Guide to enrolling in free courses in Italy

Follow these steps, from choosing your course to enrolling, to avoid getting stuck at any point in the process.

Before we begin

Registration for public courses is almost always online and done through the portal for the region where you live. Therefore, the first thing to consider is having a digital identity: without a SPID or CIE, most systems won't even allow you to open the form.

It's also important to know that registering doesn't guarantee a place. Many courses have a limited number of students and select students on a first-come, first-served basis, based on resumes, or through interviews.

Step-by-step registration process

The guidelines below apply to most regional courses and the GOL program.

1Define the objective and area of ​​the course

Think about what kind of job you want to have when you finish your studies. Check the job openings in your province to see which professions are in demand and choose an area that matches your level of Italian and your availability.

2Obtain the SPID or activate the CIE

SPID is free at several accredited providers, and the CIE, the electronic identity card, can also be used to access the portals. The application process may take a few days, so do it in advance.

3If you are unemployed, look for the Centro per l'Impiego (Employment Center)

Those who are unemployed must file a declaration of immediate availability for work (DID). This grants access to the GOL program and courses specifically for the unemployed, and the center helps to create a training plan.

4Find the course on your region's portal

Go to the region's website and look for the vocational training section. Filter by area, city, and type of program. Read the entire announcement: requirements, number of vacancies, dates, class hours, and type of certificate.

5Submit the application along with the documents

Fill out the form, attach the documents in legible PDF format, and confirm submission. Keep the receipt or protocol number and check that the registered email address is correct.

6Participate in the selection process and confirm your enrollment

If there is a test or interview, please attend on time. If approved, confirm your enrollment within the given deadline; those who do not confirm will lose their place to the next person on the list.

See how to avoid losing your certificate →

Most requested documents

  • Valid identity document or passport.
  • Codice fiscale.
  • Permesso di soggiorno, for citizens from outside the European Union.
  • Diploma or certificate of education; foreign degrees may require translation or a declaration of value.
  • Curriculum vitae in Europass format, when requested in the job posting.
S

1. SPID

Official website for Italian digital identity, with a list of accredited providers.

It explains how to request the SPID and what documents are required.

Go to the official website
S

2. SIISL

Platform from the Ministry of Labor with job and course offers.

Access is via SPID or CIE.

Go to the official website
M

3. Ministry of Labor

Website of the Italian Ministry of Labor and Social Policies.

It provides official information about the GOL program and the Centri per l'Impiego.

Go to the official website
AND

4. Europass

Free tool from the European Union for creating your CV in Italian.

Generates a PDF ready to attach to the application.

Go to the official website

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the whole process take?

The time between registration and the start of classes can range from two weeks to several months, depending on the selection process and the course schedule.

Can I enroll in a course from another region?

In general, regional courses require residency or domicile in the region. Check this requirement in the course announcement before submitting.

Is SPID mandatory?

Yes, in most public portals, or the CIE (Student Identity Card) in its place. Some entities accept in-person registration, but it is increasingly rare.

Do I receive any payment during the course?

Some courses offer transportation assistance or compensation per hour of attendance, especially for unemployed individuals. This is described in the course announcement.

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See how to avoid losing your certificate → See where to find courses with certification →