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Program Overview
Program Overview
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Popular Subject Areas
Italian Experience: Renaissance to Riviera
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Location
Florence
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Host University
Florence University of the Arts - The American University of Florence, La Spezia Campus
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Term
February + 2: February 2026
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Program Dates
Jan 22, 2026 - May 09, 2026
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Program Length
Semester / Trimester
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Application Deadline
Oct 01, 2025
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Forms and Payment Deadline
Oct 15, 2025
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Credit
Credits
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Eligibility
2.75 Minimum GPA*
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Cost
$17,650
- Apply Now
Study Abroad Program Description
Immerse yourself in the historic streets of Florence and the stunning Mediterranean coastline of La Spezia through this multi-city program in Italy. Offering courses that follow an American academic model, the program allows you to learn more about Florence and the Mediterranean through community-integrated coursework. Gain insight into the cultural traditions of two different regions of Italy while engaging in the hands-on business and liberal arts curriculum. For those looking to increase their career readiness while abroad, Florence University of the Arts offers numerous experiential learning and internship opportunities.
*Eligibility
MINIMUM GPA
Students must have a minimum grade point average of 2.75.
MINIMUM ADMISSIONS PREREQUISITES
There is no language prerequisite for this program.
You must be at least 18 years old by the program start date.
What's Included
Comprehensive Advising and Support
Comprehensive Advising and Support
A team of helpful ISA staff members is here to support you through the entire study abroad process, from finding the perfect program through re-entry. The Program Advisors will help you choose your program based on your unique objectives. Once you’ve selected your program, you will work with your Program Manager on the application process as well as pre-departure forms and finances. Your Program Manager will also assist with academics, housing, visas, and city-living/cultural guidance.
In addition to individual advising, you will receive virtual resources to help prepare you for your time abroad. This includes the ISA Student Portal, which houses your program application, pre-departure forms/resources, and the online orientation. The online orientation is a pre-cursor to the on-site orientations and offers city-specific resources about living in your host city, communication, packing, diversity abroad, how to be academically successful, and more.
24-Hour Emergency
24-Hour Emergency
The ISA Health, Safety, and Security team facilitates an in-house on-call system with a U.S.-based employee and manager who are on-call and available in case of emergency 24-7. ISA regular office hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:00am - 7:00pm and Friday, 7:00am - 5:00pm Central Time.
If you are a parent or student needing assistance in an emergency situation outside of the regular office hours, please call the ISA office at 512-480-8522 to access the ISA emergency contact information for that particular week. Students who experience an emergency while abroad will also have access to on-site staff 24-hour emergency assistance.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Security Support
Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) for ISA students is jointly managed by our resident staff and HSS team. This team works to monitor risk at program locations, respond to any crises that may arise, and develop policies to further ensure the health, safety, and security of students abroad with ISA.
Airport Reception*
Airport Reception*
Ground transportation is provided from the airport as long as you arrive during the ISA designated arrival date and time and at the appropriate airport. Upon acceptance into your program, you will receive the “How to Book Your Flight” form which outlines the specific details for airport reception.
*Airport reception is not provided for most Intensive Month or J-Term programs, as well as programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Visa Support
Visa Support
Your ISA Program Manager will be available to help you with the visa process for your program country, if applicable. They will provide resources, guidance on necessary steps to obtain your visa, and deliver supporting visa application materials to you as needed.
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition at the Host University
Tuition and administrative fees at the host university are included in the program price. Classes are held at the host university and are taught by local and/or visiting faculty. Some classes will have additional fees that are not included in the program price.
Housing
Housing
Housing is guaranteed and included in the price of all ISA programs, with the exception of Pacific programs, in which housing is offered at an additional cost. Accommodation options will vary according to program site and session. For more details about ISA's housing options and applicable security deposits, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Meals and Laundry Service*
Meals and Laundry Service*
*The possibility for included meals and/or laundry services vary per location and housing option. Meals and laundry services are provided with most homestays to a degree. For more details, please refer to the housing tab for your program of interest.
Bridging Cultures Orientation
Bridging Cultures Orientation
The Bridging Cultures Orientation will be delivered to you in the first few days of your time abroad. It is designed to prepare you for a successful, positive, and rewarding experience that will influence the rest of your life. This is accomplished through introducing you to your host city’s culture and infrastructure as well as through goal setting, intercultural awareness, diversity and professional development activities.
Full-Time Resident Staff
Full-Time Resident Staff
The full-time resident staff is available to assist you with all aspects of your experience abroad. The resident staff provides support during official course registration and arranges the Bridging Cultures Program orientation, excursions, weekly meetings, cultural activities, and much more. Staff members are trained to ensure the well-being of each program participant and are dedicated to facilitating a positive and meaningful study abroad experience.
On-Site ISA Offices
On-Site ISA Offices
Most program locations have an on-site ISA office within the program city. The on-site offices provide you with an additional comfortable space in the city and serve as a common meeting place and resource center.
Internet Access
Internet Access
As an ISA student, you will enjoy free internet access at ISA on-site offices, computer labs at the host university, and/or your ISA housing.
ISA Discovery Model
ISA Discovery Model
ISA programs facilitate learning and development through co-curricular activities. We rely on host universities to provide quality instruction in the classroom, but ISA is the main facilitator of learning outside of the classroom. Efforts to promote student learning are shaped by a teaching and learning framework we call the ISA Discovery Model.
According to this model, student learning and development is organized into five areas of discovery: 1. Intercultural, 2. Historical, 3. Sociopolitical, 4. Professional and 5. Environmental
Throughout the duration of your ISA program, we provide you with the opportunity to pursue these five areas of discovery through the Bridging Cultures Orientation, excursions, cultural activities, and references to non-ISA sponsored events and opportunities.
Excursions*
Excursions*
Organized excursions are included with each program to complement the academic component of your abroad experience. These complementary experiences are designed to engage student learning outside of the classroom in the five areas of the Discovery Model. Transportation and guided tours are included, as well as hotel accommodations and breakfast during multi-day excursions. Additional optional excursions may be offered during each program that are not included in the program cost.
*Excursions are not included for Intensive Month, J-Term, some summer sessions, as well as some programs that combine 2 intensive months, such as Quarter programs.
Cultural Activities
Cultural Activities
The ISA program staff develops unique cultural activities custom-designed to invite you to experience the local color of your host city, while learning about the history and culture of your new surroundings. Speaking the native language with locals, tasting the regional cuisine, and partaking in the native traditions are only a few of the ways these cultural activities lead to full appreciation of the program city.
Insurance
Insurance
A Blanket Accident and Sickness Policy is included in the program and covers you during the official on-site period of the program. This is not an optional benefit; every ISA participant will be covered by this policy. A full description of coverage can be found on the ISA website.
We recommend that you maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad. This is particularly important if you have any pre-existing conditions but is also beneficial if you have an injury or illness while abroad and require further treatment upon your return home. Please be sure to consult with your current insurance provider to confirm coverage policies while traveling abroad.
Official Transcript from the Host University
Official Transcript from the Host University
Upon completion of the ISA program, your host university will issue an official transcript with all coursework taken abroad. ISA's Academic Records Department will process and forward the official transcript to the appropriate office at your home university, and a photocopy will be sent to your permanent home address for your records. ISA will provide a cover letter to accompany the transcript with important academic information, including the host university's grading system and recommended U.S. letter grade equivalencies, translated course titles, and credit conversion recommendations.
Professional Development Toolbox
Professional Development Toolbox
The Professional Development Toolbox, available in the online orientation section of the student portal, will help you identify the skills and key competencies you have developed through your personal, academic, and cultural experiences. This toolbox helps you to articulate the transferable skills developed through study abroad in a way that shows potential employers or post-graduate universities the benefits our you will provide them as a direct result of your experience abroad.
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Opportunities
As an ISA participant, you will have the opportunity to apply for scholarships or grants that can be applied directly to assist with your study abroad program. ISA offers over $1,000,000 in scholarships and grants each year. To see what opportunities are available, please visit the Support & Funding page.
Academics
Support & Funding
ISA is here to support you when it comes to navigating your questions about traveling abroad, providing resources and information for your accessibility needs, and identifying funding for your program abroad.
SUPPORT TEAM
Our U.S. staff is available to support you though every stage of your study abroad journey. Please reach out with any questions about ISA programs or life on-site to your country-specific Program Manager.
Our on-site staff are there for you as soon as you arrive in country and will support you throughout your time abroad.
U.S. Team
Victoria Grist
Senior Program Manager, Italy
Victoria was born and raised in Amarillo, TX and graduated with her B.A. in Psychology from WTAMU. Although she had never lived more than 20 minutes from her hometown, Victoria took a leap of faith and studied abroad for 4 months in Reggio Emilia, Italy, which sparked a passion for travel and cultural exchange. Upon graduation, Victoria moved to Germany for two and a half years to work as an au pair and study German. After moving back to Texas, she attended Texas State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and a minor in German. Tori made several life-long friendships and had so many once in a lifetime experiences throughout her adventures abroad, and she’s excited to help others do the same here at ISA. In her free time, Victoria can be found hiking, paddleboarding, camping, or floating the river with her dogs.
Adyline Saucier
Program Manager, Italy
Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Adyline received her Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Global Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. Adyline started her travel journey in high school through educational learning experiences in Costa Rica and Thailand. Through these impactful travel excursions, she fell in love with the idea of learning abroad. Her degree and love for travel led her to participate in a semester abroad in Pamplona, Spain where she studied Spanish and EU Policy. During this time, she participated in life changing opportunities and met lifelong friends. In her free time, Adyline loves reading, hiking, and participating in all things Texas Longhorns related. Adyline is excited to help students prepare for their experiences abroad through ISA!
Jessie Llerena
Region & Account Manager, Europe
Born and raised in New Jersey, Jessie graduated from Rutgers University with a B.A in Psychology. Her love for traveling started at a young age from visiting family back home in Ecuador. She is passionate about helping people and delivering high quality care. In her free time, she likes to spend time with family and friends, play with her dog, Cash, work out, and travel (of course!). Jessie finds that studying abroad is important to learn about different cultures, as it creates lasting relationships and memories. She is excited to be a part of the ISA team and to support students through their studies overseas
FLORENCE TEAM
Alessia Foianesi
Resident Director, Italy
Alessia Foianesi
Resident Director
Born and raised in Florence, Alessia studied Cultural Events Management at the University of Florence with a major in History of Cinema. She interned for a cultural association in a short film festival production in Tuscany. After graduating, she moved to the United States to work as an Au Pair in New Jersey. She joined the ISA team shortly after her American experience. She plays beach volleyball in her spare time and she likes cooking for her friends. She believes that the best way to learn while traveling is by meeting locals, that is why she values the role of the ISA on site staff so much! She is looking forward to meeting ISA students and share with them her love for Florence and the Italian Culture!
Ola (Aleksandra) Smolen
Senior Academic Coordinator, Italy
Ola (Aleksandra) Smolen
Senior Academic Coordinator
Ola (Aleksandra), native to Poland, discovered the joys of working with students during her time as a Human Rights trainer for Amnesty International. She moved to Florence in 2007 to study for a year at the Università degli Studi di Firenze through the European Student Exchange program Erasmus. She was curious to experience daily life in a foreign culture and to explore the beauty of Florence. She was so enchanted by her experience that she decided to stay in Italy after she had completed her Master's degree in Sociology.
She likes to spend her free time immersed in marvelous realism literature. She also loves to be active – after work you can meet her running or biking around Florence!
Perla Signori
Italy Custom Program Director, Italy
Perla Signori
Italy Custom Program Director
Born and raised in Florence, Perla has an academic and personal background in cultural exchange. She received her degree from the Università di Firenze in Foreign Languages and Literatures. Following graduation, Perla relocated to London for one year to work and study. While there, she completed Cambridge’s Certificate. Her experience living abroad was both challenging and rewarding and served to confirm her belief that cultural immerse provides a truly unique learning experience. She worked at Kent State University in Florence before joining ISA in August 2007. She has covered different positions and worked in several areas of the Florence Office, this helped her to gain the competency across all the ISA departments during the years. Perla enjoys rollerblading, playing with her poodle dog and eating good Tuscan food!
Sabrina Landini
Senior Cultural Activities Coordinator & Custom Programs, Italy
Sabrina Landini
Senior Cultural Activities Coordinator & Custom Programs
Sabrina Landini graduated from the University of Florence in Tourism Economics after which she has been working in a campsite near Florence and in a Travel Agency, where she discovered her passion for travelling. After a two-year experience in an account office, Sabrina moved to Bournemouth, Southern coast of England, to follow the desire to improve her English and learn about different cultures. During these two years abroad she earned a qualification in Airfares and Ticketing and the Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English. Studying and working abroad has been for her an unforgettable experience so that she recommends everyone to do it, at least once in their life, not only for improving language skills, but it is also the best way for meeting people and exchange cultural experiences. Sabrina joined ISA program in Florence in February 2009 and is looking forward to meet students coming to one of the most beautiful city in the world!
Sara Ruffino
Cultural Activities Coordinator, Italy
Sara Ruffino
Cultural Activities Coordinator
Sara was born and raised in a lively little town on the hills overlooking Florence. She developed her passion for the Fine Arts from a young age, thanks to her uncle, a modest painter who used to take her to his exhibitions and introduced her to Italy's most beautiful archaeological sites. After a long career in the fashion industry, she decided to turn her life-long passion into a profession. That’s how she embarked on a new journey by becoming a certified Professional Tour Leader and earning a degree in Foreign Languages, with a specialization in Cultural Anthropology. This path has enabled her to explore many different countries, immersing herself in diverse cultures along the way. Almost by chance, she stumbled upon the realm of study abroad and realized that her purpose is using her expertise and enthusiasm to introduce students from all over the world to her beloved homeland, helping them get the most from their time abroad.
Lorenzo Pozzolini
Housing Coordinator, Italy
Lorenzo Pozzolini
Housing Coordinator
Born in Fiesole and raised in a small suburb, Lorenzo has studied and worked in downtown Florence for most of his life. He graduated from the University of Florence in Languages and Literatures, and during his study cycle, he also had the chance to study and live in the UK, specifically Wales. There, he learned how crucial an abroad experience can be in order to build character, while also experiencing life from a different social and cultural perspective. He has traveled to many countries including the US and, in addition to English, he also speaks Spanish and a bit of German. In his free time, he likes to exercise, go for a ride on his motorcycle, or play the piano.
Resources
Access & Accommodations
With our wide portfolio of program types and locations, we’re confident there is a suitable, accessible program for each student.
Securing accommodations abroad can take time, so we ask that those with requests inform ISA early in the advising process. We recommend reaching out to your Program Manager or our Accessibility Team (accessibilityteam@worldstrides.com) to discuss your accessibility needs or accommodations abroad.
ISA Student Blog
ISA offers students the opportunity to blog about their experiences abroad from their own diverse perspectives. These posts can be found on the ISA Student Blog.
Funding
All students should have the opportunity to study abroad. To help make this a reality, ISA offers a variety of scholarships to help cover your study abroad costs. To learn more about our scholarship opportunities, check out our scholarships & grants page!
If you receive financial aid from your home university, you can likely use those funds for study abroad, as well. Speak with your home university’s financial aid office to learn about your options. Check out steps for using financial aid.
Questions about scholarships and funding? Email us at higheredfinaid@worldstrides.org
Housing
ISA housing offers the opportunity for you to immerse yourself in Florence during your study abroad experience. With Florence being a small city, no matter your housing preference, you’ll be able to walk or take public transportation to your classes! With an open and adaptable mind, the experience of living in another culture can be highly rewarding.
Apartment
Apartments are furnished, centrally located, and within walking distance of the University or public transit routes. While apartments are standardized in terms of basic amenities, they can vary greatly in terms of both aesthetics and proximity to the university. Rent and utilities are included in the program price. Apartments typically house two to eight FUA students, with shared room occupancy. Meals and laundry service are not included. You will pay a $300 refundable security deposit. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the event of damage to property or if utility usage exceeds the allotted monthly amount.
Independent Housing
You may elect to secure housing independently. If you select this option, you will receive a discount equal to the housing portion of the program price.
Excursions
THERE’S MORE TO DISCOVER WITH ISA
ISA excursions allow you to explore the diverse, distinct, and gorgeous landscape of Italy that you may not be able to visit on your own. While abroad, you will have the chance to go 2-3 excursions. The destinations below are a sample of some of the possibilities, which are finalized in the time leading up to the start of your program.
Hilltowns of Central Italy
Spend the day soaking up the classic rolling hills of Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany. While exploring the well-preserved medieval towns and surrounding vineyards that dot the hillsides, you’ll experience the essence of Italy and gain a glimpse into local life and culture. Here the landscape is defined by giant sunflowers and hay bales, and the towns produce some of the world’s best wine. Possible destinations include Vinci, Val'Dorcia, Ninfa, Sermoneta, Arezzo, Lucca, and Montepulciano.
Hilltowns of Central Italy
Spend the day soaking up the classic rolling hills of Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany. While exploring the well-preserved medieval towns and surrounding vineyards that dot the hillsides, you’ll experience the essence of Italy and gain a glimpse into local life and culture. Here the landscape is defined by giant sunflowers and hay bales, and the towns produce some of the world’s best wine. Possible destinations include Vinci, Val'Dorcia, Ninfa, Sermoneta, Arezzo, Lucca, and Montepulciano.
Rome
Get an introduction to Italy via the Eternal City, a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends historical landmarks with modern Italian style. During this trip, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Coliseum, the ruins of the Roman Forum, the Spanish Steps, and finish the excursion by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to this truly enchanting city. Rome can be overwhelming because of its size, but with ISA as a guide, you’ll be set!
Rome
Get an introduction to Italy via the Eternal City, a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends historical landmarks with modern Italian style. During this trip, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Coliseum, the ruins of the Roman Forum, the Spanish Steps, and finish the excursion by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to this truly enchanting city. Rome can be overwhelming because of its size, but with ISA as a guide, you’ll be set!
Siena & Tuscan Towns
Another incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siena has a laid-back lifestyle that allows you to leisurely stroll the winding cobblestone streets, explore the Renaissance cathedral, and relax in the beautiful town square, Piazza del Campo. Each neighborhood (contrada) is represented by an animal or mascot. Ward rivalries are most rampant during the traditional medieval horse race (Palio) held on July 2 and August 16 in Piazza del Campo each year. Then, you’ll tour neighboring Tuscan towns that produce some of the world’s greatest wines, cheeses, and other iconic Italian products. Possible locations include San Gimignano or Monteriggioni.
Siena & Tuscan Towns
Another incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siena has a laid-back lifestyle that allows you to leisurely stroll the winding cobblestone streets, explore the Renaissance cathedral, and relax in the beautiful town square, Piazza del Campo. Each neighborhood (contrada) is represented by an animal or mascot. Ward rivalries are most rampant during the traditional medieval horse race (Palio) held on July 2 and August 16 in Piazza del Campo each year. Then, you’ll tour neighboring Tuscan towns that produce some of the world’s greatest wines, cheeses, and other iconic Italian products. Possible locations include San Gimignano or Monteriggioni.
Cultural Activities in Italy
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Italy. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes the country special.
These activities vary each term, but previous offerings have included walking tours, a pizza making class, and a tour of a gelato factory!
Cultural Activities in Italy
The ISA on-site team encourages you to explore the city and culture of Italy. The team facilitates this by offering a robust calendar of events that showcases what makes the country special.
These activities vary each term, but previous offerings have included walking tours, a pizza making class, and a tour of a gelato factory!