Italy (August)

Rooms in the Casa dello Studente, the University of Siena student residence, are adequate and reasonably priced. Rooms have limited internet access, no air conditioning, or screens on the windows. Washroom facilities are usually shared by two rooms. All rooms are double occupancy.

Please note that the residence imposes a 3:00 a.m. curfew on all students. Also, students will not have access to library, computer, or sports facilities at the residence or the University of Siena.

There is no meal plan. Meals may be purchased at the University of Siena cafeteria (“Mensa”), and each residence also has a few small, shared kitchenettes. Students should budget approximately CAD$1200 for purchased and self-prepared meals for the duration of the program.

During the first week of classes, room assignments are often in a state of flux as some University of Siena students are still in residence. Students may be assigned to temporary rooms at the beginning of the program until room allocations are settled.

There is no group flight for this program; students must make their own travel arrangements. The Summer Abroad Office will provide more information and recommended flights to admitted students.

Departure date from Toronto: TBC
Return date from Siena: TBC

Transportation between the Rome airport and the Siena residence may be provided. 

Please note that if you choose to arrive earlier or leave later than the program dates, you will be responsible for arranging your own housing for the extra day(s). 

All students are responsible for making sure that their necessary travel documents are in order for them to enter Italy as visitors. Information on the current entry requirements for Italy is available visiting the Global Affairs Canada website. Please note that most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19.

If your flight plans include a stopover in another country (even if it is just a few hours long), you should also check that country's visa requirements in case you require a transit visa for the stopover.

Information on visitor entry requirements is available from the Consulate General of Italy.

Please be advised that Siena is one of the Tuscan hill towns, filled with steep streets. Also, in August expect it to be hot during the day, around 30°C, but relatively cool at night. If you are under medical care or may be affected by heat or steep terrain, you are advised to consult both a physician and the Professional & International Programs office before applying.

Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO)

All students admitted to the Summer Abroad program are required to successfully complete an online Safety Abroad Workshop, which will provide information and advice on international health and safety issues. Students are also required to attend the online Italy Pre-departure Orientation in May (details TBA).