How do we keep your child safe and supported during their gap year in Italy?

So, you’re sending your child abroad. Exciting, right? But it’s also nerve-wracking. As a parent, you’re probably feeling a mix of pride and anxiety, wondering—will they be safe? Will they have the support they need? Will they be okay so far from home? We get it. And that’s exactly why we do what we do.

At Italianforawhile, we know firsthand what it’s like to study abroad—because we’ve done it ourselves. We’ve navigated the ups and downs, the thrill of independence, and the occasional homesickness. And we’ve seen how a well-structured program can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve designed ours with one goal in mind: to ensure every single one of our gappers is safe, supported, and set up for an unforgettable experience.

We’re here to give you peace of mind. From the moment they apply to the day they return home, we take care of every detail—so you don’t have to stress. Visa paperwork? Easier than you think. Housing arrangements? Secured. Cultural adaptation? We guide them through it. Emotional support? Always available. Your child won’t be left to figure things out alone. They’ll have a team looking out for them every step of the way.

We know this is a big decision for your family. But we also know that studying abroad can be life-changing in the best way possible. So, let us walk you through exactly how we make this experience safe, seamless, and rewarding—for both you and your child.

Before arrival: helping your child prepare for the experience

Before your child even boards their flight, we make sure they’re fully prepared for their Italian adventure. We know that planning for such a big move can feel overwhelming, which is why we provide hands-on, personalized support in every critical area. From choosing the right program to handling paperwork and securing safe housing, we take care of the details so your child (and you) can feel confident, at ease, and ready to discover Italian culture.

1. Personalized program planning

No two students are alike, which is why we take a customized approach to planning their study abroad experience. We want them to feel comfortable, challenged, and excited about this new chapter. And that’s why we guide them through:

• Choosing the perfect destination – The location you choose can have a huge impact on the experience itself. That’s why our experienced gap year counselors help guide students in selecting the city that best aligns with their personality, interests, and the experiences they want to have.
• Choosing the right language course level – Whether your child is an absolute beginner or already speaks some Italian, we ensure they’re placed in a class that matches their skills. This way, they’re not overwhelmed but also not bored. And if they need extra practice, we can recommend additional resources and tutoring options.
• Selecting the ideal accommodation – Some students thrive in a homestay, where they can experience daily Italian life and improve their language skills. Others prefer the independence of a student residence or shared apartment. We guide them through the pros and cons of each option and help them make the best choice based on their personality, needs, and level of independence.
• Structuring their daily schedule – A gap year in Italy isn’t just about attending language classes. It’s about exploring, making new friends, and embracing personal growth. So, if they need more support, we help them navigate cultural activities, social events, and opportunities to travel.

Our goal is for your child to feel in control of their experience, making decisions that align with their personal goals.

2. Stress-free document assistance

We know that dealing with paperwork for studying abroad can feel overwhelming, but your child won’t have to figure it out alone. With years of experience guiding hundreds of students through these processes, we make sure they know exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

• Visa applications (if required) – Depending on their nationality and program length, some students may need a visa, while others may not. We break down the different visa types, eligibility requirements, and application steps in a clear, easy-to-follow way. And while we can’t directly file applications for you, we make sure you understand deadlines, required documents, and appointment procedures.
• Health insurance guidance – Italy requires students to have valid health insurance, and finding the right plan can be confusing. Based on feedback from hundreds of students, we suggest the most reliable and affordable options that fit their needs.
• Airport transfer arrangements – Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming, but we can provide guidance on the best transportation options and even help with booking trusted airport pickup services when needed. This way, students can arrive stress-free, knowing exactly how to reach their new home safely and efficiently.
• Local registration documents – Upon arrival, some students may need to complete local registrations based on their visa type or length of stay. We guide them through the process, providing clear instructions, helping them gather the necessary documents, and even accompanying them if needed to ensure everything is done correctly.

You can relax knowing that we’ve handled these processes countless times and will make sure nothing is overlooked.

3. Accommodation search and vetting

Where your child lives has a huge impact on their overall experience abroad. That’s why we take the housing selection process seriously, ensuring they have a safe, comfortable, and welcoming place to call home. For you we provide:

• Thoroughly vetted housing options – Whether it’s a homestay, student residence, or shared apartment, we carefully review our housing partners to ensure they meet safety and quality standards.
• Homestay experiences – For students who want an immersive cultural experience, living with an Italian host family is a great option. We carefully match students with families who provide a warm, welcoming environment.
• Student apartments – If your child prefers more independence, we offer modern apartments they can share with other international students while also enjoying more personal space.
• Smooth check-in process – Arriving at a new home can be intimidating, but students won’t have to do it alone. Whether it’s a host family, school representative, or the property owner, someone will be there to welcome them, help them settle in, and provide essential information about the accommodation.
• Ongoing support and communication – If any housing issues arise—whether it’s a roommate concern or simply adjusting to a new environment—we’re always available to help find a solution.

We know that as a parent, you want to be sure your child is living in a secure, well-maintained home. That’s exactly what we ensure!

During the program: a strong support system in Italy

Once your child arrives in Italy, our job isn’t over—it’s just beginning. Adjusting to a new country can be challenging, but we’re there to support them every step of the way. From emergencies to everyday needs, we make sure they have the resources and guidance to feel safe, settled, and connected.

1. Post-arrival orientation

The first days in a new country can feel overwhelming, but our orientation ensures that students quickly feel comfortable in their new environment. From getting to know their school community to exploring the city, we provide the support they need to settle in smoothly.

• First day at school – Students are required to arrive early to meet their classmates, teachers, and the whole school staff before jumping into lessons. This will allow them to familiarize themselves with the school environment and daily routines in a relaxed way.
• Meet your key contacts – Our student support team, administrative staff, and teachers are always available to help. From academic concerns to everyday questions, they are the student’s go-to resource for any need.
• Guided city tour – During the first weeks, students will take part in an orientation tour led by teachers. This helps them get a sense of their new surroundings, learn about important locations, and feel more at home in their host city.

Starting fresh in a new country is a big step, but no student has to do it alone. By the end of their first week, they’ll already have a strong foundation—knowing where to go for help, who to turn to for support, and how to navigate their new daily life. With a welcoming school community and a guided introduction to their surroundings, students can focus on settling in, making friends, and embracing this exciting new chapter with confidence!

2. 24/7 assistance for any issues

Unexpected challenges can come up, and when they do, your child will always have someone to turn to. Whether they need advice, reassurance, or practical guidance, our team is here to help them navigate any situation—big or small:

• Emergency contacts – Our experienced team members are always reachable for any concern you child may have. Whether it’s a housing issue, travel concern, or just a moment of uncertainty, our team is ready to offer guidance and solutions.
• Support for urgent issues – If your child encounters a serious problem—like trouble with housing, important documents, or navigating local bureaucracy—our counselors will step in with clear guidance and next steps to resolve the situation.
• Advice on medical concerns – If your child feels unwell or needs to see a doctor, we help them understand how the Italian healthcare system works and guide them through any necessary paperwork. We can’t book appointments for them but can we make sure they know exactly what to do and where to go!

And remember, most of the time, the challenges students face are not emergencies but normal adjustments to living in a new country. Whether they’re feeling homesick, unsure about cultural differences, or just need to talk, we’re here to provide encouragement, advice, and a reassuring presence.

3. Ongoing document support

Italy’s bureaucratic system can be complicated, even for locals. But instead of your child having to figure it out alone, we personally assist with:

• Residency permits and legal documents – Depending on their visa type and length of stay, your child may need to apply for a permit of stay or complete other legal registrations after arriving in Italy. These processes can be complex, but we make sure they know exactly what to do, helping them understand the required documents, assisting with form completion, and ensuring they book any necessary appointments on time.
• SIM card setup and mobile services – Staying connected is essential, especially in a new country. We guide students through choosing the best mobile plan based on their needs, assist with the SIM card activation process, and explain how to manage data, calls, and top-ups to avoid unnecessary costs.
• Assistance with any unexpected paperwork – Bureaucracy can be unpredictable, and sometimes students encounter additional paperwork they weren’t expecting. Whether it’s requesting a travel permit for extended stays in Europe, setting up a local bank account, or handling documents for part-time work (if permitted by their visa), we help them understand the process and requirements. 

We provide the guidance they need to handle these details, so your child can focus on what truly matters—immersing themselves in their Italian adventure and making the most of their time abroad.

4. In-person events with our team and community

Moving to a new country can feel scary, but having a strong community can make all the difference. We strive to create an environment where students feel supported, connected, and engaged throughout their journey through:

• Weekly activities – Our schools are experienced in the organization of regular social and cultural events like excursions, language exchanges, and group activities. These provide great opportunities for your child to meet peers and get more involved in their new environment.
• Country-wide meetups – In addition to school-organized activities where your kid will socialize with classmates, we also host occasional special events in all our destinations. Students can join these events locally or choose to travel to other cities for additional opportunities to connect and explore.

With these resources, students can easily form friendships and feel part of a supportive community, ensuring their time abroad is both enriching and enjoyable. Plus, through group chats and peer connections, they always have someone to turn to!

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A supportive, active community

Even before officially joining our programs, we offer future participants access to a dynamic online community where they can connect with future and current program participants, as well as the team behind the program. This space is designed for sharing experiences, seeking advice, and building meaningful connections.

Students can also choose to join biweekly online meetups that cover topics like language tips, Italian culture, and practical advice on navigating life in Italy. These sessions not only provide valuable information but also give students the chance to interact with their peers—both those preparing for their upcoming journey and those already living the experience.

The community acts as a real supportive network, where your child can meet like-minded people, share their experiences, and get personal insights from others who’ve been through it. It’s a place to feel connected, whether they’re just starting to plan their trip or are already settling into Italian life. With the help of the community, they’ll have a network of peers and support from the team, always available to offer guidance and ensure they feel at home during their time abroad!

You can trust us to keep your child safe!

We understand that sending your child abroad is a significant decision, and it’s natural to have concerns about their well-being and how they’ll adjust. Rest assured, at Italianforawhile we’ve built a program with both safety and support at the forefront, ensuring that your child will have the resources, guidance, and community they need to thrive during their time in Italy.

With our experienced team by their side, personalized support, and a welcoming network, your child will never feel alone on this journey. We’re committed to making their experience not only safe but truly life-changing! 

And remember, if you ever have any questions or just want to talk through the details, don’t hesitate to reach out. Just book a call with one of our experienced gap year counselors—we’re here to give you the peace of mind you deserve, knowing your child is in capable hands as they embark on this incredible adventure.