UI sponsors both the summer SRISA only and the semester SRISA/CEA Hybrid options. Students will take courses offered by Santa Reparata International School of Art (SRISA).

Designed for both art and non-art majors, this program challenges you to transform your Italian experience into art. Choose from printmaking, fashion design, painting, drawing, and more; close instruction by practicing artists encourage your contemporary work in response to Florentine traditions. Italy’s history, culture, and art are typical themes of complementary elective courses. Studio art courses are taught at our partner institution, Santa Reparata International School of Art (SRISA). Semester students attend courses both at SRISA and the CEA CAPA Florence Center; over the summer you will take courses only at SRISA. At the end of your program, you will exhibit your work at SRISA’s highly visible art gallery.

Academic Program

Fall, Spring, Academic Year

Enroll in 1 CEA CAPA core course, 1-3 CEA CAPA courses and 1-2 SRISA studio art courses. Students can take 12-16 s.h. per semester. CEA CAPA language courses meet for 60 contact hours/4 credits; CEA CAPA and SRISA courses meet for 45 contact hours/3 credits; and SRISA studio art courses meet for 45-90 contact hours/3 credits.

Summer

We sponsor the following Studio Art, Printmaking & Fashion Design summer program options.

• June, 4-week 1 course (3s.h.)
• July, 4-week 1 course (3s.h.)
• June/July combo, 2 courses (6 s.h.)
• June/July combo, 3 courses (9 s.h.)

Note: UI students need to take a minimum of 6 s.h. during the summer to be considered full-time students and to gain financial aid eligibility. This is something to factor in, if considering this program.

Courses

You can find more information about the courses offered during the session you plan to go abroad, including full course descriptions, on the following page:CEA Florence, SRISA. You will need to choose the session (i.e. Spring, Fall, Summer) that you're interested in from the drop-down menu.

Applying credit toward a UI degree

Unless UI Study Abroad has an approval on file for the courses you take abroad to be applied toward a specific major, minor, certificate, or general education requirement, you will receive general elective credit for your course. The course approval process will be discussed when you meet with your study abroad advisor.

Cultural Activities

CEA offers excursions for most semester, year, and summer programs. Semester students are typically offered 2-3 excursions and summer study students are typically offered 1-2 excursions. You’ll receive a calendar of excursions during your CEA orientation. In the past CEA has offered excursions to Rome, Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Siena.

You can find more information about the excursions offered for upcoming sessions on the main program page:CEA Florence, SRISA.

Program Dates

Dates for CEA vary slightly by term. The main program website shows the dates for each session under the 'Calendar' tab:CEA Florence, SRISA. You will need to choose the session (i.e. Spring, Fall, or Summer) that you're interested in from the drop-down menu for accurate dates.

For More Information

Steps to Studying Abroad

1. Before initiating an application with CEA, students must complete a Discover Study Abroad session at the University of Iowa. 
2. After completing the Discover Abroad session, students must call the Study Abroad office at 319-335-0353 to be assigned to the appropriate study abroad advisor.
3. Once assigned, students must meet with their study abroad advisor to receive program application instructions.

  

Study Abroad
1111 University Capitol Centre
Iowa City, IA 52242

Phone: 319-335-0353
Email:study-abroad@uiowa.edu

Santa Reparata International School of Art (SRISA)

SRISA is one of Florence’s leading schools in studio art and design for English-speakers. Professors of art practice in their field, and will instruct you with up-to-date methods, techniques, and ideas. Attend class at SRISA’s facilities near the historic convent of San Marco, where you’ll benefit from easy access to Florence’s main attractions and feel like part of a Florentine neighborhood.

Florence

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence (Firenze) is possibly the most beautifully preserved and artistically rich city in the world. Here, artistic treasures and architectural masterpieces of the past blend with ancient streets lined with elegant boutiques, peaceful parks, streetside cafes offering steaming hot expresso and fresh biscotti, unforgettable dining establishments, and breathtaking views at every turn. Set in a valley on the banks of the Arno, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, Florence is one of the best-known and best-loved cities of the world. Striking buildings, treasure-filled galleries, and ancient churches attest to the nature of the Florentines to proudly display their riches for all to enjoy. With the historical part of the city largely contained in a small area, many of the places to visit can be reached easily on foot where pedestrians often mingle between the popular mopeds dashing through the city streets.

Italy

Aside from the unending, tangible history in Italy, the nation has beyond remarkable landscapes which bring any visit to an entirely new level. You can go skiing in the Alps, visit Roman ruins and Greek temples, or explore the Grand Canal in Venice.

As one of the world's most-loved destinations, Italy is also the land of la dolce vita, meaning "the sweet life." After an adventure, tourists can unwind, relax, and be pampered by staying at one Italy’s high-end spas or simply enjoying Italy's sophisticated dining pleasures, such as family-owned restaurants where you can experience real Italian cooking.

Student Blogs

Karlyn Lienhard, Academic Year 2016-2017

An American in Florence

Hannah Grahek, Spring 2016

Ciao Firenze!
Wherever the Tracks May Take Us
Get to the airport early, they say. Listen, I did not.
The teachers becomes the student
It's time to adjust... again

US Department of State Country Information

The US Department of State provides safety and security information for every country of the world to help you assess for yourself the risks of travel. Each country information page contains a Travel Advisory, Alerts, and other important details specific to that country that could affect you.

Pay close attention to the entry and exit requirements, local laws and customs, health conditions, and other details to help decide whether traveling to any given country is right for you. Non-US citizen travelers may also wish to seek guidance from the embassy of their country of citizenship. The UI International Travel Policy for Students addresses restrictions on student travel to high-risk locations and engagement in high-risk activities abroad.

Living Arrangements

CEA's carefully chosen housing options enhance your experience abroad by allowing you to live like a local. While CEA does attempt to match your preferences with their housing options, housing preference requests cannot be guaranteed. Housing and roommate assignments are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Note: Iowa students are required to live in housing provided by CEA, and must choose either an apartment or homestay.

Independent Living is not available to University of Iowa students.

You can find more information regarding CEA’s housing options on their Florence webpage.

Passport

If you do not have a passport, it is important that you apply for one as soon as possible to ensure you receive it before the program begins. US citizens can find more information about how to apply for a passport on the US Department of State’s website.

Important notice for students without a valid passport or whose passport will expire within the next 12 months:

US citizens can find more information about how to renew a passport on the US Department of State’s website.

Students with a valid passport should check the expiration date. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months AFTER the anticipated return to the US from studying abroad. If your passport is not valid for at least 6 months after your anticipated date of return to the US, you must renew your passport before applying for the visa you will need to enter your host country.

Expedited processing service is available for US passports (although this still takes several weeks and is at an additional cost). UI Study Abroad encourages students to ask the passport agency at the time of application whether expedited service is recommended.

Non-US Citizens

Students who are not US citizens should contact their consulate for more information if they need to get a new passport or renew their passport.

Travel Arrangements

CEA Flight Vouchers: University of Iowa is not eligible for CEA flight vouchers.

Students will work with their program provider to make travel arrangements to their program site. The cost of travel is not included in the course fee. U.I. Study Abroad will not arrange a group flight to your study abroad destination.

Do not purchase plane tickets until you have received instructions on how to do so from your program provider.

Local Transportation

Within your host city and around Italy, students will utilize public transportation such as buses and trains. Italians are also very used to walking, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes!

Eligibility

This program is open to University of Iowa students who fulfill the following requirements:

• Clear interest and commitment- Students must demonstrate a clear academic or personal interest in the program’s subject matter, and a commitment to engage responsibly in coursework abroad.
  
• Demonstrated preparedness and maturity- Students must demonstrate preparedness to take on the heightened responsibilities associated with international study and travel. Students must demonstrate a commitment to behave responsibly abroad while respecting cultural differences. Students are expected to obey both local laws and program directives conveyed to participants before and during the program. The University of Iowa Code of Student Life applies to all program participants while abroad.
  
• Minimum 2.5 GPA- Students must have a minimum 2.5 GPA to participate in this program. Applications from students who have a GPA below 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  
• Good academic and disciplinary standing- Students must be in good academic and disciplinary standing at the University of Iowa. Students placed on either academic or disciplinary probation for any period of time overlapping with the study abroad program dates are ineligible to study abroad on a University of Iowa program. Academic and disciplinary history will also be considered when determining whether a student is prepared to represent the University of Iowa as part of this program. Students who are not in good standing at any point overlapping with the program dates will have their acceptance revoked and will be responsible for the associated late withdrawal fees.
  
• Sophomore, junior, or senior standing- Applicants must have sophomore, junior, or senior standing by the time the program begins to participate in this program.
  
• Approval by CEA and UI Study Abroad- Applications will be reviewed by UI Study Abroad and by CEA. Students will be accepted based on their review of their application materials.
  
• Attendance at mandatory orientation programming- Students must attend all in-person and online pre-departure orientation programming presented by UI Study Abroad and CEA.

Costs

The cost sheets outline the total estimated costs associated with participating in this program and can be used for financial aid purposes. They include fees charged on students’ U-Bill as well as out-of-pocket expenses. Actual out-of-pocket expenses will vary from individual to individual. Quoted estimates are conservatively high, yet realistic.

Costs for future sessions are usually similar to the current session, however students can expect a modest increase in overall costs each session. Final cost sheets for future sessions are typically available early in the semester before the session begins.

Cost Sheets

The following cost sheets apply to the Spring 2023 sessions.

• Cost Sheet CEA Florence SRISA Spring 2023

The following cost sheets apply to the Fall 2023 sessions.

• Cost Sheet CEA Florence SRISA Fall 2023

The following cost sheets apply to the Summer 2024 sessions.

• Cost Sheet CEA Florence SRISA Summer 2024 1 course (3 s.h.)

• Cost Sheet CEA Florence SRISA Summer 2024 June/July combo, 2 courses (6 s.h.)

• Cost Sheet CEA Florence SRISA Summer 2024 June/July combo 3 courses (9 s.h.)

Calculating Fees

The cost sheets are based on the fees described below:

• University of Iowa Study Abroad Administrative Fees
• University of Iowa’s CISI health insurance
• The course fee is calculated from the information provided in the 'Budget' tab:CEA Florence, SRISA Only. You will need to choose the session (i.e. Spring, Fall, or Summer) that you're interested in from the drop-down menu.

Personal Travel Costs

Costs for personal travel are not included in the cost estimates provided on the cost sheet. If you plan to travel outside of your host city or country during or after your study abroad program, you will need to budget for additional funds to cover the cost of your personal travel.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

For more information about receiving financial aid while studying abroad, please review the following:UI Financial Aid Information

You can find more information about options for funding your study abroad experience including scholarships on Undergraduate Scholarships for Study Abroad.

In addition, take a look at the following resources for CEA’s funding options:

• CEA’s Grants & Vouchers website
• CEA’s Scholarships website
• Other resources provided by CEA

How to Apply

• Meet with the appropriate study abroad advisor to discuss your study abroad plans well ahead of the application deadline. Your application will not be approved until you've completed this step. You can set up an appointment by calling UI Study Abroad at 319-335-0353.
• If you and your academic advisor agree that the program is a good match for you, complete the UI Study Abroad application. Please note that for study abroad programs through Fall 2022, students will not be charged the $50 application fee until travel is assured. If a student chooses to withdraw prior to the application fee being billed, it will not be charged.
• Students participating in the Summer session must choose 3 s.h. when they submit their UI application.
• Create an account for the CEA online application in the MyCEA portal. Complete all of the online sections of the application. Select your study abroad advisor, in the Advisor Approval Form task.
• Submit the CEA application.
• UI students are not required to pay the CEA $100 application fee. If you are asked to pay the CEA application fee, contact your UI study abroad advisor.
• Your advisor will complete the Advisor Approval Form and submit it to CEA along with your unofficial transcript. If CEA asks you to submit a transcript, contact your UI study abroad advisor.
• CEA will contact you by email to notify you of your acceptance status. This email will refer you to additional documents posted on your MyCEA account. After you receive your official acceptance from CEA, UI will also send acceptance materials to you by email. This email will refer you to additional documents you will need to submit to UI Study Abroad to confirm and finalize your participation in the program.
• To confirm your participation in the program, you will be required to pay the non-refundable $500 CEA Confirmation Deposit as well as the refundable $350 CEA Security Deposit. You must pay these directly to CEA through your MyCEA account.

Post-Acceptance

• You will be working with both UI and CEA directly. Please follow instructions from both. Following your acceptance, you will receive information and further instructions from CEA. Later, your UI Study Abroad advisor will contact you regarding orientation sessions, registration, and other required UI procedures and documentation.
• You will need to provide scans of the picture page of your passport to both UIand CEA. If you do not have a valid passport at the time you apply to study abroad, provide the scans as soon as you receive your passport.
• You will be billed on your U-Bill for your program fee, administrative fees, and Iowa Regents health insurance.

Application Deadline

Applications for the Summer session are due on February 15th.

Applications Fall, and Academic Year sessions are due on March 15.

Applications for the Spring session are due on September 24.

Acceptance and Confirmation Materials

Coming Soon.

Health & Safety Planning

In addition to submitting their Confirmation of Participation form, students should review the following:

Study Abroad Resources

Passports and Visas

Iowa Regents CISI Health Insurance Information

Students are also encouraged to complete the Health Preparation Guide for International Travel form with their medical practitioner. This document is intended to help you plan for your medical needs abroad. Please DO NOT turn this form in to UI Study Abroad.

Visa

Students will receive information regarding the visa application process from CEA. Participants need to be checking their e-mail often, so they don’t miss important information or deadlines. CEA also provides students with some of the required application materials for the visa application process.

U.S. Citizens will need a student visa if they are going abroad for a semester, or academic year. Typically, they will not need a visa for the summer sessions.

Non-US Citizens - should refer to the Italian Consulate webpage for more information on Italian visa requirements.

The closest Consulate available to UI students is the Chicago consulate.

UI Study Abroad will hold advising appointments and/or information sessions to provide details on the visa application process. Your Study Abroad advisor will notify you of any scheduled visa information sessions. Students with questions about visas/visa application process should contact their Study Abroad Advisor.

UI Study Abroad staff can provide some assistance on the Italian visa application process, but ultimately the individual traveler (the student) is the person who is responsible for providing correct information on the visa application and securing the visa and all other required documentation prior to travel.

Orientation

In order to prepare for your time abroad, you are required by the University of Iowa to complete two orientations. These may be in addition to orientations provided by your on-site provider. See below for more information.

Online Education Abroad Pre-Departure Orientation

You are required to complete the International Programs online ‘Education Abroad Pre-Departure Orientation’ course distributed through ICON prior to departure. This orientation is mandatory for all students going abroad under the auspices of the University of Iowa. It covers many practical matters about living overseas, such as health and safety, communication, money, goals and much more. You will be enrolled in this course by International Programs and an email will be sent to you once enrolled. If you have any questions you can email safety-abroad@uiowa.edu.

Program-Specific Orientation

This orientation will be facilitated by your study abroad advisor and will cover content specific to your program and host country. It could be conducted in a group setting or one-on-one depending on your type of planned activity abroad. Your study abroad advisor will send you more information about this mandatory in-person session.

Predeparture Resources

CEA will provide you with a variety of pre-departure resources to prepare you for your study abroad experience. These will include a packing list, cultural information, housing instructions, etc. Ensure that you thoroughly review any information provided to you by CEA and refer back to it if you have any questions.

These materials may be periodically updated to reflect new program information prior to departure. Be sure to check your e-mail often, so that you're aware of any updates or changes.