Florence Culinary Arts School provides an immersive culinary program in the heart of Florence, designed to equip students with both practical skills and a deep understanding of Italian cuisine. Through hands-on training, students explore traditional and contemporary Italian cooking techniques, with courses ranging from basic skills to advanced culinary arts. Some programs include internships in local kitchens, offering real-world experience in authentic Italian food settings. The school’s multilingual support and multicultural student body create a welcoming environment for international students, blending rigorous training with cultural exploration to prepare graduates for diverse careers in the culinary arts worldwide.
Study Abroad at Florence Culinary Arts School (FCAS) in Florence, Italy
Study in Italy
Summer: $5,495
Semester: $14,495
Study Abroad at Florence Culinary Arts School (FCAS) in Florence, Italy
Study in Italy
Summer: $5,495
Semester: $14,495
Dates & Deadlines
Spring 2026 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Fall 2025 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Summer 2025 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Costs
Spring Semester Cost: $14,495
Fall Semester Cost: $14,495
Summer Cost: $5,495
Disclaimer: Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights.
Credits
30 ECTS / 18 US credits
Eligibility
- Minimum Age: 18
- Education Status: Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Language Proficiency: Must demonstrate sufficient English skills and provide relevant qualifications.
- Minimum GPA: 2.5 (may vary based on program)
Language of Instruction: English
Disclaimer: Costs, inclusions, and exclusions should be verified during your enrollment process and are subject to changes, updates, or clarification based on the program destination.
Housing
Off-campus Apartment / Private Accommodation
Visa Required for full Semester?
Yes
SPEAK TO AN ADVISOR
DATES & DEADLINES
Spring 2026 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Fall 2025 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Summer 2025 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Disclaimer: Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights.
COSTS
Spring Semester Cost: $14,495
Fall Semester Cost: $14,495
Summer Cost: $5,495
Disclaimer: Costs, inclusions, and exclusions should be verified during your enrollment process and are subject to changes, updates, or clarification based on the program destination.
Credits
30 ECTS / 18 US credits
Eligibility
- Minimum Age: 18
- Education Status: Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Language Proficiency: Must demonstrate sufficient English skills and provide relevant qualifications.
- Minimum GPA: 2.5 (may vary based on program)
Language of Instruction: English
Housing
Off-campus Apartment / Private Accommodation
Visa Required from the US?
Yes
Program Overview
Program Highlights
Florence Culinary Arts School offers hands-on Italian culinary training, real-world experience in authentic kitchens, and a supportive, multicultural environment to prepare students for global culinary careers.
Hands-On Culinary Training
The program focuses on practical, hands-on cooking techniques in traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine, equipping students with essential skills for a professional culinary career. Students work closely with expert Italian chefs, learning everything from basic kitchen skills to advanced culinary artistry, ensuring they are prepared for real-world challenges in the industry.
Comprehensive Curriculum with Industry Exposure
The Florence Culinary Arts School offers a diverse curriculum that includes specialized courses, providing students with a well-rounded education in Italian culinary arts. Additionally, the program features guided art visits and cultural excursions, allowing students to experience Italy’s rich heritage firsthand.
Multicultural Environment with Multilingual Support
With a diverse student community and multilingual staff, the school offers a supportive and inclusive environment that enriches students’ educational and cultural experience. Students can interact with peers from all over the world, fostering cross-cultural exchange and creating a truly global perspective on culinary arts.
Program Dates & Costs
These costs are for our full program fee and cover everything listed below under inclusions. Additional costs apply; please see exclusions below.
SPRING
Spring 2026 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Spring Semester Cost: $14,495
FALL
Fall 2025 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Fall Semester Cost: $14,495
SUMMER
Summer 2025 Term: Rolling Start Dates
Application Deadline: Rolling Deadlines
Summer Cost: $5,495
Inclusions
- Tuition: Up to 30 ECTS / 18 US credits per semester (up to 6 courses) *Possible earned credits vary by semester and chosen courses
- Academic transcript from Host University
- Airport transfer on arrival in-country
- Housing/Accommodations for the duration of your program
- Comprehensive travel medical insurance
- Dedicated Program Advisor who is accessible and experienced
- Pre and post arrival orientation
- Student services and learning support
- Access to university facilities
- 24/7 emergency phone support
- Travel visa guidance and support
Exclusions
- Transportation (flights) to and from program destination
- Visa fees and expenses
- Housing security deposit (if applicable)
- Textbooks or other course materials
- Optional trips and excursions
- Daily transportation
- Any/all personal expenses
*Costs, inclusions, and exclusions should be verified during your enrollment process and are subject to changes, updates, or clarification based on the program destination. Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights!
Apply for a Scholarship
Unlock the adventure of a lifetime and elevate your education with study abroad scholarships designed to make global learning accessible and affordable.
LEADING THE WAY WITH AFFORDABLE STUDY ABROAD
We believe in no-frills, easy-on-the-wallet study abroad. Our cost for this program is significantly less than other leading study abroad providers. Why? We take out the unnecessary add-ons so you can cut the cost, not the experience!
*Price comparisons were created using publicly available information and may have discrepancies. All costs are based on a full semester program that includes tuition and housing.
Academics
Learn more about where, what, and how you’ll study while in Italy.
Host Institution
Established in 1983, Florence Culinary Arts School (FCAS) is a leading institution dedicated to sharing the excellence of Italian cuisine with students from around the globe. Located in the heart of Florence, FCAS offers a dynamic learning environment where students immerse themselves in both traditional and modern Italian cooking techniques while exploring Tuscan cuisine, renowned for its blend of noble and peasant culinary traditions. The school’s programs are designed for hands-on learning, from mastering essential culinary skills to gaining real-world experience in Italian kitchens, empowering students to build careers or even launch their own restaurants. With a multicultural community and multilingual support staff, FCAS provides a welcoming, inclusive environment that enriches the student experience. By combining rigorous training with the vibrant food culture of Florence, FCAS ensures students leave with a deep understanding of Italian cuisine and culture, ready to bring these traditions to a global audience.
Semester Courses
The Florence Culinary Arts School (FCAS) offers a wide range of study abroad course options tailored to international students seeking hands-on culinary training and a deeper understanding of food culture. Students can choose from various short-term programs (1-12 weeks), designed to suit different skill levels, from beginner to advanced. These courses cover areas such as culinary arts, pastry and baking, restaurant management, and wine studies, all taught with a focus on traditional Italian and French techniques. Study abroad students can select specialized tracks like Italian regional cuisine, food and beverage service, and culinary entrepreneurship, allowing them to tailor their education to their career goals. With practical, in-kitchen experience combined with classroom instruction, FCAS ensures that students gain both technical skills and industry knowledge, preparing them for careers in international kitchens or the broader hospitality industry.
Study Abroad courses are available in the following areas:
- Culinary Arts
- Pastry and Baking
- Restaurant Management
- Italian Regional Cuisine
- Food and Beverage Service
- Wine Studies and Sommelier Training
- Culinary Entrepreneurship
- International Culinary Arts
- Food Photography and Styling
Summer Courses
The Florence Culinary Arts School offers flexible summer cooking courses, allowing participants to choose durations from 1 to 12 weeks, with start dates throughout May to September. Each course includes English interpretation, a welcome kit, guided art visits, cultural trips, meal and drink vouchers, and public transportation tickets. Accommodation is available in the form of shared apartments, fostering a communal learning environment. These programs immerse students in Italian gastronomy and culture, emphasizing authentic home cooking techniques.
Summer Study Abroad courses are available in the following areas:
- Gelato Training
- Italian Home Cooking
- Sommelier Training
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Florence Culinary Arts School, applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Students should also demonstrate proficiency in English, with relevant qualifications to support their language skills, ensuring they can fully engage with the curriculum. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is generally required, although this may vary depending on specific program requirements. This set of criteria helps ensure that students are prepared to excel in the immersive, hands-on environment of the culinary program.
Academic Credit
At the Florence Culinary Arts School (FCAS), academic credits are awarded based on the completion of specialized culinary programs, which combine both practical kitchen experience and theoretical learning. Study abroad students can choose from 1-12 week programs, so earned credits from the program can vary widely. These courses are designed to provide students with comprehensive training in culinary techniques, food science, restaurant management, and hospitality. The credit system at FCAS aligns with international standards, making it easier for students to transfer credits to their home institutions, provided the courses are pre-approved. However, students are encouraged to verify credit transfer policies with their home university to ensure the credits earned at FCAS will be recognized.
It’s essential to check with your home institution regarding credit transfer and alignment. Our advisors will assist in coordinating credit transfer approvals with your institution.
What's Studying Abroad in Florence, Italy like?
Life in Florence, Italy
Life in Florence is like stepping into a Renaissance painting, where art, history, and everyday beauty blend seamlessly. The city’s cobblestone streets are lined with charming cafes, bustling markets, and centuries-old buildings, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Duomo and the rolling Tuscan hills. Florence’s pace is relaxed but lively, with locals and students alike gathering at lively piazzas, savoring gelato by the river, or exploring world-renowned museums like the Uffizi. The Florentine lifestyle emphasizes community, delicious food, and a deep appreciation for art and culture, making every day feel vibrant, welcoming, and inspiring.
Housing & Meals
Florence Culinary Arts School (FCAS) provides comfortable, fully furnished shared apartments for international students, offering a convenient and community-focused living experience in Florence. These apartments typically have 2 to 3 bedrooms that accommodate 4 to 6 students, along with a shared kitchen, living room, and bathroom. Students can opt for a private room for an additional fee, but private bathrooms are not available, and air-conditioning is not provided. Apartments are generally located 20–30 minutes from the school by bus or bike (or about a 35–45 minute walk). A security deposit may be required by the apartment manager before move-in, and students receive the final details of their housing location a week prior to the start of their course. This housing setup fosters a multicultural community and allows students to experience authentic Florence life while studying at FCAS, though pursuit of private accommodation is permitted.
Meals are included in some programs while in others, tasting events after each class are conducted at no additional cost. Beyond this, Italy offers an incredible food scene with options to fit every budget, from affordable street food to upscale trattorias. You’ll find classic Italian favorites like pizza, pasta, and gelato, as well as international options from Western fast food to Mediterranean, Asian, and Middle Eastern eateries. Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary-specific options are increasingly common, especially in larger cities and popular tourist areas. Grocery stores and supermarkets are stocked with both local and familiar international brands, and Italy’s vibrant local markets are a great place to explore fresh produce, cheese, meats, and other regional specialties.
Culture
Italian culture is a celebration of art, food, family, and community, with deep-rooted traditions that embrace beauty and joy in everyday life. From world-famous art and architecture to diverse regional cuisines and lively festivals, Italy’s culture radiates warmth, passion, and a zest for la dolce vita—the sweet life. Whether savoring a perfectly crafted espresso at a local café or marveling at the masterpieces of the Renaissance, every moment reflects the Italian dedication to excellence and enjoyment. Strong connections to history and a profound respect for craftsmanship further enrich the cultural experience, making Italy a treasure trove of tradition and inspiration.
Essential Italy Info
Italy is a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, iconic art, and stunning landscapes. Known for its world-famous cuisine, passionate locals, and deep-rooted traditions Italy is a must-visit destination for travelers and students alike.
- Capital City: Rome
- Est. Population: 59 million
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC+1, Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC+2 during daylight saving
- Language(s): Italian (official), with regional languages like German, French, and Slovene recognized in specific areas
What to do in Italy in your free time
Experience Italy by exploring Rome’s ancient landmarks, Venice’s enchanting canals, Florence’s Renaissance art, the scenic Amalfi Coast, and the fascinating ruins of Pompeii.
Featured Program Reviews
Study Abroad in Florence, Italy FAQs
Got questions about studying abroad? Get all the answers you need to kickstart your journey with confidence!
Why should I study abroad in Florence?
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it still feels like a living art museum. Studying abroad here means you’ll be surrounded by masterpieces daily—whether it’s Michelangelo’s David, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, or the intricate beauty of the Duomo. But Florence isn’t all history. It’s a vibrant city with a buzzing student scene, delicious Tuscan food, and a dynamic mix of traditional and modern culture. Plus, you’re within a short train ride from other iconic Italian destinations, so you get to experience more of Italy during your time abroad.
Is studying in Florence affordable?
Florence can be more budget-friendly than cities like Rome or Milan, but Italy can be pricey, especially when it comes to housing and food in the city center. However, there are affordable options if you’re willing to live a bit outside the city or cook some meals at home. Many students find budget-friendly spots to eat, like local trattorias, food markets, and hidden pizzerias where you can eat well without breaking the bank. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid are available.
What language skills do I need?
Although Italian is the primary language, Florence is a top destination for international students, so you’ll find a lot of English spoken in schools, cafes, and even shops. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and international community make it easy to adapt and connect with people from around the world. That being said, picking up a few basic Italian phrases—like “grazie” (thank you) and “ciao” (hello)—will make a difference in your experience, and locals always appreciate the effort!
What’s the weather like in Florence?
Florence experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers, from June to August, are typically sunny with temperatures averaging between 77°F and 95°F. Winters, from December to February, are cool and damp, with temperatures ranging from 37°F to 55°F. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, featuring moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall, making them ideal seasons for exploring the city’s historic landmarks and scenic countryside.
What’s student life like in Florence?
Florence is a student-friendly city with a thriving social scene. You’ll find a mix of international and local students in cafes, clubs, and at open-air events throughout the year. In the evenings, many students meet up in the historic center, hang out by the river, or grab a gelato and stroll through Florence’s beautiful piazzas. Weekends are often spent exploring other Italian cities, like Pisa, Venice, or Rome, or visiting the beautiful countryside in Tuscany. Florence offers the perfect balance of educational and social opportunities, so you’ll make memories that last a lifetime.
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