Many international students dream of learning Italian while living in Italy. Studying the language in the country where it is spoken every day is one of the most effective ways to combine structured learning with real-life practice and direct contact with Italian culture.
If you are planning to study Italian in Italy, understanding the likely costs is an important first step. Your budget will depend on the city, course intensity, length of stay, accommodation and personal habits.
This guide explains the main expenses involved, with a practical example based on studying Italian in Milan: course fees, accommodation, food, transport, personal expenses and costs connected with a long-term stay.
Looking for a complete guide to studying Italian in Italy?
Discover how to choose a city and course, what full immersion involves and how to organise your learning experience.
1. How Much Does an Italian Language Course Cost?
Italian course fees vary according to the city, number of lessons per week, class size and programme duration. A standard or part-time course normally costs less than an intensive programme, while long-term courses may have lower weekly rates.
At Il Centro, the Intensive Italian Language Course in Milan includes 20 hours of 60-minute lessons per week, Monday to Friday.
| Course duration | Lessons | Current course fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 20 lessons | €300 |
| 2 weeks | 40 lessons | €470 |
| 4 weeks | 80 lessons | €800 |
| 12 weeks | 240 lessons | €2,020 |
| 24 weeks | 480 lessons | €3,500 |
| 48 weeks | 960 lessons | €5,300 |
The course fee includes the registration fee, learning materials, level test, attendance certificate and assistance with finding accommodation. Textbooks are included for enrolments of three weeks or more. Students applying for a study visa also receive support with the required school documentation.
Prices were checked in August 2026 and may change. Always consult the course page for the latest fees and conditions.
👉 Explore Italian courses in Milan →
2. Accommodation Costs in Milan
Accommodation is usually the largest part of a student’s monthly budget. Prices vary considerably according to location, room type, length of stay, included utilities and time of year.
Students generally choose among:
- A single room in a shared apartment: a popular option for combining independence with a lower cost than a private studio.
- A studio apartment: more private, but significantly more expensive.
- A host family: useful for students who want additional contact with Italian in daily life.
- A student residence, hostel or hotel: availability and rates depend on the period and duration.
For students enrolled at Il Centro, the accommodation options currently suggested by the school start from:
- €800 per month for a single room with shared bathroom and kitchen;
- €1,500 per month for a studio apartment.
👉 Discover our accommodation support in Milan →
3. Food, Transport and Personal Expenses
After tuition and accommodation, students should budget for groceries, local transport, mobile service, personal expenses and leisure activities.
Food
A reasonable grocery budget for one person is approximately €200–€350 per month, depending on shopping habits and how often you cook. Meals in cafés and restaurants should be added separately.
Public transport
In Milan, the ordinary urban monthly public-transport pass costs €39 and is valid from the first to the last day of the calendar month. Reduced fares may be available depending on age, residence and eligibility. Check the official ATM conditions before purchasing.
Personal and leisure expenses
A practical starting estimate is €150–€300 per month for cafés, occasional meals out, museum visits, mobile service and other personal expenses. Weekend travel, frequent restaurant meals and shopping will increase the budget.
4. Example: Four-Week Student Budget in Milan
The following example is based on an intensive course and a single room in a shared apartment:
| Expense | Estimated cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Four-week intensive course | €800 | 80 lessons of 60 minutes |
| Single room | From €800 | Shared bathroom and kitchen |
| Groceries | €200–€350 | Depends on habits |
| Urban transport pass | €39 | Ordinary monthly pass |
| Personal and leisure expenses | €150–€300 | Excluding major trips and shopping |
| Estimated four-week total | €1,989–€2,289+ | Excluding travel, insurance and visa-related costs |
A student choosing a private studio should expect the total to start approximately €700 higher. Deposits and utilities may also affect the amount required at the beginning of the stay.
5. Additional Costs to Include in Your Plan
Depending on your nationality and length of stay, you may also need to consider:
- travel to and from Italy;
- health or travel insurance;
- visa application costs;
- residence-permit costs after arrival;
- accommodation deposits and booking charges;
- mobile service and internet;
- optional cultural activities and weekend travel.
Keeping a contingency fund is advisable, particularly for a long-term stay.
6. Do You Need a Student Visa?
Non-EU students planning to study in Italy for more than 90 days will generally need to apply for a student visa for Italy before travelling. Requirements and decisions are determined by the competent Italian embassy or consulate and may vary according to nationality and individual circumstances.
Applicants are commonly asked to provide proof of enrolment, accommodation, health insurance and sufficient financial resources. Students staying for more than 90 days must normally apply for a permesso di soggiorno after arriving in Italy.
Il Centro provides enrolled students with the official school documentation required for the application and support connected with the course. The school cannot guarantee that a visa will be issued.
👉 Read our student visa and residence permit guide →
7. Why Study Italian in Milan?
Italy offers many attractive destinations for language students, including Florence, Rome, Siena and Bologna. Milan is particularly suitable for students who want to combine Italian culture with an international, well-connected and dynamic environment.
- Extensive public transport and easy connections with other Italian cities
- Universities, international companies and professional opportunities
- Museums, design, fashion, architecture and cultural events
- Neighbourhoods where students can practise Italian in everyday situations
Il Centro is located in Brera, within walking distance of the Duomo and surrounded by cafés, galleries, shops and historic streets. This allows students to continue using Italian after their lessons.
👉 Read our complete guide to learning Italian in Milan →
8. Is Studying Italian in Italy Worth the Cost?
For students who want more than occasional lessons, studying in Italy can offer significant value. Classroom learning provides structure and correction, while daily life supplies repeated opportunities to listen, speak and build confidence.
The experience can also provide cultural knowledge, international friendships and a better understanding of contemporary Italian life. However, the best programme is not necessarily the most expensive one: it is the course that matches your level, available time, learning objective and budget.
9. Plan Your Italian Course in Milan
Il Centro offers Italian language courses in Milan for all levels, including intensive, standard, evening and individual programmes. Long-term courses and documentation support are also available for eligible students applying for a study visa.
Before enrolling, compare the complete cost of the experience—not only the tuition fee—and leave room in your budget for accommodation deposits, insurance and personal expenses.
👉 Contact Il Centro to plan your course →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to study Italian in Italy?
The total depends on the city, course and accommodation. In Milan, a four-week intensive course plus a single room, groceries, public transport and basic personal expenses can cost approximately €2,000–€2,300 or more, excluding travel, insurance and visa-related costs.
How much does a four-week Italian course in Milan cost?
At Il Centro, the four-week intensive programme currently costs €800 and includes 80 lessons of 60 minutes, registration, learning materials and accommodation support. Always check the course page for current prices.
How much does student accommodation cost in Milan?
Accommodation suggested through Il Centro currently starts from €800 per month for a single room with shared facilities and from €1,500 for a studio. Final prices depend on availability, location and included services.
Is Milan expensive for language students?
Milan is generally more expensive than many smaller Italian cities, particularly for accommodation. Careful planning, a shared apartment and the use of public transport can make the experience more manageable.
What should be included in a study-abroad budget?
Include tuition, accommodation, utilities, food, transport, personal expenses, travel, insurance, deposits and any visa or residence-permit costs that apply to your situation.
Can Il Centro help students find accommodation?
Yes. Il Centro provides free accommodation assistance to students enrolled in its Italian courses, subject to availability and the conditions of the accommodation provider.