Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy

Next Offered: Every Fall and Spring Semester

Application Deadlines: Fall: March 14; Spring: September 15

While students are able to apply for future semesters abroad, Dominican will make a decision on whether travel is possible, after the application deadline and before any payments are made.

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Dominican University has a long tradition of study abroad in Florence and this affiliation with AIFS (American Institute for Foreign Study) continues that tradition with high quality instruction in Italian and in English and with full immersion in the rich and vibrant culture of Italy—past and present. Situated in central Italy, the city of Florence is the heart of the Italian Renaissance and connects to contemporary cultural trends in art, fashion, cuisine, politics, and business. Positioned just two hours from other major cities like Venice and Rome, students will enjoy the ease of travel both in country and outside of Italy. 

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Academic Program
  • AIFS in Florence is directed through Richmond, The American International University in London. Richmond University in Florence is located in Palazzo Michelozzi, a beautiful 16th century palace situated just one block south of the city center. The building houses all administrative offices, classrooms, studios, library, and tech center. 
  • There are two study program options: the traditional semester requires Italian 102 or equivalent and consists of one course in language study (placement ahead of program) and three or four courses in English or Italian.
  • The internship semester requires Italian 202 or equivalent and consists of one course of language study (placement ahead of program), a “resume enhancing” internship plus one or two courses in Italian or English. All internships are mentored by a coordinator and an advisor. 
  • There are opportunities for volunteer and community-based learning.
  • Ideal for students who are complementing their language study with fashion, art, art history, communications, graphic design, international business, business administration, marketing.
  • There are two options for living arrangements: students may choose to share an apartment with other AIFS students or students may choose to live with a host family.
  • Scholarships are available for Italian majors and minors.
  • Semester programs includes a one-week orientation in Pietrasanta (fall) or Rome (spring). Students in the fall also have a two-day trip to Rome, and all students have a two-day trip to Venice, and a day trip to Siena. Extra-curricular options include cooking classes, wine tastings, discounted tickets to soccer matches and cultural events.
  • Optional flight package includes roundtrip airfare, a two-night stay in London with tours, accommodations, breakfasts, and a group transfer to Italy. 
Application

Students must first complete the online application above. All applications are reviewed by Italian faculty and Study Abroad. Once approved to apply, students then complete another application with AIFS. We recommend that all applicants complete their applications early. This is especially important for those who would like assistance obtaining their visas or need special accommodations.

Cost and Financial Aid
Estimated Costs
  • Semester programs cost the same as Dominican University tuition and fees, plus a $1000 Study Abroad fee and a minimum $3,100 housing fee for a homestay or apartment.
  • Florence charges include 16 credits and international medical insurance. Meal plan available for an additional fee. Flights and accommodations during spring break are not included. Students can purchase their own flights ($500–$2600) or select a flight package with AIFS.
  • Non-refundable application fee $95 is paid directly to AIFS
  • Upon acceptance, students will pay a $750 non-refundable deposit to Dominican University
  • Personal expenses: $200 to $300/month (estimated)
  • Accommodations during spring break not included
  • Vacation travel outside group excursions additional
Scholarships and Financial Aid
  • 100% of your state aid, federal aid, and Dominican scholarships and grants are applicable to a semester abroad, however, the Resident Student Grant does not apply to a semester abroad. Students who received 3rd party external scholarships should consult financial aid on whether or not they apply to a semester abroad.
  • Additional loans or the Parent Plus Loan are available to students through the Office of Financial Aid.
  • All students should apply to scholarships they are eligible for. If the combined value of Dominican aid and external scholarships exceed the cost of attendance, DU aid will be adjusted.
  • All students should apply to Dominican University's Excellence in Experiential Learning Awards (ExcEL) to earn up to $2000 off the cost of the program
  • Pell Grant recipients should apply for the Gilman Scholarship 
  • Children of active duty military personnel should apply for the Gilman McCain Scholarship
  • All students should apply for Fund for Education Abroad Scholarships
  • AIFS scholarships for qualified students
Requirements and Eligibility
  • Open only to currently enrolled Dominican University students
  • 2.75 Dominican University GPA
  • Successful completion of Italian 102 or equivalent for the regular semester program
  • Successful completion of Italian 202 or equivalent for the internship program
  • Junior/senior standing; exceptions for second semester sophomores but must be approved by advisors and the Italian discipline
  • Students must attend at least one information session and one orientation session
  • Upon acceptance, students will need to apply for a visa
Excursions, Housing and Transportation
Immersion and Excursions
  • Students can purchase their own flight through any airline or travel provider, or purchase the flight package through AIFS, which includes two nights in London, accommodations, breakfasts and tours.
  • During the program, all students participate in
    • One week orientation in Pietrasanta (fall) or Rome (spring)
    • Three days in Rome (fall)
    • Two days in Venice
    • Day trip to Siena
    • Several day trips and cultural activities (wine tasting, cooking class, visit to a Tuscan farm, museums, sporting events, dinners)
    • Volunteer and service learning opportunities
Housing
  • Home stays with selected Italian host families or in a shared apartment. Minimum fee of $3,100.
  • Single or double room (depending on availability).
  • Optional meal plan can be included for an additional fee.
  • Vacation periods not included; housing may be available, but most students travel during these times.
Transportation
  • Students can purchase their own flight through any airline or travel provider, or purchase the flight package through AIFS, which includes two nights in London, accommodations, breakfasts, tours, and a transfer flight to Italy.

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