Why study art in Florence?
Florence, or Firenze, is often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum. The city breathes art; every piazza, chapel, and alleyway echoes with the legacy of the Renaissance.
It’s home to iconic works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, Raphael, and da Vinci. For an art student, Florence offers not just an academic programme, but a direct encounter with the history and craft of visual culture.
Studying here means:
- Seeing masterpieces in their original locations, not in reproduction
- Accessing centuries-old techniques like fresco, tempera, or stone carving
- Living in a city that has consistently shaped global artistic movements
- Engaging with exhibitions, art fairs, and cultural initiatives every week
Start your study journey in Florence with Edvoy.
Key takeaways
- Florence offers one of the world’s most immersive environments for studying art, combining historical depth with modern creativity.
- Courses are available at multiple levels, including short workshops, undergraduate degrees, master’s programs, and semester-abroad options.
- Tuition ranges from EUR 7,000 to EUR 16,000 per year, and monthly living costs are around EUR 800–1,100.
- Art graduates from Florence enjoy global career opportunities in galleries, design studios, museums, and education.
- Post-study work options make Italy a viable long-term destination for creative professionals.
Table of Contents
- Why study art in Florence?
- What can I study in Florence?
- What types of courses are offered?
- Best art schools in Florence for international students
- Entry requirements for international students to study art in florence
- Tuition fees and cost of living in Florence
- Are scholarships available to study art in Florence?
- What are the career opportunities after graduation in arts in Florence?
- Can I stay in Italy after graduating?
- Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What can I study in Florence?
Florence provides a wide selection of creative arts courses tailored to students with different interests, levels of experience, and long-term goals. Whether you’re passionate about studio art, digital media, fashion, or historical research, there is a programme that aligns with your creative aspirations.
Core fields of study include:
- Painting and drawing: Traditional and contemporary approaches
- Sculpture: Stone, clay, mixed media, and installation
- Photography: Analogue and digital, fine art and documentary
- Fashion design and textiles: Pattern-making, draping, fashion illustration
- Graphic and visual communication: Typography, branding, and digital design
- Art history and criticism: Specialised focus on the Italian Renaissance and European movements
- Conservation and restoration: Learn how to preserve paintings, sculptures, and artefacts
- Curatorial studies and cultural management: Museum and gallery-based education
Programmes combine theory with practice, studio critiques, field research, and exhibition participation. You’ll be guided by local and international artists, art historians, and curators, all deeply embedded in Florence’s cultural fabric.
As reported by the Symbola Foundation and Unioncamere in 2023, Italy’s cultural and creative industries generated EUR 95.5 billion and supported over 1.55 million jobs, accounting for 5.7% of the national workforce.
Ready to take the next step in your creative journey? Book your free counselling session now.
What types of courses are offered?
Florence’s institutions offer flexible learning paths that cater to both full-time students and creative professionals. Whether you want a full degree or a short immersion, you can choose from:
| Course type | Duration | Ideal for |
| Short-term workshops | 2 to 8 weeks | Beginners or professionals upskilling |
| Foundation/Diploma | 6 months to 1 year | Students preparing for degree programmes |
| Bachelor’s degrees (BA) | 3 to 4 years | School leavers entering higher education |
| Master’s degrees (MA/MFA) | 1 to 2 years | Graduates seeking advanced |
| Semester abroad/Exchange | 3 to 6 months | Visiting students from partner institutions |
These programmes typically include a mix of lectures, studio hours, group projects, individual mentoring, and public exhibitions. Short-term courses often conclude with a curated student showcase, while degree programmes build toward a final thesis and professional portfolio.
Best art schools in Florence for international students
Florence is home to prestigious institutions that have welcomed international artists, scholars, and curators for decades. These schools offer rigorous, hands-on training with access to Italy’s artistic heritage and professional networks.
- Florence University of the Arts (FUA): Offers studio arts, photography, graphic design, and art history, known for blending classical skills with modern media.
- Accademia Italiana: Located in the heart of Florence, it specialises in fashion design, product design, and visual arts, with industry-focused training.
- Studio Arts College International (SACI): An American-accredited school offering BA, MFA, and study abroad programmes in fine arts, conservation, and design.
- Lorenzo de’ Medici Institute (LdM): Known for its comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate offerings in fine arts, restoration, and arts administration.
- Istituto Europeo di Design (IED): Florence branch of the international IED group, offering courses in visual communication, digital media, and fashion design.
As per Unioncamere and Symbola Foundation (2023), Florence specifically contributes over EUR 3.8 billion to Italy’s creative GDP, with the highest concentration of arts-related jobs per capita in the country.
These schools are known for world-class facilities, small class sizes, industry engagement, and international student support.
Related articles
Entry requirements for international students to study art in florence
Admission criteria vary by institution and programme type, but some general requirements apply:
For undergraduate applicants:
- Completion of secondary education (e.g. Class 12 or A-Levels) with a minimum of 60–65% marks
- A digital or physical portfolio of original artwork (required for studio-based courses)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining your motivation, background, and goals
- One academic reference
- English language proficiency: IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 or equivalent
For postgraduate applicants:
- A recognised bachelor’s degree in art, design, or a related field
- A curated portfolio demonstrating advanced skills and a cohesive creative vision
- Two academic or professional references
- A comprehensive SOP or project proposal
- IELTS score of 6.5 or above for English-taught programmes
Some institutions may conduct interviews or request additional documentation, such as CVs or letters of recommendation.
Need help choosing the right university? Book a free session with Edvoy’s experts.
Tuition fees and cost of living in Florence
Florence is more affordable than many other European art hubs, such as London or Paris, while still offering exceptional academic and cultural experiences.
Tuition fees:
- Bachelor’s degrees: EUR 7,000–13,000 per year
- Master’s degrees: EUR 11,000–16,000 per year
- Short-term courses: EUR 1,200–4,000, depending on duration and content
Living expenses:
Monthly living costs range from EUR 800 to EUR 1,100, which typically includes:
- Rent in a shared apartment or student residence (EUR 400–600/month)
- Food, groceries, and utilities (EUR 150–250/month)
- Local transport and entertainment (EUR 50–100/month)
- Art supplies and materials (EUR 100–200/month)
Florence also has student discounts at museums, libraries, workshops, and transport services, making day-to-day life more manageable.
Are scholarships available to study art in Florence?
Yes. A variety of financial aid options are available to international students, depending on your chosen school and academic profile.
Common types of funding:
- Merit-based scholarships: Awarded based on portfolio quality, academic performance, or interview assessments
- Need-based support: Offered by private schools or third-party organisations for eligible students
- Government support: The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI) offers scholarships for international students pursuing degrees in Italy
- Early-bird or international discounts: Many schools offer tuition reductions for early applicants or non-EU students
Always check individual school websites for application timelines and documentation requirements. At Edvoy, we can also help you apply for relevant scholarships during the admissions process.
What are the career opportunities after graduation in arts in Florence?
Getting a degree or diploma from one of Florence’s top art schools is more than just a qualification; it’s a mark of international prestige. Whether you're aiming to work in fashion, fine arts, or design, studying in Florence can give you the edge you're looking for.
Popular career paths:
- Visual artist or sculptor
- Art historian or cultural critic
- Gallery curator or exhibition coordinator
- Illustrator or concept artist
- Art conservator or restoration expert
- Fashion or product designer
- Art educator or workshop facilitator
- Multimedia designer or creative director
According to the European Commission’s 2023 Creative Economy report, the cultural and creative sectors employ more than 7 million people and generate over EUR 477 billion across Europe.
You will also gain access to opportunities through internships, gallery exhibitions, and professional collaborations during your programme. Many go on to work in Florence, elsewhere in Italy, or global arts hubs.
Can I stay in Italy after graduating?
Yes. Italy offers a post-study work option for international students. After completing your degree, you can apply for a Permesso di Soggiorno per Attesa Occupazione, which allows you to remain in Italy for up to 12 months while seeking employment.
Once employed, graduates can apply for a work permit or EU Blue Card, which opens a path toward long-term residency. If you plan to work as a freelance artist or cultural entrepreneur, other visa routes are available.
Italy’s thriving cultural economy, combined with the mobility benefits of the EU, offers international graduates a wealth of opportunities to build successful creative careers. Recognising this potential, Edvoy partners with leading art and design institutions in Florence and across Italy to help you make the most of these prospects.
Whether you're aiming for a short-term creative course or a full master’s programme, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from shortlisting institutions and refining your portfolio to writing a standout SOP, securing scholarships, and navigating visa and accommodation processes.
Book a free call with Edvoy counsellors now.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is it necessary to know Italian to study in Florence?
No. Many programmes are taught entirely in English. However, learning basic Italian is beneficial for daily life and local engagement.
What kind of portfolio do I need to study in Florence?
Your portfolio should include 8–12 works that demonstrate your technical skills, creativity, and understanding of form and concept. These can include paintings, drawings, digital work, sculpture, or design projects.
Can I work part-time during my studies in Florence?
Yes. International students in Italy are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays.
Will my degree from Florence be recognised internationally?
Absolutely. Degrees from accredited institutions in Florence are globally recognised and meet the standards required for employment or further education worldwide.
