Published: March 9, 2026
Rome, Italy
Italy’s national film school and one of the oldest in the world, known for training major Italian cinema directors since 1935.
Quick facts
Degree types: Three-year diplomas in directing, cinematography, acting, editing, sound design, screenwriting, animation, and documentary.
Teaching focus: Practical, hands-on film production and artistic training.
Language of instruction: Italian and English (depending on program).
Accepts exchange/visiting students: Yes, has international history since its founding.
Approximate tuition per year: €2,500 (state-funded, very affordable).
Typical cohort size: 6-8 places per class (extremely selective).
What this school is known for
Centro Sperimentale trained many of Italy’s greatest film directors and is deeply connected to Italian cinema history. The school is based near Cinecittà Studios, the famous Italian film production facility. It follows the tradition of Italian neorealism and the artistic cinema of directors like Federico Fellini.
Programs offered
The school runs three-year courses in Rome (directing, cinematography, acting, editing, sound design, screenwriting), plus specialized programs in animation (Turin), documentary (Palermo), advertising and industrial film (Milan), and audio-visual reportage (L’Aquila).
Teaching approach
Learning is highly practical and production-focused. Students work on real projects, learn film theory, and study the history of cinema. Admission requires a portfolio, interviews, practical tests, and participation in preliminary workshops.
Equipment and facilities
Centro Sperimentale has access to professional film studios and equipment. Its location near Cinecittà Studios means students can learn in one of Europe’s most important film production centers.
Industry connections
Bernardo Bertolucci: One of Italy’s greatest filmmakers, made The Conformist (1970), Last Tango in Paris (1972), and 1900 (1976).
Vittorio Storaro: Legendary cinematographer who won multiple Academy Awards.
Michelangelo Antonioni: Major Italian modernist director.
Ettore Scola: Acclaimed director of comedies and dramas.
Marco Bellocchio: Contemporary Italian director.
Admissions
Entry is highly competitive. You need a high school diploma (or equivalent). Foreign students must have their diploma translated. You must demonstrate good knowledge of Italian (and sometimes English). The selection process includes a portfolio/video showreel, interviews, practical tests, and preliminary workshops.
Cost
€2,500 per year. This is exceptionally low for a world-class film school because it is state-funded by the Italian government. Total cost for the three-year program is approximately €7,500.
For visiting and exchange students
The school has a long history of accepting international students. Exchange programs may be available through Erasmus+ and other international education agreements. Contact the school directly for current options.
Who this school is best for
This school is best for students passionate about artistic, European cinema who speak Italian or are willing to learn it. The extremely small class sizes and low tuition make it ideal for serious film students. If you love Italian cinema history and want intensive, prestigious training, this is for you.
