In this article, we delve into the intricate details of the Marco Polo Program for Chinese students, a unique initiative that facilitates their entry into Italian educational institutions. The program, established under the bilateral agreement between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Italy, has been in operation since 2006, offering an exciting avenue for Chinese students to immerse themselves in the Italian language and culture before embarking on their chosen academic pursuits.
What is the Marco Polo Program?
At its core, the Marco Polo Program enables Chinese students to apply for an entry visa to study the Italian language in Italy for a period of 10 to 11 months. This pre-academic year serves as a valuable opportunity for students to acclimate themselves to the linguistic and cultural nuances of Italy. Following successful completion of this language phase and any requisite admission tests, students can seamlessly transition into their desired courses of study without the need to return to China for visa renewal.
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Eligibility and Requirements for Marco Polo Program for Chinese Students
To be eligible for participation in the Marco Polo Program, students are required to demonstrate a minimum proficiency of B1 in Italian. Alternatively, they can showcase their competence by passing the final language test. Fulfillment of admission tests (if applicable) and adherence to the specific prerequisites outlined by the degree course regulations are also mandatory for enrollment. Importantly, the language curriculum may be conducted in a location separate from the main university where students intend to pursue their academic studies.
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The Pre-enrollment Process
You should carefully study the instructions on the Italian Ministry of Education, Universities, and Research website if you are a Chinese student interested in the Marco Polo initiative.
You must choose a degree program that has spaces reserved for Marco Polo students when pre-enrolling, as well as the location where you will take the Italian language course.
Application in China under Marco Polo Program for Chinese Students
Chinese students interested in the Marco Polo Program are expected to submit their pre-enrollment applications through the UNIVERSITALY platform. Within this application, it is crucial to specify “Marco Polo” as the reason for the visa application. Successful applicants are then required to indicate their preferred university and study program, as well as the University center responsible for the Italian language course. The language course, spanning 10 to 11 months, involves a commitment of 80 to 100 class hours per month.
Educational Approach and Goals
The instructional methodology of the Marco Polo Program is designed to foster holistic linguistic skills encompassing listening, reading, speaking, and writing. It aims to imbue students with a comprehensive understanding of language structures, vocabulary, functions, and cultural subtleties. Grammar instruction is a fundamental aspect, employing a guided approach to dissect linguistic components, accompanied by in-depth explanations and systematic organization of linguistic content.
In addition to its communicative focus, the program integrates playful teaching methods, humanistic-affective approaches, cooperative learning techniques, and even elements of structuralist methodology. The ultimate objective is to equip students not only with linguistic proficiency but also with cultural and pragmatic competencies that find practical utility in their daily lives in Italy.
Enrollment and Beyond
You should carefully study the instructions on the Italian Ministry of Education, Universities, and Research website if you are a Chinese student interested in the Marco Polo initiative.
You must choose a degree program that has spaces reserved for Marco Polo students when pre-enrolling, as well as the location where you will take the Italian language course.
Upon completion of the Italian language course, students are required to adhere to Italian regulations for obtaining a permit to stay within the initial 8 days of arrival. Subsequently, before the enrolment or pre-enrolment deadlines stipulated by their chosen courses of study, students must submit the necessary documentation and complete the application process.
Students who do not meet the admission criteria or are unable to secure placement in another university or course must depart Italy by the expiration date of their visa or permit of stay, unless they possess an alternative valid permit.
Documentation and Enrollment Requirements for Marco Polo Program for Chinese Students
For prospective students pursuing a Bachelor’s and Integrated Master’s, specific documentation such as the Secondary School Leaving Qualification, Declaration of Equivalence of Qualification, and “Gao Kao” academic eligibility examination pass certificate is required. Similarly, Master’s applicants need to provide their foreign academic qualifications, a Declaration of Equivalence of Qualification, and a comprehensive list of completed exams.
To enroll in degree courses, students must submit a PDF of the required documentation and their Italian Language course certificate to the Ufficio Relazioni con gli studenti e Applicativi carrier of the chosen university. Additionally, they need to complete the registration process as per the university’s guidelines, particularly for degree programs with numerous clauses limitations.
Wrapping Up!
In conclusion, the Marco Polo Program for Chinese Students presents an exciting gateway to Italian education and cultural enrichment. By adhering to its procedural guidelines and meeting the stipulated requirements, students can embark on a transformative educational journey in Italy.
FAQs
What is the Marco Polo Program for Chinese Students?
The Marco Polo Program is an initiative established under the bilateral agreement between China and Italy, allowing Chinese students to study the Italian language in Italy for 10 to 11 months before pursuing their chosen academic courses. It enables students to seamlessly transition into their studies without returning to China for a new visa.
Who is eligible for the Marco Polo Program?
Chinese students who have a B1 level proficiency in Italian or have passed the final language test are eligible to apply. Additionally, students must fulfill admission test requirements (if applicable) and meet the prerequisites outlined by the degree course regulations.
Can the Italian language course be taken at a different location from the main university?
Yes, the Italian language course can take place in a location distinct from the university where students intend to pursue their academic studies.
How do I apply for the Marco Polo Program?
Interested students should submit a pre-enrolment application through the UNIVERSITALY platform. When applying, make sure to specify “Marco Polo” as the reason for the visa application.
What is the duration of the Italian language course?
The Italian language course within the Marco Polo Program spans 10 to 11 months and requires a commitment of 80 to 100 class hours per month.
What skills does the Marco Polo Program aim to develop?
The Program focuses on developing holistic linguistic skills, including listening, reading, speaking, and writing. It also emphasizes understanding language structures, vocabulary, functions, and cultural nuances.
What teaching methods are used in the Marco Polo Program?
The Program employs communicative teaching methods, playful teaching approaches, humanistic-affective techniques, cooperative learning, and even elements of the structuralist approach.
What is the importance of the Declaration of Equivalence of Qualifications?
The Declaration of Equivalence of Qualification is necessary to assess the compatibility of academic qualifications earned in China with the Italian education system.
What documentation is required for enrollment in the Marco Polo Program?
Documentation requirements vary based on the level of study. For Bachelors and Integrated Masters, documents include the Secondary School Leaving Qualification, “Gao Kao” pass certificate, and Declaration of Equivalence of Qualification. Masters applicants need to provide their foreign academic qualifications and the Declaration of Equivalence of Qualification.
How do I enroll in a degree course after the Italian language course?
To enroll, students must submit the required documentation and their Italian Language course certificate to the Ufficio Relazioni con gli studenti e Applicativi carriere of the chosen university. They also need to complete the registration process as per the university’s guidelines.
