You’ve decided to go abroad in Florence with API! Understandably, you likely have questions all about course requirements, applications, housing, and more! The good news? We have answers! Check out the most common questions about studying abroad in Florence.
Where do I submit my courses?
We include your course form in your acceptance email! Fill out the form and return it to us through email. Super easy! Remember, courses are first come, first serve! So it’s important to fill it out as soon as you can.
How do I know you submitted my courses to Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM)?
We will submit your courses to LdM on your behalf once your forms are completed. These forms include your course registration and $400 confirmation payment, which may have been already covered by your school.
How do I know which classes I’m enrolled in?
We receive courses from LdM via email, but we don’t usually have them until 2 weeks before the program starts.
My course looks full on the LdM website. What does this mean?
This can mean a few things, not just that your class is full. First, it’s possible you’re in the course, but LdM hasn’t finished your schedule yet. It’s also possible that you are on a waitlist. LdM may be evaluating whether or not there is enough interest to open another section.
In short, if your course looks full, don’t panic! You will learn more about your schedule soon.
I need a particular course to graduate. Can you guarantee it?
Unfortunately, API cannot 100% guarantee certain courses. We can communicate to LdM your priorities, but sometimes there are scheduling conflicts or course cancellations. That’s why it’s important to have alternatives approved and ready to go!
Can I make course changes?
If you need to, you can make one course change with API before starting your program. To request a change, be sure to fill out the google form that we send along with your course schedule. Keep in mind, there is also an add/drop period once you arrive at your program! Remember, you must have an academic reason to make this kind of change.
How do I make a visa appointment?
To obtain a visa, you need to book an appointment with the U.S. consulate near you. You should be able to book an appointment online or by phone. If there aren’t any appointments available, be sure to continually check the website to see if there are any cancellations! To learn more about visas, here’s more information on our website.
If you’re having trouble with the visa process, API may be able to help! For some students studying abroad in Italy, API offers visa processing services that will help make the visa attainment experience faster and easier. To take advantage of this great benefit, don’t be afraid to apply early and inquire about this service.
What do I need to bring for a visa appointment?
Requirements may vary, so for the most accurate information, check out your consulate website for more details. That being said, consulates typically ask for an API acceptance letter, LdM enrollment letter, proof of insurance, and proof of housing. The good news: these particular documents will be provided by API! However, other required documents will be your responsibility to include.
Do you offer a group visa service?
We offer group visa service, but only for students who fall under the Boston consulate jurisdiction. With this service, students pay a $185 fee for API to book an appointment and batch process students’ visas on their behalf. If you’re interested, look out for an email from Jennibeth Rodriguez, our Visa Director. She’ll contact you with specific instructions!
Why don’t you offer the group visa service for anyone else?
We would love to offer this service to every student, but other consulates don’t allow it. If that ever changes, API will keep you posted!
What is the Florence housing like?
API students who study abroad in Florence typically live in apartments. These apartments are located in the historic district of Florence, around 25-30 minutes from school. Apartments may house as many as 10 students, but most have between 4-6 students with 2 people per room. All apartments come equipped with a kitchen, 1-3 bathrooms, and common areas. Washing machines are available, but air conditioning is not!
Can I get a single room?
You can! Students can opt for a single room, but there is an additional fee and it’s not guaranteed. These rooms are first come, first serve. The deposit holds your spot in line, and if you do not receive a single, you will be refunded for your single room deposit.
If you need a single room for medical reasons, let us know ASAP! You can submit your request to your program manager. Once rooms are assigned, we cannot make changes, and we want to make sure we meet all of your needs!
If you have additional questions, you can use the chat feature on our website from 9AM to 6PM CT Monday–Friday. Other ways to reach us: send an email to [email protected], fill out this form to reach out to our team, or check out these other frequently asked questions.
Florence is waiting for you! For more information about the various programs we offer in Florence, check out our program finder. We hope this helps you in finding the program that is the right fit for you!
