×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - How to Enroll Your Children in School in Italy
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Vasto in Italy's Abruzzo Region


How to Enroll Your Children in School in Italy

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Italian For A While
Italian For A While

Summary: If you're a newcomer in Italy and enrolling your children in school in Italy, here's how:

Enrolling your child in a public school in Italy as an expat can be a complex process, especially if you are unfamiliar with the Italian education system and language. It requires careful planning, preparation, and a fair amount of paperwork. You will need to have certain documents ready, such as your child's birth certificate, proof of residence, and health records. It's also important to understand the structure of the Italian education system, the school calendar, and the registration deadlines. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step process to help you navigate through this important task.

  1. Research the Italian Education System: Italy's education system is divided into several stages: kindergarten (scuola dell'infanzia), primary school (scuola primaria), lower secondary school (scuola secondaria di primo grado), and upper secondary school (scuola secondaria di secondo grado). Understanding these stages will help you determine where your child will be placed.
  2. Choose the Right School: Public schools in Italy are generally assigned based on your residential area. However, you can request a different school if you have specific preferences. Research the schools in your area and visit them if possible to make an informed decision.
  3. Prepare the Necessary Documents: You will need your child's birth certificate, proof of residence (such as a utility bill or rental agreement), your passport or ID, and your child's health records. If your child has attended school before, you will also need their school records. All documents not in Italian must be translated and notarized.
  4. Apply for a Tax Code: Every resident in Italy, including children, needs a tax code (codice fiscale). You can apply for this at the local tax office (Agenzia delle Entrate).
  5. Register for School: School registration usually takes place in January for the following school year, which starts in September. You can register online through the 'Iscrizioni online' portal on the Ministry of Education's website. You will need to create an account, fill out the application form, and upload the required documents.
  6. Wait for Confirmation: After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email. The school will then review your application and contact you with their decision. This can take a few weeks, so be patient.
  7. Attend the Orientation: Most schools offer an orientation day for new students and their parents. This is a great opportunity to meet the teachers, see the facilities, and ask any questions you may have.
  8. Buy School Supplies: Once your child has been accepted, you will receive a list of required school supplies. These can usually be purchased at local bookstores or online.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


Italian For A While
Italian For A While

Italian For A While
Italian For A While

Vasto in Italy's Abruzzo Region

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

GeoBlueGeoBlue

Top-quality coverage for people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
Get Quote

Contribute to Italy Network Contribute
Help others in Italy by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Italy.

Italian For A While
Italian For A While

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides