Italy

Today Italy ranks among the eight most industrialised countries in the world. In more recent years, Italy has played an important role in European higher education: it is one of the four countries that first engaged to create the so-called "European Area of Higher Education" thus starting that type of higher education reform which, known as "Bologna Process" (Bologna Declaration, June 1999) which is being implemented all over Europe.

Italian Lifestyle

Italians are warm, welcoming people who love to relax, celebrate and socialise with family and friends. And celebration and relaxation usually take place around the table either at home or in a restaurant, where they can enjoy the traditions of the Italian cuisine.

Italians have a passion for eating but also for talking. In Italy conversation is an art form. As you walk in the streets or stop at a café in one of the many squares, you will notice Italians of all ages engaged in intense and animated discussions on a wide variety of topics ranging from family, work, politics, gossip, food, wine and sports, especially soccer.

From the largest cities to the most rural of villages, there is one place that remains the central meeting point of Italian culture, the piazza (square). No matter how big or small a piazza may be, you can be sure there will always be a people sitting, strolling, walking, talking and interacting with one another. Piazzas are also the main focal points for festivals, gatherings, celebrations and political events

Made In Italy

Italy sets the standards for all things stylish, elegant and of quality in many areas such as fashion and clothing. Dressing is a matter of personal pride and expression of personality for both men and women who pay a great deal of attention to their appearance.

Italian design is more than just fashion and clothing; it is also leather, home design, ceramics, jewellery, gold, silver, lace, glassware, crystal, chocolates, food items, art, sculpture, woodworking and even automobiles, all products where Italy holds great pride in being recognised as one of the best.

In the past twenty years the rest of the world has seen an explosion in the popularity of Italian products and lifestyle. "Made in Italy" are not just words signifying a product's origin, they are a guarantee that proves superior workmanship and style. This holds true not only for the top names in the Italian fashion industry but for many other products as well.

Required Documents for International Students

Once coming to Italy as a as an international graduate student, ensure you have all the required documents with you before leaving.

• A valid identity card or passport with visa, if required
• Money – cash, travellers' cheques, credit card, all of which should be kept safe!
• Health documents
• Letter of acceptance from the university
• Documentary proof yiu have enough money for living, if required

Any other documents required by the Italian university will vary depending on your student status, either as a full time student or an exchange student, and on your citizenship, so remember to check with the International Office before you leave that you have all the documents with you.

Getting Started

More information on studying in Italy: www.study-in-italy.it

Most universities will organise orientation programs to help you get settled in before you start your graduate studies. These programmes will induct you into the university and show you how to use the different services and facilities.

They will probably organise social events as well to allow you to meet other international and local students. Such events are often organised by student associations such as the Erasmus Student Network (ESN).

If you are coming to Italy as an exchange student, cheek the ESN website to find out if there is an active network at the university you will be attending. They will be able to give you useful advice before you arrive.