CILS: Exam preparation
Private lessons, group classes, tutoring and language courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Find a teacherOur teachers
Looking for a language tutor? Contact one of our teachers!
Mariateresa M.
20.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Francesca I.
20.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Giusy F.
16.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Our offer
What is the CILS exam?
The CILS (Certification of Italian as a Foreign Language) is a certified language test for foreigners to examine their Italian language proficiency. The certificate is issued by the University of Siena.
With this test you can obtain the admission requirements for studying at Italian universities.
There are 3 categories of exams according to the candidates need:
| Beginner | Independent learner | Advanced learner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exams |
|
|
|
See the table below with the 6 respective levels:
| CILS exam | Level | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CILS A1 | A1 |
| 2 | CILS A2 | A2 |
| 3 | CILS One | B1 |
| 4 | CILS Two | B2 |
| 5 | CILS Three | C1 |
| 6 | CILS Four | C2 |
Differences between CELI, CILS, PLIDA and IT
They are all Italian language certificates; The exams vary from level to level and are regulated by the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) so they present a similar structure. The only difference is that they are issued by 4 different bodies, one of which is private. The PLIDA in fact, since is issued by the private "Dante Alighieri Society", does not have the certainty of being recognized abroad.
- CILS - (Certification of Italian as a Foreign Language) issued by the University of Siena.
- CELI - (Certificate of Italian Language) issued by the University for Foreigners of Perugia.
- PLIDA - (Dante Alighieri Italian Language Project) issued by the Dante Alighieri Society.
- IT - Issued by the University of Roma Tre
Have a question?
Take online language lessons with a professional teacher
- Native & verified teachers
- Free trial lesson
- Learning materials included
Antonio B.
12.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Vera R.
30.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Irada I. 
15.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Chiara G.
20.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
DAJANA D.
20.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Manuela A.
15.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Federica O.
12.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Alessia A.
20.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Giusy F.
16.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Marijana S. 
20.00 €/h
Free trial lesson!
Group lessons!
Why is it useful to take the CILS exam?
These certified exams are aimed at those who do not have Italian as their mother tongue. It is useful if you want to enter an Italian university without having to carry out an initial test or to work in Italy.
Where is the CILS recognized?
The CILS certificate is internationally recognised by the majority of institutions and companies.
In Italy the CILS certificate is accepted by universities as admission.
How much does the CILS cost?
The following table shows the exam price according to the level chosen:
| Level | CILS price | |
| 1 | A1 | 40 € |
| 2 | A2 | 40 € |
| 3 | B1 | 90 € |
| 4 | B2 | 105 € |
| 5 | C1 | 135 € |
| 6 | C2 | 160 € |
NOTE: The price may vary depending in which centre and country the exam takes place.
How is the CILS structured?
All certificates are regulated by CEFR and follow the same structure; the exam is divided in 4 activities:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Conversation
Let's focus on the duration of the exams:
| CILS exam | Duration | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CILS A1 | 2h and 10min |
| 2 | CILS A2 | 2h and 55min |
| 3 | CILS One | 3h and 50min |
| 4 | CILS Two | 3h and 55 |
| 5 | CILS Three | 4h and 55min |
| 6 | CILS Four | 5h and 30min |
How is the CILS scored?
To obtain the certification it is necessary to pass all the 4 parts.
Evaluation criteria:
| Exam | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | A1 and A2 level tests | The total achievable from the test = 60 Minimum to pass = 35 |
| 2 | The integration module | The total achievable from the test = 60 Minimum to pass = 34 |
| 3 | Level A1 of the children module | The total achievable from the test = 48 Minimum to pass = 28 |
| 4 | Levels One-B1, Two-B2, Three-C1, Four-C2 | The total achievable from the test = 100 Minimum to pass is 55 |
How to register for the exam?
If you reside in Italy:
- Go directly to the University of Siena with a valid document.
- Go to a certified centre around Italy.
If you live abroad:
- Abroad in one of the Institutes of Italian culture.
You can register within the deadlines set by the institution.
Where and when does the CILS exam take place?
The exam takes place at the University of Siena and in its offices around Italy.
In case you want to take the test abroad, contact the Italian Cultural Institutes.
The exam sessions take place twice a year: June and December.
How to prepare for the test?
To pass the exam with good grade you need to be prepared in advance on the form of the test and practice all the 4 activities. Online you can find samples of previous exams.
In addition, it is important to take familiarity with the language by practicing speaking with a mother tongue.
How can I improve the grammar for free?
coLanguage offers 145 lessons and more than 280 exercises, which allow you to learn and understand Italian grammar.
This way you will improve your grammar for free and pass the exam with excellent grades.
If I fail the exam?
The exam is repeatable as many times as desired, there are no limitations.
Also, it is possible to repeat individual sections however, within a year.
See the costs for each repeated exam on the table below:
| CILS exam | Price repeated exam | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CILS A1 | 12 € |
| 2 | CILS A2 | 12 € |
| 3 | CILS One | 22 € |
| 4 | CILS Two | 23 € |
| 5 | CILS Three | 30 € |
| 6 | CILS Four | 35 € |
Online tutoring
At coLanguage you'll find professional language teachers who can help you prepare for the CILS exam.
How does it work?
- Register as a student on coLanguage and find the right teacher for you.
- Arrange your private lessons via Skype.
- Teaching geared to the level (A1-C2).
- Flexible appointment with the teachers.
- Prepare for the exam from anywhere in the world.
More info on the CILS exam
- https://www.europassitalian.com/learn/certification-cils/
- http://www.laboling.com/italian-language-school-sicily/detail/id/7/cils-certification/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Certification_of_Italian_as_a_Foreign_Language
CILS exam sample
Start practicing online with these exam samples:
What our students say
Unlike in other platforms, all our teachers are manually verified by our professional team. Trust in the experiences of our students.
Hi everyone!
My name is Daniela, I am Italiana and I am a qualified Italian language teacher and a CELI examiner! I teach Italian and English at school, and Spanish and French as a freelancer. I love foreign languages, translating, reading and listening to music. Are you ready to start your language learning path with me? We are going to learn many things and to talk a lot! Don’t worry if you’ve never studied the language before: everyone can attend my classes – from beginner to advanced students. You just need passion for what you're going to do and... a good Internet connection. Materials are provided by me!
See you online!
Gerald Y.
Thank you for putting up with all my mistakes today! We had plenty of conversation practice although the listening we did was quite tough but very useful .
Daniela V.
**Other time slots can be made available upon request. Don't hesitate to get in touch**
Native speaker from Paris with about 15 years of teaching experience. I’m well-travelled, and I’ve lived and worked in different parts of the world (Europe, Latin America, North America, Africa, Australia and a little bit in Asia).
I have a postgraduate degree (France) in Languages, Literature and Cultural Studies and I’m currently a freelance translator. I’ve previously worked at universities in France and abroad (South Africa/Australia) and have a solid experience in teaching (French Language, Literature, Philosophy, Cultural Studies, Creative Writing, etc.), designing courses, evaluating and guiding students, preparing students for exams/job interviews/professional presentations, managing a Language and Literature department at the university, presenting papers at academic conferences worldwide, publishing, translating and journalism. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to teach people with different profiles and from various backgrounds: international professionals, university students, beginner translators and teachers, high school students, retirees, travellers, francophiles, children (help with homework), etc.
Being an open-minded, flexible and patient teacher, I enjoy helping others to discover their potential and to explore it. Adapting myself to my students' needs, pace and objectives is essential for me, and designing the best way to work with each student is very stimulating and rewarding.
After the initial introductory lesson, I will design customised lesson plans that will evolve as you progress. We can also, at any time during the programme, change our working method if you wish to do so. I remain very flexible in that regard.
The learning materials will be varied, and we will choose together the themes and aspects of French language to be covered, in line with your objectives. In any case, I am very attentive in general, so please don't hesitate to make any suggestions.
Regardless of your level and objectives, I'm sure that we can find the best way possible to share and enjoy this French language adventure together.
Marco B.
Priscilla is a very competent and experienced French teacher. She prepares the lessons very carefully and focuses on all relevant aspects such as conversation, grammar and vocabulary. Above all, she has a very friendly personality that makes you feel at ease immediately. I can highly recommend her as a French teacher.
Priscilla R.
Hello everyone, I'm Federica and I'm an italian and english teacher. Before being a teacher I've been a student infact I graduated in languages so I know very well how hard can be learning a new language. I'm interested in music, cinema, literature and I enjoy talking about several topics. I've been teaching since 2009 and in 2012 I've qualified as italian language teacher. I've experience with children and adults, with in company courses, with total beginners as well as with advanced. Also I've succesfully prepared a number of students for the most important english and italian certification (CELI, CILS, FIRST, PET, KET). Over the last years I've became specialized in one-to-one or small groups lessons because in this way I can create a tailored programme for each student. I follow a communicative approach and in my classes there's lot of room for speaking but I don't neglect grammar, listening and writing. I provide you with material, sometimes selfmade, other times taken from books, videos, or songs, but always useful to help you to immerse in the target language! At the end of every lesson I always assign homework in order to revise the things learnt. I define myself as a happy, positive and very patient person and I do my best to make the class a funny and relaxed moment. I look forward to meet you online!
Elisa M.
Federica has been a great teacher - our lessons are mainly for conversation and she is very patient, making corrections when necessary with pronunciation, translations, which words to use, etc. Her explanations are very clear as well. Most importantly she is very punctual with classes which I appreciate. In summary, I have enjoyed the classes immensely and look forward to future improvement!
Federica C.
Thanks, I'm sure you will improve a lot! :-)
I offer English and Indonesian language classes. My class is based on conversation practice. You will learn grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary through practice. You will learn in a safest way because I always want to make sure my students feel comfortable and safe during the class, so they are not afraid to make mistakes.
Leo S.
Ade is a very gentle person with lots of experience in teaching English. She offers well structured lessons, I totally recommend her!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a screening interview.
Ni Nengah W.
I am an Italian native speaker with a Master's degree in Languages for International Relations. I have experience in tutoring students from all ages.
I prepare tailored lessons based on the students' needs and interests using textbooks, videos, interactive resources and ad-hoc materials.
If you want to learn Italian and know more about the culture, food, art and traditions, don't hesitate to get in touch!
Kala C.
I began Italian lessons with Mariarosa a few weeks ago and she has been a stellar teacher thus far! She tailors each of our lessons to my pace, and includes things that I mention I don't know yet or want to learn. All of our lessons have a good mix of grammar, vocabulary and review, and I always have a good bit of homework to keep me busy and continue learning between lessons :) highly recommend her as a teacher.
Mariarosa S.
Hello Everybody
My name is Luisa and I teach Italian for foreign students, English, French and German for Italian students
Since 1994, I have dedicated myself to translating and teaching thanks to my travels, abroad studies, foreign reading and writing. I provide fun and customized lessons based on the student's goals. I also triy to minimize English speaking during the lessons. I give homework exercises, and my lessons are intermixed with grammar, conversation, customs and traditions. My goal is to make certain that each student finds learning Italian exciting.
I am available for any explanations also via e mail
Martin D.
I have had many lessons with Luisa and I always look forward to them. We begin by chatting about the past week's events and them move to Espresso which I find very useful as a good review of material I have done in the past. There is often additional words used I had not met before. Luisa is always a pleasure to talk with and is a kind and pleasant teacher. She corrects me gently and offers useful words or meanings when appropriate.
Luisa A.
Dear Martin thank you so much ! It's my pleasure taking class with you. And thanks a lot for your suggestion about Us movies ( Just Mercy) or Us books
Hello Everybody
My name is Luisa and I teach Italian for foreign students, English, French and German for Italian students
Since 1994, I have dedicated myself to translating and teaching thanks to my travels, abroad studies, foreign reading and writing. I provide fun and customized lessons based on the student's goals. I also triy to minimize English speaking during the lessons. I give homework exercises, and my lessons are intermixed with grammar, conversation, customs and traditions. My goal is to make certain that each student finds learning Italian exciting.
I am available for any explanations also via e mail
Kimberly H.
Luisa is fantastic! We are just doing conversation because that is what I need, and requested from Luisa. Easy flow and no lacking of topics to talk about with her. I highly recommend Luisa!!!
Thank you so much !!! It's a pleasure for me !!!
Hello, everybody ! My name is Elena. I’m a native Italian speaker, I’m 49 years old and live in Turin. I am a certified CEDILS teacher, I graduated in Foreign Languages and Literature in Milan and have been working as a teacher of Italian for more than 10 years. I speak English and German. I attended specialization courses for Italian L2 teachers and I am interviewer for C1 PLIDA exam.
Are you seeking a friendly and dynamic study environment ? I got what you need. I am looking forward to being in touch with new students and organize pleasant, interesting and fruitful courses.
Do you wish to learn or improve your Italian to speak with your parents or friends? Do you need Italian for work or study ? Do you simply love Italian language and culture ? Do you need to improve your writing skills ?
My classes are tailored on your needs and considering your level of knowledge, I create a proper course plan. Classes focus on language and on the possibility for you to improve your ability to speak and understand Italian in your daily life or in work.
I offer 1-to-1 or 2-to-1 tuition, general Italian courses (grammar, conversation, listening, reading and writing), preparation to Italian examinations (all levels, also Italian for residence permit) and Italian and culture courses.
Grammar, vocabulary exercises, reading articles and magazines and talking together are all tools to feel at ease with the Italian language and then be able to practice it.
I have worked with children, adolescents and adults for all levels of Italian, from beginner to advanced. I have experience in preparing students to international certification (CILS, PLIDA). I was an A2/B1 Telc examiner.
Learning Italian can be closely related to culture, literature, music, sport and any other interest of my students.
Heather C.
Elena is absolutely fantastic and extremely helpful in preparing me at short notice for a PLIDA B2 exam. Great teacher, lovely person and I'd highly reccommend her to anyone in need of suport in learning italian.
Elena F.
INSEGNANTE DI TEDESCO
Vivi B.
Rina is a pleasure to work with. Her lessons go by quickly, because they are a lot of fun. She is always on time, sends the material beforehand, is always available for questions and corrects homework right away. She is funny & energetic. She speaks German and Italian. I can only recommend taking lessons with her, because it is fun and you learn quickly and good.
Fiorina D.
Hello German learner! I am a dedicated teacher for DaF (German as a foreign language) studying and working in Germany. I have already gained teaching experience with different age groups and nationalities while teaching German in various language schools.
Currently, I'm doing my second studies in German, English, and Teaching at the University of Bonn. (I already got my Master's Degree in German and Literature). Besides, I teach in a local language school as well as tutor students online on Colanguage.
In my free time, I learn French and Dutch and hope to become a true polyglot one day :)
So as you can see, I'm all into languages and love my profession as a teacher!
I can help you learn general German, develop your communicational skills as well as prepare you for language tests (Goethe Zertifikat, Telc, etc).
Just book a trial lesson with me and we'll find out which course is right for you.
See you soon
Anush
PS. IMPORTANT! Currently, I only work with adults aged 18 and over - so NO courses for children, sorry.
Leo S.
Hranush is a teacher with a lot of experience in teaching German. She has many materials and is well-structured!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a screening interview.
Anush H.
Hi everyone!
My name is Daniela, I am Italiana and I am a qualified Italian language teacher and a CELI examiner! I teach Italian and English at school, and Spanish and French as a freelancer. I love foreign languages, translating, reading and listening to music. Are you ready to start your language learning path with me? We are going to learn many things and to talk a lot! Don’t worry if you’ve never studied the language before: everyone can attend my classes – from beginner to advanced students. You just need passion for what you're going to do and... a good Internet connection. Materials are provided by me!
See you online!
Paul B.
Daniela is a wonderful teacher. I really had difficulty properly expressing myself in Italian. Daniela not only tought me the basic rules of Italian grammar, but more importantly, during our many conversations in Italian, she helped me express myself much better and with confidence. I still have some path to go, particulalry deepening my knowledge of grammar. The next phase that I will start in a couple of months will focus on perfectionning that. I hope Daniela will find the time to work with me again
Daniela V.
Hi everyone!
My name is Daniela, I am Italiana and I am a qualified Italian language teacher and a CELI examiner! I teach Italian and English at school, and Spanish and French as a freelancer. I love foreign languages, translating, reading and listening to music. Are you ready to start your language learning path with me? We are going to learn many things and to talk a lot! Don’t worry if you’ve never studied the language before: everyone can attend my classes – from beginner to advanced students. You just need passion for what you're going to do and... a good Internet connection. Materials are provided by me!
See you online!
David S.
Fabulous teacher. Very clear, very encouraging and very helpful. Also very flexible and accommodating. Cannot recommend Daniela highly enough.
Daniela V.
Italian and German lessons
Stephanie M.
Elisabetta is a great teacher! She helpes me to study italian. She takes the time and she knows what is the best pace to evolve! I learn New things in a great tempo.., im on my way for my celi A1 examination whit teacher Elisabetta i'm gonna make it !! Thank you so much!!
Elisabetta D.
Hi! My name is Federica, and I am a certified teacher of Italian as a foreign language.
I have 3 + years of experience as a teacher, and I have also been a translator/proofreader for almost three decades. I can speak English, a bit of German, French and Spanish, as well as very, very basic Swedish. In short, I know just how it feels to be a learner of a foreign language, too!
One thing I know is that learning a language is more effective - and much more fun - when teaching is personalized. That's why I don't follow any single textbook: I like to try and choose the texts and exercises which are best suited to my students' interests. I also prefer to use "real" material such as magazine articles, songs, videos, etc., so you'll get an authentic feel for the language.
But enough about me. Let's talk about you! What is your current level and what are your short- and long-term goals in learning Italian? Book a free trial lesson (half an hour) with me. We'll talk about your goals and discuss how best to achieve them.
Hope to meet you soon!
Binnur A.
She speaks so softly and understandable. Always cooperating with the student. I'd recommend her especially for grammar studies.
Federica J.