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Rome stands out for IES Abroad programs due to its unparalleled blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy, turning the Eternal City into an open-air university. Programs like Language & Area Studies and History & Classics let students craft 16–19 credit semesters from Italian language courses, electives, and local university classes at Università Roma Tre. Field trips to the Vatican, Pantheon, and Amalfi Coast make abstract lessons tangible, unmatched by any other study abroad hub.
Core experiences include mandatory Italian immersion at your level, plus options for internships, community placements, or social action seminars in fields like fashion, film, and sociology. Explore beyond Rome on included excursions to Tuscany or the Forum, with housing in vetted homestays, apartments, or residence halls alongside locals. Summer internships offer full-time professional growth in a city where business meets archaeology.
Spring and fall semesters avoid summer heat; expect mild 50–70°F days with occasional rain. Prepare for five-day academic weeks by prioritizing stamina for walking tours. Budget extra for optional trips marked with fees, and confirm scholarships from IES's $5 million pool early.
Romans embrace internationals through IES's community ties, from shared meals in homestays to NGO collaborations revealing social dynamics. Students gain insider access to neighborhoods like Trastevere, where ethics-driven projects bridge cultural gaps. This setup fosters authentic bonds, redefining global perspectives amid daily gelato runs and piazza debates.
Apply early for IES Abroad Rome programs, as spots fill six months ahead for spring (January 26–May 7, 2026) and fall (August 31–December 10, 2026) semesters. Select from Language & Area Studies or History & Classics tracks to match your major, and confirm credit transfer with your home university. Book flights to FCO arriving a day before orientation to settle in.
Pack layers for Rome's variable weather, comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, and a reusable water bottle for free fountains. Secure an international student ID for discounts at sites, and download the IES Abroad app for trip schedules. Practice basic Italian phrases to enhance homestays or apartment living with resident assistants.