CILS certification overview
Recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Education, the CILS Certification is the first Italian certification to have adopted the system of six levels of linguistic-communicative competence proposed by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages of the Council of Europe.
CILS certificates are divided into 6 different levels of competence, of which the CILS B1 Citizenship level is also referred to as a simplified B1.
The exams consist of a listening test, a reading test, an analysis of communication structures, a written test, and an oral test.
To obtain the CILS certification, the candidate must be proficient in all areas.
🔔 NOTE: CILS certificates do not expire.
CILS A1
The CILS A1 is designed for those who are starting their first steps in the study of the Italian language.
💶 Cost: €40
⏱️ Duration: about 2 hours
🔗 Check your Italian language level: A1 Italian test
CILS A2
The CILS A2 is the necessary certificate for those who wish to obtain a residence permit to live in Italy.
💶 Cost: €40
⏱️ Duration: about 2 hours
🔗 Check your Italian language level: A2 Italian test
CILS Level One
“Level One” corresponds to level B1 of the European Framework and confirms a basic level of competence, among users of Italian, which is necessary for the autonomous use of the language in everyday contexts.
The “Level One” certification allows foreign students to be admitted into the Italian high school system.
💶 Cost: €90
⏱️ Duration: about 2 hours
🔗 Check your Italian language level: B1 Italian test
CILS B1 Citizenship
CILS B1 Citizenship corresponds to level B1 of the European Framework, but presents some slight differences compared to “Level One”.
Law n. 132, established in December 2018, requires the possession of a B1 level certificate to obtain Italian citizenship, for this reason, the University of Foreigners of Siena has developed a simplified B1 exam that does not cover language proficiency levels for both academic and/or work purposes.
💶 Cost: €100
⏱️ Duration: about 2 hours
🔗 Check your Italian language level: B1 Italian test
CILS Level Two
“Level Two” – B2 of the European Framework, is considered an intermediate level, in which students are able to demonstrate their ability to use the basic foundations of the Italian language, in a wide variety of contexts and situations.
“Level Two” is required for university admission at an Italian university in Italy.
💶 Cost: €105
⏱️ Duration: about 4 hours
🔗 Check your Italian language level: B2 Italian test
CILS Level Three
“Level Three” – C1 of the European Framework, demonstrates a high level of competence in the use of the Italian language. It confirms the ability to use Italian effectively in a much wider range of contexts.
This level is highly beneficial in the workplace.
💶 Cost: €135
⏱️ Duration: about 5 hours
🔗 Check your Italian language level: C1 Italian test
CILS Level Four
“Level Four” – C2 of the European Framework, is the most advanced level. This testifies to a use of the Italian language as comparable to that of a native speaker.
This certificate represents an excellent added value to an academic curriculum and can be a very usable qualification in the workplace.
💶 Cost: €160
⏱️ Duration: about 5.5 hours
Timing and Results
within 90 days
40–45 days (B1 C)
5–6 months after the exam
Downloadable immediately
⚠️ The provisional certificate has the value of a self-certification. It can be used for residence permit or citizenship applications, but its acceptance depends on the authority. In some cases, the original paper certificate with a unique QR code is required.
Dates and CILS centers
CILS exams usually take place five times a year, simultaneously all over the world.
You can consult the list of exam dates on the website of the University for Foreigners of Siena.
- In Italy, exams take place at the University of Siena and other affiliated locations, including our school! Complete list here.
- Abroad, exams take place at some affiliated centers and Italian Cultural Institutes. Discover the office closest to you.
⚠️ Attention: In order to take the exam, it is necessary to follow strict deadlines; for example, registration must take place at least 45 days before the exam date.
🔔 Please note: It is not possible to take CILS exams online.
CILS Exam Preparation
To pass a CILS exam, it is not necessary to enroll in a course with specific content or a set method, but it is important to be well prepared as per the competence profiles of the different levels.
We offer specific online group courses for the CILS Exams, available twice a year, starting in early March and early September.
- Online CILS A2 Immigration Preparation (Group Course)
- Online CILS B1 Citizenship Preparation (Group Course)
- Online CILS B2 University Admission (Group Course)
While preparing for a CILS exam, you will also have the opportunity to simulate an exam session using old CILS exam papers.
This will help you get used to the exam, its structure, and the amount of time provided. Furthermore, you can check your predicted score.
FAQ
What is the CILS exam?
The CILS exam is an official Italian language certification issued by the University for Foreigners of Siena. It certifies your Italian language level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, from beginner to advanced levels.Which CILS level do I need?
The right CILS level depends on your goal. For example, CILS A2 is often used for residence permit purposes, CILS B1 for Italian citizenship, and CILS B2 for university or academic purposes. At Europass, we offer preparation courses for different CILS levels and goals, so you can choose the course that best matches your needs.Where can I take the CILS exam?
You can take the CILS exam at authorized exam centers in Italy and abroad, including our school in Florence. At Europass, you can also join dedicated preparation courses to get ready for the exam before taking it at our center.Can I take the CILS exam online?
No, the official CILS exam cannot be taken online. It must be taken in person at an authorized exam center.Do CILS certificates expire?
No, CILS certificates do not expire. Once you obtain your certification, it remains valid.Can I cancel or postpone my CILS exam registration with Europass?
If your registration has not yet been completed with the University for Foreigners of Siena, the general cancellation rules apply and you may request a refund. However, once Europass has registered you for the exam and paid the exam fee to the university on your behalf, the registration cannot be refunded. After registration is completed, you will receive a confirmation email.In some cases, it may be possible to postpone the exam, but only for valid and documented reasons, such as health issues, bereavement, or another proven situation that prevents you from attending the exam. Supporting documents, such as a medical certificate, may be required.
What happens if I pass only some parts of the CILS exam?
For most CILS levels, if you pass only some parts of the exam, you may keep the results of the parts you passed and retake only the parts you did not pass within the time frame allowed by the University for Foreigners of Siena.However, this rule does not apply to the CILS B1 Citizenship exam. If you do not pass one or more parts, you will need to retake the entire exam.
What is the difference between CILS B1 Citizenship and CILS B1 Standard?
CILS B1 Citizenship is specifically designed for Italian citizenship applications. It is valid only for this purpose and cannot be used for academic, professional, or other bureaucratic procedures.CILS B1 Standard is a broader B1-level certification. Unlike CILS B1 Citizenship, it can be used for different purposes, such as study, work, or other situations where a B1 Italian language certificate is required. It is also valid for Italian citizenship applications.