The SACI Experience
Study abroad at SACI in Florence to discover new possibilities in life and art and make connections that will stay with you forever.
At SACI you will be in the heart of one of the most historic and influential artistic centers of the world—not as a tourist but as a resident. You’ll explore Florence and meet its people, including others from all over the world, and gain unforgettable experiences that will enrich your life and work. Surrounded by the great masterpieces of another age and a lively community of contemporary artists, studying at SACI [1] is not only an opportunity to discover what came before you, but to be part of a vibrant culture that is overflowing with artistic life.
Living in Florence
Our two Renaissance palazzi and most of our student residences are located in the historic center of Florence, the cultural center of the city. Fully-furnished housing, just steps from SACI, allows you to live independently and explore the local area on your own terms. SACI also provides all the cultural guidance and support resources you need to make your study abroad adventure a success. Learn more about living in Florence [2].
Student Activities and Outings
Life at SACI is full of opportunities to take part in outings and activities that immerse you in the Italian culture. Whether attending pizza-making or wine-tasting classes, hiking in the Tuscan countryside, seeing an Italian opera or Italian-language film, visiting the town of Viareggio for the famous carnevale celebration, or learning about coffee from an Italian food expert, SACI students attend a multitude of optional activities designed to help students get to know Florence and Tuscany in a meaningful way. Participating in these activities is also a great way to practice Italian and get to know both classmates and locals.
For holidays such as Halloween and Thanksgiving, SACI also organizes festivities to help students celebrate U.S. holidays while abroad.
Getting Involved in the Community
At SACI, you learn about yourself by connecting to other people, making a positive difference in the lives of others while growing as an artist. Our students put their artistic talents to work in the community, helping to restore important historical spaces, teaching art to children in Italy, and much more. Learn more about community activities at SACI [3].
The experiences I had in and through SACI were more than those you get in a school: it was my honeymoon as an art student. My teachers, my classmates, the buildings I studied in, were more like an extended family and home. I simply loved it.
– A.U.
Learn more about living in Florence with these helpful tips from SACI alumni [4].
Find More Information
Outside of the classroom, our students have the chance to use Florence as their canvas. They often take excursions to Florentine gardens, churches, and museums both individually and as part of SACI courses.
SACI will become your home abroad during your time in Florence! Use our many inspiring spaces, such as the beautiful SACI garden at Palazzo dei Cartelloni, for studying, relaxing, or meeting up with friends.
SACI students stay active while studying in Florence! In addition to their daily walking routes, students regularly take part in exercise and sporting events in Florence.
SACI students attend openings in SACI's two galleries - the SACI Gallery in Palazzo dei Cartelloni and SACI's Maidoff Gallery in the Jules Maidoff Palazzo for the Visual Arts - where they have the chance to meet with international contemporary artists.
At the beginning of your term, you'll meet your fellow students and get to know the SACI faculty members at the SACI Welcome Party.
Students partake in festive activites and gatherings hosted by SACI to celebrate U.S. holidays while abroad.
SACI students take part in optional outings around Florence and throughout Tuscany. Trips and activities can include pizza-making at Eataly, wine and coffee-tasting workshops with food experts, a visit the town of Viareggio for the magnificent Carnevale, hiking in the Tuscan hills, a night at the Italian opera, and more.
At SACI you will be in the heart of one of the most historic and influential artistic centers of the world—not as a tourist but as a resident.
SACI students have the unique opportunity to volunteer outside of the classroom. Many help teach English at elementary schools, serve as English-language museum guides, assist with the installation of SACI Gallery exhibitions, work on projects with healthcare providers and patients, and more!
All SACI students have the opportunity to participate in Open Drawing sessions, offered weekly throughout the semester.
Many of our students regularly volunteer at institutions throughout Florence. They have the chance to help teach English at elementary schools, serve as English-language museum guides, assist with the installation of SACI Gallery exhibitions, work on projects with healthcare providers and patients, and more!
Learn all about Italian food! Beyond tasting the delicious cuisine Italy has to offer, you'll also learn its history. SACI offers classes outside of the curriculum for students interested in learning the secrets of the Italian kitchen.
Our students have the opportunity to explore cities throughout Italy and Europe. It's easy to travel by bus, train, or plane on a budget.
Rain or shine our students are always exploring the SACI neighborhood, where they can visit the nearby Mercato Centrale and outdoor leather market.
Don't forget to take in the view! During your time at SACI, you'll have access to some of the most breathtaking sights in the world.
SACI students stay active while studying in Florence! In addition to their daily walking routes, students regularly take part in exercise and sporting events in Florence.
Students may use their financial aid to study at SACI. We also offer a variety of scholarship opportunities.
Download the general SACI Viewbook or request program information to learn more about undergraduate and graduate studies at SACI
Download the How to Prepare Brochure and learn more about preparing to study at SACI in Florence