These are the official sources for finding free courses in Italy and the target audience for each.
Each platform caters to a specific audience
A common mistake is searching any website for the term "free course." Public courses are spread across regions, ministries, and universities, and each source has its own rules regarding who can participate and what type of certificate is issued.
See below where to look and who each option is suitable for.
Where to find the courses
Start with the portal for your region and use the other sources according to your needs.
It is the main source of free vocational courses. Look for the training or employment section on the region's website, where you will find announcements, accredited entities, and registration dates.
For the unemployed, the Employment Center (Centro per l'Impiego) recommends courses from the GOL program and other projects. The SIISL platform, from the Ministry of Labor, gathers job and training offers and is used by those receiving the Supporto per la formazione e il lavoro (Employment and Training Support) program.
The Syllabus, from the Department of Public Service, offers free courses in digital skills, management, and ecological transition. It is intended for those working in public administration, with access through the agency where the person works.
The Provincial Centers for Adult Education, linked to the Ministry of Education and Merit, offer free Italian language courses and completion of studies, with official certification.
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 is valid?
- Regional courses offered by accredited entities provide qualification certificates that are valid throughout the country.
- CPIA courses issue official certificates from the education system.
- Open online courses issue certificates of participation, which are useful on a resume, but do not equate to a professional qualification.
- If in doubt, ask the training provider what type of certificate will be issued before you begin.
1. Syllabus
Free training portal from the Italian Civil Service Department.
Intended for public employees, with access via SPID or CIE.
Go to the official website2. SIISL
Platform from the Ministry of Labor with job offers and training courses.
Useful for those who are unemployed or receiving support for training.
Go to the official website3. Ministero dell'Istruzione e del Merito
Website of the Ministry of Education, responsible for the CPIA.
It provides information about adult education and Italian language courses.
Go to the official website4. Federica Web Learning
Platform for open online courses from the University of Naples Federico II.
It offers free courses in various fields, in Italian and English.
Go to the official websiteFrequently Asked Questions
Can anyone use the Syllabus?
No. The Syllabus is intended for civil servants. Those who do not work in the public sector should look for courses in their region or at the Centro per l'Impiego (Employment Center).
Is there a single website with all the free courses?
No. Vocational training is organized by region, so you need to consult the portal for your region, in addition to the national platforms.
Are online university courses free?
Many open courses are free to attend. The conditions for obtaining a certificate of completion are described on each course page.
Where can I find a free Italian course?
Visit the CPIA in your province. They offer free Italian language courses for foreigners at different levels.