Italian Language Certificates: CILS, CELI, and PLIDA

You’ll need an official Italian language certificate in Italy more often than you think: for naturalization, for a permanent residence permit, for college, or for a job. This guide explains the four recognized certificates, the proficiency levels, and which one you need for what purpose.

When You Need a Certificate

A recognized language certificate is necessary or helpful in several situations:

• Naturalization: For the Naturalization Since December 2018, you must have at least Level B1.
• Permanent Residence: To obtain the EU long-term residence permit, a A2-Proof required.
• Study: For Italian-language degree programs, it is usually B2 required – more at Studying in Italy.
• Profession: For many regulated professions, proof of language proficiency is required.

The proficiency levels (A1 through C2)

All certificates are based on the Common European Framework of Reference (GER, Italian CEFR): from A1/A2 (Basic knowledge of) B1/B2 (independent language use) to C1/C2 (proficiency in the language). A B1 level is sufficient for naturalization; a B2 level is usually required for university studies.

The Four Recognized Certificates

In Italy, four certificates are officially recognized (including for naturalization). They are all equivalent—choose based on the test center nearest you and the available dates:

• CILS – University for Foreigners of Siena (University for Foreigners of Siena).
• CELI – University for Foreigners of Perugia (University for Foreigners of Perugia).
• PLIDA – Dante Alighieri Society (Dante Alighieri Society).
• cert.it – Roma Tre University.

All four are part of the Italian certification system and are offered worldwide at accredited centers (often language schools or Dante Alighieri committees).

Which one do you need?

For the Naturalization Each of the four certificates is valid at the B1 level. For the Residence Permit A2 is sufficient (often through a free test offered by the region or prefecture). For the Study Check your university's requirements (usually B2, sometimes via CILS/CELI in specific university-specific versions). In short: Choose the certificate based on its purpose (level) and availability—not on the „brand.“.

Exam and Procedure

The exams typically consist of Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking and a grammar section. You'll find them at fixed Exam Sessions takes place once a year; you must register in advance with the testing center and pay a fee. Once you pass, you will receive a certificate that is valid indefinitely. To find out how to prepare, see Learn Italian.

What You Need to Do Next

Set your target level (B1 for naturalization, A2 for a residence permit, B2 for studying), find an accredited test center near you, and register for the next testing session. Prepare specifically for the four parts of the exam—ideally with a prep course.