The Marco Polo Programme resulted from an agreement between Italy and China in March 2006, which originated from a state visit by President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi in 2004. This programme facilitates the issuing of study visas for Chinese students, encouraging their enrolment in Italian universities and attendance of Italian language courses.

In 2009, the Turandot Programme was launched, similar to Marco Polo, but oriented toward Chinese students interested in pursuing artistic studies at AFAM Institutions (Conservatories of Music, Academies of Fine Arts, ISIA, National Academy of Dance, National Academy of Dramatic Art, and other Institutes authorized to grant academic degrees).

Program Objectives

The two government programmes aim to strengthen scientific cooperation between Italy and Asia, creating a cultural and academic bridge between the two countries. This not only enriches the Italian student community but also fosters greater understanding and cultural exchange.

Procedure

Another fundamental objective is to facilitate Chinese students' acquisition of a good level of knowledge of the Italian language and culture. Through a preparatory Italian language course lasting at least 10 months, students can attain a linguistic proficiency sufficient to study profitably in Italy and integrate effectively in the Italian academic reality. Students who pass the Italian language course exam are exempt from the Italian language exam normally required for access to university courses.

Finally, the programmes aim to provide Chinese students with the necessary tools for full integration into Italian life and society. With a solid knowledge of the local language and culture, students are better prepared to face daily challenges and enjoy their study experience in Italy.

Every year, the Ministry of Universities and Research publishes the provisions for Chinese students participating in the programmes. Those interested can pre-register at all institutions of the Italian higher education system that reserve a quota of places for Chinese students within the quotas for international students.

Students must fill out the pre-enrolment application on the Universitaly portal, the only free and official access portal of the Ministry of University and Research, indicating the "Marco Polo/Turandot" option as the reason for requesting a visa, and then send their pre-enrolment application to the reference institution, which must then validate it in line with the "Procedures for entry, stay, enrolment of international students and recognition of qualifications for higher education courses in Italy".

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