CELI Exam 2026: A1–C2 Levels, Structure, Dates and Online Preparation
Find out which CELI level you need for Italian citizenship, a residence permit, university studies or work . Prepare for the exam online with an experienced Italian teacher.
We will assess your current level and help you choose the most suitable preparation programme.
What Is the CELI Italian Language Exam?
CELI (Certificati di Lingua Italiana) is an internationally recognised Italian language certification issued by the University for Foreigners of Perugia (Università per Stranieri di Perugia).
The certificate confirms your Italian language proficiency according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), from A1 to C2.
The CELI certificate is recognised by universities, employers and public institutions in Italy and abroad. It can be used for Italian citizenship applications, university admission, employment or as official proof of your Italian language level.
Why Choose the CELI Certificate?
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✓Official internationally recognised Italian language certification
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✓Available for all CEFR levels from A1 to C2
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✓Accepted for Italian citizenship, university admission and employment
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✓Lifetime certificate with no expiration date
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✓Available at authorised examination centres in Italy and around the world
What Is the CELI Certificate Used For?
The CELI certificate provides official proof of your Italian language proficiency and can be used for administrative, academic and professional purposes in Italy.
Italian Citizenship
The CELI 2 or CELI 2 i Cittadinanza certificate can be used to confirm B1-level Italian, which is required for certain Italian citizenship applications under current legislation.
Long-Term Residence Permit
Applicants for an EU long-term residence permit in Italy (permesso di soggiorno UE per soggiornanti di lungo periodo) are generally required to demonstrate basic Italian language proficiency at A2 level.
Studying in Italy
International students may need a CELI certificate for admission to an Italian university, participation in academic programmes or official confirmation of their Italian language proficiency.
Employment and Career Development
The CELI Italian language certificate can be used for employment applications, public selection procedures, demonstrating language proficiency to an employer or developing a professional career in Italy.
CELI Exam Levels from A1 to C2
The CELI certification system follows the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) and allows candidates to officially certify their Italian language proficiency at any level.
CELI Impatto
Beginner level. You can understand and use simple expressions, introduce yourself, ask basic questions and communicate in familiar everyday situations.
CELI 1
Elementary Italian proficiency. This level is suitable for simple communication in everyday life and for completing basic practical tasks in Italian.
CELI 2
The most commonly requested level. It is required for many Italian citizenship procedures and is also useful for living, working and communicating independently in Italy.
CELI 3
Upper-intermediate Italian proficiency. This level is suitable for university studies, employment and professional communication in an Italian-speaking environment.
CELI 4
Advanced Italian proficiency. You can use the language fluently and effectively in academic, professional and complex social situations.
CELI 5
Near-native proficiency. You can understand complex spoken and written Italian and communicate precisely and naturally without significant language difficulties.
CELI vs CILS: What Is the Difference?
CELI and CILS are official Italian language certifications. Both exams are recognised in Italy and abroad, but they are administered by different universities and have slightly different exam formats and task types.
| Criterion | CELI University for Foreigners of Perugia | CILS University for Foreigners of Siena |
|---|---|---|
| Levels | A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 | A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2 |
| Official recognition | ✓ Recognised in Italy and abroad | ✓ Recognised in Italy and abroad |
| Italian citizenship | CELI 2 and the dedicated CELI 2 i Cittadinanza version are available | A dedicated CILS B1 Cittadinanza version is available |
| Main exam sections | Reading, listening, writing, speaking and language competence, depending on the level | Reading, listening, writing, speaking and analysis of communication structures |
| Where to take the exam | At authorised CELI examination centres in Italy and other countries | At authorised CILS examination centres in Italy and other countries |
| Certificate validity | The certificate does not have an expiry date | The certificate does not have an expiry date |
| Which one should you choose? | A suitable option when there is a CELI centre near you or the CELI task format better matches your skills | A suitable option when there is a CILS centre near you or you have already prepared using CILS materials |
When Should You Choose CELI?
CELI may be the better choice if there is an authorised examination centre in your area, the available exam dates suit your schedule or you find the CELI task format easier to understand.
When Should You Choose CILS?
CILS may be a good option if you are already familiar with its exam format, have found a convenient session date or plan to take the dedicated B1 Cittadinanza exam.
What Does the CELI Exam Include?
Regardless of the level, the CELI exam assesses the core Italian language skills. The number, type and difficulty of the tasks vary depending on the certification level.
Reading Comprehension
(Comprensione della lettura)
Candidates read texts of different types and difficulty levels, then answer questions or complete tasks to demonstrate their understanding of the written material.
Listening Comprehension
(Comprensione dell'ascolto)
Candidates listen to conversations, announcements or interviews and complete tasks that assess their understanding of spoken Italian.
Writing
(Produzione scritta)
Candidates write a letter, email, message, short text or essay according to the requirements of the selected CELI level.
Speaking
(Produzione orale)
The oral interview evaluates the candidate's ability to communicate naturally in Italian in a variety of everyday, academic or professional situations.
When Does the CELI Exam Take Place?
The CELI Italian exam is held several times a year at authorised examination centres. Exact dates may vary depending on the certification level, examination centre and country where you take the exam.
Spring Session
Usually held during the spring months.
- Registration generally opens several months in advance.
- A popular option among students and university applicants.
- Different CELI levels may be available.
Summer Session
One of the most popular CELI examination sessions.
- Usually attracts a large number of candidates.
- Available at many authorised examination centres.
- May be suitable for candidates preparing for university admission.
Autumn Session
Held during the autumn at authorised CELI examination centres.
- Convenient for candidates preparing during the summer.
- Often chosen by candidates applying for Italian citizenship.
- Not every CELI level may be available at every centre.
How Can You Find the Latest CELI Exam Dates?
We recommend registering for the CELI exam well in advance, as places at many examination centres are limited. If you are planning to take the CELI exam, our teachers can help you choose a suitable examination session and create an effective preparation schedule based on your current Italian level and target exam date.
Online CELI Exam Preparation with Italique Academy
Our online CELI preparation course helps you prepare systematically for every part of the exam, regardless of your current Italian level. We work with official exam formats, use authentic tasks from previous sessions and explain the assessment criteria used by CELI examiners.
Complete Exam Preparation
We practise reading, listening, writing, speaking, grammar and vocabulary for your target CELI level.
Experienced Italian Teachers
Our teachers specialise in preparing international students for official Italian language exams.
Live Online Lessons
Lessons take place live on Zoom, and class recordings remain available to students for revision.
What Is Included in the Course?
- Mini-groups of 3–6 students
- Individual CELI lessons
- Homework after every lesson
- Correction of written assignments
- CELI mock exams and practice tests
- All learning materials included
- Recordings of all lessons
How Long Does the CELI Exam Take at Each Level?
The duration of the CELI exam depends on the selected level. Below you can find the approximate time allocated to the written, listening and speaking modules for CELI levels from A1 to C2.
CELI Impatto A1 Exam Duration
CELI Impatto is designed for candidates with a beginner level of Italian. The exam assesses the ability to understand short written texts, write a simple message, understand basic spoken Italian and take part in a short conversation.
- Reading and Writing 1 hour 15 minutes
- Listening and Speaking approximately 5–6 minutes
CELI 1 A2 Exam Duration
At level A2, candidates work with simple texts and conversations about everyday topics, write a short text and complete speaking tasks. This level confirms the ability to communicate in Italian in familiar daily situations.
- Reading and Writing 2 hours
- Listening 20 minutes
- Speaking approximately 8–10 minutes
- Preparation Time approximately 10 additional minutes
CELI 2 B1 Exam Duration
CELI 2 assesses the ability to use Italian in everyday, social and professional contexts. Candidates complete reading tasks, write a notice and a letter, listen to spoken messages and take part in an oral interview.
- Reading and Writing 2 hours
- Listening 20 minutes
- Speaking approximately 10–12 minutes
- Preparation Time approximately 12 additional minutes
CELI 3 B2 Exam Duration
At level B2, candidates work with more complex texts, produce extended written work and express their opinions using clear arguments. Language competence is assessed separately, including grammar, vocabulary and textual cohesion.
- Reading and Writing 2 hours 15 minutes
- Language Competence 45 minutes
- Listening 25 minutes
- Speaking approximately 15 minutes
- Preparation Time approximately 15 additional minutes
CELI 4 C1 Exam Duration
CELI 4 includes complex academic, professional and social topics. Candidates must understand extended texts, produce well-structured and argumentative writing, use grammar accurately and communicate fluently during the oral exam.
- Reading and Writing 2 hours 45 minutes
- Language Competence 1 hour 15 minutes
- Listening 25 minutes
- Speaking approximately 18–20 minutes
- Preparation Time approximately 20 additional minutes
CELI 5 C2 Exam Duration
CELI 5 is the highest certification level. Candidates demonstrate an in-depth understanding of complex texts, produce extended formal and creative writing and communicate fluently about professional, social and abstract topics.
- Reading and Writing 2 hours 45 minutes
- Language Competence 1 hour 15 minutes
- Listening 30 minutes
- Speaking approximately 20 minutes
- Preparation Time approximately 20 additional minutes
When Are CELI Exam Results Released?
After the exam, the tests are assessed by the University for Foreigners of Perugia. The processing time may vary depending on the examination session and the number of candidates.
Exam Assessment
The written and oral tests are evaluated by university examiners according to the official CELI assessment criteria.
Waiting Time
CELI exam results are generally published approximately 2–3 months after the examination date.
Receiving the Certificate
After the results have been published, the official CELI certificate can usually be collected from the examination centre where you took the exam.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CELI Exam
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the CELI exam, including certification levels, registration, exam fees, results, retakes and online preparation.
What Is the CELI Exam?
CELI is an internationally recognised Italian language certification issued by the University for Foreigners of Perugia (Università per Stranieri di Perugia). The exam officially certifies Italian language proficiency from A1 to C2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
What CELI Levels Are Available?
The CELI certification system includes six levels:
- CELI Impatto – A1;
- CELI 1 – A2;
- CELI 2 – B1;
- CELI 3 – B2;
- CELI 4 – C1;
- CELI 5 – C2.
You should choose the appropriate level based on your current Italian language proficiency and the purpose for obtaining the certificate.
What Is the Difference Between CELI and CILS?
CELI and CILS are both official Italian language certifications. CELI is issued by the University for Foreigners of Perugia, while CILS is awarded by the University for Foreigners of Siena.
The exams differ in their structure, task types, the duration of individual modules and the assessment system. The choice between CELI and CILS often depends on the available exam dates, the authorised examination centre and the format that best suits the candidate.
Which CELI Level Is Required for Italian Citizenship?
For many Italian citizenship procedures, applicants are required to demonstrate Italian language proficiency at B1 level or higher.
However, before registering for the exam, you should check which type of certification is accepted for your specific situation, as the requirements may vary depending on the legal basis for your application and the current regulations.
Can I Take the CELI Exam Without Attending an Italian Language Course?
Yes. You are not required to complete an Italian language course before registering for the CELI exam. Candidates may prepare independently and register through an authorised examination centre.
However, a preparation course helps you become familiar with the exam structure, assessment criteria, time limits and the most common mistakes made by candidates.
Does the CELI Certificate Expire?
The CELI certificate does not normally have an expiry date. Once you successfully pass the exam, it permanently certifies the level of Italian language proficiency you have achieved.
However, individual institutions, universities or employers may require a certificate obtained within a specific period.
How Much Does the CELI Exam Cost?
The cost of the CELI exam depends on the level, the country where you take the exam and the authorised examination centre. Registration fees may vary even between different centres within the same country.
You should always check the current examination fee directly with the authorised examination centre where you plan to take the exam.
How Often Is the CELI Exam Held?
CELI examinations are held several times throughout the year according to the official examination calendar. The number of available sessions depends on the exam level and the type of certification.
Not every authorised examination centre offers every level during each session, so it is advisable to check the available dates and places well in advance.
Where Can I Take the CELI Exam?
The CELI exam can only be taken at authorised examination centres. These centres are located throughout Italy and in many other countries around the world.
Before registering, make sure that your chosen examination centre offers the level you need and still has places available for your preferred examination session.
Can I Take the CELI Exam Online?
You can prepare for the CELI exam entirely online. However, the official certification exam is generally taken in person at an authorised examination centre following the official examination procedures.
Before registering, you should always confirm the current examination format directly with your chosen examination centre.
Can I Retake Only One Part of the CELI Exam?
Whether you can keep the results of the modules you have already passed and retake only the failed component depends on the type of examination and the current CELI regulations.
After receiving your results, you should check the official retake policy, deadlines and registration procedure with your authorised examination centre.
When Are CELI Exam Results Published?
CELI exam results are published after all examination papers have been assessed. Depending on the examination session, the number of candidates and the marking process, this may take several weeks or longer.
Your examination centre will normally provide the most accurate information about the expected publication date.
How Difficult Is the CELI Exam?
The difficulty of the CELI exam depends not only on your overall Italian language proficiency but also on how familiar you are with the exam format.
Even candidates with good spoken Italian can lose marks because of poor time management, misunderstanding the instructions or insufficient preparation for the writing tasks. For this reason, completing several full mock exams before the official test is highly recommended.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare for the CELI Exam?
The time required for preparation depends on your current Italian language level, the certification you want to obtain and the number of lessons or study sessions you complete each week.
If your Italian already meets the exam requirements, preparation can focus mainly on the CELI exam format. If your language level is not yet sufficient, it is advisable to first complete a general Italian course, expand your vocabulary and strengthen your grammar before moving on to intensive exam practice.
How Does Online CELI Preparation Work at Italique Academy?
CELI preparation at Italique Academy is available online in mini-groups or through individual lessons. Students become familiar with the exam structure, complete authentic examination-style tasks and practise listening, reading, writing and speaking skills.
Teachers provide detailed feedback on written assignments, explain the official assessment criteria and create a personalised study plan based on each student's level and examination date.
Need Help Preparing for the CELI Exam?
Book a free consultation to assess your Italian level, choose the most suitable preparation course and create a personalised study plan for your CELI exam.
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