For students considering undergraduate studies abroad, entrance exam requirements can often be complex. In Italy, however, a major change is underway for English-taught bachelor’s programs. Beginning in November 2025, the CEnT-S (CISIA English Test – Sciences) will become mandatory for admission to many Italian universities. This article explains what the exam is, how it is structured, how to prepare for it, and what you need to know about registration and timing.
CEnT-S is a standardized entrance test developed by CISIA (Consorzio Interuniversitario Sistemi Integrati) for admission to English-taught undergraduate programs in Italy.
It applies mainly to programs in Science, Engineering, Economics, and Pharmacy, and is designed to replace previous exams such as TOLC-E, TOLC-I, and TOLC-F, consolidating them into a single unified test.
The CEnT-S consists of 55 questions to be completed in 110 minutes.
Sections:
Mathematics: 15 questions (30 minutes)
Reasoning on Texts & Data: 15 questions (30 minutes)
Chemistry: 10 questions (20 minutes)
Biology: 10 questions (20 minutes)
Physics: 5 questions (10 minutes)
Scoring System:
+1 point for each correct answer
0 for blank answers
−0.25 penalty for wrong answers
At the end of each test period, scores are normalized to account for varying difficulty levels between sessions.
Modes:
The test can be taken on-campus (“@UNI”) or online (“@HOME”).
The CEnT-S is intended for EU and non-EU students applying to English-taught bachelor’s programs in Italy—particularly in Engineering, Economics, Pharmacy, and the Sciences.
However, not all programs require the CEnT-S. Always check the program’s official “Bando di Ammissione” (admissions notice) for exact requirements.
As Italy expands its range of English-taught undergraduate programs, competition among international applicants is rising.
The CEnT-S score acts as a key admission criterion for many programs.
A high score can strengthen your application and improve your admission chances.
The score normalization system ensures fairness across different sessions.
CISIA will organize the exam in four macro sessions:
Macro Session Period Results Release
1 Nov 2025 – Jan 2026 Jan 30 2026
2 Feb – Mar 2026 Mar 31 2026
3 Apr – Jun 2026 Jun 30 2026
4 Sep – Oct 2026 Oct 30 2026
Fee: approximately €55, payable via the CISIA portal.
Check your target field: Some programs evaluate only Mathematics and Reasoning on Texts & Data; others may include Chemistry, Physics, or Biology.
Study sample questions: Familiarize yourself with the exam format. The Reasoning on Texts & Data section requires not just numerical reasoning but also strong reading and analytical skills.
Manage time wisely: Each section has its own fixed duration—unused time cannot be transferred between sections.
Plan your answering strategy: Since wrong answers incur penalties, guessing should be done strategically.
Decide on the format: Choose between @HOME or @UNI and ensure your technical setup (internet, computer, camera) is ready.
Some universities may not require CEnT-S — verify on the program’s official website.
Taking the test early can be an advantage, as university application deadlines may follow test periods.
The validity period of the score and which sessions are accepted can vary by university.
Don’t forget to plan ahead for English proficiency and visa requirements, especially for non-EU students.
If you’re aiming to apply for English-taught bachelor’s programs in Italy, and your target university requires CEnT-S, add this exam to your priority list.
With a strategic preparation plan and a well-timed application, the CEnT-S can be a crucial step toward achieving your academic goals in Italy.
