View All Fees

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

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Orientation

Start at Home
Prepare for arrival in Italy with our virtual orientation program where you will meet the IES Abroad Center staff, fellow students, and get to know the city.
Arrive in Rome
Orientation continues upon arrival. Participate in mandatory orientation sessions with additional academic and student life information to enhance your success abroad.
Get to Know the City
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to explore and discover Rome before classes start to help you feel at home in your new environment.
Prepare to Learn
Feel prepared to begin classes with practical lessons, activities designed to help you learn your way around the area, and support from our dedicated student staff.
On-Site Staff Support
Our experienced, trained, and dedicated local staff are on-site throughout your entire program to ensure you have the support you need during your abroad adventure.

Health & Safety

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

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Helpful Links

Blogs on Mental Health
Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
Blogs on Safety
Learn More About Health & Safety
PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

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.

Learn More
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Frequently Asked Questions

Identity Resources

Learn More About Identity & Access
Country-Specific
Social Identity
IDEA Bloggers
IES Abroad Diversity Statement
Intercultural Competency Media List
Navigating Identity & Diversity Abroad
Learn More About Identity & Access
Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

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.

Contact an Ambassador
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How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

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