CILS and AIL: the importance of certifying the Italian language

Knowing more languages is definitely an advantage and having a language certification is one of the best tools to officially certify one's linguistic competence.

Certifying knowledge of the Italian language is important, as well as for personal reasons, especially in the workplace: to seize important job opportunities, in Italy as well as abroad, it is important to be in possession of a certification that certifies one's ability to speak the language fluently.

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci is an authorized seat of CILS and AIL exams.

The CILS Certification is a qualification, issued by UniStraSI (University for Foreigners of Siena) which certifies the level of knowledge of Italian as a foreign language.

The AIL Certification is a qualification issued by the Accademia Italiana di Lingua which certifies knowledge of the Italian language as a foreign language. The peculiarity of the AIL is to privilege the aspects of practical communication in everyday life and in commercial life.

In our schools in Milan, Florence and Rome it is possible:

  • attend group courses and individual lessons (both on-site and online) aimed at preparing for the CILS and AIL exams
  • take exams

What is a certification for?
These certificates, as well as for personal satisfaction, are useful for study reasons, because they allow access to Italian schools or universities, or for work reasons, because they certify the linguistic competence required in professional fields.

When is it possible to take the exams?
The CILS exams are held regularly according to an annual calendar.
AIL exams take place all year round

When and how is it possible to register for exams?
Simply contact the office of the school where you want to take the exam at least one month before the exam date.

How much does a CILS certification cost?
A1 or A2: 40€ + 30€ for the administrative fee
B1: 90€ + 30€ for the administrative fee
B1 citizenship: 100€ + 30€ for the administrative fee
B2: 105€ + 30€ for the administrative fee
C1: 135€ + 30€ for the administrative fee
C2: 160€ + 30€ for the administrative fee

How much does an AIL certification cost?
A1 and A2: 85
B1 and B2: 105
C1 and C2: 125€

Is it possible to apply for Italian citizenship?
To apply for Italian citizenship you must have an Italian language certificate of at least level B1 (intermediate). The CILS B1 citizenship exam was created specifically for applying for citizenship.

Is it possible to apply for a residence permit?
To apply for a residence permit, you must have an Italian language certificate of at least level A2 (pre-intermediate). The CILS A2 integration exam was created specifically for applying for a residence permit.

Follow us

Scuola Leonardo da Vinci

Italian Language Schools and Courses in Italy.
Learn Italian in Italy in Florence, Milan, Rome, Turin and Viareggio


Follow us

Latest posts by Scuola Leonardo da Vinci (see all)