A free Italian proficiency test gives you your CEFR level in 25 minutes. Knowing your level is useful before applying for Italian citizenship, registering for a CILS or CELI exam, or applying for a role in Italy where Italian is listed as a requirement.
What the test covers
A CEFR-based Italian test covers grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Grammar questions focus on verb conjugation, gender and number agreement, and sentence structure. Vocabulary questions test word meaning in context. Reading questions check whether you understand an Italian text at your level.
The test does not measure speaking, writing, or listening. For citizenship applications and formal admission requirements, a full four-skills exam is needed.
Italian language certificates. CILS, CELI, and PLIDA
Three organisations issue official Italian language certificates recognised by Italian authorities.
CILS (Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera) is issued by the University of Siena and covers all CEFR levels from A1 to C2. It is among the most widely recognised Italian certificates internationally and is accepted for citizenship applications.
CELI (Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana) is issued by the University for Foreigners of Perugia and also covers A1 to C2. It is accepted for citizenship and university admission.
PLIDA (Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri) is issued by the Dante Alighieri Society. It covers A1 to C2 and is accepted for citizenship applications. Exam fees across all three providers range from approximately 80 to 200 euros depending on level and location.
Italian levels for common situations
| Situation | Required level | Accepted certificate |
|---|---|---|
| Italian citizenship | B1 | CILS B1, CELI 2, PLIDA B1 |
| University in Italy (Italian-taught) | B2 | CILS B2, CELI 3 |
| Office job in Italy | B2 | CILS, CELI, or online CEFR cert |
| Long-stay visa (elective residency) | Not required | — |
| Integration agreement (after arrival) | A2 | Italian government test |
How long it takes to learn Italian
Italian is a Category I language for English speakers according to the US Foreign Service Institute. Reaching B2 from zero takes approximately 500 to 600 hours of study. Reaching B1 takes roughly 350 to 400 hours.
Italian grammar is more regular than French. Verb conjugation follows predictable patterns, and the language shares significant vocabulary with Spanish, French, and Portuguese. Speakers of any Romance language typically progress faster.
Using a free test before CILS or CELI
Taking a free CEFR test before registering for CILS or CELI tells you which exam level to target. If the result shows A2 and you need B1 for citizenship, you know you need to close roughly 150 hours of study before sitting the official exam. Registering for the wrong level wastes the exam fee.
Test your Italian level for free
25 questions. Instant CEFR result. PDF certificate available for $8 (incl. EU VAT).
Test My Italian LevelFAQ
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