CILS, CELI, or PLIDA — which Italian certificate do you need?
All three test the same CEFR levels (A1-C2) and are widely recognized in Italy, but they're run by different institutes with different exam centers and formats.
This page explains the three main certificate providers. Lerniyo doesn't issue any of these certificates — our own exam is built in their style to prepare you, but a residence permit or citizenship application requires sitting the official exam with one of these institutes, or another route your prefettura or comune accepts. Requirements vary by office and change over time, so always confirm with the specific office handling your application.
The three institutes
CILS (Certificazione di Italiano come Lingua Straniera)
Run by the University for Foreigners of Siena (Università per Stranieri di Siena). One of the most widely recognized Italian-language certificates, with exam centers in many countries.
A1 to C2
Residence permits, citizenship applications, university admission
CELI (Certificato di Conoscenza della Lingua Italiana)
Run by the University for Foreigners of Perugia (Università per Stranieri di Perugia), with a wide network of partner exam centers.
A1 to C2
Residence permits, citizenship applications, work and study
PLIDA (Progetto Lingua Italiana Dante Alighieri)
Run by the Dante Alighieri Society, with one of the widest networks of exam centers worldwide thanks to its cultural-institute presence in many countries.
A1 to C2
Residence permits, citizenship applications, Italian-heritage programs
Which one should you take?
For most residence-permit and citizenship applications, all three are accepted at the required level (A2 or B1) — but always check your specific prefettura or comune's list of accepted certificates before booking, since requirements vary and change. If your office names one specifically, book that one. If you have a free choice, pick whichever institute has an exam center and date that actually works for you.
Common questions
Does Lerniyo issue a CILS, CELI, or PLIDA certificate?
No. Lerniyo's own certificate confirms you completed our curriculum. It's built in the style of these exams to prepare you, but you still need to book and sit the official exam with one of these institutes for a residence permit or citizenship application.
Which one is cheapest?
Prices vary by country and exam center — there's no single answer. Check the specific exam center near you.
Can I prepare for any of them with Lerniyo?
Yes. The CEFR levels (A1-C2) are the same across all three, so the Italian you learn with Lerniyo prepares you for whichever one you end up booking.