FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

1. When can I start my Language Course?
   
   Beginners are kindly requested to start their courses only on the indicated dates. Those who already studied the language may start on any Monday. One to one courses start generally every monday or, on request, even in other week-days.


2. What time should I be at the school on the first day of my course?
   
   The first day of school students need to be present at 8:45am in order to chek in. Beginners with no prior knowledge of Italian start class promptly at 9:00am. Students with prior knowledge of Italian take a placement test, both written and oral, in order to evaluate their knowledge level of Italian so they may be placed in the appropriate class.


3. Why must I take a test on the first day of school?
   
   All new students have to make a small test. This allow us to know the exact level most suited to the students needs based on the test results.
   
   
4. What should I bring to class?
   
   Only writing utensils and a notebook. The school provides the textbooks for reference and written language exercises .
   
   
5. Do I receive a student ID card?
   
   Yes, every student, on request, can receive a student ID card if he/she gives the secretary office a passport sized photo. With the card CLIDA students can obtain discounts in shops with which the school has an agreement and often also in other shops. If you ask for it we can provide you a complete list of the shops. The card is included in the enrollment fee.


6. Why do I have to pay an enrollment fee?
   
   Students are required to pay an enrollment fee of 50 Euros for courses 2 and 3 weeks long and 100 Euros for courses lasting more that 4 weeks. The enrollment fee covers the expense of didactic materials used in the courses, administrative fees, assistance at school, the internet connection and the use of computers at school, an insurance that covers all damages or personal injuries that occurs in school premises, all tests and language exams and the certificate at the end of the course.
   


7. When must I pay for my course?
   
   All courses have to be paid in total before the course/courses begin. This means that before arriving to Florence you should have already paid the course/courses.
   


8. When must I pay for my accommodation?
   
   Upon receiving our confirmation you should pay 200 Euros as a down payment for the accommodation. You can settle the rest when you arrive at school, the first day of the course.


9. Can I change my accommodation if I’m not happy with it?
   
   Yes, but sometimes it is a bit difficult. We will anyway do our best to help you.
   


10. What is a double room?
    
    If you choose a double room, it means that you will share it with another student of the school.
    


11. Do I need to bring linen and towels with me?
    
    Bed linen are supplied with accommodation. We suggest you to bring you own towels if you choose to live in an apartment.
    


12. Are utilities (electricity, water and gas) included in the accommodation price?
    
    Generally no, but you will be specifically informed when you receive the confirmation letter.
    


13. Is a laundry service included in the accommodation price?
    
    Only for linen and towels. If you are living with an Italian family, you can use the residence’s washing machine at a cost of € 5,00 per load. If the apartment where you are staying does not have a washing machine, there are several Laundromats in Florence with automatic washing machines and dryers where you can do your laundry.
    


14. Will my electrical appliances work in Italy?
    
    The electrical current in Italy operates on a 220 Volt (50 Hz) system. If your country operates on a different voltage (or uses different shaped power sockets) it is advisable to bring a power adapter with you for your appliances (mobile phone charger, laptop computer, hairdryer etc). You can usually purchase adapters at electrical appliance or hardware stores.
    


15. How do the telephones work in Italy?
    
    Public telephones in Italy require a phone card that can be purchased in any Tabaccherie or Bar. If you bring you mobile phone, you have to know that calls in roaming are quite expensive. We advice you to just buy a sim card to use while you will be in Italy. If you don't have a mobile phone you can also rent it even before arriving in Florence. Find more information on www.platform3000.com
    


16. Is it possible for me to get in touch with past students of CLIDA?
    
    Yes. Just ask the secretary the email addresses of our students.
    


17. When are the public holidays in Italy?
    
    1st January (New Year’s Day), 6th January (The Epiphany), the Monday immediately following Easter Sunday, 25th April (The Liberation of Italy), 1st May (Work Festival), 2nd of June (Republic Day), 15th August (Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary), 1st November (All Saints’ Day), 8th December (Festival of the Immaculate Conception), 25th December (Christmas Day), 26th December (Day of Saint Stefano).
    


18. If a public holiday falls during my language course, will the lost day be made up later?
    
    No. These days are considered National public holidays and therefore CLIDA will not recoup or reimburse them.