First Semester Abroad
Florence, Italy | Fall
Spend your first semester as an FSU student in the historic city of Florence, Italy. The First Semester Abroad (FSA) program at FSU Florence offers the opportunity to pursue general requirements and elective courses in a variety of curriculums while living in Italy during the fall semester of your first year in college. Experiential learning through academic and social excursions will immerse you in Florence's vibrant culture and historic art. Free time for personal travel allows you the chance to explore on your own, fostering new friendships along the way. After the program, you'll return to Tallahassee for the spring semester with new friends and fond memories from your time abroad.
Eligibility
This program is open to all incoming first-year students admitted to FSU for the summer or fall terms, including those offered admission through Seminole Pathways.
Pursuant to Italian legal requirements, students must be at least 18 years of age by the start of the program. Contact IP-FirstYear@fsu.edu for more information.
Other Considerations & Requirements
You can indicate your interest in the First Semester Abroad program when you apply to FSU. Learn more about the FSU application process and Seminole Pathways on the FSU Admissions website.
All participants must attend a special session of New Nole Orientation in Tallahassee, typically held in early to mid-June. Summer & Seminole Pathway admits must also successfully complete an online course (grade of "C" or better) offered by International Programs during the Summer B semester prior to going abroad (late June – early August).
Note: Do not purchase airline tickets until advised to do so in the IP portal.
FSU Florence Study Center
Located in the heart of the city, the study center is housed in a renovated 16th century Renaissance palazzo. Learn in classrooms, the culinary kitchen, fashion lab, and library. With lounge areas, outdoor patios, and a cafe, there's plenty of space to relax in between classes. The central location makes the study center the perfect hub for immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of the city.
Housing
You'll live in shared Florentine-style residences within a 25-minute walk of FSU Florence. Each residence is unique but typically includes double or triple occupancy bedrooms with access to a shared living area, kitchen, and washing machines. Housing includes Wi-Fi and a regular cleaning service with a change of bed linens and towels.
Note: Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing.
View Housing Photos
Academics
On this program, you can choose from a wide array of courses which may count toward your major or minor. You’ll have the opportunity to use the city as your classroom through immersive academic experiences led by expert faculty.
As a First Semester Abroad student, you will take at least 15 credit hours while abroad.
Excursions & Activities
You'll receive a program calendar before you leave; here are some examples taken from past programs of potential excursions & activities you may do:
Overnight trips (two trips): Milan & Lake Como, Verona & Lake Garda, and/or Turin & surrounding region
Academic & other local experiences: The Duomo and Baptistery, Accademia, the Bargello Museum, the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, and/or other historic sites
Extracurricular activities: Cooking, ceramics, paper, and/or leather goods workshops, student clubs, volunteer opportunities, opera and/or ballet, and/or sports activities including volleyball, basketball, student soccer tournament, and/or watching professional soccer games
Included in the Fee
Academic Credit
15-17 credit hours
Housing Abroad
Shared apartment style
Excursions & Activities
Meal Vouchers
€950 for the semester
International Health Insurance
On-Site Pastoral Support
Admin & Academic Support
And More!
Including: student visa processing fee
