These are the official sources for finding free courses in Italy and the audience each one is intended for.
Each platform serves a different audience
A common mistake is searching any website with the word free course. Public courses are spread across regions, ministries and universities, and each source has its own rules about who can participate and what type of certificate is issued.
See below where to look and who each option is for.
Where to find the courses
Start with your region's portal and use the other sources according to your profile.
It's the main source of free professional courses. Look on your region's website for the training or employment section, where you'll find calls for applications, accredited organizations and registration dates.
For the unemployed, Centro per l'Impiego directs you to GOL program courses and other projects. The SIISL platform, from the Ministry of Labor, brings together job offers and training opportunities and is used by those receiving Supporto per la formazione e il lavoro support.
Syllabus, from the Department of Public Administration, offers free courses in digital skills, management and ecological transition. It's intended for those working in public administration, with access through the agency where the person works.
Provincial Centers for Adult Education, linked to the Ministry of Education and Merit, offer free courses in Italian language and completion of studies, with official certificates.
Platforms like Federica Web Learning, from the University of Naples Federico II, offer open and free online courses. The rules for obtaining a certificate vary from course to course.
How to know if the certificate has value
- Regional courses from accredited organizations issue qualification certificates valid throughout the country.
- CPIA courses issue official education system certificates.
- Open online courses issue participation certificates, useful in your CV, but which do not equate to a professional qualification.
- If in doubt, ask the training organization what type of certificate will be issued before you start.
1. Syllabus
Free training portal of the Italian Department of Public Administration.
Intended for civil servants, with access via SPID or CIE.
Go to the official website2. SIISL
Ministry of Labor platform with job offers and training courses.
Useful for those who are unemployed or receiving training support.
Go to the official website3. Ministero dell'Istruzione e del Merito
Website of the Ministry of Education, responsible for CPIA.
Provides information on adult education and Italian courses.
Go to the official website4. Federica Web Learning
Open online course platform from the University of Naples Federico II.
Offers free courses in various areas, in Italian and English.
Go to the official websiteFrequently asked questions
Can anyone use Syllabus?
No. Syllabus is intended for civil servants. Those who don't work in the public sector should look for courses from your region or from Centro per l'Impiego.
Is there a single website with all free courses?
No. Professional training is organized by regions, so you need to consult your region's portal, as well as national platforms.
Are university online courses free?
Many open courses are free to watch. The conditions for the completion certificate are described on each course's page.
Where can I take a free Italian course?
At the CPIA in your province. They offer free Italian courses for foreigners at different levels.