Italian Language Tests for Masters Study

Studying a Masters in Italy usually requires proof of Italian language proficiency, particularly for programmes taught in Italian. The two main internationally-recognised language tests are the CILS and CELI, both aligned with the CEFR framework. Most universities require a minimum B2 (CILS Due or CELI Due), and exams are available at approved centres worldwide. Alternatives may apply if you're taking a course in English, in which case an English test may be needed.

Language requirements will vary largely between universities and courses. Most international students will need to prove their proficiency in Italian if wanting to study in Italy. However, some Italian universities offer courses in English, in which case you may need to take an English proficiency test instead.

There are two main Italian language tests, both internationally-recognised, which demonstrate your competencies in the language: Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera (CILS) and Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana (CELI). CILS is administered by the Università per Stranieri di Siena (The Foreigners’ university of Siena) and is accredited by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while CELI is administered by the Università per Stranieri di Perugia (The Foreigners’ university of Perugia) and is accredited by both the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Education and Research.

For both tests and similarly to the French DELF/DALF and Spanish DELE, there is no score; your level of proficiency is reflected by the highest level of diploma you hold.

Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera (CILS)

CILS is divided into four levels:

• Beginner (CILS Uno ; equivalent to CEFLR B1).
• Elementary (CILS Due ; equivalent to CEFLR B2).
• Intermediate (CILS Trè ; equivalent to CEFLR C1).
• Advanced (CILS Quattro ; equivalent to CEFLR C2).

The CILS exams evaluates and consists of five parts:

• Listening test.
• Reading comprehension.
• Use of the Italian language or metalanguage (According to Wikipedia: the language used to make statements about statements in another language).
• Written test.
• Speaking test.

Most universities will require a passed B2 exam to study a Masters in Italian. Each section of the exam is weighted equally and all must be passed to successfully recieve the qualification. Registration must take place at least 45 days before the exam.

Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana (CELI)

CELI is an alternative exam which consists of five language proficiency tests designed to evaluate Italian proficiency in non-native speakers.
CELI has three levels:

• CELI Uno .
• CELI Due .
• CELI Trè .

Except for CELI Uno , which is a simple pass or fail, different grades are given (A, B, C are pass grades). The test consists of four sections: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. For Masters study, universities will typically ask for a passed CELI Trè

Examinations

Both CILS and CELI exams are regulated by their parent institutions (Siena and Perugia, respectively). Examination centres, certified by the two institutions, can be found all over the world.

CILS exams are normally hosted in June and December and CELI exams are available throughout the year depending on which country you sit the exam. As a general rule, the higher the level you take, the longer the exam (up to five and a half hours for CILS Quattro ).

You will have to pay a registration fee which varies from centre to centre. It can also take time to recieve your certificate so make sure to register for the exam with plenty of time to spare.

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