Requires significant language competence. Apart from the pre-session, there are no required courses. During the year students attend regular university classes of their choice taught in Italian. Most students take Advanced Conversation and Composition while there. After spending a week together in a university dorm, students are assigned to program apartments that each house 2-4 students.
Effort is made to have one Italian roommate per apartment.
Apartments are located around the city, some within walking distance, others up to a 30 minute tram ride away. Each year, a limited number of homestays may be available. A faculty member from one of the sponsoring institutions serves as Resident Director for the year. There is also a locally hired Assistant Director who handles the day to day administration of the program. Program office is located in the heart of the university district, and both the Resident Director and Assistant Director hold regular office hours.