Our story,
Centro Studi Italiani is more than just a school for learning Italian; it’s a place where passion for the Italian language and culture comes to life.
Founded in 1985 by Carlo Amedeo Pasotto, our school has been dedicated to providing an authentic Italian experience for international students from all over the world.
We helped more than 25,000 students not only master the Italian language, but also immerse themselves in the heart of Italy. We offer all levels of Italian language courses, academic programs, Italian culture courses and cultural tours of Italy.
Our goal? Teaching you Italy and not just Italian
At Centro Studi Italiani, our goal goes beyond just teaching Italian language skills.
We believe that language is inseparable from culture, and by immersing our students in the Italian way of life, we provide a learning experience that is both practical and enriching. We will show you many facets of Italy that make it so unique and fascinating.
A long history of passion for teaching
From our early days in Urbania to our expansion into Milan and Genoa, we have always been committed to providing the best possible educational experience for our students, making sure that each student feels supported, challenged, and inspired to succeed.
- 1985–1995: The Spark
- 1995–2005: Wings Unfolded
- 2005–2015: The Challenge and the Reward
- 2015–2025: The New Light
- Looking Ahead: Building the Future Together
Where it all began.
The foundation was laid with passion, vision, and a handful of bold ideas. These were the years of dreaming big, taking the first steps, and finding our voice in a changing world.
1987: First Italian language and culture program launched specifically for opera singers.
1988: Partnership established with the Collegio di Propaganda Fidae in Rome, beginning the tradition of hosting seminarians and priests needing Italian before attending pontifical universities.
1989: First Chinese student enrolled at Centro Studi Italiani.
1995: Moved headquarters to Collegio Boscarini in Urbania, where the school still resides today.
Growth, courage, and the art of becoming.
With roots firmly planted, we spread our wings. This was a decade of rapid expansion, bold partnerships, and a growing reputation that crossed borders and disciplines.
Milestones
2000: Official launch of the Centro Studi Italiani Opera Festival, blending language, music, and performance.
2001: Formal agreements and partnerships established with universities and colleges around the world for semester and study abroad programs.
2005: Hosted the first group of 25 Chinese students, anticipating the creation of the government programs Marco Polo and Turandot—establishing Centro Studi Italiani as a pioneer in welcoming and preparing Chinese and international students for admission to Italian Universities, Fine Arts Academies, and Conservatories.
Resilience, reinvention, and the power of staying true.
Amid global challenges and internal transitions, we discovered our resilience. These years tested us—and made us stronger, wiser, and more purposeful.
Milestones
2007: Strategic rebranding introduced a new visual identity and strengthened international positioning.
2008: Navigated the global economic downturn through program innovation and digital outreach.
2011: Opened a new school location in Milan, expanding presence in northern Italy.
2013: Cross-industry collaboration initiated, integrating Italian language learning with performing arts, visual arts, and international business programs.
2015: Marked a significant expansion of study abroad and partnership programs with foreign universities, strengthening the international academic network.
A new generation, fresh perspectives, timeless values.
Guided by the past and driven by new voices, this decade brought innovation and renewal. A vibrant blend of tradition and transformation led us into a more connected, creative, and meaningful future.
Milestones
2018: Opened a new school location in Genoa, extending Centro Studi Italiani’s reach to the Ligurian coast.
2020: Digital transformation accelerated with the launch of online learning platforms and remote programs.
2022: Community impact doubled through expanded scholarships, outreach initiatives, and cultural engagement.
2025: 40th anniversary celebrated with the publication of “Una famiglia internazionale, una scuola” by Carlo Amedeo Pasotto—an homage to the school’s legacy and global family.
As we celebrate forty years of history, Centro Studi Italiani is more committed than ever to shaping the future. Our mission remains clear and vibrant: to create inspiring opportunities for students from around the world who seek an authentic international experience — one that unites the Italian language, culture, and all the values that have made our country admired and respected across the globe.
We will continue to nurture a learning environment that is personal, inclusive, and deeply human — staying true to our identity as a family-run institution. In the years to come, our priority will be to expand programs that bridge cultures, strengthen international partnerships, and offer new pathways for students, artists, and professionals to engage with Italy in transformative ways.
Innovation will guide us, but tradition will anchor us. With passion, expertise, and care, we will keep opening doors, building connections, and cultivating a global community of lifelong learners who carry the beauty and depth of Italian culture into their own lives and beyond.
Not just teachers, but people
We carefully select our instructors not only for their qualifications and teaching experience but for their passion, empathy, and personal commitment to their students’ success.
We believe that great teaching is about more than just knowledge; it’s about building relationships and fostering a positive attitude. Our teachers are not just teachers: they are also mentors, guides, and cultural ambassadors.
A long story of strong partnerships
Throughout our history, we have built strong partnerships with various educational and cultural institutions.
Our school is accredited by the Marche Region and recognized as a test center for CELI and CILS certifications by the Università per Stranieri of Perugia and Siena, respectively.
